Best Camping near Iola, KS

Join the fun near Iola. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Iola is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kansas camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Iola, KS (84)

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Showing results 1-10 of 84 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Iola

Recent Reviews in Iola

130 Reviews of 84 Iola Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed
    Nov. 19, 2024

    Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed

    Nice spot

    When I got here it was very windy and the spot directly across the lake from here ended up being better and a little more out of the wind since there were more trees. Couldn’t find any rules for camping for camping in this area but ended up staying for several days without a problem. Had between 5-10 cars drive by each day so barely any traffic. Most of the spots on this lake are good in size and some have a nice open view of the sky for solar and Starlink which was great.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from South Owl Lake
    Oct. 6, 2024

    South Owl Lake

    Great stop with hookups and wifi!

    This campground was a nice surprise for the area. Near a golf course, allowed fires and had restrooms (no showers). Also had a boat ramp and dock along with playground. WiFi, even though we didn't use, was a nice bonus.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Outlet(melvern)
    Aug. 4, 2024

    Outlet(melvern)

    Our favorite local hangout

    Beautiful well-kept park with gorgeous trails, beach, lots of shade, and quiet camping. We’ve been here three times now and just love it. Outlet park is below the dam. If you’re into fishing/boating the giant lake has a marina with everything you need to get out on the water as well as a kitchen where they serve hamburgers and other food items. The Marina is currently closed as of 8-2-24 due to weather damage but will reopen.

  • Chad A B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mann's Cove — Cross Timbers State Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Mann's Cove — Cross Timbers State Park

    Nice Boondocks Sites

    This area is filled with trees. It blocks the full lake view you could have and probably blocks the sun from helping you with Solar power, but it very beautiful and quiet. Noone was there when we were. Completely empty.

  • Chad A B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodson Cove — Cross Timbers State Park
    Jul. 20, 2024

    Woodson Cove — Cross Timbers State Park

    Day Use Only/No Camping

    It is a nice spot with a view of the lake. It has a 6% grade to get to the turn around. Has a very nice trail but bring tic and bug spray.

    The sign says there is no camping allowed. Day Use only.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Neosho State Fishing Lake
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Neosho State Fishing Lake

    Beautiful camping fishing and more

    I stayed here while passing through Kansas found this on Free camping website it has picnic tables and free camping with vaulted toilets, fishing peers plenty of spots to camp good for Starlink and solar I have T-Mobile service. The reception was bad Starlink helped was quiet I was the only one here has some people fishing on the other side of the lake couple people fished next to me, but left shortly after had the whole place to myself in the month of June 2024. I’m a traveling nomad always looking to find great spots, and this one is perfect for a nice little settle.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Norman No.1 Museum RV Park
    Apr. 15, 2024

    Norman No.1 Museum RV Park

    Overnight stop

    Overnight stop on way from Texas to Nebraska. Full hookup sights for $25. Have 37 foot 5th wheel and fit fine. Pads are gravel but level. Nice quiet stay with minimal traffic noise, etc. there are trash cans with water and sewer.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Coeur D'alene
    Feb. 13, 2024

    Coeur D'alene

    Off season Free Camping

    Stayed here off season for free. They do not close the gates so you can enter but no access to facilities, water or electric. Campground slopes to the river so very few level sites. Some noise from the road but otherwise peaceful as nobody was there.

  • Angie A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Quarry Bay Campground — Fall River State Park
    Oct. 17, 2023

    Quarry Bay Campground — Fall River State Park

    Awesome find!

    What a beautiful, peaceful place! Toilets, fire pits, picnic tables, and dumpsters for trash on site. We had the whole place to ourselves! Easy to get off from Rt 400. Sites pretty level. Glad we found this place! Great view of the lake!

  • Teresa R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sun Dance
    Aug. 1, 2023

    Sun Dance

    ???Is it really closed for good??? Would make a great dispersed campground.

    Herd this campground is closed even though I read it's 10$ a night no hook ups. Anyone knows different it would be nice to know. My son lives in Lebo and he said it's closed due to flooding a few years ago. Emailed the lake and COE and got no response.

  • r
    Camper-submitted photo from Pony Express RV Park LLC
    Jul. 6, 2023

    Pony Express RV Park LLC

    An Outstanding RV Park

    100 glorious acres. A little rustic but beautiful. Pull-Through and Back-In sites. MOST shave Electric, Water and Sewer. Tent Sites are available. Terri Karper is a wonderful Hostess.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Turkey Point
    Jun. 28, 2023

    Turkey Point

    Hidden gem

    We camped in our RV at Turkey Point. The grounds are well-maintained, bathrooms were clean, hosts were friendly. No problems with water and electric hookups. Sites are well spaced, include fire rings, and almost all have shade. Gravel hiking trail, too. This was our very first trip in our brand new r v. It is only about an hour away from our house, but we will be back!

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitehall Bay
    Jun. 1, 2023

    Whitehall Bay

    A little unknown gem

    It's absolutely beautiful. I camp here often because of the serenity. The best part of Whitehall Bay is the sewer is directly at your campsite, so no dumping afterwards. A big plus for me!!! Camp Hosts are awesome. You won't be disappointed

  • Levi H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area
    Mar. 21, 2023

    Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    Clean, Spacious & Weekenders Paradise

    Stayed 22 days in Site 21 in the NLOO Loop, close to bathrooms, in July and August 2022. No Showers in this loop so beware. Bathrooms were clean. Showers in the other two loops were always clean and rarely used. 

    I was working in the area, so I needed to stay an extra eight days beyond the COE 14-day limit. Ranger was easy going and granted me an extra 10 days no problem. 

    This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August. Completely clears out Sunday evening and it is mostly dead empty until around Thursday. Clearly a popular camping spot for people in the region, but really didn't see a lot of out-of-county or even out-of-state tags camped. 

    Cherryvale is about 6 miles west of the lake and has a Dollar General and Casey's Convenience Store as well as a Redbox, and Parsons is about 20 minutes northeast of here if you need something more substantial than DG or Casey's offers. 

    My AT&T signal didn't work here at all until I set up my WeBoost.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lil' Toledo Lodge
    Jan. 16, 2023

    Lil' Toledo Lodge

    The Best Kept Secret in The Midwest!

    Ashley here with The Dyrt! We're happy to welcome this property to our platform. Perfect for a hunting adventure or corporate retreat. 15,000 Acres! Book your stay and leave a review for them here.

  • Ryan H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Crossroads RVs and Cabins
    Dec. 21, 2022

    Crossroads RVs and Cabins

    Upgraded RV & Cabins campground - very peaceful!

    I stayed in one of the airbnb cabins this past summer and it was super comfortable. Everything I needed for a great stay. Awesome managers and such a peaceful surrounding. I know there are new pedestals and hookups for RVs and they have been working on the swimming pool for 2023. The A-frame cabin is being renovated for a new laundry facility and new showers/bathrooms too.

  • Russ  G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Jayhawker RV Park
    Oct. 22, 2022

    Jayhawker RV Park

    Decent stay over spot

    The Jayhawker has well laid out spots and is off season friendly. Hosts are good honest people and will work with you around your schedule. Great place for a stopover or extended stay for work.


Drive Time


Guide to Iola

Camping near Iola, Kansas, offers a variety of outdoor experiences for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area. One reviewer mentioned, "My toddler loved watching the fish," highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Eisenhower State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "The trails enjoy blue bird houses that were set in honor of Ruth Nixon," making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Swimming: Enjoy a day at the beach at Lake Miola City Park. One camper said, "Swimming beach! Showers & nice toilets," emphasizing the amenities available for a fun day in the sun.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Kansas Eisenhower State Park Campground. A reviewer noted, "Excellent clean restrooms and showers," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Friendly Hosts: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at Whitehall Bay. One camper said, "Camp Hosts are awesome," making it feel like a home away from home.
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes at Pomona State Park Campground. A review mentioned, "Spectacular sunsets," which can make for a memorable camping experience.

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Prairie State Park Campground, have very basic facilities. A visitor mentioned, "No showers and one vault toilet only," so be prepared for primitive camping.
  • Road Conditions: The drive to Whitehall Bay can be tricky. One reviewer warned, "The last 2-3 miles are riddled with potholes," so take it slow.
  • Wildlife: Expect to see wildlife at places like Cross Timbers State Park. A camper noted, "Beautiful views of the lake and plenty of trees," which adds to the natural experience.

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming areas, like Lake Miola City Park. One parent said, "A fun playground for the kids," making it a great spot for families.
  • Space for Tents: Choose campgrounds that offer spacious sites, such as Kansas Outlet Melvern. A reviewer mentioned, "Sites level and on the larger side," which is perfect for families with multiple tents.
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds, like Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area, are known for their peaceful atmosphere. A visitor shared, "Quiet camping, great fishing lake," making it ideal for relaxation.

Tips from RVers

Camping near Iola, Kansas, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of activities, it’s a great place to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Iola, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Iola, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 84 campgrounds and RV parks near Iola, KS and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Iola, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Iola, KS is Wilson State Fishing Lake with a 4.2-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Iola, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Iola, KS.

  • What parks are near Iola, KS?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 22 parks near Iola, KS that allow camping, notably John Redmond Reservoir and Melvern Lake.