John Redmond Reservoir in east-central Kansas offers multiple camping options for recreational visitors exploring its 9,300 acres of water surface. Located in Coffey County at approximately 1,070 feet elevation, the reservoir provides shoreline camping with water and electric access at several locations within driving distance. Winter camping remains available at several parks, though with limited services during off-season months.
What to do
Fishing access: Turkey Point provides excellent bank fishing opportunities with spacious waterfront sites. "Water access is awesome! We heard owls, saw bats and fireflies, and had an INCREDIBLE view of the stars at night," reports camper Juliana H.
Wildlife observation: Set up at lakeside sites for wildlife viewing during morning and evening hours. "At night you can't see much stars because of the city lights," notes Kevin T. about Turkey Point, suggesting daytime wildlife watching might prove more rewarding.
Hiking trails: Santa Fe Safari RV Campground offers walking paths adjacent to camping areas. "Beautiful walking trails. Walmart across the street," mentions Samuel D., highlighting both recreational and practical conveniences.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathroom cleanliness as a major positive. "The grounds are well-maintained, bathrooms were clean, hosts were friendly," notes a visitor at Turkey Point. Similarly, at Emporia RV Park, Beverly M. appreciates the "clean restrooms and showers. Quiet campground."
Affordable pricing: Many parks offer reasonable rates. At Santa Fe Safari, one camper explains, "This place is FREE for the first two days then $10 a day after that. FHU, beautiful walking trails."
Spacious sites: Chuck Wagon RV Park provides room for larger vehicles. "Full hook ups, 50 and 30 amp, pull through and back in. Small campground with no public showers or bathrooms, no WiFi but good ATT cell service," reports Dave B.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Connectivity changes based on proximity to towns. Dave B. notes Chuck Wagon RV Park has "good ATT cell service" while Beverly M. mentions internet at Emporia RV Park "is not the best, but it is secure."
Highway noise: Some parks experience road noise. Beverly M. notes Emporia RV Park's "downfall is right next to interstate," while another camper described being "practically sitting on the throughway. After getting used to the highway noise it was fine."
Fire regulations: Jayhawker RV Park permits fires, but several parks including Emporia RV Park prohibit them entirely due to safety regulations. Check individual park rules before planning campfires.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Melvern Lake provides swimming and boating options. Carman S. shares about Turkey Point: "Most of the sites are not real close to one another and some are right on the water. Plenty of primitive spots are on the bank."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Look for educational wildlife viewing with children. "We heard owls, saw bats and fireflies, and had an INCREDIBLE view of the stars at night," reports Juliana H. about Turkey Point.
Shade availability: Pony Express RV Park LLC offers recreational features beyond standard camping. "Campground is off the road with 2 ponds. They also have some llamas as a small zoo," mentions Michele W., providing extra attractions for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup reliability: Water and electric connections work consistently at most parks. As Russ G. notes about Jayhawker RV Park: "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."
Big rig access: Most parks can accommodate larger vehicles with dedicated spaces. "100 glorious acres. A little rustic but beautiful. Pull-Through and Back-In sites. MOST have Electric, Water and Sewer," explains Rick K. about Pony Express RV Park.
Seasonal considerations: Several parks remain open year-round. Crossroads RV Park in Lyndon offers full hookup sites with winter availability, while Chuck Wagon RV Park operates "all year" according to its listing information.
