Camping near Kanopolis Lake

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Kanopolis Lake, KS has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Kanopolis Lake, KS. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Kanopolis Lake (84)

    1. Sandyshore Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    9 Reviews
    Kanopolis, KS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $10 / night

    "Then realized we had found one of the nest places in Kansas! We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves. It was not necessarily private or in the woods. But we were right up against the lake."

    "The fire pit in our spot was up next to the shoreline where we didn’t want it so we built one with a hole and rocks. It did get a bit windy but we put the Jeep behind us so that blocked some wind."

    2. Eagle Point Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    5 Reviews
    Kanopolis, KS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $21 / night

    "Trails with cliffs, creeks and caves, campsites with incredible views and Bald Eagles soaring overhead. No other campers in the grounds. What’s not to love?"

    3. Venango - Kanapolis Campground

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2294

    "Stopped here on my way through Kansas towards Colorado. The park was nearly empty on a Sunday night, so I got a nice lakefront site with no one else around for $14."

    "There are sites for any size rig but the larger ones would be better on the site away from the lake. Most of the sites along the road by the lake are small and not very level."

    4. Venango Park

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2294

    $18 - $75 / night

    "First time visiting Kansas. Friendly hosts. Easy check in process. Very clean campground."

    "Pros: 

    - easy to get to from I-70

    - friendly camp hosts 

    - lots of grass to walk dogs 

    - beautiful sunsets 

    Cons:

    - 35 minutes one way to the nearest town with major stores like Walmart"

    5. Cottonwood Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $21 / night

    "Quiet and lovely a clean place to camp with plenty of dead and dry fire wood to be gathered. this place has up to 24 miles of hiking trails on the north side as well as being the oldest lake in the state"

    "Historical attractions nearby. We visited in the fall so lake wasn't very busy. Showers are dated but were reasonably clean"

    6. Sandstone Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    4 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    2 miles
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $21 / night

    "Right across from the lake. Large site. Everything we need. Come and enjoy!"

    7. Rockin' K Horse Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    3 Reviews
    Kanopolis, KS
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $10 - $21 / night

    "There looked to be a trail for horse riding nearby. It was a short walk to the showers, which were nice and warm. There was only one other camper at the campground when we went."

    8. Caving Banks Campground — Kanopolis State Park

    3 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    2 miles
    Website

    "Easy access to the shower house, nice breeze, successful fools gold hunt. Easy walk to the beach through the cottonwood grove to cool off."

    "This is one of my favorite lakes to camp near and my husband and I have camped in several campgrounds there. Recently, we stayed in the Caving Banks campground on the south side of the lake."

    9. Riverside (KS)

    2 Reviews
    Marquette, KS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2294

    $18 / night

    "You will see from the pics and videos what a nice little spot it is for a Kansas visit!"

    "The river access from our spot was limited, with one treacherous trail behind our camp. However, the public access point in the park was a little steep but otherwise easily accessible."

    10. Little Bluestem Cabin Area — Kanopolis State Park

    1 Review
    Marquette, KS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 546-2565

    $10 - $90 / night

    "Buffalo Track Canyon Trail has gorgeous views with 2 small caves, and beautiful rock coloring. Before you head to your campsite make sure you stop off at Mushroom Rock for a photo op!"

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Recent Reviews near Kanopolis Lake

246 Reviews of 84 Kanopolis Lake Campgrounds


  • Terry M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Harvey County West Park

    Great relaxing spot

    Great place, been camping here since I kid in Boy Scouts. Good spot for kayaking, and if you're a fisherman I hear it's a good place.

  • wayne H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Buffalo Grass — Wilson State Park

    A beautiful, secluded place in North Central Kansas

    Are you traveling i-70 in the middle of Kansas and just wanted a place to take a break and enjoy nature and a lake? Perhaps an overnight stay? Then this is a great place to come to relax and unwind. The campsites were spread apart nicely so not crowded with the neighbors.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Salina Campground

    Great stop over on our way west

    Very friendly check in. Full hook ups. Clean laundry room. Playground for the little ones. Right off the highway so the noise is expected but it’s a good price for a safe stop.

  • Elizabeth R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2025

    COE Wilson Lake Sylvan Park

    A nice pleasant place.

    A nice quiet place. No highway noise. No boat noise, as the lake is on the other side of the dam from the campground. The sites are roomy and have concrete picnic tables. There are flush toilets, sinks, and showers.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Indian Grass — Wilson State Park

    Middle of the week and we’re looking over the lake

    It was a long day driving today and hot outside. We needed a camping spot with electric hookups to run the AC and that’s what we got!!

    This campground is very clean and the sites are nicely spaced. The view of the lake was little short of spectacular.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 23, 2025

    Coronado Motel and RV Park

    Perfect spot with tons of shade trees!

    Quaint little town very convenient RV park with full hook ups sewer, water, and electricity. And lots of shade trees. You must visit the blacksmith coffee shop when you’re in town!

  • papa T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2025

    Harvey County West Park

    Best fishing

    Awsome little lake, plenty of camping and the fishing is the best.


Guide to Kanopolis Lake

Camping near Kanopolis Lake, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around the lake. One camper mentioned, "The trails with cliffs, creeks, and caves are incredible," while another noted, "The Switchgrass MTB is surprisingly fun!" at Wilson State Park Campground.
  • Fishing: Kanopolis Lake is great for fishing. A review from Kanopolis State Park Campground highlights, "The kids fishing pond is stocked with catfish, my kids loved catching something other than our usual bluegill!"
  • Kayaking and Swimming: Many campgrounds have easy access to the water. One visitor at Lucas Park said, "We were able to launch our kayaks easily lets say 50 ft down," making it a perfect spot for water lovers.

What campers like

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. A review for Kanopolis State Park Campground states, "I love the gorgeous sunsets, the beach area, and the hiking trails."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A camper at Sandyshore Campground mentioned, "All the facilities were very clean and the park was well maintained."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers enjoy the peacefulness of the area. One review for Eagle Point Campground noted, "It’s peaceful, right on the water and would stay again."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like McPherson State Fishing Lake, have basic facilities. A review mentions, "Pit toilets but not close to campsites," so be prepared for a bit of a walk.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. A visitor at Sandyshore Campground said, "They need to build one closer to the campground," referring to restroom facilities.
  • Weather Considerations: Wind can be a factor, especially near the water. One camper at Venango Park noted, "The wind was significant and was super annoying all night."

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A review for Salina KOA Holiday mentions, "The kids loved the pool," making it a great spot for family fun.
  • Space to Play: Choose campgrounds with open areas. One camper at Kanopolis State Park Campground said, "There are sheltered sites on green lawns where tent campers can spend a quiet night."
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds offer food options. A visitor at Salina KOA Holiday enjoyed, "The food, pizza, was excellent," which can be a lifesaver after a long day of activities.

Tips from RVers

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A review for Salina KOA Holiday states, "The site was wide and level and had mature trees."
  • Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. A camper at Eagle Point Campground mentioned, "Level sites with water available."
  • Convenient Locations: Choose campgrounds that are easy to access from highways. A review for Wilson State Park Campground highlights, "It’s a well-kept Corp campground and we will stay there again as we travel through Kansas."

Camping near Kanopolis Lake, Kansas, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Eagle Point a good camping area at Kanopolis Lake?

Eagle Point Campground — Kanopolis State Park is highly regarded for its scenic location. Situated on a peninsula-like area, it provides outstanding views of Kanopolis Lake from multiple angles. The campground features water and electric hookups, making it suitable for both tent and RV camping. While it doesn't have as many sites as some other areas, this contributes to a more peaceful camping experience. The proximity to the water and beautiful Kansas landscape makes Eagle Point an excellent choice for visitors wanting to experience the natural beauty of Kanopolis Lake.

Can you swim at Sandy Shore on Kanopolis Lake?

Yes, swimming is permitted at Sandy Shore on Kanopolis Lake. The area lives up to its name with sandy beaches that make for comfortable water access. Near Venango Park, the swimming areas feature designated sections with gradual entry points, making them suitable for families with children. Water clarity at Kanopolis Lake is generally good, with the lake known for being one of the clearest in Kansas. For those looking to camp near swimming opportunities, Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground offers sites close to beach access. Remember that no lifeguards are present, so swim with caution.

What campgrounds are available at Kanopolis Lake?

Kanopolis Lake offers several campground options to suit different preferences. Sandstone Campground — Kanopolis State Park provides drive-in sites with water and toilets. For equestrian campers, Rockin' K Horse Campground — Kanopolis State Park offers facilities suitable for those traveling with horses. Other options include Caving Banks Campground, Riverside, and Little Bluestem Cabin Area for those seeking cabin accommodations. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months, as these campgrounds can fill quickly.