Rest Area I-70 provides primitive dispersed camping options for travelers on Kansas highways near Kanopolis. Located in central Kansas where the Smoky Hill River Valley meets the prairie, this area experiences continental climate conditions with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures reach 90°F with winter lows frequently below freezing. The flat terrain offers minimal protection from winds that regularly sweep across the open landscape.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anglers visiting Rest Area I-70 can access nearby Kanopolis Lake, which offers various fishing spots for catching walleye, crappie, and channel catfish. The lake maintains stable water levels during summer months, providing reliable fishing conditions.
Hiking exploration: The surrounding area features prairie trails where visitors can observe native grassland ecosystems. Trails range from 0.5-3 miles in length and offer moderate difficulty levels due to the open, sometimes windy conditions. During spring, wildflower viewing becomes particularly rewarding.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings present opportunities to spot prairie wildlife including deer, various bird species, and occasional coyotes. Binoculars are recommended for distant viewing across the open landscape.
What campers like
Convenient location: Travelers appreciate the strategic positioning along major travel routes. As Marisol G. notes, "This is a small area, some space for trucks and cars but not many."
Basic facilities: The site provides essential amenities that meet fundamental needs for overnight stays. Visitors note the presence of restrooms, trash receptacles, and non-potable water access.
Accessibility: The area remains available year-round without reservation requirements, making it suitable for spontaneous overnight stays during cross-country travel. The drive-in access accommodates various vehicle types including RVs and larger vehicles.
What you should know
Limited capacity: The rest area offers minimal space for overnight parking, particularly during peak travel seasons. Arrivals after dark may find reduced availability.
Water considerations: While a non-potable water pump exists on-site, travelers should bring sufficient drinking water supplies. The pump provides utility water only for basic cleaning needs.
Weather exposure: The open prairie location provides minimal shelter from prevailing winds. Weather conditions can change rapidly, requiring adequate vehicle or tent stabilization during overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Noise management: The proximity to Interstate 70 creates consistent background noise. Families with light sleepers should consider white noise machines or positioning vehicles to buffer road sounds.
Safety precautions: Children should remain within designated rest area boundaries due to highway proximity. The open layout allows for easy supervision within the immediate area.
Entertainment planning: Limited on-site activities necessitate bringing family games or activities for children. The open space provides room for simple ball games away from parking areas.
Tips from RVers
Parking configuration: RV travelers note the importance of strategic positioning to maximize space efficiency. The limited area requires careful maneuvering, especially for larger vehicles exceeding 30 feet.
Overnight duration: This location functions best as a single-night stopover rather than an extended stay destination. Most RVers report using the area for 8-12 hour rest periods before continuing their journeys.
Leveling considerations: The parking surface maintains generally even terrain but may require minor leveling adjustments for larger recreational vehicles. Carrying leveling blocks is recommended for optimal comfort during overnight stays.
