Council Grove Lake offers several well-maintained campgrounds across 3,200 acres of water surrounded by rolling Kansas prairie. Located at an elevation of 1,310 feet, the lake creates multiple shoreline camping options with water access points. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with higher humidity, making spring and fall preferred camping seasons for many visitors.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Chase State Fishing Lake provides productive fishing with multiple species available. Camper Jason R. notes, "This is a wonderful campground if you're into star gazing as there is zero light pollution," making it ideal for combining fishing with evening stargazing.
Hiking trails: Several paths wind through the area's natural features. At Richey Cove South, camper West River J. mentions, "A section of the campground is off on a small, narrow peninsula known as 'the island' and is a popular spot," providing access to scenic walking areas.
Water activities: The lake supports various water recreation. At Kansas View - Council Grove Lake, camper Adam M. shared, "Spend three nights with the cub scouts on this lake. We had lots of success with fishing and the kids really enjoyed some of the hiking trails."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Santa Fe Trail offers comfortable spacing between sites. Camper Michael M. confirms, "Campgrounds at Santa Fe are not crammed together, plenty of room, most with shelters and firepits."
Clean facilities: The US Army Corps of Engineers maintains well-kept grounds. At Canning Creek, Kim C. reports, "Very clean, large private showers, with enough hot water. Daily trash pick up. Shade on most sites. Very helpful camp ground hosts."
Covered picnic areas: Many sites include sheltered tables for comfort in variable weather. Lindsay W. noted at Canning Creek, "This was a just an overnight for us as we were traveling but really enjoyed it! Loved seeing the lake out the window in the morning. Had a covered picnic table, hook ups, shade, and fairly spaced out sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds need advance booking. Lee D. explains at Canning Creek, "My only beef is that check-in time is 6 pm, although if it is not crowded, you could check in earlier."
Free camping options: Some areas offer no-cost camping. At Geary State Fishing Lake, James B. reports, "We stayed for three nights while staying close to Nebraska for a wedding and work obligations. Quiet lake, we were the only campers there. Little traffic through the park. Can sometimes hear the highway 77 noise but not really inside the camper. Great free spot."
Wildlife presence: Be prepared for various animals visiting campsites. Carla R. at Geary State Fishing Lake observed, "Raccoon couldn't wait for me to zip my tent to come out and see what we left out."
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer water play. West River J. notes that Richey Cove South "Has a nice sandy beach! Part of it cordoned off for just swimmers to enjoy."
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play equipment for children. According to Lee D. at Canning Creek, "Minimal playground facilities (mostly in the loop with sites 1-23) and horseshoe pits."
Educational opportunities: The area offers learning experiences. Justin R. at Canning Creek shares, "We took the kayak down with us and drive around the lake to the beach area and had a great time. Everyone camping near by was nice. The host were awesome. Lots of places to walk to and relax."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds provide electrical and water connections. Brad H. from COE Council Grove Lake Canning Creek Cove explains, "There's group sites, primitive sites and sites with electric, water and sewer hook ups."
Site leveling: Pad quality varies by location. Judith B. describes Canning Creek: "Sites are fairly level and good size with a gravel pad. It is a very nice campground."
Site selection for lake views: Position matters for optimal experience. Dan & Penny F. at COE Council Grove Lake Canning Creek Cove recommend choosing "cozy site with lake access. Covered picnic table, lake view, good fishing."
