Glen Elder State Park and Heartland Farm Stays provide equestrian camping options near Kirwin, Kansas. The area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation and experiences hot summers and cold winters typical of the central plains. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that regularly drop below freezing, while summer visitors should plan for heat management strategies.
What to do
Fishing at Glen Elder Lake: Cheyenne Campground offers access to Glen Elder Lake, known for walleye, crappie, and white bass fishing. "Good to lake to fish and camp. Well taken care of. I enjoyed my stay," notes Laura D. at Cheyenne Campground.
Trail riding opportunities: Horse-friendly accommodations at Heartland Farm Stays allow equestrians to bring their own mounts for riding. The Heartland Farm Stays facility welcomes horses with camping options ranging from tents to cabins and yurts.
Lake recreation: Beyond fishing, Glen Elder Lake provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and water sports during summer months. The lake spans approximately 12,500 acres at conservation level, making it Kansas's third-largest lake by surface area.
What campers like
Clean, improved facilities: Recent improvements to Cheyenne Campground have enhanced the camping experience. As Brandy notes, "I grew up here, stopped going when it became a party haven filled with drama, recently gave it a second chance and could not be happier I did. It has really been cleaned up in all aspects."
Multiple accommodation options: The diversity of lodging at Heartland Farm Stays appeals to equestrians seeking specific comfort levels, from basic tent camping to cabin and glamping setups, all while keeping their horses nearby.
Year-round accessibility: Unlike some seasonal facilities, Cheyenne Campground remains open throughout all seasons, allowing winter enthusiasts to experience the quieter off-season atmosphere when crowds thin out but facilities remain available.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures in the Kirwin area regularly exceed 90°F, making shade and water access critical for both campers and horses. Conversely, winter camping requires preparation for sub-freezing conditions.
Alcohol policies vary: While alcohol is prohibited at Heartland Farm Stays, it is permitted at Cheyenne Campground, creating different atmospheres at each location. Campers should plan accordingly based on their preferences.
Reservation requirements: Glen Elder State Park facilities can be reserved in advance, which becomes particularly important during peak summer weekends when spaces fill quickly. Booking 2-3 months ahead is recommended for holiday weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Picnic facilities: Both main horse campgrounds near Kirwin, Kansas feature picnic tables, making meal preparation and dining more convenient for families. Heartland Farm Stays also offers a market for purchasing supplies that might have been forgotten.
Shower availability: Families appreciate the shower facilities available at both Heartland Farm Stays and Cheyenne Campground, especially after dusty summer days spent riding horses or swimming.
Campfire opportunities: Evening campfires are permitted at both locations, with Heartland Farm Stays providing firewood on-site, simplifying the camping experience for families with children who enjoy traditional campfire activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: RVers staying at Cheyenne Campground benefit from multiple hookup options including 30-amp and 50-amp electrical connections plus water and sewer hookups for extended stays.
Big rig accessibility: Glen Elder State Park accommodates larger RVs and horse trailers, with spaces designed to fit substantial rigs. The drive-in access makes navigating with larger vehicles straightforward.
Dump station availability: The sanitary dump station at Cheyenne Campground allows RVers to properly maintain their systems during longer stays, an important consideration for equestrians planning extended visits with their horses.
