Camping near Lansing, Kansas offers a mix of Corps of Engineers sites, state-managed fishing lakes, and private campgrounds within a 15-mile radius. The area sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with a humid continental climate featuring hot summers and moderately cold winters. Spring and fall camping can be ideal with daytime temperatures ranging from 60-80°F, though summer humidity levels often exceed 70%.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: Weston Bend State Park Campground features several scenic trails for hikers of all skill levels. "The camp site were small and compact but it was nice. I for sure recommend campsite 26 anyone who comes and utilizes," notes Spencer P. The park has "an amazing hiking trail system within the park! Even one paved trail," according to Danielle H.
Fishing without a license: Basswood Country RV Resort provides fishing opportunities in its five small lakes where no license is required. "You could fish in the lakes and didn't even need a license. We watched kids get excited as they caught fish after fish," reports Shannon G. The resort also offers various outdoor recreation options including "playgrounds, swimming pool, outdoor games, a game room, volleyball, trails, and even golf carts for rent."
Boating access: The Missouri River provides excellent boating opportunities from Riverfront Park Campground. "If you enjoy boating, particularly boating on the Missouri River, this campground is an ideal location. Located on the western banks of the river and the eastern edge of Leavenworth, it provides easy access to the river for fishing and boating," says Tori G.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently highlight the cleanliness of facilities at Crow's Creek Campground. "These are the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think Mabye ever," notes one camper. The campground maintains "nice big camp cites. Some are on water great walking or bike trail," according to Billy S.
Quick weekend getaways: Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping receives praise for its convenience to Kansas City. "Close to Kansas City so it makes a great quick getaway. Clean, friendly, and right next to Smithville Lake. Our pick for a short trip," writes Lawrence W. The area offers full hookups for RVers, with Don M. noting, "Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite."
Private spaces: Many campers value the privacy offered at certain sites. At Weston Bend State Park, Barbie G. recommends, "Site 26 is relatively isolated. It's big too. There's a vault toilet close by." Meanwhile, at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, Reagan G. appreciates the seclusion: "We were the only people in the area we parked at! It even had a privy to use for the bathroom!"
What you should know
Seasonal operations: While many campgrounds operate year-round, services may be limited during winter months. At Camp Branch Campground, Charlotte B. explains, "During the camping season this campground has nice large shower houses and clean bathrooms. They sell ice and firewood at gates."
Site differences: Campgrounds often have varying site types and quality. At Walnut Grove RV Park, Justin G. notes, "spacing is a little tight and the surrounding views are meh at best. Being right off Johnson Drive, there is considerable road noise." Another camper recommends, "I would recommend staying at the premium pull through sites the other back-in sites are rather small."
Stay limits: Some campgrounds enforce strict time limits. At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, Rick M. advises, "I'm starting to think that Kansas has a 7-day limit instead of a 14 because this is the second time that a Kansas park official came to the door and said we need to leave. So I'm going to treat all Kansas places as a 7-day limit."
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated activities: Camp Branch Campground offers family-friendly amenities and activities. "We reserved 3 sites for a family camping trip. The camp hosts were very polite. We had a short walk to the lake for fishing, and the loop had a restroom. We were able to enter the swim beach without having to pay extra," shares Nikki S.
Off-season visits: For families seeking quieter experiences, consider visiting during shoulder seasons. "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," notes Robin R. about Camp Branch Campground.
Themed weekends: Some campgrounds organize special events for children. At Basswood Country RV Resort, Robin R. explains, "This campground is a must for anyone with children. Awesome sites with full hook ups. They have several ponds you can fish from. My kids love that. Nice play area for kids as well as themed weekends with lots of activities planned that kids can do."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: For those needing complete connections, several options exist. At Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping, DAngelo W. found, "The campground nice and clean with full hook ups at campsite, other campers were friendly, and the camp hosts were very nice and friendly."
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some campgrounds. Caitlin R. advises about Crow's Creek Campground, "Some downfalls were our spot was 13" unlevel. Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out."
Airport proximity: Some campgrounds have air traffic overhead. At Basswood Country RV Resort, Dave M. warns, "Only drawback is the airplanes overhead going to and from the airport." Brian A. adds, "The campground is on the final approach for the airport, so you get to see a lot planes flying overhead, which you don't even notice cause they are quieter than they used to be, and I think they shut down flights around 10pm."
