Best Campgrounds near Lawrence, KS

Join the fun near Lawrence. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Lawrence. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kansas camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Lawrence, Kansas (91)

    1. Clinton State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    Lawrence, KS
    7 miles
    Website

    "The great part is that the sites are so large, at least on the lake side, which is actually a bit away from the lake, but accessible by stairs from the camp sites."

    "The park is also at a lake so there’s a beach access area where you can go and swim or just sit by the very large lake."

    2. Bloomington East - Clinton Lake

    21 Reviews
    Lawrence, KS
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 843-7665

    $14 - $60 / night

    "I live in Lawrence so this campground isn't a vacation spot for me but rather a "get some alone time" spot. Clean, safe and well maintained."

    "Awesome location and beautiful surroundings. Loved our site - lots of shade, big picnic table, & right next to playground. Beach was in great condition. The whole family had a great time."

    3. Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA

    13 Reviews
    Lawrence, KS
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 842-3877

    "We missed a KOA in Kansas City because of construction. Went to Lawrence KOA instead. Glad for the misfortune. The park has all you need for short or long term camping and RV trips."

    "I have some mobility challenges, the door to the bathroom is on a VERY tight spring, there is a step up into it. And none of the stalls have grab bars."

    4. Woodridge Park

    13 Reviews
    Clinton Lake, KS
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 843-7665

    "We also love hiking the trail through the woods and by the lake even when we aren’t camping—best trail I’ve been on in Lawrence."

    "There are so many spots you can set up at on the trail that nobody went to. Keep in mind though that the trail gets very muddy if it has just rained!"

    6. Lake Shawnee County Campground

    22 Reviews
    Topeka, KS
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 251-6834

    $20 / night

    "General: In addition to a campground, this county park has so much to offer including a seven-mile paved path around Lake Shawnee, disc golf, a heated fishing dock, softball complex, golf course, boat"

    "Beautiful gated lakeside campground in SE Topeka that can accommodate almost any camper type. There are pull through and back in sites. All are gravel with a picnic table and fire ring."

    7. COE Perry Lake Slough Creek Park

    8 Reviews
    Perry, KS
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 876-3127

    $16 - $50 / night

    "Grew up camping here every year for the 4th of July and one of my favorite places to visit when we visit Kansas, this place is amazing, little coves for swimming and kayaking, pontoons and party cove on"

    "I would have also had to walk through heavy brush to drop in, probably better locations around the lake. Overall a safe and clean place to overnight."

    8. Lone Star Lake Park

    4 Reviews
    Clinton Lake, KS
    10 miles
    +1 (785) 832-5293

    "Great little lake.  Good fishing, great locations for kayaking and paddle boarding.  the camp can get crowded quick and it's a toss up who will be around and how well behaved.  "

    "Small campground overlooking lone star lake. Sites are on a slight slope. All sites overlook the lake and water access is extremely close, including the swim beach"

    9. Perry State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Meriden, KS
    17 miles
    Website

    "Nice state park on the lake can be crowded and a little crazy on weekends.  Like most state parks no sewer hookups but easy access to dump station"

    "Only complaint, cold shower in facility near marina. I would recommend a spot closer to marina if you're not In an RV. We were a rooftop tent and could heat distant trains all night."

    10. Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground

    2 Reviews
    Lawrence, KS
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 843-7665

    $14 - $20 / night

    "This campground has a nice and open space in the center, with campsites all along the edge."

    "Now I have yet to camp out here mainly because most of the official campsites are non-primitive, but also we haven't taken the time to clear out our own space off the trail."

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Showing results 1-10 of 91 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Lawrence, KS

537 Reviews of 91 Lawrence Campgrounds



Guide to Lawrence

Camping near Lawrence, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or a family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the trails around Clinton State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "There were a few campers near to us that we could see but no one that was right next to us and we couldn't hear them at all." This makes it a great spot for enjoying nature without the noise.

  • Fishing and Boating: At Blue Springs Lake Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A reviewer said, "Quiet, beautiful campground located just outside of Kansas City, Mo." It’s perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

  • Wildlife Watching: Watkins Mill State Park Campground is known for its wildlife. One visitor noted, "The area was clean and the bathrooms well maintained," making it a pleasant spot to observe nature.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A review for Lake Shawnee County Campground stated, "The lake is beautiful and the campground is clean and neat."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. At Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, one guest said, "Friendly staff and clean bath/shower facilities."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers often mention the spaciousness of the sites. A review for Crow's Creek Campground highlighted, "We’ve stayed here several times without any problems."

What you should know

  • Seasonal Availability: Some campgrounds, like Bloomington East - Clinton Lake, are only open from early April to late September. Make sure to check the season before planning your trip.
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Longview Campground has no electric hookups or showers, so be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Wildlife Caution: While wildlife is a big draw, be cautious. A camper at Watkins Mill State Park Campground mentioned, "My only complaint were the ticks," so bring bug spray.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. Clinton State Park Campground has a playground nearby, making it perfect for kids.
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise, especially in family-friendly areas. One reviewer at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA noted, "3 stars for grumpy old people who don’t like kids noises past 8pm."
  • Pack Games and Activities: Bring along games or outdoor activities to keep kids entertained. A camper at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park mentioned, "Nice and quiet," which is great for family bonding.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure to confirm if the campground has the necessary hookups. A review for Weston Bend State Park Campground mentioned, "Electric sites, no water, but water spigots were scattered around the campground."
  • Look for Spacious Sites: RVers appreciate sites with enough room to maneuver. A camper at Crow's Creek Campground said, "We’ve stayed at sites in Loop C improved which have water and 50amp service."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: If you're near highways, be ready for some traffic sounds. A visitor at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA noted, "Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise."

Camping in and around Lawrence, KS, offers a variety of experiences, from serene nature walks to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Lawrence, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, Lawrence, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 91 campgrounds and RV parks near Lawrence, KS and 3 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Lawrence, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lawrence, KS is Clinton State Park Campground with a 3.6-star rating from 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lawrence, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Lawrence, KS.

What parks are near Lawrence, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Lawrence, KS that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.