Best Campgrounds near Lawrence, KS

You'll find several camping spots around Lawrence, Kansas within a short drive. Clinton State Park Campground has good trails for hiking and is one of the more developed options in the area. Blue Springs Lake Campground works well for RVers with its full hookup sites and tends to attract families because of its playground. When camping near Lawrence, you should keep food stored properly since wildlife is common throughout the region. Most camping areas have plenty of shade trees, which helps during hot days. The bathhouses at these campgrounds are generally clean, and some even have laundry facilities if you're on a longer trip. Some sites give you more distance from neighbors than others, so check the campground map if privacy matters to you. Water is generally available at the main campgrounds, but bringing extra is always smart. Spring and fall are the best seasons for camping near Lawrence when the weather is mild. Summer camping can get pretty hot, so bring canopies or other shade if your site doesn't have trees. Winter camping is doable but cold at night, so pack accordingly. The camping options around Lawrence work for different styles, from hiking-focused trips to relaxing lakeside stays. Always look up current rules before heading out.

Best Camping Sites Near Lawrence, Kansas (102)

    1. Prairie Clover Campground — Clinton State Park

    35 Reviews
    Lawrence, KS
    6 miles
    +1 (785) 842-8562

    $10 - $115 / night

    "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

    22 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

    14 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

    24 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. Coneflower Campground — Clinton State Park

    3 Reviews
    Lawrence, KS
    6 miles
    +1 (785) 842-8562

    $10 - $23 / night

    "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. 

    Pros: 

    • Access to "modern" toilets that flushed."

    10. 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."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 102 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Lawrence, KS

562 Reviews of 102 Lawrence Campgrounds


  • robert B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Osage State Fishing Lake

    Nice lake view

    Just got to the site, so far so good. Easy in for a Ford transit.

  • Rae B.
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park

    Will return

    We just started the check in process and the staff is so great and helpful that I've already added this place to favorites and hope to return next time I'm in Missouri

  • Daniel K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Blue Springs Lake Campground

    Great in town option

    Great option, clean and well ran. Quiet and I will stay agian!

  • j
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Lake Shawnee County Campground

    So much to do here

    Topeka KS Lake Shawnee Co. Park Campground This campground is a gem nestled in a beautiful county park. All the sites are paved, level and have full hookups. They include nice picnic tables and fire pits. We had a pull thru site with a nice view of the lake. There are 87 FHU sites, tent sites and two modern bathhouses and laundry facilities. The park offers so many things- golf, disc golf, fishing with a heated dock, swim beach, boating, several playgrounds, tennis courts, and places to walk and  bike., even a botanical garden.. We paid$46

  • NomadBrad D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Blue Springs Lake Campground

    Perfect Spot

    Great campsite, very clean… Bathrooms were spotless. As washer and dryer, showers, three toilets, playground for kids, firewood for sale.

  • NomadBrad D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Blue Springs Lake Campground

    Great Campground!

    The whole experience was awesome. The entire place was spotless, the sites were far apart enough that you didn't feel like your neighbors were on top of you. Bathrooms were incredibly clean and the camp hosts or some of the nicest ones I've ever encountered! I think their names were Robin and Jim. 5 stars for sure!

  • John G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Eisenhower State Park Campground

    Eisenhower SP spaciousness

    This was our first visit and we chose a campsite on-line. The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade. The showers and facilities were clean and maintained well. The camp store is minimal and only open a few hours in the evening. Access to the water is easy so bring watercraft and swimming attire. The lake is almost 7,000 acres so our kayak exploring only covered a small portion.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Walnut Grove RV Park

    A little hidden Gem

    Stayed for 2 nights for a softball tournament. A very nice Rv park just off I35 hidden in a nice quiet suburban area. Sites were gravel and level with FHU. A nice little store on site with free coffee, water and a cappuccino machine. Family owned with great hosts. Clean 24-7 bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities. A re-visit and stay is a must. Close to stores, eats and fuel for Rv’s.


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 are the costs for camping at public vs private campgrounds in Lawrence?

Public campgrounds like Prairie Clover Campground — Clinton State Park typically charge $15-25 per night for standard sites, with additional fees for utility hookups. Visitors may need to pay a daily vehicle entrance fee of around $5-7 on top of camping fees. Meanwhile, private options like Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA run higher at $35-60 per night, but include more amenities and services. Most public campgrounds offer discounts for seniors, veterans, and Kansas residents, while private campgrounds may have membership programs that provide reduced rates for frequent campers.

Where are the best campgrounds near Lawrence, Kansas?

Clinton State Park offers excellent camping options near Lawrence with two notable campgrounds: Bloomington East - Clinton Lake and Coneflower Campground — Clinton State Park. Both are well-maintained with spacious sites, and Bloomington East is particularly appreciated by locals for its clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, and access to hiking trails. For campers willing to drive a bit further, Woodridge Park offers more secluded, wooded sites that provide privacy and a true nature experience. These campgrounds are within easy driving distance to Lawrence's shops and restaurants.

What outdoor activities are available near Lawrence camping areas?

Lawrence camping areas offer diverse outdoor recreation. Lake Miola City Park provides opportunities for water skiing, swimming at a beach area with volleyball courts, fishing, and hiking/biking trails around the lake. At Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park, campers can enjoy excellent cell service while still experiencing nature, making it perfect for families wanting to stay connected while hiking and fishing. The Smiths Fork Recreation Area sits right next to Smithville Lake, offering water activities just a short drive from Lawrence. Additionally, Lone Star Lake Park provides peaceful fishing opportunities closer to Lawrence.

Are there RV parks with full hookups in Lawrence, KS?

Yes, Lawrence offers RV-friendly options with full hookups. Walnut Grove RV Park provides full hookup sites with well-maintained facilities just a short drive from Lawrence. For those willing to drive about 30 minutes, Campus RV Park offers concrete pads with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities. Both parks accommodate various RV sizes and provide convenient access to Lawrence and Kansas City attractions. These RV parks typically remain open year-round, though availability may be limited during football weekends and university events when demand is higher.