Near Lebo, Kansas, camping options cluster around reservoirs and state parks within a 50-mile radius. The area features rolling prairie terrain with elevation changes of 200-400 feet and a humid continental climate that brings hot summers and cold winters. Fall camping offers moderate temperatures in the 50-70°F range with colorful foliage displays at lakeside sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Turkey Point campground on Melvern Lake provides water access with spacious sites along the shore. "The sites along the water are spacious, most offer shade and trees for hammocking, and water access is awesome! We heard owls, saw bats and fireflies, and had an INCREDIBLE view of the stars at night," notes camper Juliana H.
Wildlife viewing: At night, the natural surroundings come alive with diverse wildlife. "We heard owls, saw bats and fireflies" reports a Turkey Point visitor, while Pony Express RV Park spreads across "100 glorious acres" with a small zoo featuring llamas according to one reviewer.
Hiking trails: Campgrounds like Turkey Point offer gravel hiking paths through wooded areas. "Gravel hiking trail, too," mentions Wendy, who camped there in an RV. The trails provide moderate terrain suitable for casual walks rather than challenging hikes.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Deer Creek Valley RV Park maintains high standards for bathrooms and amenities. "Clean bathrooms and showers. Fun little pool and awesome play area for kids. They have the property gate guarded at night which is another nice feature," shares Joseph F. Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a key factor in positive reviews.
Spacious sites: Campgrounds provide adequate room between sites for comfort. "The pull-thru RV pads are huge and the grass in between is sizable for each," reports Sandra V. about Deer Creek Valley. Similarly, at Turkey Point, "The sites are well spaced, include fire rings, and almost all have shade."
Pet amenities: Dog owners appreciate dedicated pet areas at several parks. "Huge grassy enclosed dog run which is priceless traveling across country with two dogs," notes Julie F. about Deer Creek Valley RV Park. Large pet exercise areas allow dogs to run off-leash safely within designated zones.
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds sit close to major roads, affecting noise levels. "We were practically sitting on the throughway. After getting used to the highway noise it was fine," explains Shirley M. about Emporia RV Park. Similarly, Forbes Landing experiences "constant noise from the grain elevators. Many trains that are noisy."
Seasonal availability: While many parks operate year-round, amenities may change seasonally. Crossroads RV Park and Campground remains open through winter months but may have limited services. "Maintained RV site. Neat and quiet area. Electric and water hookup available. Sewer available," reports Kristen.
Fire restrictions: Policies vary significantly between parks. Emporia RV Park prohibits fires completely, while Turkey Point provides fire rings at each site. Always check current restrictions, especially during dry summer months when bans may be implemented.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pony Express RV Park offers family-friendly amenities including a small zoo. "They also have some llamas as a small zoo," notes Michele W. Similarly, Deer Creek Valley features "awesome play area for kids" that provides morning entertainment while parents pack up camp.
Swimming options: During summer months, pools offer relief from heat. "A pool that was warm enough to get all the way into (but still truly refreshing!)" mentions Jim G. about their experience at Deer Creek Valley, which maintains a seasonal swimming area open approximately May through September.
Safety features: Parents appreciate security measures at certain campgrounds. "They have the property gate guarded at night which is another nice feature," reports a Deer Creek Valley visitor, while others mention well-lit hookups for safer after-dark arrivals.
Tips from RVers
Hookup quality: Full-service sites with reliable connections matter to RVers. "Clean level concrete pads with hook ups that worked!" emphasizes Jim G. about Jayhawker RV Park, which earns praise for dependable utilities. "Hosts are good honest people and will work with you around your schedule," adds Russ G.
Site layout: Pull-through sites simplify arrival and departure. "The sites were all nice and wide, level, and pull through...such an easy set up!" shares Delci L. Most parks near Lebo accommodate larger rigs, with Deer Creek Valley specifically designed for big rigs with concrete pads.
Extended stay options: For longer visits, certain parks offer weekly rates. "Great place for a stopover or extended stay for work," notes a Jayhawker RV Park reviewer, though some campers mention pricing concerns at other locations: "I wish they have monthly prices or lower weekly. Not bad for over night stop or a few days but not longer."
