Camping spots near Lindsborg, Kansas offer both lakeside and community experiences in the flat to gently rolling terrain of central Kansas. The area has hot summers with temperatures often reaching above 90°F from June through August, while spring and fall provide milder conditions ideal for outdoor exploration. At an elevation of approximately 1,500 feet, campgrounds in this region experience variable weather patterns with occasional thunderstorms during summer months.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: McPherson State Fishing Lake, located about 12 miles southeast of Lindsborg, offers ample fishing with primitive camping options. "Free camping on a lake with tables, fire rings, some have shade, vaulted toilets. Quiet but close to a little town," notes one visitor about this lakeside camping area.
Swedish cultural immersion: The Old Mill Campground in Lindsborg provides direct access to the town's unique heritage. "Nice campground. Can pay online through Venmo @oldmillmuseum 12 without electric 15 with per night," shares one camper, highlighting the affordability of staying near town.
Water recreation: At Kanopolis State Park, approximately 22 miles west of Lindsborg, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and water sports. "We found one of the best places in Kansas! We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves. It was not necessarily private or in the woods. But we were right up against the lake. There was sand like a beach," reports a camper.
What Campers Like
Affordable options: The camping areas near Lindsborg offer good value. At McPherson State Fishing Lake, primitive sites are free, while Old Mill Museum Campground offers electric hookups at reasonable rates. One camper notes, "It's all about the town... the campground is really just a nice shady grassy area with electric hookups. We were the third camper there and it was plenty spacious."
Shade coverage: Many sites feature mature trees for relief from summer heat. "Very nice campground. Can not beat the price. 15.00 for 30amp service. Surrounded by trees along a river in a nice little city park," reports a visitor to Old Mill Campground.
Walkable attractions: Camping in Lindsborg offers the unique advantage of pedestrian access to town amenities. According to one visitor, "Pool, water park, playgrounds, museum and more are walking distance. But the campground is simple and quiet. Separated from the city by the river, you cross an old highway bridge turned pedestrian bridge to get to the town."
What You Should Know
Bathroom facilities vary: Some camping areas have limited facilities. At McPherson State Fishing Lake, "Pit toilets but not close to campsites," according to one camper. Meanwhile, at Sandstone Campground in Kanopolis State Park, visitors should note that maintenance can be inconsistent: "The bathrooms/showers are typical state park, but they were DIRTY! No one cleaned them Sat."
Navigation challenges: First-time visitors to Kanopolis State Park may struggle with orientation. "This park is huge and it can be confusing to find your way if you haven't been here. We had a park host help us, which was great," shares one camper about Sandstone Campground.
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs between locations. At McPherson State Fishing Lake, one camper reports, "I have 4 bars T-Mobile but no OTA tv reception," which is important information for those needing to stay connected.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly amenities: Salina Campground (formerly KOA), about 20 miles north of Lindsborg, offers extensive recreational facilities. "My kids loved the ping pong, basketball, inflatable jump pad, old metal playground and outdoor pool," says one parent, noting the variety of activities available.
Swimming options: Multiple locations offer swimming for children. "The kids loved the pool. There are 2 pools one circular one 3ft on sides 6 in the center. And a smaller rectangle one that is a kiddie pool," reports a visitor to Salina Campground.
Educational opportunities: The Swedish heritage of Lindsborg provides learning experiences. "The museum though! It's fantastic. The town is a nice walk into town and the people were so friendly. We will purposefully find every opportunity to return!" shares an enthusiastic family camper about Old Mill Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at state parks: At Cottonwood Campground in Kanopolis State Park, RVers should choose carefully. "Sites were small and had trees extremely close to the camp pad. Parking for your vehicle was poor," notes one RVer, adding that "the placement of the sewer was awkward if you have a backend bathroom."
Full hookup availability: For those seeking complete services, options exist but may be limited. "We had a gravel spot, almost perfect level, didn't have to do additional leveling," reports a visitor to Salina Campground, highlighting the convenience of well-maintained sites.
Shade considerations: Many RV spots offer natural cooling. At Coronado Motel and RV Park in Lindsborg, "Quaint little town very convenient RV park with full hook ups sewer, water, and electricity. And lots of shade trees," according to one visitor, making this a good option during hot summer months.
