Kanopolis State Park sits at an elevation of 1,500 feet and features Dakota sandstone formations that date back 100 million years. Located just west of Lindsborg, Kansas, the park spans over 15,000 acres including a 3,500-acre reservoir. Camping areas near the water can experience moderate winds during summer months, with temperatures averaging 87°F in July and dropping to 40°F during spring and fall evenings.
What to do
Hiking through limestone caves: The trail system at Eagle Point Campground — Kanopolis State Park offers unique geological exploration opportunities. "Trails with cliffs, creeks and caves, campsites with incredible views and Bald Eagles soaring overhead," notes one visitor about the park's natural features.
Swimming at sandy beaches: Sandy swimming areas provide relief during hot summer days. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping," shares a camper at Harvey County East Park.
Fishing from shoreline: Many glamping sites around Lindsborg offer direct water access for anglers. "Great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another! Love the cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors! Lots of fish!" reports a visitor at Harvey County East Park.
Paddleboard on calm waters: The reservoir provides ideal conditions for paddleboarding, especially during weekday mornings. "We arrived after dark and the layout of the park is confusing in the dark. The next morning as we left we found the layout wasn't confusing at all!" shares a camper who enjoyed water activities at KOA Campground Salina.
What campers like
Sunset views over water: Glamping sites positioned on western shorelines provide spectacular evening views. "Every spring I look forward to getting out of the city and relaxing peacefully at this beautiful Lake! I love the gorgeous sunsets, the beach area, the hiking trails, and picking guitar with my besties!" explains a visitor at Sandyshore Campground — Kanopolis State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse wildlife habitats. "No other campers in the grounds. What's not to love?" reports a visitor who enjoyed the solitude and nature watching at Eagle Point Campground.
Lakeside fire rings: Many sites feature private fire pits with water views. "This campsite is truly primitive only. There were no RV's taking up space. There were good separate spots that included a fire pit and a table," notes a Sandyshore Campground visitor about the camping setup.
Semi-private glamping areas: Some spots offer more seclusion than others. "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 the water was alright," shares another camper at Sandyshore Campground.
What you should know
Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally: Water access can change throughout the year. "Large, well kept camp area. Not very crowded mid-April 2024. Level sites with water available. Many trees," notes a recent Eagle Point visitor.
Boat ramp access varies by location: Not all glamping areas have easy water entry points. "Boat dock is very steep, small boats only. Pay online is very easy," warns a camper at French Creek Cove.
Reservation systems differ between parks: Some sites require advance booking while others are first-come. "The closest restroom is 1/2 a mile away up in Buzzard Bay though. For how popular this spot is, they need to build one closer to the campground. Also wish they would make these spots reservable as they fill up very quick since they are first come first serve," reports a Sandyshore Campground visitor.
Shared water sources at some campgrounds: "The biggest con for this campground is that you have to share a water source with the campsites next to you," explains a camper at Harvey County East Park about the water hookup situation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some glamping destinations near Lindsborg feature extensive recreation options. "We have a 5th wheel so with the AC running at night we didn't hear the road noise. Spots are wide enough to allow space and not on top of neighbors. We got a deluxe patio site. Very convenient so we did not have to pull out are grill and outdoor furniture for just an overnight stay," reports a family at KOA Campground Salina.
Budget-friendly meal options: Several parks offer affordable dining alternatives. "The food, pizza, was excellent. The staff brought our order to our site. We enjoyed a swim in the pool to cool off due to the temperature being in mid 90's," shares another KOA Campground visitor.
Bring tick protection: Ticks can be prevalent in wooded areas during warm months. "We ended up leaving because we found several tics and were worried about our dogs. It was pretty though and the weather was great," warns a camper about their experience at Sandyshore Campground.
Consider noise levels: Highway proximity affects some camping areas more than others. "Kids enjoyed the basketball court, playground, and swimming pool. Clean bathroom/showers," notes a family who found the amenities outweighed road noise at KOA Campground Salina.
Tips from RVers
Level sites with good utilities: Most glamping areas near Lindsborg provide reliable hookups. "One of the nicer lakes I've been to, and cheap, the road is a little rough, but it's a neat place. Shorter RV trailers are preferred. 30 amp service," advises an RVer at French Creek Cove.
Wind protection considerations: Some areas experience significant wind. "The sites were level and pretty typical of a KOA. The staff was very nice and accommodating and walked me over to my tent site when I arrived. Very nice touch!" shares a camper at Lincoln Campground.
Site selection for seasonal comfort: Choose sites with afternoon shade during summer months. "We tent camped here and enjoyed our stay. The bathrooms were air conditioned and clean. Overall, this campground is a good one and we recommend it!" notes a visitor to KOA Campground about staying comfortable despite temperatures in the mid-90s.
Dumping station availability: Not all areas offer full hookups or convenient dump stations. "A city maintained park in Lincoln Kansas with 30 and 50 amp plugs, dumping station, and a nice park next door. And $20!" reports a satisfied RVer at Lincoln Campground.
