Camping near Wamego, Kansas offers options across varying terrain with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average in the high 80s with humidity making water access important for comfort. Most campgrounds in the region stay open through November, but primitive sites become challenging after fall rains.
What to do
Fishing with easy lake access: Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 provides primitive lakeside camping with active wildlife viewing opportunities. "Plenty of camping on the lake. All camping sites on side of lake with entrance. Nice level sites. Plenty of fire wood to forage. Great fishing. Was the only one camping but had some beaver neighbors catching fish all night," reports Joe L.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 reward campers with diverse wildlife sightings. "We saw a beautiful owl that flew between the trees. There was fire pits and nice spots next to the lake," notes Cori R. The lake area supports several species of waterfowl and small mammals.
Kayaking and paddling: River Pond Campground at Tuttle Creek State Park offers both lake access and creek paddling options. "Great grounds and many many lakes side spots," notes Hanna W. The area features multiple launch points suitable for different skill levels.
Explore local antique shops: Mill Creek Campground sits within walking distance of Paxico's historic district. "The town is within walking distance of the campground, and it is worth walking (or driving) to it. The buildings are interesting architecturally, and the town is known for antiques," explains Myron C.
What campers like
Level sites for various setups: At Mill Creek Campground, the terrain accommodates different camping preferences. "The campsites are flat and fairly spacious. We were lucky that the campground was not at full capacity because many of the sites are in pairs," notes Myron C. Gravel sites provide stability during wet weather.
Breakfast delivery service: Several campers highlight Mill Creek Campground's unique amenity. "The campground has a little restaurant and it's reasonably priced and delicious," reports Sean M. Another camper adds, "You can order a homemade breakfast and they will deliver it to your camper."
Free lakeside camping: Budget-conscious campers appreciate Pottawatomie County State Lake #2. "Driving across Kansas can be long and tedious and I'm often looking for a place to primitive-car-camp on the cheap to get some sleep while crossing the country. This little lake worked perfectly for me," says Kai W. The site requires no registration or fees.
Spacious sites with lake views: Riley Point Campground at Tuttle Creek State Park offers generous camping areas. "Plenty of space, amazing prices, lots of trees with well kept grass and scenic water views all add up to a spot we just wish we could have stayed at longer," notes JL. Sites typically measure 30-40 feet in width.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: The railroad proximity affects Mill Creek Campground's soundscape. "There are sites without power by the creek, in case you want to tent camp or just don't need hookups. The only drawback is that you can hear trains passing through during the night about three or four times," explains Myron C.
Weather-dependent road conditions: Access to Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 becomes challenging after rain. "Dirt road access. Locals enjoy this space year round for shore fishing and hammocking. Lots of shade. Some washout this summer. Pretty rough access road. Gravel + washout + steep hill down to lake level," cautions Hanna W.
Limited bathroom facilities: Primitive sites often have basic or distant facilities. "We arrived at around 5 on a Sunday and had a hard time finding a spot but by around 6pm all the locals were leaving and we ended up being the only people there by sunset. The toilets weren't the cleanest but it was nice to have them," notes Shea B.
Site mapping challenges: At larger campgrounds like Tuttle Creek, navigation can be difficult. "If you're arriving late, be forewarned that the campground is huge so a map is essential to find your spot," advises JL. Many campgrounds don't have staff available during evening hours.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Randolph area at Tuttle Creek State Park offers family-friendly spaces. "My husband and I stayed in a site with beautiful trees and sunflowers growing all around us. The monarchs must have been migrating because they were all over the trees," reports Jessica C. The area includes multi-use trails suitable for children.
Swimming options: Water recreation varies across campgrounds. "There is a nice beach area to swim, we rented kayaks and canoes for a leisurely paddle around the lake. Our camp site had plenty of overhead cover from the sun," notes David H. about Tuttle Creek Cove.
Insect preparation: Summer months require extra protection. "Bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes and chiggers were biting! Very quiet stay for a couple nights," warns Jessica C. The proximity to water increases insect activity, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Multiple recreation options: The best places to camp near Wamego include facilities for varied interests. "This campground has a playground for kids and activities for older people—basketball, corn hole, etc.," mentions Myron C. about Mill Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Calvin's RV & Tent Camping in Wamego offers dedicated RV infrastructure. "A small RV park on the east edge of Wamego KS. Full electric (30A, 50A, and 120V), water, and sanitary dump. Most sites are paved pull through sites," explains Zach L.
Hookup placement considerations: At River Pond State Park, utilities require planning. "Pull throughs are not too level and services are on the wrong side so make sure your hose and electric cable are long enough," advises Leslie B.
Site navigation challenges: Finding your assigned space can be challenging at larger campgrounds. "Park does need to label the roads with site numbers. I recommend arriving in daylight to find your spot, as well as researching your location beforehand," suggests Leslie B.
Campground size and maneuverability: Most camping areas near Wamego can accommodate various RV sizes. "Paved Roads were plenty wide enough to travel through with our 40' towing our truck. We did not utilize the restrooms so I cannot give a rating. But if you're looking for a clean, safe, quiet location this was it," reports Tina J. about Riley Point Campground.
