Best Campgrounds near Manhattan, KS

Camping near Manhattan, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and convenient amenities. Whether you're looking for a quick stopover or a longer stay, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do:

• Fishing and swimming: Many campgrounds, like Lake Shawnee County Campground, have lakes where you can fish or swim. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is beautiful and the campground is clean and neat."
• Hiking and exploring: Trails are available at places like Tuttle Creek State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "A lot of well-maintained trails and a park as well as pavilions and a lake."
• Playgrounds and activities for kids: Campgrounds like Salina KOA Holiday feature kid-friendly areas. One camper shared, "Clean, great kid play area (with ping pong) and a nice playground."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A review for Tuttle Creek State Park Campground stated, "Clean bath/shower houses. Dump stations on the way out."
• Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have welcoming hosts. A visitor at Marysville City Park mentioned, "The staff are so nice. If you buy firewood and ice from them, they deliver it to your campground for you!"
• Convenient locations: Campgrounds like Topeka / Capital City KOA are close to highways, making them easy to access. One camper noted, "Just off the interstate, so some road noise in exchange for the convenience."

What you should know:

• Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near highways, which can lead to road noise. A camper at Topeka / Capital City KOA said, "Tons of highway noise all night."
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 has no drinking water or electric hookups, but it’s free and offers a peaceful experience.
• Reservations may be needed: Some campgrounds, like Chase State Fishing Lake, require permits for camping. A visitor mentioned, "Primitive camping though there is a pit toilet. FREE. Pack it in, pack it out."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and activities. One camper at Salina KOA Holiday said, "Great kid play area (with ping pong) and a nice playground."
• Plan for meals: Some campgrounds offer food delivery. A visitor at Lake Shawnee County Campground noted, "Easy to order their pizza, made there and delivered to our site."
• Bring outdoor games: Campgrounds often have open spaces for games. A camper at Tuttle Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "Plenty of space, amazing prices, lots of trees with well-kept grass."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site sizes: Some sites can be tight for larger rigs. A review for Topeka / Capital City KOA mentioned, "Back in spot would be a little tight for a bigger travel trailer but not bad."
• Level your site: Many campgrounds have gravel sites that may need leveling. A camper at Perry State Park Campground said, "Easy breezin'... Water on each site which is a luxury."
• Bring extra hoses: Water and sewer hookups can be awkwardly placed. A visitor at Topeka / Capital City KOA advised, "A longer water hose and sewer extension are a good idea."

Camping near Manhattan, KS, has something for everyone, whether you're in a tent, RV, or cabin. Just remember to check the specifics of each campground to make the most of your trip!