Marion Reservoir sits at 1,350 feet elevation in central Kansas with 6,200 acres of water surrounded by rolling prairie. Summer temperatures often reach 90°F with winter lows below freezing. Camping options around Marion Reservoir include both developed campgrounds with full hookups and primitive sites that allow direct lake access for camping and fishing throughout three connected coves.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: McPherson State Fishing Lake provides access to excellent fishing spots with picnic tables and fire rings. "Fantastic fishing lake, wild bison a mile or 2 down the road. Very nice camp spots with electrical hookups up on a hill and primitive down by the water," notes camper Papa T.
Swimming access: Designated swimming areas provide relief during hot summer months. At Harvey County East Park, visitors appreciate the "clean swimming area" with "life jackets hanging in case you forgot yours" according to Shannon G.
Boating options: Launch boats from multiple access points around the reservoir. "Boat launches close to most sites" at Cottonwood Point, and many waterfront sites feature small private docks or jetties for easier water access.
Wildlife viewing: The reservoir attracts diverse bird species and wildlife. At Chase State Fishing Lake, one camper enjoyed "sitting out there in the evening and watching the fish splash and listening to the birds and later, the coyotes."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites around the reservoir provide ample room between neighbors. "Spacious lots with fire rings and you are able to self register" at Marion Cove according to Shannon G.
Waterfront access: Many campsites sit directly on the shoreline. "These have to be the best camping spots in kansas very close to the water. Very clean and most spots have plenty of room," writes Papa T. about Cottonwood Point.
Mature shade trees: Old-growth cottonwoods provide cooling shade during summer months. "Large old trees" at Cottonwood Point create a comfortable atmosphere even during hot days.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "The bathrooms here were warm on a cold night and very clean. You could tell they take care of this facility very well," reports Crystal C. about Salina Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate on first-come basis. At Marion Cove, "reservations can be made up to 4 days in advance" with primitive sites costing "$10 per night" according to Lady Phyre.
Water hookup limitations: Certain campgrounds have restrictions on water connections. Harvey County East Park currently requires visitors follow a "15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter."
Seasonal operations: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Cottonwood Point operates from "mid mar-mid nov" while others remain open year-round.
Road conditions: Access roads to some sites can be challenging. French Creek Cove has a "very dusty dirt road getting here" according to Papa T., though the sites themselves are worth the drive.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: French Creek Cove offers good swimming access in a sheltered cove area. "One of the nicer lakes I've been to, and cheap" with easy online reservation system, notes camper 1life1try.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. Harvey County East Park includes "a playground, boat docks, day use areas, and basketball courts" according to Shannon G.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences for children. Chase State Fishing Lake offers "stunning views of wildflowers and rolling hills" with "milkweed and butterfly bushes support a healthy monarch butterfly population" according to Ruby W.
Budget-friendly options: Free or low-cost camping makes family outings affordable. McPherson State Fishing Lake offers "Free camping on a lake with tables, fire rings, some have shade, vaulted toilets" according to DeAnn M.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Multiple amperage options exist around the reservoir. "This campground has both 50 and 30 amp sites. All of the 50 amp sites are on the inner loop and all of the lake side sites are 30 amp" at Harvey County East Park.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds provide sanitary dump stations. Hillsboro Cove includes "a dump, wash house, bathrooms, and a group area with very large covered picnic shelter" convenient for longer stays.
Site leveling considerations: Some sites require equipment for leveling. At Cottonwood Point, site 31 "is nice once you get backed in but it's very difficult to back into, almost impossible at night. The cross slope requires 3 or 4 of those plastic spacers" according to James M.
Pet friendly camping policies: All major campgrounds near Marion Reservoir welcome pets with standard leash requirements. "Marion County Lake Campground provides year-round pet-friendly camping with full hookup sites" though bathroom cleanliness varies by location.
