Marion Reservoir area offers several camping options within central Kansas. Located in Marion County at an elevation of 1,350 feet, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters. The reservoir itself covers approximately 6,200 acres and serves as both a flood control measure and recreation destination. Surrounding campgrounds provide varying levels of amenities for both tent and RV campers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds near Marion Reservoir provide access to fishing. At McPherson RV Ranch, visitors can enjoy fishing while staying at one of their 40 year-round sites.
Explore nearby towns: The area surrounding Marion Reservoir connects to several historic Kansas communities. The town of Lindsborg offers cultural attractions within minutes of camping. "Quaint little town very convenient RV park with full hook ups sewer, water, and electricity. And lots of shade trees. You must visit the blacksmith coffee shop when you're in town!" notes a visitor at Coronado Motel and RV Park.
Mini-golf and recreation: Several campgrounds offer on-site recreational activities beyond water sports. A visitor at Walt's Four Seasons Campground & Country Store mentions, "Looks like they have a ton of fun things to do! $20 / per night for a tent spot." Another camper adds, "The Wifi works great, especially after this is the first time I had wifi since leaving home. The pool, fishpond, kids playground, nature trail, and dog park are just some of the amenities."
What campers like
Convenience to highways: Campers appreciate the accessibility of rv sites near Marion Reservoir. One reviewer at USI RV Park states, "Close to everywhere, flat gravel sites, friendly owners and employees, full hookups, nice dog park and kid's playground. We travel through Wichita frequently and are happy to have found a place to stay overnight or longer when needed."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Smoky Hill RV Park, a camper notes, "Well-maintained campground. Very close to Highway 70 (you can hear the vehicles) and services (gas, restaurants, Walmart). Ideal for an overnight stay on the road. Modern bathrooms and showers. Everything is very clean."
Affordable rates: The region offers economical camping options compared to other destinations. At Inman RV Park, one visitor commented, "$25 FHU, easy, in a nice small town." Another added, "As we were visiting Hutchinson during the state fair, Hutch's RV sites were all booked - but here were some spaces, not so far off."
What you should know
Variable site spacing: Some campgrounds have more densely packed sites than others. At Deer Grove RV Park, visitors note mixed opinions on the layout: "Level spots, great hookups and super friendly management" while another mentions it's "not really scenic. Very little grass mostly gravel."
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds are conveniently located near major highways but may experience road noise. A camper at Smoky Hill RV Park reported, "Very close to Highway 70 (you can hear the vehicles)" though they still rated their stay positively.
Limited primitive camping: Most facilities near Marion Reservoir focus on RV accommodations with hookups rather than primitive tent camping. The majority of campgrounds offer full or partial hookups, with fewer options for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Several campgrounds feature child-friendly amenities. At USI RV Park, a visitor noted, "The bathrooms are super clean, there is a very nice playground and fenced dog run."
Consider campgrounds with recreational activities: Walt's Four Seasons Campground offers multiple family-oriented features. One camper shared, "This campground offers put-put course, swimming pool with poolside pub, horseshoes, catch & release fishing, walking trail, small dog park, playground for children, shower houses/restrooms, laundry facility, on site gas station, a country store with made to order pizzas, sandwiches & tex mex!"
Check for seasonal events: Some rv parks near Marion Reservoir host special activities throughout the year. "They do several family friendly events throughout the year," reports a long-term camper at Walt's Four Seasons Campground, noting additional amenities like "a rentable party room inside the country store as well as outdoor areas for party rentals!"
Tips from RVers
Leveling conditions: RV sites around Marion Reservoir vary in surface preparation. At Wichita's Spring Lake RV Resort, a visitor observed, "Gravel sites. Great, robust WIFI. Clean, modern bathrooms and showers." Another noted it was a "Bargain at $33."
Hookup availability: Most parks offer multiple hookup options. A visitor to Payne Oil RV Park shared, "Payne Rv park has 18 full hook up sites and is located outside of Newton. It is perfect for a night but not a lot to see otherwise. The fee is $20 per night and you pay across the road. The sites are gravel, pull thru, and have 50/30/20 amp."
Wi-Fi quality varies: Internet connectivity differs between campgrounds. At Walt's Four Seasons Campground, a visitor specifically praised the "Wifi works great," while other campgrounds may have less reliable service depending on location and infrastructure investments.
