Top Tent Camping near Marion Reservoir
Searching for a tent campsite near Marion Reservoir? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Kansas tent camping excursion.
Best Tent Sites Near Marion Reservoir, KS (9)
1. Old Mill Campground
1 Review•6 Saves- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
2. Kansas View - Council Grove Lake
2 Reviews•2 Photos•2 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Trash
3. Kansas View
1 Review•9 Photos•2 SavesOverview
Kanza View Picnic Shelter is located at the east end of Council Grove Dam just off Kansas Highway 177. It offers some of the most scenic views of the lake.
Recreation
Although Council Grove Lake has excellent fishing and boating opportunities, access to the water limits these activities at Kanza View. Picnicking and tent camping at Kanza View's primitive sites are this location's primary activities.
Facilities
Although Council Grove Lake has excellent fishing and boating opportunities, access to the water limits these activities at Kanza View. Picnicking and tent camping at Kanza View's primitive sites are this location's primary activities.
Natural Features
The park sits on top of a hill adjacent to the lake offering breathtaking lake views. Although the park has many open grassy areas interspersed with large Cottonwood and Oak trees, access to the lake is limited due to the steep, rocky terrain.
Nearby Attractions
Multiple developed campgrounds surround Council Grove Lake in the near vicinity. The town of Council Grove affords an array of historic sites and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is 18 miles south on Highway 177.
- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$25 - $30 / night
5. Outlet Park (KS)
1 Review•1 Photo•14 SavesOverview
Outlet Park is a day use park at Milford Lake located just below the Milford Dam. With one shelter available for reservation, those visitors interested in angling and wildlife observation will enjoy its location near the Outlet Pond, a popular fishing pond and wildlife attractor. Inside the park is also a great fishing areas and access to the Riverwalk Trail. Click here for the Milford Lake Virtual Tour.
Recreation
Activities at Milford Lake include boating, swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking, wildlife viewing and biking. Milford Lake is known to have great sail boating opportunities as well.
Facilities
The shelter has a vault toilet and grill available for use and also has a playground, horseshoe pit and sand volleyball court nearby. The shelter is located by a fishing pier which offers great fishing access.
Natural Features
Milford Lake is nestled on the edge of the Kansas Flint Hills and is fed by the Republican River. Milford Lake stands as the largest man-made lake in Kansas, with a surface area of 15,700 acres and 163 miles of shoreline. Milford Lake is also the home of the states third largest wetland and is known to a variety of wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
The Milford Nature Center and Fish Hatchery is nearby just below the dam. There you can find live animal exhibits as well as learn about the ecosystems of Kansas. A golf course is adjacent to the nature center on the north end of the Dam and the town of Junction City is approximately five miles from North Overlook Shelter.
- Tents
- Group
- Picnic Table
$25 / night
6. North Overlook Park (KS)
1 Review•4 Photos•2 SavesOverview
North Overlook Park is a one of the many day use parks at Milford Lake with two shelters available for reservations, great fishing access, and a playground. Also within walking distance of the shelters is a baseball field, horseshoe pits and a volleyball court. With these features offered, North Overlook Park is sure to have something for the whole family. Click here for the Milford Lake Virtual Tour.
Recreation
Activities at Milford Lake include boating, swimming, fishing, hunting, hiking, wildlife viewing and biking. Milford Lake is known to have great sail boating opportunities as well.
Facilities
Each shelter has picnic tables and grill available for use. Shelter 2 also has a sand volleyball court and horseshoe pits available. And there is a playground, vault toilet and baseball field located between the two shelters.
Natural Features
NATURAL FEATURES: Milford Lake is nestled on the edge of the Kansas Flint Hills and is fed by the Republican River. Milford Lake stands as the largest man-made lake in Kansas, with a surface area of 15,700 acres and 163 miles of shoreline. Milford Lake is also the home of the states third largest wetland and is known to a variety of wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
The Milford Nature Center and Fish Hatchery is nearby just below the dam. There you can find live animal exhibits as well as learn about the ecosystems of Kansas. A golf course is adjacent to the nature center on the north end of the Dam and the town of Junction City is approximately five miles from North Overlook Shelter.
- Tents
- Group
- Trash
- Picnic Table
$25 / night
7. Council Grove Marina
Be the first to review!This recreation area is part of Council Grove Lake
- Tents
8. KDWP - Milford Nature Center & Fish Hatchery
Be the first to review!This recreation area is part of Milford Lake
- Tents
Recent Tent Reviews In Marion Reservoir
231 Reviews of 9 Marion Reservoir Campgrounds
Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
Actually stayed at Bemis CG
We actually camped at Bemis Campground about a mile and a half south of this campground. Right off of the main road. There was about 15 or 20 spaces all with electric. I believe there was vault toilets only but no dump station. We had to come up to the blue stem area to dump. Nice little campground right on the lake but downside was that it was right next to the road so a little bit of traffic noise and not really any place to hike or walk. Spaces were fairly level and nicely spaced apart. Probably would recommend taking a back in spot rather than a pull through spot as the pull through were all pretty small and had no shade.
Covered Wagon RV Resort
Convenient for 1-3 night stay
It's a quaint little campground that has been around for 60 years. It's just down the street from President Dwight D Eisenhower presidential museum and library. The entrance is marked with a square blue sign I found difficult to read when approaching the campground. Our site was very level with about 15-18 foot swath of grass on either side.
If you get the chance visit the early 1900's wooden Carousel and old Abilene historic buildings. Check out the The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad heritage railway. Ride the Flint Hills Express on track built by the Rock Island Railroad in 1886! M&R Grill had good food, reasonable prices, and generous portions. Staff was friendly and helpful.
Sand Hills State Park Campground
Nice campground
Nice pull through & back in site just 4 miles from Kansas fairgrounds
Shady Creek Area — El Dorado State Park
Nice Campsite with Water Access
Nice campsite, tons of sites with nobody else here. Not buggy either.
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
Beautiful lake sunset
Kansas has over 40 state fishing lakes with free camping. Lots of fishermen. I’d say over a dozen camping sites. We had a shelter, picnic table, toilet building, view of the lake. We rode our motorcycles here to tent camp. Raccoon couldn’t wait for me to zip my tent to come out and see what we left out.
Mulberry Campground — Kanopolis State Park
Cicada City
Nice easy place to pitch a tent or hang a hammock. Primitive campground is well maintained and largely unoccupied because of the lack of hookups for RVs. Stayed on 4th of July and only one other family was in the entire campground. Close to swimming beach, but bring your own water as there is no spigot nearby. Great birds too!
Owl's Nest Campground
One Week Acceptable
Reserve online, reasonably priced. One week stay in this little park, close to Junction City and Fort Riley. Full hookups in pull- thru half circle asphalt tar or back-in sites. Close to Hwy 70 with some noise. Laundry/shower area available.
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
Overnight stay
Camp site was fine. Just disappointed in the amount of trash surrounding. Easily filled up a large trash bag at the single site I was on. Could be so much better if maintained.
Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park
No modern shower/toilets
After told at the office that there were showers in Bluestem all of the modern showers were locked due to water line problems. So we went to the campgrounds by the dam.
Walnut River Area — El Dorado State Park
Better than Bluestem
Finally we found a campsite in Old Oak. Beautiful setting. Showers/toilets were were better than the archaic ones in Bluestem that have no roofs, but barely. Broken soap dispensers, cold water, no privacy in showers, etc.
Venango Park
Spring camping
We stayed at this federal campground 3/29/24 for free. 126 sides and I think there were four RVs here. No hookups or water (That's why it's free) but it had one open pit toilet. Beautiful views, felt very safe. A bit windy. Hopefully everybody will take care of this place & not abuse the privilege of staying here in the winter for free.
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
Great place!
Campsite is clean and peaceful. Beautiful lake with a waterfall a little more north. The highway nearby is a little noisy but not off putting. Regular drive bys from locals but completely normal.
Deer Grove RV Park
Very friendly and helpful staff! Well maintained park!
The park was clean and friendly. I loved the dog park so I could let my pups run free. The laundry facility was very helpful so i didnt have to travel to find one. There was free wifi in the park as well, which my kids loved. There is a very pretty pond area on the property, with very nice walking trails. Wichita, KS is very close by with lots of fun things to do. Enjoyed my time there, will def stay there again if back in the area!
Walt's Four Seasons Campground & Country Store
Exceptional family friendly campground!!
In June of 2023, my husband& I decided to move into our 42' toy hauler. We searched& searched within a 30-minute radius of our property that we had bought for a campground with great amenities and where we would feel safe with our 2 babies. Walt's is by far the safest, friendliest, fun-filled campground compared to any of the others we visited around. We were greeted with friendly faces and welcoming staff from our very first day of move-in. They made sure we got settled& hooked up ok and have continued to make us feel right at home. My husband is a truck driver so isn't always home when things go wrong with the camper. The staff has always been there to help when something happens especially when we have had issues with propane leaks, or the heater not working during the colder temps. 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! They do several family friendly events throughout the year. At the country store they have anything of convenience that you may need from toiletries, drinks, snacks, ice cream, games, books, alcoholic beverages, etc. We absolutely love staying here. The sites have been freshly graveled. During the summer the lawn, gardens, pool, etc. Were maintained regularly and they are constantly doing updates weekly here. The best part it is also right off I-70. For long term campers that are truckers they do have a small area for semis. They also have a rentable party room inside the country store as well as outdoor areas for party rentals!
Emporia RV Park
An overnight
Clean restrooms and showers. Quiet campground. Downfall is right next to interstate. Internet is not the best, but it is secure.
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
Three Day Stay
We stayed for three nights while staying close to Nebraska for a wedding and work obligations. Quiet lake, we were the only campers there. Little traffic through the park. Can sometimes hear the highway 77 noise but not really inside the camper. Great free spot.
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Spring Lake RV Resort
Bargain at $33
Gravel sites. Great, robust WIFI. Clean, modern bathrooms and showers.
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
Quick overnight was decent
Multiple spots are available on the lake, and there are a couple in a grassy wooded area. They have picnic tables and fire pits already there. I stayed in the grassy wooded area and enjoyed the night. Road noise dies down around 8 or 9 and then you only hear occasional cars if you are awake... didn't bother me much. Had a dog and she had a good time.
Cottonwood Grove RV Campground
Nice Overnighter
Pleasant small family owned campground. Lyndel was very sweet. Hot showers with lots of water pressure, laundry room and full hookup. If you need a spot to take a break from driving, this is a nice spot.
Santa Fe Lake
Great
It was easy thank you very much
Walnut River Area — El Dorado State Park
El Dorado Kansas
Good wish could’ve been closer to the boats, but nearby the swimming area right now t-Mobile service works out here pretty well. 
Salina KOA Holiday
Decent stop over
This is a decent stop over during travel. The site was wide and level and had mature trees. The park itself isn't far from the interstate, which makes it fantastic for an easy off and on, but also comes with some road noise. There is also a truck stop at the end of the road for convenient fill up.
Venango Park
Great for a stopover, reset, or water lovers!
Pros:
- easy to get to from I-70
- friendly camp hosts
- lots of grass to walk dogs
- beautiful sunsets
Cons:
- 35 minutes one way to the nearest town with major stores like Walmart and Petco
- people did not care about walking through my waterfront site to get to the water (there were other ways)
- site was pretty sloped back to front and side to side but just bring leveling blocks and you're fine
- dump station didn't provide a water hose for cleaning the sewer hose after dumping even though it had water connection but must provide own hose
I didn't use the bathroom facilities and forgot to test speed but I had zero issues with Verizon or AT&T.
West Rolling Hills
Nice place to rest
Sites are nice; although very exposed to the neighbor and close together. It was really windy. Almost all sites in the b loop on the lake. Bathrooms clean. Not sure if there is a shower somewhere.
KOA Campground Salina
primo campsites
Friendly staff, primo campsites, and awesome amenities. Highly recommended for a wicked camping experience!
Santa Fe Lake
Cute campground
Rent kayak, tent and rv friendly. Fishing and hiking. No Wi-Fi but there are usually two bars.
Guide to Marion Reservoir
Camping near Marion Reservoir, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Fishing: The area is known for great fishing spots. At Chase State Fishing Lake, one reviewer said, "Primitive camping though there is a pit toilet. FREE. Pack it in, pack it out." This lake is perfect for those who want to catch some fish while enjoying the outdoors.
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Kanopolis State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "Do yourself a favor and stay at Blue Stem primitive site 5. Beautiful view of the reservoir, and it’s on the end so you have a huge open area all to yourself." The trails offer stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
- Swimming: If you're looking to cool off, Harvey County East Park has a nice swimming area. One camper noted, "Relaxing and clean swimming area. Bathroom was clean." It’s a great spot for families to enjoy a day by the water.
What campers like:
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the tranquility of places like Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area. A reviewer shared, "Campsite is clean and peaceful. Beautiful lake with a waterfall a little more north." This makes it a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle.
- Clean Facilities: Campers at McPherson State Fishing Lake enjoy the cleanliness of the site. One visitor said, "Free camping on a lake with tables, fire rings, some have shade, vaulted toilets. Quiet but close to a little town." Clean facilities can make a big difference in your camping experience.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Spring Lake RV Resort is noted for its family-friendly environment. A guest mentioned, "This is a resort. Everything you could want. Swimming pool, chuck wagon on weekends." Families can find plenty to do here.
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Campgrounds like Chase State Fishing Lake have limited amenities. A camper pointed out, "No electricity or water. Clean latrines. Close to town." Be prepared to bring your own supplies.
- Crowded on Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy. One visitor at Kansas Geary State Fishing Lake noted, "I got here on a Friday night in late September and took the last available campsite." Arriving early can help secure a good spot.
- Road Noise: If you prefer a quieter experience, be aware that some sites, like those at El Dorado State Park, can have road noise. A reviewer mentioned, "The highway nearby is a little noisy but not off putting."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Harvey County East Park, where one reviewer said, "This is a Great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another!" It’s essential to find spots that cater to families.
- Plan Activities: Make sure to plan activities that everyone can enjoy. At Cottonwood Point, a visitor noted, "There is a nice swimming area that has life jackets hanging in case you forgot yours." This can help keep kids entertained.
- Pack Essentials: Always bring enough supplies for the family. One camper at McPherson State Fishing Lake mentioned, "I wish the bathrooms and clean water were closer to the campground." Being prepared can make your trip smoother.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: RVers should check the size of the sites. A reviewer at Kansas Cottonwood Point said, "The site is nice once you get backed in but it’s very difficult to back into." Knowing the layout can save you time and frustration.
- Look for Electric Hookups: If you need power, make sure to choose campgrounds that offer electric hookups. Kanopolis State Park Campground has sites with electric and water, making it easier for RVers to stay comfortable.
- Be Ready for Weather: Kansas weather can be unpredictable. A visitor at West Rolling Hills mentioned, "It was really windy." Be prepared for changing conditions to ensure a pleasant stay.
Camping near Marion Reservoir, Kansas, has something for everyone, from fishing and hiking to family-friendly activities. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Marion Reservoir?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Marion Reservoir is Old Mill Campground with a 4-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Marion Reservoir?
TheDyrt.com has all 9 tent camping locations near Marion Reservoir, with real photos and reviews from campers.