Kanopolis Lake dominates the camping landscape near Marquette, Kansas, with numerous options spread across 3,400 acres of water and 12,500 acres of public land. Located in the Smoky Hills region at approximately 1,500 feet elevation, the area features distinctive Dakota sandstone formations and rolling prairie. Summer temperatures average in the mid-80s to 90s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with average temperatures in the 60s to 70s.
What to do
Hiking trails: The north side of Kanopolis State Park features an extensive network of trails through sandstone formations. "This place has up to 24 miles of hiking trails on the north side as well as being the oldest lake in the state it has some unique history from ancient Indians and the area was frequented by Buffalo bill Cody," notes one visitor.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can find success throughout the reservoir and in dedicated areas. At Venango Park, the facilities cater to fishing enthusiasts with easy water access. One camper mentioned there's even "a kids fishing pond stocked with catfish" making it family-friendly.
Disc golf: Active campers can enjoy disc golf at the course located near the Army Corps of Engineers campground. "There is a disc golf course just across the road at the Army Corp of Engineers campground," shares a camper who visited Caving Banks.
Beach activities: When temperatures rise, the beach areas provide relief. A visitor to Sandyshore noted, "We went for the weekend, mostly to do some hiking. Then realized we had found one of the nest places in Kansas! We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves... right up against the lake. There was sand like a beach."
What campers like
Water views: Lakefront campsites receive high marks for their scenic settings. At Eagle Point Campground, visitors appreciate the natural surroundings: "Trails with cliffs, creeks and caves, campsites with incredible views and Bald Eagles soaring overhead. No other campers in the grounds. What's not to love?"
Small-town charm: Just 15 miles east in Lindsborg, Old Mill Campground offers proximity to cultural attractions. "Lindsborg is a super cool little town with a good bit of stuff to do within walking distance of the campsite. Lots of Swedish culture (read up on it). Pool, water park, playgrounds, museum and more are walking distance."
Off-season solitude: Winter camping provides a different experience with fewer crowds. One visitor to Venango Park shared, "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."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking more natural settings, primitive camping areas provide alternatives to developed sites. A visitor to Caving Banks mentioned, "We camped at caving banks primitive area. Easy access to the shower house, nice breeze, successful fools gold hunt. Easy walk to the beach through the cottonwood grove to cool off."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: The park's size can make finding specific areas difficult. As one Sandstone camper noted, "We came in the late afternoon on a Friday in October. Drove from the interstate. We saw the sign & turned. We became completely lost... There are TWO areas of this state park. We were in the Horsethief Area. Our campground was Sandstone, which is the Langley Point Area."
Seasonal bathroom maintenance: During peak times, facility cleanliness may vary. A visitor to Sandstone Campground observed, "Aside from the conservation officer we saw on Friday afternoon, we saw NO park employees. The office remained closed on Sat. This brings me to point 2- the bathrooms/showers are typical state park, but they were DIRTY! No one cleaned them Sat."
Weather considerations: Wind can be significant in this region. A camper at Venango Park mentioned, "The wind was significant and was super annoying all night, but the grounds were nice, well maintained, and the campground was very quiet. Other than the wind of course."
Tick awareness: Hikers should take precautions during warm months. One visitor recommended, "Great scenery and nice trails (bring tick spray can be brutal out there!)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple camping areas feature playgrounds for children. A camper at Caving Banks Campground shared, "We spent 3 nights here for spring break with the kids and had a great time. There is a large playground and fishing pond on the south side of the lake."
Beach proximity: Sites near swimming areas simplify family outings. "We had a warm afternoon and spent a couple hours at the beach," mentioned a visitor, noting the convenience for families with children.
Pet safety: Keep pets secured at all camping spots near Marquette, Kansas. One camper warned, "Keep your dogs CHAINED, in a cage or in the camper. No space to catch a runaway before they get to the road."
Multiple activities: Plan for varied interests within driving distance. "On the north side of the lake were lost track of the number of campgrounds available there were so many. Then all the way north is 27 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horse trails. Plan on going back sometime to get to everything we didn't get to this trip."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For larger rigs, choose carefully to ensure adequate space. At Rockin' K Horse Campground, "Spots were well spaced and organized. Some had water/electric with others being just electric. Great system for checking in after hours without a reservation."
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some sites. A visitor to Venango Park advised, "Site was pretty sloped back to front and side to side but just bring leveling blocks and you're fine."
Dump station facilities: Services vary between campgrounds. One RVer noted, "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."
Cell coverage: Connectivity is generally reliable throughout the area. A camper at Venango Park reported, "I didn't use the bathroom facilities and forgot to test speed but I had zero issues with Verizon or AT&T."
