Meade State Park and surrounding camping areas sit in the southwestern plains of Kansas at approximately 2,500 feet elevation. The relatively flat terrain creates wide-open vistas across the prairie landscape, with Lake Meade serving as the central feature for outdoor recreation. Summer temperatures regularly reach into the 90s with cool evenings, while spring and fall offer milder temperatures ranging from 50-80°F during the day.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Meade offers catfish fishing with potential for significant catches. According to one visitor at Meade State Park Campground, "Huge catfish have been caught here" and the park includes "a small store for snacks and bait."
Swimming beach access: About a mile from the main camping areas, Lake Meade provides designated swimming areas during warmer months. One camper noted Meade State Park has an "amazing swimming area" with staff available to assist visitors.
Family activities: The park hosts seasonal events throughout the year. A reviewer mentioned that Meade State Park offers "many dates for family friendly activities that include trick or treating in Oct."
Walking distance attractions: For those staying at Dodge City KOA, city attractions are readily accessible. One camper mentioned it's "close to downtown tourist attractions" and "within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum."
What campers like
Quiet environment: The natural setting at Meade State Park provides a peaceful atmosphere away from urban noise. A camper described their experience: "We were the only campers. Sites are close to each other. Good electric and water."
Spacious lakeside sites: Lake View camping area offers unobstructed views and premium spots. A reviewer at Meade State Park Campground shared: "Lake View site #22, beautiful view from the lake's edge. Most sought after site. Power and Electric hook-ups."
Well-maintained facilities: Campsites and amenities receive regular upkeep. One camper observed "Rangers were working in the woods near the campgrounds" and mentioned that the "shower house at the visitor center was clean and had hot water."
Site spacing: At Gunsmoke RV Park, the layout provides more separation than typical RV parks. A visitor noted this campground "has one of the most separated sites of the places we've stayed" with "spaces separated by one's own grassy area and trees, where the picnic table is situated."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The open plains create consistent wind conditions that may impact camping. At Gunsmoke RV Park, one camper mentioned: "Come to find out, it is very windy here, so awnings are not used very often."
Insects after dark: Prepare for evening insects during summer months. A camper at Meade State Park Campground reported: "Only complaint is insects that were bad after dark - like gnats or something that didn't bite but were a nuisance."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Dodge City KOA, a camper warned: "I could toss a rock and hit passing trains."
Site availability: Reservations may not be required during off-peak seasons. One visitor shared: "We got there in the evening on a Saturday and easily found a campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Water park proximity: When glamping close to Meade, Kansas, families can enjoy nearby water recreation. A family staying at Dodge City KOA reported: "Nice large concrete pads. Plenty of grassy area behind site 27 for kids to play. Nice cheap water park within walking distance, park, and free zoo."
Playground access: Consider sites near playground facilities for convenience with small children. A visitor advised: "Sites 18 and 19 would be good IF you have small children as the playground is right behind 19 and next to 18. Don't reserve these sites if you don't want the noise and activity of kids nearby."
Ice cream treats: Seasonal vendors provide special treats. One camper at Meade State Park mentioned: "They even have an ice cream truck that makes the rounds!"
Budget-friendly amenities: Free attractions complement your glamping experience. A visitor noted the "free zoo" and "super affordable water park" near Dodge City accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Multiple service points at some sites provide flexibility. An RVer at Gunsmoke RV Park observed: "Some sites have multiple sewer dumps so your positioning of your rig is less of a problem."
Site selection guidance: At Gunsmoke RV Park, location within the property significantly impacts experience. A reviewer advised: "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet. 33 through 44 are back in sites and front the highway and are noisier."
Security features: Gated glamping options provide additional security. A camper mentioned that Gunsmoke RV Park uses a "code on the entrance gate and bathroom and laundry doors. The gate is open during the day and closes at night."
Self-registration procedures: Late arrivals can find clear instructions for self-check-in. One camper at Meade City Park mentioned: "Free east to get to dump and water, but small rig only. I'm here in January, but looks like supposed to park on the grass."
