Primitive camping options near Medicine Lodge span from basic lakeside sites to full-service RV parks with varying amenities. Western Kansas weather patterns create distinct camping conditions throughout the year, with summer temperatures reaching into the 90s and limited natural shade at many sites. Terrain alternates between open grassland and wooded areas along creeks and water features.
What to do
Crystal digging at Salt Plains: Visitors to Salt Plains State Park Campground can hunt for unique selenite crystals in designated digging areas from April through October. "You could spend hours just digging up the crystals on the salt plains. I would absolutely recommend everyone to spend the weekend here just relaxing and having a ton of fun," shares Alyn M.
Fishing opportunities: Kingman State Fishing Lake offers shoreline fishing with potential for sizable catches. "Go fishing for slab crappie and hunt the sand hills for deer, and bobwhite quail! The restrooms and camp sites are very clean!" notes Anthony W. The lake remains shallow enough that "you could walk across it in waders," according to Butch K.
Hiking and wildlife observation: Natural trails through the area provide wildlife viewing opportunities, especially birds. "Views from top of the spillway are unbelievable. Lots of fishing going on. Hiking was awesome," reports Korina D. about her experience at Salt Plains State Park Campground.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the region offer quiet settings with minimal crowds. "We stayed through Wednesday morning. Used a Honda inverter generator just enough for the coffee maker and microwave. Loved it and will be back often," shares Scott K. about his experience at Kingman State Fishing Lake.
Wildlife encounters: Medicine Lodge City Park provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Enjoy the coyotes howling at night and the waterfowl on the still lake in the morning," notes Anthony W., highlighting the natural soundscape of the area.
Affordable options: Pratt County Veterans Memorial Park offers economical camping with basic amenities. "This is a quiet little park for being in the heart of Pratt. It's just $10/night for electric & water. There's a dump station nearby, you just need to get the key from city hall," explains Teresa M., noting the reasonable pricing structure.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer well-spaced sites while others position campers close together. At Kingman State Fishing Lake, sites are "well spaced and most shaded by cottonwood trees. No hookup, just a picnic table and a fire ring," as described by Kris.
Limited amenities at some locations: Kiowa County State Park Campground offers basic facilities with "five designated primitive tent spots with fire rings and tables. No RV spots, no electric, and no water," according to Vanessa M., who notes campers "are responsible for removing your trash."
Noise factors: Environmental sounds can impact camping experiences. "There is a lot of noise from the working silos, railroad, and highways," notes Vanessa M. about Kiowa County State Park Campground, while others mention highway noise at various locations.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited shade, creating hot conditions in summer months. "It is Kansas, so it's very open, you wouldn't have a lot of privacy if it was busier, although there are lots of short trees around the little lake," explains Reid about Kiowa County State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities for children: Medicine Lodge City Park includes recreation options beyond camping. "This really is a city park. One which boasts some really great park amenities- baseball diamonds, playgrounds, pool..." notes Vanessa M., making it suitable for families seeking pet friendly camping near Medicine Lodge with recreational facilities.
Fishing-focused family activities: Bring fishing equipment for family entertainment at several lakes. "Fantastic, free camping! Just a short jaunt off the highway making it super easy to get to," shares Megan B. about Kingman State Fishing Lake, noting "each camp site has a picnic table and fire ring."
Educational opportunities: Salt Plains offers unique learning experiences for children. "The Great Salt Plains is great place to go for an adventure. You could spend hours just digging up the crystals on the salt plains," explains Alyn M., describing an activity particularly engaging for families with pets and children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Shirley's Shine Car Wash and RV Park accommodates larger rigs with necessary connections. "We fit in a super C (Semi truck) 41ft long x 13.6 height with flat tow. Verizon cell service excellent. Quiet. Trash available," reports Kat about this pet-friendly camping option near Medicine Lodge.
Site selection for larger vehicles: When seeking pet friendly camping near Medicine Lodge in larger RVs, consider site dimensions. "Much larger than expected, tons of spots that can fit large rigs. All dirt roads that can get muddy," notes DakotaMiner about Kingman State Fishing Lake.
Dump station access: RVers should plan for waste disposal needs. "There is a dump station nearby, you just need to get the key from city hall," explains Teresa M. about facilities at Pratt County Veterans Memorial Park, which offers a convenient option for RV campers with pets.
