Melvern Lake in Kansas offers RV camping options in a prairie reservoir setting at 1,036 feet elevation. The 6,930-acre lake sits in the Osage Plains region with water levels that fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access. Camping areas are distributed around the reservoir's 100 miles of shoreline with most developed sites concentrated on the northern sections.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: A gravel hiking trail at Turkey Point provides nature exploration options near the campground. "We heard owls, saw bats and fireflies, and had an INCREDIBLE view of the stars at night," notes one visitor about the nighttime wildlife viewing.
Fishing access: Forbes Landing RV Park serves as a convenient base for anglers targeting the lake's walleye, crappie and channel catfish populations. Located within 30 miles of Melvern Lake, it offers "full hookups" with "reasonable monthly pricing" according to reviewers despite some train noise.
Water activities: Swimming areas are limited by the rocky shorelines, but boat access remains excellent at several points around the lake. A camper at Turkey Point mentioned "water access is awesome" with many sites offering direct lake views and shoreline access for watercraft launching.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained campgrounds around Melvern Lake. A guest at Pony Express RV Park noted it has "beautiful grounds" and is "open year-round" with an owner who is "great," providing reliable service within driving distance of the lake.
Spacing between sites: Many campgrounds offer generous spacing compared to typical public campgrounds. At Deer Creek Valley RV Park, one reviewer appreciated that "the pull-thru RV pads are huge and the grass in between is sizable for each," providing privacy not mentioned in other area campgrounds.
Security features: Several RV parks implement security measures that campers appreciate. One Deer Creek Valley visitor mentioned, "They have the property gate guarded at night which is another nice feature," adding peace of mind for overnight stays.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds have reduced services during winter months. While Crossroads RV Park operates year-round, facilities like Turkey Point typically close after September, limiting off-season options.
Highway proximity: Several RV sites near Melvern Lake are located near major roadways. A reviewer at Emporia RV Park noted the "downfall is right next to interstate" and "internet is not the best, but it is secure," highlighting the trade-off between accessibility and noise levels.
Reservation systems: During peak summer weekends (Memorial Day through Labor Day), securing sites requires advance planning. One Turkey Point visitor explained it's a "little known secret" that's been consistently well-maintained for years with "camp hosts [that] have always been very accommodating."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Shady Acres RV Park provides family-friendly amenities including "a community picnic shelter" and "horseshoe pits" according to a reviewer who praised its "park like setting" that's "very clean and maintained" by "great owners."
Swimming options: Rocky shorelines limit swimming at many Melvern Lake access points, but some campgrounds offer alternatives. A Deer Creek Valley visitor mentioned they have a "fun little pool and awesome play area for kids," making it suitable for families seeking water recreation beyond the lake itself.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife sightings around the lake. Turkey Point campers report seeing "owls, bats and fireflies" during evening hours, offering natural entertainment for children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric and water connections are standard at most sites, but sewer hookups are limited. A Crossroads RV Park guest confirmed "electric and water hookup available. Sewer available" but noted it's a "maintained RV site" without mentioning other amenities.
Level sites: Many RV parks provide concrete pads that eliminate leveling challenges. One Deer Creek Valley RV Park visitor appreciated "clean level concrete pads with hook ups that worked!" after experiencing "hot dirty, dusty, un-level, gravelly" campgrounds elsewhere.
Pet accommodations: Dog-friendly features vary significantly between properties. A Deer Creek Valley guest highlighted their "huge grassy enclosed dog run which is priceless traveling across country with two dogs," providing a safe exercise area not commonly found at public campgrounds.
