Melvern Lake, KS is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Melvern Lake is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Melvern Lake, KS. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
$10 - $100 / night
"The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade. The showers and facilities were clean and maintained well."
"This was one of our favorite Kansas State Parks. At the end of May, it was almost empty. We had our pick of sites. We got a prime tree shaded spot on the water."
$25 - $78 / night
"Clean facilities, quiet camping, great fishing lake, and nice bike paths."
"Beautiful well-kept park with gorgeous trails, beach, lots of shade, and quiet camping. We’ve been here three times now and just love it. Outlet park is below the dam."
$10 - $100 / night
"Site a little off level, nothing a few blocks or boards couldn’t solve. 30 amps of clean 122 vac, water tucked in between two pine trees that blocked the view of the sites to the left snd right of us."
"Its a beautiful park ,right on Pomona lake."
$16 - $200 / night
"Turkey Point is on the North side of Melvern lake. We have been going to this campground for about 10 years. The camp hosts have always been very accomodating."
"Gravel hiking trail, too. This was our very first trip in our brand new r v. It is only about an hour away from our house, but we will be back!"
"Another great place in Kansas. We managed to book this place on the start of Labor Day Weekend because of a last minute cancellation and we were extremely lucky to get this place last minute."
"easy access to the lake. facilities can be dirty"
$16 - $28 / night
"They do not close the gates so you can enter but no access to facilities, water or electric. Campground slopes to the river so very few level sites."
"So glad we chose this dispersed camping location as an overnight stay. It's fantastic!"
"Pretty lake views, easy to drive in and find pretty private sites, and some fire ring"
$14 - $20 / night
"Shady and close to towns."
"Free and easy, and a nice change from all the flat dry Kansas fields."
"Near the boat launch and had a quiet night. There is a pit toilet close."
ScoutJust got to the site, so far so good. Easy in for a Ford transit.
RangerNice hiking trails. Lake is near, but sites aren’t right on the lake.
LegendTopeka KS Lake Shawnee Co. Park Campground This campground is a gem nestled in a beautiful county park. All the sites are paved, level and have full hookups. They include nice picnic tables and fire pits. We had a pull thru site with a nice view of the lake. There are 87 FHU sites, tent sites and two modern bathhouses and laundry facilities. The park offers so many things- golf, disc golf, fishing with a heated dock, swim beach, boating, several playgrounds, tennis courts, and places to walk and bike., even a botanical garden.. We paid$46
TravelerThis was our first visit and we chose a campsite on-line. The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade. The showers and facilities were clean and maintained well. The camp store is minimal and only open a few hours in the evening. Access to the water is easy so bring watercraft and swimming attire. The lake is almost 7,000 acres so our kayak exploring only covered a small portion.
RangerThe staff is very nice, the camp is clean the bathrooms are clean the laundry is clean the pool is clean overall a very pleasant little camp. Please see attached video and pictures for more details.
The only two negatives are one there are probably not enough shade trees and two there is a train that comes by every couple of hours.
TravelerJust spending one night wish it could be more.
TravelerIt seems that every spots are waterfront, it's a very nice and clean place, I love it
TravelerBeautiful area to camp, and cheap. Our camp was in burning heart, it was very quiet and very clean. Even being full, it felt secluded. Absolutely will be back to camp again!
TravelerStayed one night on a roadtrip out to RMNP. Site 246 was at the bottom of the hill, right on the lake. Looks like there had been heavy rains, so evidence of a lot of run-off through these lake-front sites- but we were in a a teardrop and no rain on our one night. Bathrooms were clean- note, there are several bathrooms in the loops, but showers are located in a central bathroom nearer the entrance; still not a long walk. While lots of big RVs, it was not crowded down by the lakefront sites. Pretty quiet, except for the one camper who had his music elevated while setting up camp. But certainly quiet after dark.
Camping near Melvern Lake, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Melvern Lake, Kansas, has something for everyone. Just be prepared for the quirks and enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available at Melvern Lake in Kansas?
Melvern Lake offers several camping options to suit different preferences. Turkey Point on the north side of the lake provides well-maintained sites with some right on the water, featuring clean facilities and reasonably spaced campsites. Outlet Park Campground Melvern Lake COE offers another option with toilets, showers, and warm water sinks. Additionally, the area includes primitive camping spots and RV-friendly sites with various amenities. Most campgrounds around the lake provide access to fishing, swimming, and water recreation, though swimming conditions can vary depending on water levels and clarity.
How do I make camping reservations at Melvern Lake?
Reservations for Melvern Lake campgrounds can be made through Recreation.gov for Corps of Engineers sites or the Kansas State Parks reservation system for state-managed areas. Most campgrounds accept reservations up to six months in advance. For Coeur D'alene and other reservable sites, it's recommended to book early, especially for summer weekends and holidays. Some areas like Arrow Rock may offer first-come, first-served sites as well. Reservation requirements typically include payment information and details about your camping equipment and group size.
What campgrounds are located around Melvern Lake?
Several campgrounds surround Melvern Lake, each offering unique features. Outlet Park Campground Melvern Lake COE provides camping with bathroom facilities and fishing access near the dam. Turkey Point sits on the north side with well-maintained facilities and waterfront sites. Other options include Coeur D'alene with reservable sites and water access, Carbolyn Park near Vassar with boat-in and drive-in access, and Arrow Rock near Lebo. For free camping in the general region, Osage State Fishing Lake offers primitive sites with toilet facilities.
Are cabin rentals available at Melvern Lake?
Cabin rental options directly at Melvern Lake are limited. While the primary campgrounds around the lake focus on tent and RV camping, nearby alternatives exist. Lake Miola City Park in the region offers additional facilities that might include cabin-style accommodations. For those seeking indoor accommodations, consider checking with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism or exploring private rentals in nearby communities like Lebo, Melvern, and Vassar. If cabins are unavailable, Carbolyn Park offers alternative camping options with amenities like water access and big-rig-friendly sites.
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