Melvern Lake offers camping opportunities across 7,000 acres of water and surrounding parkland in east-central Kansas. The reservoir sits in the Flint Hills region with elevation changes providing varied camping terrain. Winter camping is available at select locations with temperatures typically ranging from 20-40°F during colder months, while summer highs regularly reach 85-95°F.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing access: Turkey Point campground provides excellent water access with spacious sites along the shoreline. "We camped in our RV at Turkey Point. The grounds are well-maintained, bathrooms were clean, hosts were friendly. No problems with water and electric hookups. Sites are well spaced, include fire rings, and almost all have shade," notes Wendy in a recent review of Turkey Point.
Hiking trails exploration: Melvern Lake features multiple trail systems winding through the Flint Hills terrain. "We road bikes, but the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible. In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination. Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces," describes Nancy C. about her experience at Eisenhower State Park Campground.
Sunset viewing spots: The western shores offer prime sunset viewing locations. "We had our pick of sites. We got a prime tree shaded spot on the water. In fairness, most sites are on the water or have a water view. Spectacular sunsets," reported a visitor at Eisenhower State Park.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Turkey Point campground offers well-spaced waterfront camping. "The sites along the water are spacious, most offer shade and trees for hammocking, and water access is awesome! We heard owls, saw bats and fireflies, and had an INCREDIBLE view of the stars at night," explains Juliana H. after camping at Turkey Point.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The lake area supports diverse wildlife populations. "Saw deer and turkey," mentions Anna P. about her trip to Outlet Park Campground, while other campers frequently report birdwatching opportunities.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards remain high at most campgrounds. "Excellent clean restrooms and showers. Great views of the lake from many spots. Also good cell service," reports Michelle H. about her October stay at Outlet Park.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise. "Close to Melvern and the railroad tracks so if the sound of trains all night isn't your thing, then pick somewhere else," warns Michelle H. about Outlet Park.
Seasonal water conditions: Lake conditions vary throughout the year. "The water was pretty gross for swimming and rocky," notes Anna P. after visiting Outlet Park in August, while spring visitors often report better conditions.
Free off-season camping: Some areas permit free camping during off-season periods. "Stayed here off season for free. They do not close the gates so you can enter but no access to facilities, water or electric," explains Amy W. about her experience at Coeur D'alene.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Multiple campgrounds feature child-friendly areas. "Beautiful campgrounds with so many activities available! The general store is super helpful, as they sell firewood and ice, and have kayak and canoe rentals. There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax," shares Cindy K. about Eisenhower State Park.
Swimming locations: Beaches and swimming areas vary in quality. At Pomona State Park, "The campground here is covered in trees, Awesome," notes Ty A., providing needed shade for families with small children during summer months.
Secluded site selection: For quieter family camping, select interior campground loops. "I recommend staying at a loop as far from the marina as possible, and get an interior spot. Vehicles were driving by all night!" advises Derek S. about his stay at Pomona State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level site availability: Prepare for potentially uneven terrain. "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 and right of us," shares Dan & Penny F. about their experience at Pomona State Park.
Big rig accessibility: Some areas accommodate larger RVs better than others. "Beautiful place - big rig friendly. So glad we chose this dispersed camping location as an overnight stay. It's fantastic! Beautiful area, campfire rings in several locations, and our 43' RV navigated smoothly," reports Brenda Y. about Osage State Fishing Lake.
Electric hookup reliability: Most campgrounds maintain consistent power. "We're in a Montana high country 384br, 41' fifth wheel. Its a beautiful park, right on Pomona lake," explains Ty A., indicating the reliable utilities at Pomona State Park.
