Best Campgrounds near Meriden, KS
The countryside surrounding Meriden, Kansas features multiple established campgrounds primarily clustered around Perry Lake, with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV facilities. Lake Shawnee County Campground, Perry State Park, and several Army Corps of Engineers sites provide the main camping infrastructure in the region. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, while Perry State Park and Topeka/Capital City KOA also offer cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort. Several campgrounds provide electric, water, and sewer hookups, particularly at Lake Shawnee and Deer Creek Valley RV Park.
Camping facilities around Perry Lake operate seasonally, with many sites closing between October and April. Notably, Rock Creek and Longview Park are only open from May through September, while other areas like Lake Shawnee remain accessible year-round. Reservations are recommended for most developed sites, especially during summer weekends. Water access is a primary attraction, with many campgrounds featuring shoreline proximity and boat ramps. Several campgrounds offer amenities including showers, toilets, and sanitary dump stations. A camper noted, "Perfect for weekend trip, with kids or/and dogs for swimming and hanging out."
Waterfront campsites at Perry Lake receive consistently positive reviews, with Rock Creek Campground particularly praised for its peninsula setting surrounded by water. Sites vary considerably in privacy and spacing, with some campers noting that certain areas feel congested during busy weekends. Many locations feature mature trees providing shade and wildlife habitat, particularly at Slough Creek Park. Basic facilities are well-maintained at most sites, though bathroom quality varies across locations. A visitor commented, "Great campground. Large sites. Wonderful lake access." Weekend noise can occasionally be an issue, with one reviewer mentioning that "a new bar/restaurant across the lake kills an overall good family camping weekend" with loud music audible from campsites. Despite some drawbacks, the region's campgrounds generally receive favorable ratings for their access to water recreation, level sites, and clean facilities.
