Campsites near Meriden, Kansas offer accessible outdoor recreation less than 30 miles from the state capital. Camping opportunities in the region include primitive tent sites, electrical hookups, and full-service RV facilities with water and sewer connections. Many locations close during winter months, with sites at Perry Lake operating from April through October while Clinton Lake options maintain year-round access.
What to do
Fishing access: Slough Creek Park at Perry Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities from shore or small watercraft. "Slough creek at Lake Perry is an Army Corps of Engineers campsite that has spread out sites with lots of mature trees. Some sites very near the water. Great access to boat ramps as well," notes camper Steve B.
Swimming spots: Several areas provide designated swimming access to cool off during hot Kansas summers. A visitor at Rock Creek Campground described it as "perfect for weekend trip, with kids or/and dogs for swimming and hanging out."
Hiking trails: Explore maintained walking paths through native Kansas woodlands. Woodridge Park offers "tons of trails" according to Josh M., who calls it "my favorite hidden gem" with "potable water, nice toilets, plenty of space."
Kid-friendly playgrounds: Most campgrounds feature playground equipment for younger visitors. Deer Creek Valley RV Park offers "fun little pool and awesome play area for kids," according to Joseph F.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Perry Lake locations receive high marks for lake proximity. Ian C. from Rock Creek Campground mentions, "We had a wonderful stay! Wonderful pull through spots, great views, and closer to the boat ramp!"
Spacious camping spots: Many campgrounds feature sites with room to spread out. "The sites were level and access to water," reports Kaylyn B. about her experience at Rock Creek Campground.
Cleanliness standards: Campers consistently rate bathroom facilities based on maintenance. Lisa L. notes that Rock Creek Campground facilities "are well cared for and the volunteer staff is amazing."
Seasonal activities: During winter holidays, some campgrounds offer special events. A visitor to Lake Shawnee County Campground mentioned, "there is a Christmas light display over the holiday causing traffic entering the park around 6 pm. My kids enjoyed walking around and seeing the lights."
What you should know
Variable campsite privacy: Site spacing can differ significantly between and within campgrounds. Jeffrey C. at Lake Shawnee notes it's "essentially row housing for trailers. ZERO privacy or space from your neighbors. Nice looking lake and glad to have a cheap spot to park, but not a destination for us."
Possible noise issues: Some campsites experience noise from nearby roads or facilities. Jason F. observed at Topeka/Capital City KOA that "the campground is right next to a highway and an air base, so we didn't get a very restful night's sleep."
Seasonal closures: Most Perry Lake campgrounds shut down from October to April. Winter camping is primarily limited to Clinton Lake and Lake Shawnee. Bloomington East at Clinton Lake operates from "early April to late September."
Reservation requirements: Campsite availability varies by season with some locations requiring advance booking, particularly on summer weekends. First-come, first-served options exist at several parks.
Tips for camping with families
Shade importance: During summer, seek tree cover for relief from heat. At Perry State Park, one camper warned, "Not a lot of choices for sites that are flat or offer a lot of shade."
Wildlife encounters: Many campgrounds support diverse animal life. Harmony H. visiting Woodridge Park reported: "We went mid-June, and there had apparently been some type of butterfly hatching. They were small but quite aggressive, constantly swarming us."
Alternative accommodation: When tent camping isn't feasible, cabin options exist at select locations. Clinton State Park provides cabins alongside RV and tent sites, while Topeka/Capital City KOA features cabin rentals.
Beach access: Sandy beaches at Clinton Lake provide alternative water recreation to boat launching. Nancy L. notes Bloomington East offers "great access to boat ramps, fishing dock, and a large sandy beach."
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifics: Water and electrical connections vary by location. Jim G. appreciated Deer Creek Valley RV Park's infrastructure: "Clean level concrete pads with hook ups that worked! A pool that was warm enough to get all the way into (but still truly refreshing!)"
Site leveling considerations: Ground conditions impact setup ease. Cynthia F. noted about Slough Creek Park: "Generally the area was clean and campsites were gravel and level. We stayed in one with electrical hookups, but there are dry camping options."
Extended stay options: Some parks accommodate longer visits. Clinton State Park camper Charles F. reported: "Staying 2 weeks and couldn't have been more pleased! Website is little to no help unless visiting in peak season, but the camp hosts and park rangers are the tops."
Access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. One KOA visitor cautioned: "The road coming into the campground is unpaved and very bumpy. Folks with larger rigs should be aware that the road narrows as you pass under the overpass."
