Perry State Park offers several camping options near Meriden, Kansas, with sites positioned around the lake approximately 12 miles west of Topeka. The park encompasses over 1,000 acres with elevation changes of 50-100 feet throughout the camping areas. Summer temperatures regularly reach 90°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with daytime temperatures averaging 60-75°F.
What to do
Fishing access and amenities: The Lake View Loop at Perry State Park Campground provides convenient lake access with pull-through spots near the boat ramp. "We had a wonderful stay! Wonderful pull through spots, great views, and closer to the boat ramp!" reports Caitlin R.
Kayaking and boating: At Eisenhower State Park Campground, the 7,000-acre lake offers extensive water recreation opportunities. "The lake is almost 7,000 acres so our kayak exploring only covered a small portion," notes John G., making it ideal for multiple days of water exploration.
Hiking on moderate trails: Cedar Park offers direct trail access to the lake shore with minimal elevation changes. "There are waterfront sites and it's flat. There's a ground toilet you can walk to. I wouldn't swim in or even filter the water, but makes for a pretty view," mentions Jordanna B.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: At Banner Creek, campers appreciate the well-designed layout. "Campsites have plenty of space between sites, beautiful views and camp hosts were very helpful. Mostly pull through sites," shares Terri C.
Clean facilities: Weston Bend State Park maintains exceptional cleanliness standards. "These are the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think Mabye ever. The camp hosts were super nice stop by to make sure that I was all set up and didn't need any help," says Lauri J.
Natural surroundings: Evening wildlife viewing opportunities enhance the camping experience. "We had a spot right near the grassy area with the woods right behind us!! Fireflies at night wonderful!! Great water hook up and electric site!" reports Stacy Z. about Banner Creek.
What you should know
Weekend noise considerations: Some areas experience weekend noise that affects peaceful camping. At Perry State Park, Brandon B. notes: "The new bar/restaurant across the lake kills an overall good family camping weekend. There was a live band that had their music so loud we could hear it across the lake from 8-midnight."
Site selection matters: At Weston Bend State Park Campground, some sites offer better privacy than others. "While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too. There's a vault toilet close by," explains Barbie G. about site 26.
Weather preparedness: Wind conditions can significantly impact camping experiences. Christina H. cautions about Eisenhower State Park: "It was super duper windy off of the lake for us, so be ready for wind."
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground provides family-friendly amenities beyond equestrian features. "There is a playground, picnic shelter, two designated manure piles, and access to horse-friendly and dog-friendly trails right in the campground!" explains Juliana H.
Swimming options: Eisenhower State Park offers dedicated swimming areas. "There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax. Our actual campsite was great and came equipped with a firepit and picnic table, and we could walk to the lakeshore," shares Cindy K.
Campground layout considerations: Family reunions work well at Perry State Park with its accommodating design. "We just had a family get together where we rented 6 sites. It accommodated us all!" notes Sheri S.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Cedar Park provides primitive camping with basic amenities. "Cedar Park offers great vehicle access, lake access, fire rings, picnic tables, and bathrooms. Area is clean and there is beach access for fishing and Kayacking," shares Redneck R.
Water access planning: At Happy Joy Acres, full hookups are available but campers should verify specific site amenities. "The woman that runs the place told us about a big lake that was close to us. We went there for a couple of days and have more fun it's a beautiful big lake," notes Lisa R.
Road conditions: Internal roads at some parks require careful navigation. Nancy C. mentions about Eisenhower State Park: "The roads within the park are not the best. Also, online reservations must be made 48 hrs in advance, otherwise, its day by day."