Milford Lake spans 16,000 acres as Kansas's largest lake, with multiple campgrounds spread across its shoreline. Located near Junction City, the area offers pet friendly camping options with water access points for dogs and shoreline fishing opportunities. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F, while spring and fall provide milder conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Lake access for pets: Curtis Creek Park provides shoreline access where dogs can explore while owners fish. "The lake is nice too, with cranes swooping in and out and we were treated to a wonderful sunrise," notes Andrew G., who found the primitive camping area ideal for pet owners.
Wildlife viewing with dogs: Acorn RV Resort offers lakefront sites where pets can watch waterfowl. "A very beautiful lake, this area is pristine clean and water clear. A very large lake with many areas of camping and fishing," according to papa T., making it suitable for nature-loving pet owners.
Hiking with pets: The 2.1-mile trail system at Walnut Grove connects several campgrounds. "Near trails," confirms Carter W., who enjoyed the "beautiful spot" with "access to the water" and "safe cove of water away from boats."
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Prairie View — Milford State Park offers sites where RV doors face directly toward the water. "We were in site 116, which our camper door faced a cove of the lake and the boat ramp. It was like there was no one else camping by us," shares Shannon G., who appreciated the privacy.
Wildlife encounters: Campers regularly spot diverse wildlife across the lake area. "We were able to see a few blue heron and a Golden and a bald eagle," notes another Shannon G. review, highlighting the bird watching opportunities for pet owners.
Kayak launches near campsites: Many shoreline sites allow direct water access with pets. "We were able to launch our kayaks a few feet from our campsite which was nice," according to Shannon G., who appreciated the convenience with a pet.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Corps of Engineers campgrounds close during winter. "This area looks fabulous. I was looking forward to staying here in early November, but it was closed. All the Corps campgrounds close for the winter," warns Mimi at West Rolling Hills.
Variable conditions: Flooding sometimes affects lower-elevation sites. "With limited locations for camping currently available you will be happier by checking in advance rather than coming and experiencing being turned away," advises Crystal C., who encountered flooding at Prairie View.
Sulfur smell in water: Some campgrounds have distinctive water odor. "Water has a slight sulfur smell, but who's sink in KS doesn't," notes Savannah about Woodland Hills, suggesting campers bring drinking water for pets.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple playgrounds serve different age groups. "There is an older playground near the boat ramp and a much nicer and newer one located closest to the larger parking area and largest pavilion," describes Crystal C. at West Rolling Hills.
Swimming areas with lifejacket stations: Woodland Hills — Milford State Park provides swimming areas with loaner lifejackets. "I think it's so neat how they have life jackets hanging in case you didn't bring any," Shannon G. notes, appreciating this safety feature.
Pet-friendly lake activities: Some coves offer calmer water for pets. "The spots are nice and spacious. Some of the sites have water views and shorelines that you could boat or kayak right up to," explains Shannon G. about Walnut Grove.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Hickory Hollow — Milford State Park provides complete connections for RVs with pets. "Hickory Hollow is a mostly shaded campground with full hook ups. Some are on cement pads," reports Shannon G., noting the convenience for RVers with animals.
Junction City services: Quick access to pet supplies in nearby Junction City. "Nice clean campgrounds. We stayed lakeside at one of the primitive sites. Junction City is 10 minutes away for all your needs," explains Fred B. about his experience at Woodland Hills.
Primitive sites accommodate larger rigs: Some tent areas can handle bigger RVs with pets. "Primitive site was a bit tight to pull a 36' fifth wheel into, but it's what we signed up for in a pinch," shares Timothy P. about his stay at Walnut Grove, showing flexibility for larger vehicles with pets.
