Milford Lake, the largest lake in Kansas at 16,000 acres, serves as the backdrop for glamping in Minneapolis, Kansas. Located in north-central Kansas, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snowfall. Campgrounds in the area typically operate from April through October, though some locations offer year-round accommodations with heated facilities.
What to do
Water activities at Milford Lake: Boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities abound at COE Milford Lake Curtis Creek Park, where visitors can enjoy 16,000 acres of water recreation. "We went kayaking and playing on the beach. We booked the buddy sites to have an extra large site beside the beach area and it was worth it. Boat ramp was close and boats were able to anchor on the beach at night for campers to easily launch near the campground," notes Kaylyn B.
Hiking trails at Wilson Lake: Explore the limestone formations and caves on the trails around Lucas Park, located about 45 minutes from Minneapolis. "Check out the trail on the property to the rocks! We found a couple caves and climbed some rock. Would be good for mntn biking," shares Carter W. The park features several miles of trails with unique geological features not commonly found in Kansas.
Fishing opportunities: Fish for walleye, crappie, white bass and catfish at the lakes near Minneapolis. "The lake is extremely clean. You can park with a water view nearly everywhere," explains Maura D. about Lucas Park. Most campgrounds provide direct lake access, with some offering fishing docks or boat rentals for visitors.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds around Minneapolis maintain well-kept restrooms and shower facilities. At Owl's Nest Campground, campers appreciate the "clean bathroom and shower" as noted by Cody. Similarly at KOA Campground Salina, Randy S. mentions, "Clean facility. Spaces for all types from tents to motor homes. Level shaded spaces. All pull through."
Lake views: Many sites offer direct views of the water. "Site 98 overlooked the lake from a small ridge. We were able to launch our kayaks easily lets say 50 ft down. Was a small beach as well by the site," shares Jello D. about their experience at Lucas Park. The topography around the lakes provides elevated camping spots with panoramic views.
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites. Shannon G. notes about Sunset Ridge — Milford State Park, "The sites are nice and spacious. Each site has a covered picnic shelter and grill." This allows for privacy despite the popularity of these campgrounds during peak season.
What you should know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds sit close to major highways, creating ambient noise. At Owl's Nest Campground, Jenifer L. remarks, "It has lots of trees but they don't seem to do much to block the constant noise." Similarly, Joy F. notes about Salina KOA, "Being that close to I-70 brought some noise that was easily drown out with our AC."
Summer reservations: Book well in advance for weekend stays during summer months. The primitive campsites at Sandyshore Campground — Kanopolis State Park "fill up very quick since they are first come first serve. Especially on weekends," according to Elizabeth S. Most campgrounds accept reservations up to 6 months in advance.
Blue-green algae concerns: Water quality can fluctuate seasonally at Milford Lake. Kaylyn B. notes, "Only downside is the blue-green algae made it unsafe to swim but that is not a fault of the campground." Check lake conditions before planning water activities, especially during late summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Activities for children: Many campgrounds offer dedicated recreation for kids. At Salina KOA, Blair notes, "My kids loved the ping pong, basketball, inflatable jump pad, old metal playground and outdoor pool." These amenities provide entertainment options beyond traditional outdoor activities.
Beach areas: Acorn RV Resort offers multiple accommodation options near the water. "There are numerous cabins of various sizes available to rent as well as Yurts. There is restaurant and a mini convenience store where you can pick up needed items," shares Alyn M. The resort combines glamping with convenient amenities for families.
Playground equipment: Many campgrounds feature updated play areas. Mike P. mentions Curtis Creek has "new playground equipment in A loop," making it suitable for families with young children. These facilities provide entertainment options when not engaging in water activities.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through access: Many sites accommodate larger rigs without disconnecting. "The sites were large enough that we didn't need to unhook. It's close to a gas station to fill up before hitting the road again in the morning," Joy F. explains about her overnight stop at Lucas Park. This convenience is particularly valuable for travelers using these campgrounds as stopovers.
Hookup options: Various electrical and water connection options exist throughout the region's campgrounds. Randy S. notes that Salina KOA offers "spaces for all types from tents to motor homes. Level shaded spaces. All pull through. Food available on site or stores within minutes." Full-service sites typically include 30/50-amp electrical, water, and sewer connections.
