Camping spots near Morland, Kansas range across public land in the northwest region of the state where elevations average 2,200 feet. The landscape features rolling plains punctuated by limestone outcroppings and scattered reservoirs. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with evening lows in the 60s, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with daytime highs in the 70s.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Prairie Dog State Park offers excellent wildlife observation, particularly its namesake prairie dog town. "I got to see 2 great blue herons and listen to 2 great horned owls call to each other at night - how awesome!" notes a visitor to Sheridan State Fishing Lake.
Fishing access: Multiple reservoirs provide fishing opportunities with varied catch. "The game warden stopped by and said that the fish (carp, catfish, crappie, bluegill & shad) are all stunted. Too many fish for a small lake," reports a camper at Prairie Dog Campground. This can mean easier catches for casual anglers.
Water recreation: Several lakes offer swimming areas during summer months. "Nice spot, we went Labor Day weekend and there was still availability. Breezy and sunny even in late summer," mentions a visitor to Sheridan State Fishing Lake. Webster State Park provides paddle boat rentals at its small pond for family entertainment.
What campers like
Easy highway access: Many campgrounds serve as convenient overnight stops. "Great place to camp overnight on a road trip! We were able to snag a nice tent spot by the river late at night and have a quiet rest," shares a visitor to Ellis Lakeside Campground. The location sits "close enough to the interstate for convenience, far enough away that you won't hear the noise all night."
Quiet atmosphere: Many sites offer peaceful surroundings, especially midweek. "We got here very late, and the place was empty. There was a stack of firewood next to the forepit, and the tent site was very even," notes a camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake. Another visitor adds, "Lovely campsite! Plenty of spots! You can be on the water, tucked away, or grab a few sites with some friends!"
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms and showers were a bit grubby, but for $15 I can't really complain," mentions an Ellis Lakeside camper. At Creek Side Resort, "Clean and new facilities. Lots of spots, many pull through."
What you should know
Weather conditions: Kansas plains experience challenging weather patterns. "The bugs here weren't bad at all. Lots of bird sounds and coyotes in the evening. Plenty of cows nearby to add to the nature sounds. Very windy during our stay," reports a visitor to Shady Rest Campground at Prairie Dog State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Water services vary seasonally at many campgrounds. A visitor notes for Ellis Lakeside Campground: "There are spots across the street as well, but that is more of a parking lot looking situation. Water and Electric hookups are available. However, we read they shut the water off in December."
Cell service variations: Connectivity changes throughout the region. At Creek Side Resort, "the wifi and cellular (att) service worked great." Less developed sites may have spotty service, especially in low-lying areas away from highways.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: Some parks offer family-friendly activities beyond natural features. "Fantastic state Park with full hookups... Beach, fishing and a delightful small City of prairie dogs to entertain the kids for hours," shares a visitor to Prairie Dog State Park.
Swimming options: Cedar Bluff State Park provides established swimming areas. "The water was perfect, clean bathrooms/showers," notes a visitor to Bluffton Area — Cedar Bluff State Park. This makes it suitable for families with children during summer months.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. "Overnight we heard coyotes, crickets & cows," mentions a Prairie Dog State Park visitor. These natural encounters create memorable family experiences, especially for urban children experiencing rural Kansas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Different sections within the same park offer varied experiences. "Dispatch Campground. Awesome Lakeview dispersed campsites. Some are near the sandy beach. Unfortunately the lake water has receded dramatically," reports a Cedar Bluff visitor, highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Hookup availability: Many parks offer various hookup options. At WaKeeney KOA, "the sites are close but otherwise a very nice campground if you're driving through. They have a pool, laundry, and store." Creek Side Resort features "nearly no trees, but extra long sites - probably 90 feet long. Almost all are pull-thru."
Weather preparation: Prairie winds can be challenging for RV setups. "I stayed in our pop-up camper that fell apart during a super intense storm," shares a Creek Side Resort camper, emphasizing the need for proper stabilization and weather monitoring, particularly during spring storm season.
