110 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
The area surrounding New Century, Kansas features a range of camping options within a 30-minute drive, making it a convenient base for exploring both natural areas and Kansas City attractions. Hillsdale State Park, located south of New Century, offers multiple campgrounds including Sunflower, Saddle Ridge, and Crappie Cove with amenities for both tent and RV campers. Private RV parks like Walnut Grove in nearby Merriam provide year-round accommodations with full hookups, while Lake Miola City Park in Paola combines primitive tent sites with electric hookups in a more natural setting. Most campgrounds in the region maintain good cellular coverage, with campers reporting strong signals on major carriers.
Reservations are essential during summer weekends and holiday periods when Kansas City residents seek outdoor escapes. Many state park campgrounds require both camping fees and daily vehicle permits, with annual passes available for frequent visitors. As one camper noted, "Close to Kansas City but far enough that it's still really camping. Cell service on AT&T and Verizon are great." Site terrain varies considerably throughout the region, with many campgrounds featuring sloped sites that may require leveling equipment for RVs. Weather conditions remain relatively mild from April through October, though summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity. Severe weather awareness is important, particularly during spring and early summer when thunderstorms and occasional tornado warnings occur.
Campers consistently highlight the balance between accessibility and natural setting as a key advantage of the area. Blue Springs Lake Campground receives praise for being "quiet, beautiful, and located just outside Kansas City" with full hookup sites and family-friendly amenities. Water recreation opportunities abound at several locations, with fishing particularly popular at Hillsdale Lake where "many sites offer waterfront access." Weekend noise levels can increase at some of the more popular lakes, especially during summer holidays. Sites with mature trees providing shade are highly sought after during hot months, with several reviewers noting the importance of securing these premium spots early. Bathroom and shower facilities vary in quality across campgrounds, though most maintain acceptable cleanliness standards.
"Only 10 minutes away from Joe’s original Kansas City BBQ (super delicious).
We did pay for the premium pull through site, so we had more room.""My husbands job took us to Merriam Kansas and we needed a place to stay, we made reservations at Walnut Grove. We were surprised to find it in the middle of a neighborhood."
from $62 - $131 / night
Check Availability"This campground is close to home for us, but we love it as a quick get away. It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake. "
"We often find ourselves in a field with port-a-potties instead of lakeside with views. Not bad for what it is, I do wish they had more options."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"There are limited sites for camping at Hillsdale Lake. But they are all nice and many offer waterfront access. "
"Crappie Cove has the best sites, and it is very close to the kayak/boat ramp and the swimming beach."
from $23 / night
Check Availability"Quiet, beautiful campground located just outside of Kansas City, Mo. We had a full hookup site located right by the playground and it was perfect for our family."
"A campsite not to far from Kansas City but had a feeling far removed. The campground was super clean and well maintained."
from $33 - $48 / night
Check Availability"The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing."
"A walking path & a park and a huge dog park!!!! Love love love this place!!"
"Lots of riding trail miles and lake."
from $12 - $23 / night
Check Availability"This is one thing that should be mandatory given its proximity and being further away from potential shelter. Excellent camping on the lake. Lots of water activities available."
from $24 / night
Check Availability"Close to a small convenient store and fuel station. (1/4 mile to the east) Close to Hillsdale Lake for swimming and boating. Horseshoe pits."
from $23 - $33 / night
Check Availability"The great part is that the sites are so large, at least on the lake side, which is actually a bit away from the lake, but accessible by stairs from the camp sites."
"The park is also at a lake so there’s a beach access area where you can go and swim or just sit by the very large lake."
from $10 - $150 / night
Check Availability"The nearby vault toilet was just OK, it was about as clean as a vault toilet could be but there was no way to use hand sanitizer or wash your hands nearby."
"Plenty of space for tents and other activities and very close to water"
from $12 - $23 / night
Check Availability
RangerI lived near Basswood for 20 plus years and did not know anything about it but where it was. My wife and I decided to live in our camper while we transition homes and I am so pleased with this place. Friendly, easy going, safe.
TravelerLovely, large site with water and electric. Site fee plus daily park entrance fee of $5
ScoutWonderful free campsites overlooking a lake. There is a boat dock and outhouse. It is primitive and you need to pack your trash out, but it’s beautiful, free, and not far off the highway.
ScoutGreat location and nice shady spots to camp
ScoutSometime starting g in 2026 this became a day use fee campground. You can still hike but if the car is left overnight "camping" it has to have a reservation paid on recreation.gov for 10 dollars a night. There is a park host so its not like you can sneak it. Unless your dropped off.....
TravelerFriendly and helpful staff.
GuideRoad tripping from CO to the east coast. Stoped here for the night. Got in at about 1am. Many spots available and it appears to be all water front. Sunrise was absolutely amazing. Honestly wish we could stay longer!
RangerNice campground, host was super friendly. Bathrooms were average but clean, men's sinks need some TLC. Water was a trickle. Site was nice with shade. Has full hook up Would stay again
ScoutI’m the attendant. Nice campground but very busy on weekends. A few sites have a view of Lake Jacomo.
Camping areas near New Century, Kansas offer a mix of prairie landscapes and reservoir-based recreation at elevations between 850 and 1,000 feet above sea level. Most camping areas sit on gently rolling terrain formed by the Osage Cuestas physiographic region, characterized by alternating limestone and shale layers. Soil conditions tend toward clay-based composition, which can affect drainage during the frequent spring and fall precipitation.
Archery practice: Clinton State Park features an archery range alongside traditional camping activities. "We did pay for the premium pull through site, so we had more room. Everything worked great, the spot was on a slight hill- but wasn't terrible to level out," notes Mary from Walnut Grove RV Park.
Disc golf courses: Clinton State Park maintains disc golf facilities suitable for all skill levels. "Visiting in non peak is as easy as driving in, finding a spot and paying your fees. Full bath houses, disc golf, archery range, and an abundance of hiking all around the camps," reports Charles F. from Prairie Clover Campground.
Water recreation: Hillsdale Lake supports multiple water activities including kayaking and canoeing rentals. "This is a very nice area to camp. Quiet. The shower/bath houses are clean. I had a great time kayaking the coves to this gorgeous lake," writes Joyce M. about Crappie Cove at Hillsdale State Park.
Affordable rates: Lake Miola City Park offers budget-friendly camping options for both tent and RV campers. "It's CHEAP!! 20$ for electric tent & camper! They have water spouts at the tent area as well!! A walking path & a park and a huge dog park!!!!" raves Kayzie N. from Lake Miola City Park.
Campsite spacing: Blue Springs Lake Campground receives praise for site layout. "The sites are so pretty and spaced well. The bathroom/showers were clean. The laundry worked well. This was the best campground we stayed at on our cross country trip," shares Pam R. from Blue Springs Lake Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower conditions exceed expectations at several locations. "The sites were well kept up, with many prime locations near the playground for our kids. Campground staff were beyond friendly and accommodating," reports Chris W., also from Blue Springs Lake Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites throughout the area require equipment for leveling RVs and trailers. "The sites are not very level, so bring leveling equipment! The rates are EXTREMELY affordable. First come, first served. Holidays will find the campground FULL," warns Steve D. about Lake Miola.
Primitive camping conditions: Prepare for basic amenities at some locations. "I didn't love the fire ring because the wall was pretty high and the grill part didn't have adjustable height so that limited the height of the fire we could build when we wanted to cook over it," notes Freya about Quail Run Campground.
Weekend planning: Holiday weekends fill quickly at popular sites. "If you want to be there for a holiday, know that you are allowed to stay 14 consecutive days before you must take 5 day break," advises Steve D. about Lake Miola City Park regulations.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas specifically designed for children. "Great place for a somewhat long stay. Staff are very nice and sweet, there's free WiFi, lots of pull through spots, has a dump station and allows pets. Overall very family friendly," writes Jewlia T. about Walnut Grove RV Park.
Swimming options: Lake Miola offers a dedicated swimming beach with additional recreational facilities. "The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing. The lake offers hiking/biking trails around it, a campground, fishing, a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts," explains Misti P. from Saddle Ridge Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe local fauna at several campgrounds. "Being almost completely surrounded by the lake was so serene and we got to hear and see a lot of wildlife," reports Freya about primitive camping at Quail Run Campground.
Full hookup availability: Several of the best places to camp near New Century, Kansas offer complete RV services. "Sites were gravel and level with FHU. A nice little store on site with free coffee, water and a cappuccino machine. Family owned with great hosts. Clean 24-7 bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities," shares Sergio F. about Walnut Grove RV Park.
Site selection strategy: Pull-through sites offer advantages for less experienced RV owners. "My wife called em up last minute, and they had a couple spaces left when nowhere else locally did. I made it known that this was our first time and he put us in a pull-thru spot, which was a huge relief," explains Justin G. from Walnut Grove.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should consider site dimensions when booking. "Spacing is a little tight and the surrounding views are meh at best. Being right off Johnson Drive, there is considerable road noise," notes Justin G., highlighting practical considerations for Walnut Grove RV Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is New Century Airport located in Kansas?
New Century Airport is located in Johnson County, Kansas, approximately 25 miles southwest of downtown Kansas City. The airport is situated near the city of Gardner and the town of Olathe, making it a convenient access point for both the Kansas City metropolitan area and rural Johnson County. Its proximity to major highways like I-35 makes it easily accessible for travelers and campers visiting the region.
What outdoor activities can you do near New Century Airport?
The New Century Airport area offers diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. At Smithville Lake, just a short drive away, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and lakeside recreation. Watkins Mill State Park Campground provides multiple hiking trails, fishing, and boating on a large lake, plus interesting historical sites from the 1800s. For those staying closer to the airport, the region features numerous hiking and biking trails, including those around Blue Springs Lake Campground, which offers a peaceful retreat with playground facilities and clean, well-maintained grounds perfect for family activities.
What camping facilities are available near New Century, Kansas?
Several quality camping options surround New Century Airport. Walnut Grove RV Park offers premium pull-through sites just 10 minutes from Kansas City's famous BBQ restaurants with full hookups and level spots. For a more natural setting, Hillsdale State Park provides multiple campgrounds including Scott Creek with drive-in access, reservable sites, and facilities that accommodate big rigs. Other nearby options include Rutlader Outpost RV Park and Lake Miola City Park, which offers fishing, swimming, and well-maintained camping areas.
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