Best Campgrounds near New Century, KS
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.
