Glamping near New Century, Kansas offers premium outdoor accommodations within easy reach of Kansas City's urban amenities. Most glamping locations in this area sit between 700-1,000 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping season. Winter glamping options remain available at several parks, though water systems typically shut down during freezing temperatures.
What to do
Archery practice: Hillsdale State Park features a specialized bow range where visitors can practice shooting skills. "It has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations," notes Jason W.
Biking trails: Many parks offer paved pathways ideal for family cycling. "The bike trail is about 3 steps away from our site," reports Savannah T. about Camp Branch Campground. Trails typically connect camping areas with lake access points and recreational facilities.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Lone Star Lake Park provides excellent flat-water paddling opportunities. "Great little lake. Good fishing, great locations for kayaking and paddle boarding," writes Adam M. Several parks offer equipment rentals during summer months, typically ranging from $10-20 hourly.
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Weston Bend State Park Campground offers sites with good separation. "While some of the other sites were very close to each other, this one is relatively isolated. It's big too," explains Barbie G. about site 26. The park's wooded setting creates natural barriers between campsites.
Lake views: Most glamping sites offer water proximity. "A couple miles down a secluded drive, nestled back in the woods right on the lake," describes Susan S. about Russell Crites Primitive at Hillsdale. Waterfront sites typically book 3-4 months in advance during summer.
Clean facilities: Watkins Mill State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities. "Clean campground. Paved walking/biking trail, fishing, swimming and even history lessons. If you like history, take a tour of the woolen mill part," recommends Josh P. Many parks provide private shower rooms rather than communal facilities.
What you should know
Seasonal water shutoffs: Some campgrounds turn off water when temperatures drop. "Due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay," reports Bridget U. about Crow's Creek Campground. Check park websites for winterization schedules, typically October through April.
Train noise: Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA experiences frequent train activity. "The trains were one right behind the other… ALL NIGHT LONG! Every thirty minutes or so a train passed by. It wouldn't be so bad, but it was LOUD!" warns Myron C. Sites further from tracks experience less disruption.
Limited shade: Some camping areas lack significant tree cover. "The only two negatives are one there are probably not enough shade trees and two there is a train that comes by every couple of hours," mentions Douglas S. about Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA. This particularly affects glamping tents without air conditioning during July and August.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lone Star Lake Park features family-friendly amenities. "The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option," recommends Tommie J. Most playgrounds are centrally located within easy walking distance from campsites.
Swimming beaches: Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park provides water recreation options. "Just a walk away from a beautiful lake and your stay here is a perfect get away from the city lights!" explains Rylan B. Swimming areas typically include designated shallow sections for younger children.
Structured activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers organized entertainment. "My kids love camping here, we came in an RV and we're barely ever inside it until we were ready to sleep. So much fun activities for the kids to do to keep them entertained," shares Dawn H. Most programs run May through September with additional options during holidays.
Tips from RVers
Unlevel sites: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. "Some campsites are a long walk to any facilities," notes J Chad N. about Camp Branch Campground. "Luckily we had several blocks of wood to help level our camp out," adds Caitlin R. Bring at least 4-6 inches of leveling blocks.
Hookup variations: Camp Branch Campground offers different utility options. "Nice level camping spots both all electric, water, and sewer and minimal utilities. Some sites close to water," explains Mike D. Water spigots are typically shared between multiple sites at electric-only locations.
Booking windows: Premium glamping sites book quickly. "Asked about 6 weeks of staying. Inquired about long term," comments Terry C. about reservation difficulties. Most parks open reservation windows 6 months in advance, with weekend dates filling 2-3 months ahead during peak season.
