Camping near Newton, Kansas offers access to several county and municipal parks with designated campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Located in the central plains of Kansas, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Sites range from basic tent camping with sandy beaches to premium spots with concrete pads and full hookups.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Santa Fe Lake provides a quieter alternative to larger bodies of water in the area. One visitor mentioned, "This lake is a nice break from places like Cheney and Afton. It's small so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water, which makes paddling a lot more enjoyable." The lake has designated fishing areas accessible from many campsites.
Trail exploration: Santa Fe Lake offers numerous trail options for different skill levels. According to a camper, "The main trail is composed of a gravel camping road that encircles the man made lake. Several trails offshoot from this main road, each is marked for either hiking (trail running), mountain biking, or camping." These trails vary in difficulty, with most rated easy to moderate.
Kayaking and paddling: Harvey County West Park provides smaller water bodies ideal for kayaking. A regular visitor notes, "Not a lot of water but good for kayak fishing. Decent walking trails and campground." The calm waters make it suitable for beginners and those who prefer peaceful paddling conditions without motorboat traffic.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Spring Lake RV Resort maintains high standards for their restrooms and showers. A guest commented, "Well kept property. Clean bathrooms. Only communal fire rings and picnic tables. Country Highway sounds. Safe area and friendly patrons." Another visitor appreciated, "Gravel sites. Great, robust WIFI. Clean, modern bathrooms and showers."
Affordable pricing: When camping near Newton, KS, several parks offer reasonable rates. At Spring Lake RV Resort, a camper noted it was a "Bargain at $33" with "Gravel sites. Great, robust WIFI. Clean, modern bathrooms and showers." This makes it accessible for weekend trips without breaking the bank.
Spacious sites: Harvey County East Park receives positive feedback for its site layout. One camper wrote, "We had a nice stay at Harvey County East Park's Campers Row Campground. There seem to be a couple pay stations throughout the campground and friendly hosts to help you get settled in." The park provides enough space between sites for comfort.
What you should know
Water hookup limitations: At Harvey County East Park, water connections have specific rules. A camper explains, "Just to note, the water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter.'" This requires planning for water usage during your stay.
Seasonal crowds: Swimming areas become busy during summer months. According to a visitor, "The swim area is nice but often crowded on the weekends." Arriving early on weekend days helps secure preferred spots near the water.
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds around Newton have difficult site entry angles. At All Seasons RV Park, visitors should note the tight spacing: "Not impressed with lot size. I have never seen a lot where both campers didn't have room to put out their awnings. Very tight. Otherwise fine."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: USI RV Park offers facilities designed for children. A visitor shared, "Close to everywhere, flat gravel sites, friendly owners and employees, full hookups, nice dog park and kid's playground." Another camper mentioned, "The bathrooms are super clean, there is a very nice playground and fenced dog run."
Sandy beaches for play: Some camping areas feature natural sand beaches perfect for children. At Harvey County East Park, a camper noted, "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping." These areas provide safe water access for younger children.
Fishing with kids: Local lakes support family fishing activities. A visitor to Santa Fe Lake commented, "This is a great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another! Love the cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors! Lots of fish!" Consider bringing fishing gear when camping with children in this area.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Cottonwood Grove RV Campground works well for travelers passing through. A camper shared, "Pleasant small family owned campground. Lyndel was very sweet. Hot showers with lots of water pressure, laundry room and full hookup. If you need a spot to take a break from driving, this is a nice spot." The campground's proximity to highways makes it accessible for one-night stays.
Level sites: Many RV sites near Newton feature level gravel pads. At All Seasons RV Park, a visitor mentioned, "We arrived after 10pm the man in the office had our paperwork ready for us and escorted us to our lot. It was a huge level lot." Level sites minimize setup time and improve stabilization for larger rigs.
Late arrival accommodations: Some parks accommodate after-hours check-ins. One camper at All Seasons RV Park noted, "We arrived around 9pm and left at 9am. I had booked at 4pm but they never emailed me a spot number nor left me a paper registration. I called them at 9pm and they answered. Very impressed." Call ahead if planning late arrivals.
