Oakley, Kansas sits at an elevation of 3,060 feet in the High Plains region, surrounded by rolling prairie landscapes and agricultural fields. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with hot summers where temperatures often exceed 90°F and cold winters when overnight lows frequently drop below freezing. RV camping facilities near Oakley generally remain open year-round but adjust water services during winter months when freezing temperatures can affect pipes.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: The small spring-fed lake at Circle Drive — Historic Lake Scott State Park offers swimming opportunities during summer months. "We spent the hot park of the days kayaking in the lake. The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekend," reports Shannon G.
Local attractions: Visit the giant Van Gogh easel painting in Goodland, located about 30 miles west of Oakley. "Go see large Van Gough easel nearby," suggests Joseph S. from Goodland KOA.
Exploring historic sites: The region contains several points of historical interest within driving distance. "There are amazing sites within 20 miles. The Little Jerusalem SP is a must," shares Nancy C., who stayed at Circle Drive campground.
What campers like
On-site dining options: High Plains Camping offers food service that many campers appreciate. "They have a cafe 'Grub n Chug'. Great pizza and beer at a reasonable price," notes Felix S., while another camper added, "Best was Captain Jacks restaurant! Should be on Triple D on Food Network!"
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. Kim N. at High Plains Camping commented on the "Big clean, hot and free showers with good water pressure," while Crystal L. at Whistle Stop RV and Antiques noted "Very clean restrooms and showers."
Overnight convenience: Most RV parks position themselves as practical overnight stops. "Great place for a stop over. Don't come here looking for amenities, just a quiet place to stay. 50A service, great water pressure and sewer," writes josh H. about Castle Rock RV Park.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The High Plains region experiences significant temperature variations and strong winds. "Wind blows constantly but nice area for dogs to run," notes Michael C. about Kansas Country Inn & RV Park.
Sticker burrs: Many campgrounds contain goathead thorns that can be problematic. "Watch for the thorny burrs that get all over shoes especially if you have a dog…. Would be very painful for them," warns one camper. Another adds, "Only downside is the goats head burs are present. Don't walk around barefoot you'll regret it."
Cell service limitations: T-Mobile coverage is particularly spotty throughout the area. "I had a hard time using T-Mobile because I seem to be in a dead spot, but I was able to use their Wi-Fi," reports Mary L., while another review mentions, "I have T-Mobile and I had only one bar."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Goodland KOA includes family-friendly amenities like a playground and basketball court. "There is a swimming pool, a basketball goal, and a playground," notes one reviewer about the recreational options available for children.
Shopping access: Whistle Stop RV and Antiques offers convenient access to essential supplies. "Walmart is directly across the street within walking distance," mentions Brittany V., which can be helpful when camping with children who may need additional items.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers opportunities to observe diverse wildlife. One camper at Circle Drive campground reported, "In the area, we saw turkey, owl, lots of buzzards, geese, albino buffelo and more cows than i have seen in one place."
Tips from RVers
Winter water limitations: Cold weather affects water service at most RV parks. Megan at Kansas Country Inn noted, "It was too cold for us to hookup to water. Unsure if there was a sewer hookup as there was snow on the ground."
Site configuration: Several campgrounds arrange hookups in clustered layouts. Mary L. describes, "The campers are right next to each other. They are arranged in groups of four around the central utility area."
Spacing considerations: Most RV sites provide minimal separation between neighbors. Rosie M. shares about Kansas Country Inn: "This was a convenient place to stop for the day. Has full hookups. Keep in mind it is right by a highway, so there was a lot of traffic sounds."
