Camping near Olathe, Kansas offers opportunities for outdoor recreation within a 30-mile radius of the Kansas City metropolitan area. Most camping facilities in this region sit at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-90°F from June through September. Unlike mountainous camping regions, Kansas campgrounds feature primarily oak and hickory forests with rolling terrain and accessible lake access points.
What to do
Biking and hiking trails: At Lake Miola City Park, trails circle the 200-acre lake and connect camping areas to recreational facilities. "The lake offers hiking/biking trails around it, a campground, fishing, a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts," notes camper Misti P.
Archery practice: Clinton State Park provides dedicated archery ranges uncommon at other regional parks. "There was a disc golf course, an archery range, hiking trails, and the lake," reports Myron C., highlighting activities beyond standard water recreation.
Bow range with elevated platforms: For specialized archery enthusiasts, Hillsdale State Park offers unique practice opportunities. "It also 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," explains Jason W., detailing features unavailable at most campgrounds.
Boating access points: Multiple boat ramps provide lake access, with some campgrounds offering direct water entry. "There is a dock at the campground for boat access to the campground," notes Steve D. about Lake Miola, making it convenient for campers bringing watercraft.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Blue Springs Lake Campground receives praise for its individual bathroom units. "The bathrooms were incredibly clean and the camp hosts or some of the nicest ones I've ever encountered!" shares NomadBrad D., emphasizing the difference from shared facilities at other parks.
Affordability: Lake Miola stands out for budget-conscious campers with significantly lower rates than other area facilities. "The rates are EXTREMELY affordable. First come, first served," states Steve D., noting the value compared to other regional options.
Shade availability: Finding shaded sites matters during hot Kansas summers. "Most tent and RV spots have shade!!! Tens have electic & It's CHEAP!! 20$ for electric tent & camper!" reports Kayzie N. about Lake Miola's tree coverage.
Spacious sites: Site layout varies significantly between campgrounds. "The sites were well situated such that you felt you had plenty of privacy," notes Shirley M. about Blue Springs Lake Campground, contrasting with tighter spacing at other facilities.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA experiences significant railway disruptions. "There was a train passing through, and the person I spoke to offered to throw in a pair of ear plugs and a night mask. Now I know why. There was a light from a nearby cabin lighting the whole tenting area, and the trains were one right behind the other… ALL NIGHT LONG!!!!!" warns Myron C.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require equipment for leveling RVs and tents. "The site slopes to the passenger side and downhill toward the road, so we used a few levelers. Many sites here are sloped," notes MickandKarla W. about their Blue Springs Lake experience.
Campground gates and security: Some facilities implement access controls. "We felt very safe here since they require an access code to get into the gate," mentions Jessica C., describing security measures at Blue Springs Lake Campground.
Seasonal water fluctuations: Lake access points and shorelines change throughout the year. "The water is a little muddy but good for fishing," reports Susan S. about Hillsdale State Park, where water conditions vary by season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Walnut Grove RV Park provides family-friendly amenities despite urban surroundings. "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," shares Jewlia T.
Swimming areas with sand: Lake Miola features developed beach facilities for children. "Swimming beach with sand volleyball. The park is about 560 acres with a 200 acre lake," describes Steve D., noting recreation options beyond camping.
Site selection for shade: When camping with children, prioritize shaded areas during summer. "Next time I know where to reserve :)" mentions Chris W. about Blue Springs Lake Campground, referencing the importance of selecting sites with adequate tree cover.
Campground location considerations: Proximity to urban amenities can be advantageous with children. "If you're wanting to camp where you are close to city amenities, this is the spot for you," advises Jessica C. about Blue Springs Lake Campground's convenient location.
Tips from RVers
Premium pull-through considerations: Campus RV Park offers concrete pads with varying site sizes. "I would recommend staying at the premium pull through sites the other back-in sites are rather small," suggests Bob M., noting the importance of site selection for larger rigs.
Electrical hookup options: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical services. "We had water & electric hook ups," explains Angie N. about their Lake Miola experience, where connections are available at most sites.
Full hookup availability: Site utilities vary significantly between campgrounds and loops. "Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," advises Jason W. about Hillsdale State Park, highlighting the tradeoff between amenities and aesthetics.
Cell service and connectivity: Most campgrounds maintain reliable signals. "We got 3 bars on both Verizon and T-Mobile," reports MickandKarla W. about Blue Springs Lake Campground, noting cellular reception sufficient for remote work needs.
