Milford Lake, nicknamed the "Fishing Capital of Kansas," offers several glamping accommodations near Olsburg, Kansas. The lake encompasses 16,000 acres with 163 miles of shoreline in the Flint Hills region. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, with occasional thunderstorms during peak camping months from May through September.
What to do
Kayaking on the water: Curtis Creek Park at Milford Lake provides direct lake access with proximity to a boat ramp. One camper shared, "I stayed here as i was driving through Kansas, so it was just a quick overnight, but it was very beautiful and peaceful." Another visitor mentioned, "We went kayaking and playing on the beach. We booked the buddy sites to have an extra large site beside the beach area and it was worth it."
Wildlife viewing: Cedar Point campground at Milford State Park offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. A camper noted, "It's a very pretty area and this park has wildlife to view like the large flock of turkey vultures who live in the dead trees of cedar point." The campground features both primitive and electric sites with water views.
Swimming at beach areas: When conditions permit, several campgrounds offer swimming access. One camper at Tuttle Creek Cove reported, "There is a nice beach area to swim, we rented kayaks and canoes for a leisurely paddle around the lake. Our camp site had plenty of overhead cover from the sun."
What campers like
Lakefront sites: Glamping options near Olsburg often feature premium waterfront locations. A visitor to Acorn RV Resort shared, "A group of friends rented a cabin at Acorns Resort. The cabins are spacious and well maintained and we had one right down from the water! Went fishing off the docks."
Covered picnic shelters: Several campgrounds provide sheltered dining areas. One visitor to Milford State Park described, "Each site has a covered picnic shelter and grill. The sites are nice and spacious. The cabins to have large shelters with tables and grill."
Convenient access: Many campgrounds offer easy accessibility while still providing natural surroundings. A camper at Tuttle Creek State Park noted, "Stayed here for a couple nights, its a nice campground but fairly busy with proximity to Manhattan and Fort Riley as well as the ORV park. Predominantly RV campers and off road rigs."
What you should know
Seasonal algae concerns: Some water activities may be limited at times. A visitor to Curtis Creek mentioned, "Only downside is the blue-green algae made it unsafe to swim but that is not a fault of the campground."
Reservation systems vary: Different campgrounds have different booking procedures. A camper at Farnum Creek reported, "The check in process was severely frustrating. They only do online. So when we got there with little sun left it took 30 minutes to actually reserve the spot."
Some facilities closed after flooding: Check current status before arrival. A visitor noted, "This was a beautiful clean campground with a nice lake. Only complaint is that several of the restrooms were still closed due to a flood in 2019."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. A visitor to Curtis Creek Park mentioned, "It had water and electric for utilities. A pit toilet close by and new playground equipment in A loop."
Watch for poison ivy: Be cautious with children around tree bases. A camper warned, "If you bring kids keep away from tree trunks as I saw some poison ivy starting to grow at the base of several trees."
Consider smaller campgrounds: Less crowded options exist for families seeking quieter experiences. A visitor to Greenwood Park shared, "Beautiful park right off Highway 16 in Olsburg, KS. Lots of shade provided by big trees and a lovely picnic shelter - complete with a prep area and double charcoal grill."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. A visitor to Owl's Nest Campground remarked, "Full hookups in pull-thru half circle asphalt tar or back-in sites. Close to Hwy 70 with some noise. Laundry/shower area available."
Size-appropriate sites: Most areas accommodate various RV sizes. A camper at Acorn RV Resort mentioned, "Traveled in 38' Class A Motorhome. Totally awesome resort - everything you need... from cabin, rv, tent or yurks! Nestled on a beautiful lake."
Weekly and monthly rates: Extended stays may offer cost savings. One visitor noted, "This campground is small, but a well laid out campground. They have daily, weekly and monthly rates. There are full hook ups, pull thru and back in sites, so it's convenient no matter what you are driving."