Equestrian campgrounds near Osawatomie, Kansas provide direct trail access and basic amenities for riders and their horses. Most horseback riding areas sit within an hour's drive of town, offering both primitive and electric sites that accommodate trailers and corrals. The region features a mix of lakeside and wooded terrain with trails ranging from beginner-friendly to more challenging routes across varying landscapes.
What to do
Fishing from shore or boat: At Cedar Park, primitive camping sites with lake access allow anglers to fish directly from the campground. "Area is clean and there is beach access for fishing and Kayacking," notes Redneck R. The park offers a gravel boat ramp for those bringing watercraft.
Stargazing in dark skies: Cedar Park provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities away from city lights. "I pulled up at midnight, went to a spot right by the shore and saw some incredible stars," shares Niki S., who enjoyed the clear Kansas skies during a February stay.
Horseback riding on established trails: Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground offers direct access to horse-friendly trails from camp sites. "The trails are fantastic and winding and give you a relaxing hike with a sweat," according to Ashley F., who describes the area as a "hidden gem" with "fantastic and winding" trails.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: At Hillsdale State Park, lakeside sites are highly sought after. "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake," writes Jason W. The park features electric/water sites near the water that campers describe as "very cozy."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural areas around Eisenhower State Park provide good wildlife watching. Campers report seeing "deer, turkeys, and vultures" on the roads near Cedar Park, according to James M., adding to the natural experience.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Lake Jacomo-Fleming Park, Fawn W. reports, "The bathrooms are the nicest campground bathrooms I've ever used - large, clean, and not communal, so you get a sink, toilet, and shower all to yourself."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings more crowds while spring can be windy. At Eisenhower State Park, Nancy C. notes: "We road bikes, but the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible. In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination."
Reservation requirements: Some parks require advance planning. "Online reservations must be made 48 hrs in advance, otherwise, its day by day," advises Nancy C. about Eisenhower State Park, while other locations like Cedar Park operate first-come, first-served.
Road conditions: Many horse campgrounds near Osawatomie require traveling unpaved routes. "Very dusty roads getting here but worth it," mentions James M. about Cedar Park, while at Eisenhower State Park, Michelle H. notes "The roads within the park are not the best."
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies across campgrounds. Michelle H. reports "good cell service" at Eisenhower State Park, while Ryan R. cautions at Linn County Park, "if you have kids that go camping with you chances are your cell phones will not work."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park offers recreational facilities for children. "This campground is in close proximity to the lake, trails, and many other outdoorsy diversions!" shares Fawn W., making it suitable for active families.
Site selection for safety: Choose sites away from roads when camping with young children. Steve C. cautions about Lake Jacomo, "Only negative is that some sites are right on the road, so kids can dart out at any time...just be careful!"
Rental equipment options: Some parks offer water recreation equipment. Jamie S. notes that Hillsdale has "kayaks and canoes to rent" along with "a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Pony Express RV Park offers full-service sites for larger rigs. "Has full hookups with pull thur sites. Older shower house, but was nice and clean, friendly staff," reports Steve W., noting the park has both pull-through and back-in sites.
Dump station access: For those without sewer hookups, knowing dump station locations is crucial. At Bourbon County Fairgrounds, Rick G. reports, "The dump station has easy access and allowed for a good black tank flush," providing convenience for RVers passing through.
Level site availability: Finding flat spots matters for RV setup. At Lake Jacomo-Fleming Park, GW C. notes, "the sites were nice and spacious and relatively level. Made for easy set up and break down," which is particularly important for larger recreational vehicles.
