The Osawatomie area sits at approximately 860 feet above sea level in eastern Kansas, where rolling hills meet prairie landscapes. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures often reaching 90°F and moderate winters with occasional snowfall. Camping options near Osawatomie range from primitive lakeside spots to developed campgrounds with full hookups, all within a 30-minute drive of town.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Miola City Park offers a 200-acre lake where anglers catch bass, catfish, and walleye. "The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing," notes Misti P. about Lake Miola City Park.
Hiking and biking trails: Explore the network of trails surrounding Hillsdale Lake. "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake...It is a great place to bike and fish," shares Jason W. about the trails at Hillsdale State Park.
Water recreation: Rent boats, kayaks or canoes at Hillsdale State Park. "There are kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks," mentions Jamie S.
What campers like
Lake views: Many sites at Middle Creek State Fishing Lake offer direct waterfront access. "The sites are right on the lake and the vault toilet was clean. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring and they are spaced out nicely," explains Jordan B. about Louisburg Middle Creek State Fishing Lake.
Affordability: Lake Miola stands out for its reasonable pricing. "It's CHEAP!! 20$ for electric tent & camper!" exclaims Kayzie N., highlighting the value compared to other area campgrounds.
Storm shelters: Safety features at some campgrounds provide peace of mind during severe weather. "This location has a tornado shelter," notes Laura H. about Rutlader Outpost RV Park, an important consideration given the region's weather patterns.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require equipment to level your setup. "The sites are not very level, so bring leveling equipment!" advises Steve D. about Lake Miola City Park.
Shower facility inconsistency: Maintenance varies between camping loops and seasons. "NEVER saw the camp host. Not sure the showers/toilets were cleaned in the 7 days we were there," reports Kristine S. about Crappie Cove Campground at Hillsdale State Park.
Reservation systems: Most state park campgrounds require reservations, while some smaller fishing lakes operate on first-come, first-served basis. "First come first serve. No alcohol is allowed, clean lake that is great fishing," explains Alexis B. about Middle Creek State Fishing Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "This is a surprising little campground. We took our first trip in our new RV and was able to camp right along the water. The restrooms are very clean and a fun playground for the kids," shares Brandon B.
Beach swimming: Hillsdale State Park provides designated swimming areas ideal for families. "Great campground (Sunflower)...enjoyed Site 181 at Scott Creek Campground," reports Dan & Penny F. about pet friendly camping near Osawatomie, Kansas.
Multi-day stays: The 14-day maximum stay policy at Lake Miola works well for longer family trips. "We stayed here for 2 weeks between houses and was great!" says Blair D., highlighting the potential for extended pet-friendly camping near Osawatomie.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Different camping loops offer varying levels of amenities. "Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," notes Jason W. about Sunflower Campground at Hillsdale State Park.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with convenient access. "72 Sites: 30' wide, 60' long and level, 24 Sites are pull thru, All have 30 & 50 amp service," details Laura H. about Rutlader Outpost RV Park.
Proximity to Kansas City: For those wanting to mix urban and outdoor experiences, several campgrounds offer reasonable driving distances. "You are within 40 minutes of southern Overland Park, and within approximately an hour (depending on traffic) to Kansas City," explains a reviewer about pet-friendly camping options near Osawatomie.
