Glamping close to Ottawa, Kansas provides water recreation and shaded sites within driving distance of Kansas City. Most sites sit along Pomona Lake, Hillsdale Lake, and Perry Reservoir, with elevations ranging from 900-1000 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pomona State Park offers excellent fishing conditions throughout the year. "Trails to take walks by the lake. Reasonable price," notes Dan & Penny F., who enjoyed fall camping at the park. The lake contains crappie, bass, and catfish species with fishing licenses required from Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism.
Winter camping: Pomona State Park remains open year-round with primitive winter camping options. "We stayed in one of the campgrounds with undesignated primitive spots. Found a nice place to park right on the lake. It was super quiet, being winter," reports Courtney S., highlighting the peaceful off-season atmosphere.
Kayaking: Lone Star Lake Park provides a smaller lake environment ideal for paddlesports. "Great little lake. Good fishing, great locations for kayaking and paddle boarding," explains Adam M. The park offers rentals during summer months for approximately $15-20 per hour.
What campers like
Tree coverage: Pomona State Park features heavily wooded sites. "The campground here is covered in trees, Awesome. We're in a Montana high country 384br, 41' fifth wheel. Its a beautiful park, right on Pomona lake," shares Ty A., indicating even large rigs can enjoy the shade.
Quiet weekdays: Perry State Park campsites offer peaceful experiences Sunday through Thursday. "Nice state park on the lake can be crowded and a little crazy on weekends," explains Doug H., suggesting weekday reservations for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Lake views: Hillsdale State Park provides waterfront camping opportunities. "This campground is close to home for us, but we love it as a quick get away. It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake," Jason W. notes, highlighting the direct water access available.
What you should know
Railroad noise: Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA experiences frequent train activity. "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... Every thirty minutes or so, a train passed by. It was LOUD," explains Myron C., who recommends requesting sites furthest from tracks.
Seasonal limitations: Carbolyn Park operates only from May 1 through September 30. "29 sites total, 26 electric ($16), 3 primitive ($12), boat ramp, dump station, shower-houses, playground, all sites are on a first come first serve basis," JC C. details in their comprehensive park overview.
Pet policies: Pomona State Park allows unleashed dogs within campsite boundaries. "We camp with our 3 dogs each time and never put them on a leash. Rangers informed us as long as they stay in your site, they're not strict about it," Joshua M. explains, noting that pets must be leashed when leaving the immediate campsite area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lone Star Lake Park offers family-friendly recreation. "The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option," recommends Tommie J. The playground sits centrally within the campground, visible from most sites.
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park specializes in family glamping near Ottawa. "My kids love camping here, we came in an RV and we're barely ever inside it until we were ready to sleep. So much fun activities for the kids to do to keep them entertained and occupied, giving the adults time to do things like conversations and hanging out without kids interrupting," Dawn H. shares.
Beach swimming: Perry State Park provides designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. "We had a wonderful stay! Wonderful pull through spots, great views, and closer to the boat ramp!" Caitlin R. mentions, with the swimming beach located near camping loops for convenient access.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Eisenhower State Park offers various camping loops with different amenities. "This was our first visit and we chose a campsite on-line. The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade," John G. explains, recommending researching specific loops before booking.
Utilities: Linn County Park provides full-hookup options for extended stays. "Paved roads with gravel sites having W/E, mostly 30A but a few 50A like ours. Check in at the Marina to see which ones are available at this all first come first serve campground. They even have a few FHU sites," Bran P. details, noting the park has no stay limits.
Leveling: Perry State Park requires leveling equipment at most sites. "Not a lot of choices for sites that are flat or offer a lot of shade," Brandon B. cautions, suggesting bringing additional leveling blocks for RVs and trailers.
