Cedar Park offers primitive camping facilities with a gravel boat ramp for lake access 10 miles southeast of Overbrook, Kansas. The campground remains open year-round with no current fees, though this may change with future developments. Lake Melvern spans nearly 7,000 acres, providing fishing and water recreation opportunities. Winds off the lake can be strong, particularly during spring and fall seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Cedar Park provides beach areas for fishing and launching kayaks. The gravel boat ramp allows easy lake access for small watercraft. "Cedar Park offers great vehicle access, lake access, fire rings, picnic tables, and bathrooms. Area is clean and there is beach access for fishing and Kayacking," notes Redneck R. from Cedar Park.
Lake exploration: The expansive Melvern Lake offers significant water recreation opportunities. "I slept here on my way from Denver to Washington DC in February 2021. I have a mini camper in my CRV, I pulled up at midnight, went to a spot right by the shore and saw some incredible stars," shares Niki S. about Cedar Park.
Biking and hiking: Several campgrounds near Overbrook feature trail systems for cycling and hiking. "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. It is a great place to bike and fish," explains Jason W. from Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites in horse campgrounds near Overbrook, Kansas. "The sites are huge and not right on top of each other, they offer a picnic table, fire ring, and a gravel parking spot for your camper or grassy areas for tents," reports James M. about Cedar Park.
Lake views: Waterfront sites provide scenic views across multiple campgrounds in the region. "We had a spot right by the shore and saw some incredible stars," notes Niki S. about her stay at Cedar Park. At Eisenhower State Park Campground, John G. remarks, "The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade."
Wildlife viewing: The area offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Watch out for wildlife, deer, turkeys, and vultures are always on the roads," mentions James M. about Cedar Park. At Banner Creek, campers enjoy "Fireflies at night wonderful!! Great water hook up and electric site!"
What you should know
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds offer only basic amenities. At Cedar Park, Jordanna B. notes, "It's a long gravel road to get there and you're mostly just in farmland, but there are waterfront sites and it's flat. There's a ground toilet you can walk to." Similarly, Ryan L. adds, "Stayed here for a quick overnighter off season. Looks like this is state land with designated camp sites in season. I parked near the boat launch and had a quiet night."
Road conditions: Access roads to many equestrian camping areas near Overbrook require careful driving. The dusty roads to Cedar Park demand caution, especially when towing trailers. At Eisenhower State Park, Michelle H. mentions, "Close to Melvern and the railroad tracks so if the sound of trains all night isn't your thing, then pick somewhere else."
Reservation requirements: While Cedar Park currently doesn't require reservations, other nearby campgrounds do. At Saddle Ridge Campground — Hillsdale State Park, reservations are recommended. Nancy C. notes about Eisenhower, "Online reservations must be made 48 hrs in advance, otherwise, its day by day."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds provide designated swimming areas. Cindy K. from Eisenhower State Park shares, "There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax. Our actual campsite was great and came equipped with a firepit and picnic table, and we could walk to the lakeshore."
Facility cleanliness: Bathroom and shower facilities vary between campgrounds. At Perry State Park Campground, Derek L. reports, "Showers were clean but old. Could use an update but decent for a state park." For families at Eisenhower, Michelle H. notes, "Excellent clean restrooms and showers."
Playground availability: Families with children should check for playground facilities. Juliana H. mentions that Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground "has a nice and open space in the center, with campsites all along the edge. There is a playground, picnic shelter, two designated manure piles, and access to horse-friendly and dog-friendly trails right in the campground!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV campers should verify utility connections before arrival. At Banner Creek, Stacy Z. reports, "Great water hook up and electric site!" The campground offers "spacious between campers and water hookups!"
Site layout: Some campgrounds have RV sites arranged in less desirable configurations. About Perry State Park, Andy notes, "Was surprised at the layout of this campground loop when we pulled in. Thankfully it was just a pit stop on our drive out west, but it was essentially a parking lot."
Weather considerations: Strong winds can affect RV camping comfort. At Eisenhower State Park, Christina H. advises, "It was super duper windy off of the lake for us, so be ready for wind." This applies to most equestrian camping near Overbrook, particularly in open areas without windbreaks.
