Glamping options near Ozawkie, Kansas range from basic to upscale with several facilities within a 30-40 minute drive. The area sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation in northeast Kansas with pronounced seasonal temperature variations. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing while summer camping season brings humid conditions with daytime highs regularly exceeding 90°F between June and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Perry State Park Campground offers excellent access points for fishing enthusiasts. "Perry State Park is well maintained and manicured park," notes Darius C., who appreciates the dedicated facilities. The lake supports multiple fish species including crappie, bass and catfish.
Hiking trails: Weston Bend State Park Campground provides an extensive trail network for nature exploration. "Weston Bend was everything I could hope for," says Spencer P. The park includes several miles of trails through mature forests with varying difficulty levels.
Bow practice: Hillsdale State Park maintains specialized archery facilities for visitors. According to Jason W., "It has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations." The dedicated range allows visitors to maintain skills during camping trips.
Water activities: Multiple water recreation options exist at Pomona State Park Campground. "I moved to a few non shore power site down by the water. Beautiful view, with a quiet serene feel," writes Tanner P. The lake supports swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding during summer months.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural coverage at Perry State Park Campground. "Lake view Loop is where to be! We had a wonderful stay! Wonderful pull through spots, great views, and closer to the boat ramp!" says Caitlin R. These waterfront sites provide both shade and convenient lake access.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent positive mentions. According to Roger W. at Weston Bend State Park, "This is a nice campground to visit Leavenworth from. Very clean showers." The park maintains modern bathroom facilities with regular cleaning schedules.
Lakefront access: Proximity to water features prominently in positive reviews. At Lone Star Lake Park, Adam M. notes, "Great little lake. Good fishing, great locations for kayaking and paddle boarding." The smaller lake size creates intimate camping experiences with less boat traffic than larger reservoirs.
Family-friendly amenities: Smiths Fork Recreation Area Camping receives praise for its family orientation. "Perfect for families with young children. Smaller park, very friendly hosts," writes Robin R. The campground includes playground equipment and organized seasonal activities.
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Several campgrounds have mixed reviews regarding proximity between sites. At Perry State Park, Wendy C. notes, "Utility camping is a little close together for my liking. Still decent overall." Site selection significantly impacts privacy levels.
Train noise: Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA receives consistent mentions of railway disruptions. "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. Now I know why," shares Myron C. Train schedules remain consistent throughout year.
Seasonal crowds: Weekend occupancy levels change drastically during peak summer months. "Nice state park on the lake can be crowded and a little crazy on weekends," reports Doug H. about Perry State Park. Weekday camping provides significantly quieter experiences.
Music from nearby venues: Some campgrounds experience sound from external establishments. Brandon B. explains about Perry State Park: "The new bar/restaurant across the lake kills an overall good family camping weekend. There was a live band that had their music so loud we could hear it across the lake from 8-midnight."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Lone Star Lake Park, Tommie J. shares, "The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option." Equipment typically includes swings, climbing structures and open field space.
Organized activities: Seasonal programming enhances family experiences. Haley C. reports about Smiths Fork Recreation Area: "Camp hosts Janet and Chris went above and beyond making Halloween perfect for our family. Been here several times and they are more than accommodating." Activities often include themed weekends during summer and fall.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation. "There is a really nice walking/riding trail that goes all through the park! This is a family favorite!" notes Steven N. about Smiths Fork Recreation Area. Most swimming areas remain unsupervised without lifeguards.
Insect preparation: Bug activity varies by season and location. Derek L. warns about Perry State Park: "Bugs were really bad and not enough wood to be found. Look out for the massive spiders." Bringing additional insect repellent proves essential during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Carbolyn Park provides economical options with basic services. "Nice, shady spots with electric and water. It's very quiet. For $18, can't beat it," shares Curt. The campground operates seasonally from May through September.
Leveling requirements: Site grading varies significantly between campgrounds. "Site a little off level, nothing a few blocks or boards couldn't solve. 30 amps of clean 122 vac," reports Dan & Penny F. about Pomona State Park Campground. Bringing leveling blocks remains essential for most area campgrounds.
Full-hookup considerations: Some RV sites sacrifice shade for complete utilities. Jason W. notes about Hillsdale State Park: "Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy." This tradeoff between amenities and natural setting appears consistent across regional campgrounds.
Pull-through availability: Limited pull-through sites require advance planning. "We were 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," writes Andy about Perry State Park's Eagle Loop. Backing skills remain necessary for many sites.
