Best Campgrounds near Paola, KS

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Paola. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Paola is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Kansas camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Paola, Kansas (90)

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Showing results 1-10 of 90 campgrounds

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Recent Reviews near Paola, KS

402 Reviews of 90 Paola Campgrounds


  • robert B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Osage State Fishing Lake

    Nice lake view

    Just got to the site, so far so good. Easy in for a Ford transit.

  • Rae B.
    Sep. 16, 2025

    Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park

    Will return

    We just started the check in process and the staff is so great and helpful that I've already added this place to favorites and hope to return next time I'm in Missouri

  • Daniel K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Blue Springs Lake Campground

    Great in town option

    Great option, clean and well ran. Quiet and I will stay agian!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA

    Just off the freeway

    Easy to access. Great for an overnight. Cable not working. My site was a bit small for my 29’ rig. It is a toy hauler and I asked for more room. It was promised, but not delivered.

  • NomadBrad D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Blue Springs Lake Campground

    Perfect Spot

    Great campsite, very clean… Bathrooms were spotless. As washer and dryer, showers, three toilets, playground for kids, firewood for sale.

  • NomadBrad D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 15, 2025

    Blue Springs Lake Campground

    Great Campground!

    The whole experience was awesome. The entire place was spotless, the sites were far apart enough that you didn't feel like your neighbors were on top of you. Bathrooms were incredibly clean and the camp hosts or some of the nicest ones I've ever encountered! I think their names were Robin and Jim. 5 stars for sure!

  • John G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Eisenhower State Park Campground

    Eisenhower SP spaciousness

    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. The showers and facilities were clean and maintained well. The camp store is minimal and only open a few hours in the evening. Access to the water is easy so bring watercraft and swimming attire. The lake is almost 7,000 acres so our kayak exploring only covered a small portion.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Walnut Grove RV Park

    A little hidden Gem

    Stayed for 2 nights for a softball tournament. A very nice Rv park just off I35 hidden in a nice quiet suburban area. Sites were gravel and level with FHU. A nice little store on site with free coffee, water and a cappuccino machine. Family owned with great hosts. Clean 24-7 bathrooms, showers and laundry facilities. A re-visit and stay is a must. Close to stores, eats and fuel for Rv’s.


Guide to Paola

Camping near Paola, Kansas, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore in the area.

What to do:

  • Fishing and boating: Many campers enjoy fishing and boating at Clinton State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "There were plenty of wildlife. Bunnies, raccoons, and lots of deer." This makes it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the area, especially at Hillsdale State Park. A camper noted, "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake."
  • Wildlife watching: Campers at Lake Shawnee County Campground have spotted various animals. One reviewer said, "The lake is beautiful and the campground is clean and neat."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park remarked, "The hiking trails were overgrown and no longer accessible, but the bathrooms were very nice."
  • Friendly staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground hosts. At Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park, one camper said, "The hosts are friendly and knowledgeable of the area."
  • Spacious sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites were level and clean."

What you should know:

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads, which can lead to traffic noise. A visitor at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA noted, "Close proximity to the interstate does come with some traffic noise."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. At Longview Campground, a camper mentioned, "The bathrooms were dirty and infested with various insects."
  • Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds may have seasonal restrictions. A visitor at Bloomington East - Clinton Lake noted, "The beach trash on the first couple days was outrageous."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A camper at Crow's Creek Campground said, "We’ve stayed here several times without any problems."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor gear to keep kids entertained. One family at Lake Shawnee County Campground enjoyed the "well-maintained trails and a park."
  • Check for pet policies: If you're bringing pets, make sure to choose a pet-friendly campground. A visitor at Hillsdale State Park mentioned, "Pets are allowed, which is great for families."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A camper at Weston Bend State Park Campground noted, "Electric sites, no water, but water spigots were scattered around the campground."
  • Check for site spacing: RVers appreciate sites that offer some privacy. A visitor at Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park said, "Some sites are not very level, so bring blocks."
  • Plan for easy access: Choose campgrounds that are easy to navigate. A reviewer at Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA mentioned, "It did the job for an overnight stay."

Camping near Paola, Kansas, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available in Paola, Kansas?

Paola offers several camping options within the area. Lake Miola City Park is a popular choice right in Paola, featuring a well-maintained 560-acre park with a 200-acre lake and camping facilities. Nearby, Hillsdale State Park provides multiple campgrounds including Saddle Ridge, Scott Creek, and Quail Run with reservable sites, toilets, and big-rig-friendly options. For RV travelers, there are several options within a 30-minute drive, making Paola a convenient base for exploring the greater Kansas City area.

Can I camp at Lake Miola in Paola, and what amenities are available?

Yes, camping is available at Lake Miola City Park. The campground is well-maintained and clean, offering a range of amenities around the 200-acre lake. Facilities include fishing areas, a swimming beach with volleyball courts, and hiking/biking trails that encircle the lake. The park supports typical outdoor activities including boating, with the lake being sufficient for water skiing despite its smaller size compared to other Kansas lakes. The entire 560-acre recreational area is easily accessible and well-kept, making it a convenient camping option in Paola.

What camping is available near Paola, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, Paola, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Paola, KS and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Paola, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Paola, KS is Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Paola, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Paola, KS.

What parks are near Paola, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Paola, KS that allow camping, notably Clinton Lake and Pomona Lake.