Located southwest of Kansas City, Paola sits in east-central Kansas with mild to moderate seasonal changes. The region features rolling hills and several lakes, creating a landscape that supports a variety of upscale camping options. Water levels at area lakes can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline campsites during summer drought periods.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing opportunities: Hillsdale State Park offers watercraft rentals for exploring the lake. "This was our first location as full time RVers and it was such a fun experience. There are kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks," notes one visitor.
Biking trails: The parks near Paola feature cycling paths for different skill levels. "Campgrounds are clean and aren't too overly cramped. Trails for hiking and riding bikes and they offer canoe/kayak renting," explains a camper at Hillsdale State Park.
Fishing: Pomona State Park Campground provides excellent angling opportunities with less crowded shorelines. According to a camper, "We had our pick of sites. We got a prime tree shaded spot on the water. In fairness, most sites are on the water or have a water view. Spectacular sunsets."
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many glamping sites close to Paola, Kansas feature tree coverage for natural cooling. At Linn County Park, a camper noted, "Lots of trees lots of wildlife. Had deer walk right through the campground when we were there."
Lakefront access: Water proximity is a major draw for campers in the region. At Lone Star Lake Park, a visitor reports, "Small campground overlooking lone star lake. Sites are on a slight slope. All sites overlook the lake and water access is extremely close, including the swim beach."
Modern shower facilities: "The bathrooms are adequate and clean. Views are beautiful as you will see for yourself," reports a camper at Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA, making glamping near Paola more comfortable than traditional camping.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many premium glamping locations fill quickly during peak seasons. At Kansas City East-Oak Grove KOA, one visitor advises, "Stayed here for one night after driving down from Nebraska. Great place to set up for the night, clean bathrooms, a nice fire pit, and plenty of room to set up a tarp for the rain."
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal winds that can affect camping comfort. At Eisenhower State Park, a camper shares, "It was super duper windy off of the lake for us, so be ready for wind. Bathrooms were nice and clean and the staff were very nice."
Site differences: Not all camping areas offer the same level of privacy. A visitor to Pomona State Park explains, "The fivestar loop is decent for tent camping. The sites were fairly small and jammed next to each other, and half of them didn't have great tree cover, but they all have a nice firepit and picnic table."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. A Lone Star Lake Park visitor states, "The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option."
Swimming beaches: Lake Jacomo - Fleming Park provides water recreation areas suitable for families. "We are camping here while doing the Cotopaxi Questival Adventure Race. It's a very nice setting in a Grove of trees atop a hill. Both electric and primitive sites are available," reports one camper.
Off-water activities: When weather prevents water recreation, alternative options exist. A Pomona State Park camper shares, "We road bikes, but the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible. In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination. Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Electric services differ between campgrounds. At Carbolyn Park, an RVer notes, "Nice, shady spots with electric and water. It's very quiet. For $18, can't beat it."
Site leveling: Some RV sites require additional work for proper setup. A camper at Pomona State Park reports, "Spent the weekend here and glad we had reservations prior as it was full even though it was the end of October and the weather wasn't the best. Close to Melvern and the railroad tracks so if the sound of trains all night isn't your thing, then pick somewhere else."
Full-hookup availability: Premium sites with complete services can be limited. "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake. The sites and facilities are well kept and clean. Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," explains a visitor to Hillsdale State Park.
