El Dorado State Park offers extensive equestrian trails across 8,000 acres and camping facilities specifically designed for horses. Located approximately 30 miles east of Wichita, the park contains multiple camping loops with varying levels of amenities. The equestrian section provides direct trail access for riders while several other camping areas around the park cater to different preferences and needs. Water and electric hookups are available at most sites, though configurations and placement can vary.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: El Dorado State Park features multiple trail loops throughout the property. Riders appreciate the direct access from camping areas. As Brittany G. notes about the Equestrian Loop, "We pulled in our PUP for a night sleep. The spot we chose to pop up was right near the water, and you could hear the waves hitting the shore all night long."
Swimming: The park maintains designated swimming beaches for cooling off after a day of riding or hiking. According to Zephyr Y., "The designated swim areas are great for the whole family because there is a wide and far out area that doesn't get too deep while being roped off."
Biking: El Dorado State Park has paved roads and trails suitable for cycling. Mary observed, "There are lots of paved trails and paved roads in the campground that are nice for biking. There are some trails through the woods also."
Fishing: Multiple lake access points allow for fishing directly from camping areas. Some campers find ideal spots right near their sites. Jason S. reports from Walnut River Area, "Three nice campgrounds, large playground, fishing and a swim beach. Worth the stop with the kids."
What campers like
Convenient location: The park's proximity to Wichita makes it popular for weekend trips. Kara S. mentions, "We will stay here for overnight trips since it's only about 40 minutes from home. We usually stay on the Walnut River side as there is a large playground with tent sites close enough to keep an eye on the kiddos."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Most areas maintain a welcoming environment for families. Brad H. commented, "My experience over the holiday weekends has usually been that's when the rowdy crowd shows up but this campground was comfortable and family-oriented."
Lakeside sites: Many campsites offer water views and direct lake access. Leigh M. from Boulder Bluff Area appreciates that "Grills and firepits at EVERY site. Good fishing, 2 swim large swim beaches, plenty of out buildings and play areas."
Additional activities: Beyond horse trails, the park offers archery and shooting ranges. Jason S. notes, "There is a large playground for kids, a nice swim beach away from the main lake, an archery range, and they are building a pistol/rifle range next to the ranger station for public use."
What you should know
Campground size and navigation: El Dorado is a large park with multiple camping areas spread across the property. Mary explains, "This is a BIG park with multiple camping areas so it was difficult to figure out on our own. There are maps on bulletin boards but no printed maps were available."
Seasonal considerations: Early spring visitors may find limited staff and services. Mary adds, "We visited this park in early April. It was very confusing to get a site because there was no camp host available and the park office was closed. (It was Saturday.)"
Facility maintenance varies: Bathroom and shower conditions differ between camping loops. Winfield City Lake, another option for horse camping in the region, receives similar feedback. Michelle S. notes, "Showers were closed and turned off and the bathrooms were dirty."
Site leveling: Many campsites throughout the park require equipment for proper leveling. At Sand Hills State Park, Victoria S. advises, "Park was a little unlevel so definitely need to bring extra wood to level correctly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near recreational facilities for convenience with children. Kara S. recommends, "We usually stay on the Walnut River side as there is a large playground with tent sites close enough to keep an eye on the kiddos."
Swimming beaches: The designated swim areas provide safe options for children. Zephyr Y. elaborates, "The designated swim areas are great for the whole family because there is a wide and far out area that doesn't get too deep while being roped off."
Weekend considerations: Holiday weekends can bring larger crowds. Phillip L. from Winfield City Lake describes it as "Plain camping at a low price," but others like Michelle S. caution, "We must have camped at part central. Mud lake. Noisy...crowded."
Alternative campgrounds: For those seeking quieter settings, consider Sand Hills State Park. Angee S. describes it as "a small campground, nearby hiking but no other activities. It is clean, lots of trash cans and restrooms are clean."
Tips from RVers
Equestrian loop details: Most equestrian sites are back-in configuration with limited pull-through options. RV sites require additional equipment for leveling. Tracy N. advises, "The parking pad was nowhere near level, so you'll want to plan for that."
Hookup placement: The arrangement of utilities, fire rings, and tables can present challenges. Tracy N. adds, "The layout of the fire rings, grills and picnic tables are all weird... Not consistent and usually on the wrong side of your trailer."
Dump station access: For extended stays, plan to use the city dump station in El Dorado. Paul P. notes that at nearby Kansas State Fair RV Park, you can find full hookups including sewer connections if preferred over the state park's more basic services.
