Camping near Plains, Kansas centers around Meade County, situated on the southwestern Kansas High Plains at approximately 2,500 feet elevation. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters, making spring and fall popular camping seasons. The area features small lakes surrounded by prairie grasslands with limited natural shade, creating unique challenges for tent camping during summer months.
What to do
Fishing at Meade State Park: Fish for catfish in the small lake where visitors report good catches. "Huge catfish have been caught here. They have many dates for family friendly activities that include trick or treating in Oct," notes a camper at Meade State Park Campground.
Hiking around the lake: Walk the 2-mile trail circling Meade Lake for wildlife viewing and exercise. "I walked the 2 miles around the whole lake. I didn't want to just hang out at my camp site because there were biting flies that interestingly stopped biting around 7pm," shares one visitor.
Swimming at local beaches: Cool off at designated swimming areas during summer months. One camper states, "It was sunny and breezy and my stuff dried quickly. Then I walked 200 yards to the beach and swam in the lake. It was very refreshing in that summer heat."
Visit nearby attractions: Explore historic Dodge City, just a short drive from several campgrounds. "Within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground, and Boot Hill Museum," reports a visitor at Dodge City KOA.
What campers like
Quiet lakeside settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment away from urban noise. "Camped lakeside for a quick overnight. There were a few people swimming and a few people fishing, a few RVs in the campground, no tents besides mine. Pretty lake, seemed well maintained," explains a camper.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower houses and restrooms receive positive mentions. "Shower house at the visitor center was clean and had hot water. Rangers were working in the woods near the campgrounds," notes a Meade State Park visitor.
Site spacing at premium locations: Some campgrounds offer well-separated sites with natural features. "Sites 50 through 82 are in the back away from the highway and very quiet. 50 to 82 have 20 feet of grassy space between sites, I highly recommend these sites. They also have trees to provide shade," explains a guest at Gunsmoke RV Park.
Affordable options: Many campgrounds in the area offer reasonable rates. "Lake View site #22, beautiful view from the lake's edge. Most sought after site. Power and Electric hook-ups. Many hook-up options but no sewer. Did have a dump station. Roughly $20/night for premium site."
What you should know
Limited summer shade: Tree cover is sparse at most campgrounds. "We stay here quite often for a quick get away. Good trees in some areas for shade," mentions a camper at Meade State Park.
Insects can be problematic: Several campers mention bug issues during certain times. "Only complaint is insects that were bad after dark - like gnats or something that didn't bite but were a nuisance."
Weather considerations: Strong winds and extreme temperatures affect camping comfort. "Come to find out, it is very windy here, so awnings are not used very often," explains a camper at Gunsmoke RV Park.
Seasonal variations: Campground experiences change dramatically with seasons. "I tent camped at Meade State Park in July 2022. I was the only camper in the Larrabee campground. I picked site 143 because trees almost totally shade it," shares a visitor at Meade City Park.
Tips for camping with families
Select sites near playgrounds: Some campgrounds have strategic sites for families with children. "Sites 18 and 19 would be good IF you have small children as the playground is right behind 19 and next to 18. Don't reserve these sites if you don't want the noise and activity of kids nearby."
Take advantage of seasonal activities: Many parks offer special events throughout the year. "They even have an ice cream truck that makes the rounds! The park hosts many dates for family friendly activities."
Look for campgrounds with multiple recreation options: Some locations offer concentrated activities. "Nice large concrete pads! Behind our site and a bunch others is a large grassy area perfect for kids to play. Within walking distance is a super affordable water park, free zoo, playground," reports a visitor at Dodge City KOA.
Consider yurt camping: For families seeking glamping options near Plains, Kansas, several campgrounds offer yurt camping and other semi-permanent structures. "They have spots available for all types of camping. We were just passing through the area and needed a spot to spend the night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Highway noise affects some campground sections more than others. "Front section of spots 1-43 are close to the road and it is very noisy. We would highly recommend getting a site in the back. Sites 50-80. Less noise, long pull throughs and nice wide grass areas," advises a camper at Seven Winds RV Park.
Check hookup positions: RVers note variable sewer connection locations. "Some sites have multiple sewer dumps so your positioning of your rig is less of a problem."
Consider noise factors: Train traffic impacts several campgrounds in the area. "It is a decent place for an overnight stop. Pricing is low. Full hookup, pull through spots. A lot of train traffic. Not bad, though, if you're used to train or city sounds."
Know seasonal closures: Check opening dates before planning trips. "They have code on the entrance gate and bathroom and laundry doors. The gate is open during the day and closes at night."
