Camping spots near Pleasanton, Kansas provide outdoor recreation options within the eastern Kansas region. The terrain features rolling hills and woodlands surrounding lakes and reservoirs that were primarily developed for flood control and fishing. Camping season generally runs April through October, though some campgrounds remain open year-round for hardy visitors willing to brave winter temperatures that can dip below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Miola in Paola offers a 200-acre lake with ample fishing opportunities. "The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing. The lake offers hiking/biking trails around it, a campground, fishing, a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts," notes Misti P. from Lake Miola City Park.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds near Pleasanton feature walking paths through wooded areas. Kayzie N. mentions that Lake Miola has "a walking path & a park and a huge dog park!!!!" This makes it convenient for campers who want exercise options without leaving the campground property.
Water recreation: Boat access is available at Sugar Valley Lakes, where Amy B. notes you can enjoy "access to several lakes for boating swimming and fishing. Also has a golf course and swimming pool." Louisburg Middle Creek State Fishing Lake offers convenient boat launch facilities, with John G. mentioning that "Camp spots are lakeside and adjacent to the launch ramp."
What campers like
Affordable rates: Many campers appreciate the reasonable pricing at campgrounds near Pleasanton. Jason T. notes that Gunn Park is "a small park that has lots of hiking trails it is five dollars for tents $10 for RVs with electric" and adds that "for five dollars you can fish and you can have a campfire." Budget-conscious campers will find several options with modest daily rates.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to observe local wildlife. Steve D. at Lake Miola City Park mentions the park is "about 560 acres with a 200 acre lake," providing habitat for various animals. Meghan B. describes Gunn Park as "beautiful, felt safe, and had lots of people recreating and enjoying themselves."
Waterfront sites: Jordan B. appreciates that at Middle Creek State Fishing Lake, "The sites are right on the lake and the vault toilet was clean. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring and they are spaced out nicely." Similarly, Brandon B. mentions that at Lake Miola "we were able to camp right along the water."
What you should know
Connectivity challenges: Cell service can be limited at certain campgrounds. Ryan R. warns about Linn County Park: "if you have kids that go camping with you chances are your cell phones will not work so the kids probably will be very bored lol." Plan accordingly by bringing offline entertainment options.
Reservation systems: Policies vary between first-come, first-served and reservation-based systems. Meghan B. notes that at Gunn Park, you should "Self-register at the camping area entrance and then hang your tag on your rearview mirror. There weren't any posts to hang your portion of the receipt tag to mark our site if you were to leave."
Site conditions: Some campsites may not be perfectly level. Brandon B. mentions that at Lake Miola "the only downside is that the sites are not very level." Steve D. cautions, "The sites are not very level, so bring leveling equipment!" This is particularly important for RV campers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Brandon B. mentions Lake Miola has "a fun playground for the kids." This provides entertainment options when families aren't engaged in water activities.
Swimming options: Lake Miola offers a designated swimming beach that's family-friendly. According to Steve D., "Lake Miola park in Paola, Ks... supports swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking, and camping. There is a swimming beach with sand volleyball."
Holiday planning: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak periods. Steve D. warns about Rutlader Outpost RV Park: "Holidays will find the campground FULL. If you want to be there for a holiday, know that you are allowed to stay 14 consecutive days before you must take 5 day break." Make reservations well in advance for summer holidays.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RV camping, look for pull-through sites when available. Laura H. notes that at Rutlader Outpost RV Park, "Some are back in but most are pull through. Full hook ups- power/water/sewer. 72 Sites: 30' wide, 60' long and level. 24 Sites are pull thru. All have 30 & 50 amp service."
Big rig access: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs comfortably. Neil S. cautions about Gunn Park: "Big rigs at some of the sites will have a problem. Remember this is a old campground." Always confirm site dimensions before booking if traveling with a large rig.
Seasonal amenities: Some RV parks are actively improving their facilities. Ryan H. shares that at Crossroads RVs and Cabins, "I know there are new pedestals and hookups for RVs and they have been working on the swimming pool for 2023. The A-frame cabin is being renovated for a new laundry facility and new showers/bathrooms too."
