Campgrounds near Pleasanton, Kansas offer varied camping options within eastern Kansas's rolling prairie landscapes. The area encompasses both managed state parks and family-owned private campgrounds with sites situated along lake shores and wooded areas. Several locations provide yurt camping experiences that bridge traditional tent camping with more structured accommodations during Kansas's seasonal weather patterns.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Linn County Park sits on 2,600-acre Lake LaCygne where fishing is the primary attraction. "Located in east central Kansas on 2600 acre Lake LaCygne (cooling reservoir for KCPL coal-fired power plant). No swimming or skiing allowed, only fishing boats," notes reviewer Bran P. The lake restricts activities to fishing boats only due to its status as a power plant cooling reservoir.
Hiking trails: Gunn Park features multiple hiking paths through wooded areas. "This place is a small park that has lots of hiking trails," mentions Jason T., adding that day permits for various activities cost approximately $5 each. The trail system connects various sections of the park and loops around small fishing lakes.
Archery practice: Beyond standard camping activities, Hillsdale State Park maintains specialized facilities for outdoor sportsmen. The park features "a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations," according to Jason W., making it a destination for hunters preparing for deer season.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Russell Crites Primitive area at Hillsdale State Park offers coveted lakeside sites. "It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake," shares Jason W. Many campers mention the morning views and fishing access as key reasons they return to these sites.
Family-friendly facilities: Campers appreciate designated areas for family activities. "We love the park beautiful and peaceful. It usually has few campers but alot of activities and so close to town it feels very safe day or night," notes reviewer The M. about Gunn Park. The proximity to local communities provides convenience while maintaining a natural setting.
Budget-friendly options: The modest fees at several campgrounds receive consistent praise. "It is five dollars for tents $10 for RVs with electric," mentions Jason T. about Gunn Park, adding that additional activities like fishing require separate daily permits available for around $5 each. This pricing structure allows campers to customize their experience without paying for unwanted amenities.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly across camping areas. At Linn County Park, campers should prepare for communication challenges as "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," warns Ryan R. This isolation benefits those seeking digital detox but requires advance planning.
Facility conditions: Several campgrounds have aging infrastructure. At Deer Run RV Park & Campground, a camper noted, "The grass was knee high, trash had not been picked up and the firepit had trash in it from the previous campers." Bathroom facilities receive similar comments across several locations, with operational showers sometimes limited.
Yurt camping accommodations: Hillsdale State Park offers yurt camping options for Pleasanton visitors seeking structure beyond tent camping. "Lots of glamping," notes Mark R., describing the park as having "very corporate camping." Yurts typically require advance reservations and come equipped with basic furniture while maintaining proximity to nature.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Given connectivity issues, plan non-electronic activities. "Our family felt safe. Beautiful sunsets. Water is a little muddy but good for fishing," mentions Susan S. about Hillsdale State Park. Board games, fishing equipment, and wildlife identification guides help engage children when digital entertainment isn't available.
Consider site selection carefully: Families should research specific camping loops. "Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," advises Jason W. about Hillsdale State Park. Loops with proximity to restrooms reduce nighttime hiking while sites near water provide natural entertainment.
Watch for wildlife: Many campgrounds offer natural wildlife viewing opportunities. "Had deer walk right through the campground when we were there," recalls Ryan R. about Linn County Park. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing, with deer, turkeys, and various birds commonly seen throughout the area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. "Sites are not level and need either more gravel or concrete," advises Neil S. about Gunn Park, adding that "big rigs at some of the sites will have a problem. Remember this is a old campground."
Limited hookup information: Call ahead to confirm exact hookup specifications. "We stayed on site 112 in View Point Loop next to some permanent residents. There's no stay limit here so some sites are very messy. Paved roads with gravel sites having W/E, mostly 30A but a few 50A like ours," shares Bran P. about Linn County Park. Campgrounds often have mixed hookup types that aren't fully documented online.
Check dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer on-site dump stations. "Water and electric only... no dump station," notes Neil S. about Gunn Park. Plan trips accordingly or locate alternate dump facilities before arrival, especially for longer stays.
