Alternative glamping and camping opportunities exist within a 30-mile radius of Andover, Kansas. The region features a mix of state parks, county parks, and privately operated campgrounds surrounding several lakes with varying water conditions. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F, creating high demand for waterfront sites from June through August.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: At Santa Fe Lake, both beginner and expert riders can enjoy purpose-built trails. "The mountain bike trails as well as hiking trails are perfect for beginners to experts. It is large enough for wake but we love taking our kayaks out," notes Helena P. The trails include multiple loops with varying difficulty levels.
Trail running: Several parks offer designated running paths with minimal elevation gain. "None of the hikes are very difficult, most are easy/moderate and support running. They are very easy for hiking. Some bike routes are more difficult. Half are in woods with trees as low as 5ft over the trail, the other half go through open fields," explains Armaan M. about Santa Fe Lake.
Disc golf: An 18-hole disc golf course awaits players at West Shore Camping Area. The course winds through the campground and offers both wooded and open field shots. "Boating, fishing, birding, 18 hole disc golf course, swimming, biking or just relaxing, this place is great," according to Nancy C.
What campers like
Quieter paddling locations: Smaller lakes provide more peaceful paddling experiences. "This lake is a nice break from places like Cheney and Afton. It's small so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water, which makes paddling a lot more enjoyable," explains Chris L. about Santa Fe Lake. These smaller bodies of water often have fewer motorized watercraft.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching opportunities include seasonal bald eagle sightings at certain parks. "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!" reports Nancy C. about West Shore Camping Area. The area's wetlands attract diverse bird species year-round.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates compared to more commercial glamping close to Andover, Kansas. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping," shares Anika L. about Harvey County East Park.
What you should know
Alcohol policies vary: Regulations differ between parks, with some strictly prohibiting alcohol. "The only real downside is that there is no alcohol allowed, but nobody really came around checking that we noticed. We also didn't leave beer cans scattered all around so that probably helped," mentions Chris L. about Santa Fe Lake.
Water hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have unusual water connection rules. "Just to note, the water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter,'" reports Meghan B. about Harvey County East Park.
Off-season facilities: During cooler months, some amenities close or operate with limited service. "The restroom water was on in this loop only... The last 2 loops (North and South) are w/e loops, but water was off for the season. You could fill tanks at the vacant host site or the dump station," explains Nancy C. about Cheney State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Beach quality considerations: Sandy beaches with cleaner swimming areas make better family destinations. "Clean and quiet swimming area. Bathroom was clean," notes Rita G. about Harvey County East Park. The water clarity varies significantly between lakes depending on recent rainfall.
Playground proximity: Some sites offer convenient access to children's play equipment. "Very few 50 amp site to choose from and no 50 amp sites with shade. Decent beach area with playground equipment for kids," states Stanleigh S. about Bluestem Point Area.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to glamping near Andover, Kansas, consider cabins to avoid tent hassles. "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents. We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids," shares Holly D. about West Shore Camping Area.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limitations on RV length and hookup availability. "Shorter RV trailers are preferred. 30 amp service," advises a reviewer about French Creek Cove. Carefully check size restrictions before booking.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at some parks. "The sites are all gravel or grass with the exception of handicap sites. I wouldn't they were level, but all doable," notes Nancy C. about Cheney State Park. Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended.
Weekend availability: Popular RV sites often require advance reservations, especially for summer stays. "We only needed one night, but had to pay for two nights (it was on a weekend, but this place was nowhere near full, so the demand isn't there to warrant a 2-night requirement)," reports Shana D.
