Camping spots near Pittsburg, Kansas range from primitive sites near bison herds to lakeside retreats with full hookups, all within a 30-mile radius. Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically in this region, with summer highs regularly reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Many campsites in the area are situated at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, contributing to their rolling prairie terrain.
What to do
Prairie wildlife viewing: At Prairie State Park Campground, visitors can observe free-roaming bison herds in their natural habitat. One camper noted, "Prairie state park isn't very large but it is nice to see somewhere dedicated to preserving the native grassland that the Midwest used to be covered with. The main draw for me other than it being close to where I live is that you get to be around buffalo with out fences."
Fishing and swimming: Crawford State Park offers both activities with several access points around the lake. "The lake itself is dotted with campgrounds," reports a visitor to Rocky Cove Campground, while another mentions, "fishing is decent, the food at the Marina is great."
Historical exhibits: At Big Brutus Museum, campers can tour a massive electric mining shovel while staying onsite. "The whole family loved the self guided tour of Big Brutus. Clean and well maintained camps. Truly a marvel to see up close," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Quiet, spacious sites: Lonesome Point Campground at Crawford State Park offers peaceful camping experiences. A regular visitor comments, "We camp here quite often. I like that we can take our fur babies. It's quiet even if there are a lot of campers. People are polite and respectful."
Restaurant access: The marina restaurant at Crawford State Park provides a convenient meal option. One camper at Oak Point Campground stated, "The on-site restaurant is a nice perk when you simply don't want to cook. Small lake, but everything is clean and well maintained."
Level sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature concrete pads or level grassy areas. At Big Brutus, a camper mentioned, "The sites are level and on nice grass. The grounds are well kept, the scenery is beautiful!"
What you should know
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds have minimal amenities. At Prairie State Park, one reviewer advised, "If you are interested in bison sightings, this is the park for you. If you need water, supplies, shower or a flush toilet, skip this one. The tent sites are VERY primitive, but you drive up to your camp."
Bathroom access: Not all camping areas have onsite restrooms. At Rocky Cove Campground, a camper pointed out, "The odd thing about the campground is that there is no bathroom or showers. At all. You have to go to the next campground over, Oak Point. Not convenient."
Ticks: Prairie areas, particularly at Prairie State Park, have significant tick populations. A recent visitor reported, "Lots of ticks. Good clean campground. Bathroom. Bison roam the park. Ticks also roam the park."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Crawford State Park provides kid-friendly water access. "We have stayed here twice now, both times it was amazing," reports a visitor to Oak Point, while another notes there's an "amazing swimming beach, modern bath house."
Educational opportunities: Prairie State Park offers nature learning experiences. "The nature center is small but they have two bison, a coyote, and many other learning opportunities inside," according to one camper.
Wildlife sounds: At Prairie State Park, "you'll hear the coyotes all night howling and barking," which can be either exciting or unsettling for children depending on their comfort level with nature sounds.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV sites: Big Brutus has only a handful of RV spots available. "There are only 10 sites (all with power and water) tenting available. It is remote and extremely quiet and peaceful!" according to one RVer.
Highway proximity: Four Oaks RV Park provides convenient access but comes with road noise. A visitor noted, "It is a very small place to park close to 69 highway and a public golf course," while another mentioned it's "a bit noisy with traffic."
Winter camping considerations: Some facilities close during colder months. At Rocky Cove Campground, a winter camper observed, "The bathrooms and office are close during winter season. There is a nice beach area and playground in the park. Easy self pay Kiosk."
