Camping opportunities near Randolph, Kansas center around Tuttle Creek Lake, the second-largest reservoir in Kansas. The area sits at approximately 1,075 feet elevation and experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close from November through April due to freezing temperatures and occasional snow.
What to do
Fishing spots: River Pond Campground offers productive fishing in multiple locations. "Fishing in the lake, the spillway it the pond is always productive. And if you do want a little nightlife, there is a great area called Aggieville 15 minutes away," notes Tommie J.
Off-road vehicle trails: The ORV area at Tuttle Creek provides terrain for various skill levels, accessible from camping areas. "The orv area was amazing to take the jeeps out to! There's trails, mudding areas, and areas called ledges for climbing. We will definitely be returning again!" reports Shaeli E. from River Pond Campground.
Kayaking: Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 offers calm waters ideal for paddling. "Great for kayaking. Couple geocaches as well. I live near by and have gone every month of the year," mentions Hanna W. The smaller lake size makes it manageable for beginners.
Hiking trails: Several maintained trails circle the lakes and connect campgrounds. "Explored some of the trails/hunting areas with my puppy! The scenery was just beautiful and so serene. Enjoyed the seclusion from rest of the state park at this outlet of the lake," writes Kaitlin M. about River Pond.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Stockdale Campground provides quieter alternatives to busier areas. "Well maintained, gravel sites with good electric and water hookups. Dump station also provided attached hose to allow black tank flush... this campground provided a nice, secluded base," explains Rick G.
Mature shade trees: Rocky Ford Campground features extensive tree cover throughout. "When camping in Kansas you must try the Rocky Ford Campground in Tuttle State Park River Pond Area. This is a great shaded area with water views and full hookups. There are huge cottonwood trees that are wrapped with green vines during the summer months that guide you through the park," says Mike B.
Wildlife viewing: Nocturnal animals are commonly spotted at campsites. "Was the only one camping but had some beaver neighbors catching fish all night. No hikes but a jog around the lake was pleasant. Beautiful sunrise on the lake. Wildlife heard all around," reports Joe L. from Pottawatomie County State Lake #2.
Lake views: Riley Point Campground offers premium waterfront sites. "We were on sites that had lake views with Water and electric. To find the sites took some time due to no Ranger or worker available at checkin, but they did have our names on the camp posts," notes Tina J.
What you should know
Cell service: Most campgrounds have adequate connectivity for basic needs. "Verizon cell service and digital TV signal were strong," reports Rick G. about Stockdale Campground.
Site identification challenges: Many first-time visitors struggle to locate their reserved sites. "If you're arriving late, be forewarned that the campground is huge so a map is essential to find your spot. Highly recommend trying to book a water view spot," advises JL from Riley Point.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility maintenance differs significantly between campgrounds. "First off, bathrooms and showers are disgusting. Campsites are good size, even though there are a million of them. Great water access for motorized and human powered watercraft alike," warns Curt about Riley Point.
Local wildlife encounters: Randolph Area campers should secure food properly. "Make sure and put your food away at night or the raccoons will be dining at your table during the night," cautions Mike B. about nearby Rocky Ford.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate pets with dedicated facilities. "Lots of sites. Lots of trees. Small dog park in one corner. Many of the sites are well spread out, but even the close ones are quiet due to the trees absorbing sound," says Leslie B. about River Pond State Park.
Swimming areas: Tuttle Creek Cove offers designated beach zones. "Last 4th of July my family and friends went tent camping here. There is a nice beach area to swim, we rented kayaks and canoes for a leisurely paddle around the lake. Our camp site had plenty of over head cover from the sun," shares David H.
Insect protection: Summertime camping requires proper preparation. "My husband and I stayed in a site with beautiful trees and sunflowers growing all around us. The monarchs must have been migrating because they were all over the trees. Bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes and chiggers were biting!" warns Jessica C. about Randolph Area.
Free camping with kids: Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 provides no-cost options for budget-conscious families. "We stopped at this camping spot on our way from Georgia to Colorado. This was one of our favorite spots because it wasn't overly populated. Also the wild life was great. We saw a beautiful owl that flew between the trees," reports Cori R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Electric and water placement requires planning at some sites. "Pull throughs are not too level and services are on the wrong side so make sure your hose and electric cable are long enough," advises Leslie B. about River Pond State Park.
Best navigation times: Arrive during daylight hours to find assigned sites. "Park does need to label the roads with site numbers. I recommend arriving in daylight to find your spot, as well as researching your location beforehand," suggests Leslie B.
Road access: Most campgrounds accommodate larger rigs but require careful navigation. "Paved Roads were plenty wide enough to travel through with our 40' towing our truck," reports Tina J. about Riley Point Campground.
Dump station amenities: Some locations offer enhanced services beyond basic facilities. "Dump station also provided attached hose to allow black tank flush," notes Rick G. about Stockdale Campground.
