Cedar Bluff State Park provides camping cabins near Ransom, Kansas, with sites available in two main areas: Bluffton on the north shore and Page Creek on the south shore. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 2,050 feet in the high plains region, where summer temperatures often exceed 100°F during daytime hours but cool significantly at night. The lake level fluctuates seasonally, affecting boat access and swimming conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Swimming and beach activities: The Bluffton Area has a sandy beach area where visitors can swim during warmer months. According to one visitor, there are "some [campsites] near the sandy beach. Unfortunately the lake water has receded dramatically" (Bluffton Area — Cedar Bluff State Park).
Fishing spots: Fish cleaning stations are available near several camping loops, making it convenient to prepare your catch. "Overland loop is closest to the lake and where you would want to be if fishing. There is a fish cleaning station right outside the loop," notes a camper.
Electronic gaming: The Butterfield loop features a unique attraction called Neos 360. As one camper explains, it's "part electronic game and part competitive sport, suitable for all ages" - an unusual find at a state park campground.
Visit nearby geological features: Page Creek Area — Cedar Bluff State Park serves as a good base for exploring regional attractions. "The park is also in close proximity to Castle Rock, Monument Rocks, and Little Jerusalem," reports a visitor, offering options for day trips to these Kansas landmarks.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The Page Creek Area offers ample room between campsites. One camper noted, "Lots of privacy and space between sites. Bathrooms good and Verizon service ok."
Concrete shelters: Several camping areas feature unique concrete shelters that provide shade and protection. A visitor to Broken Arrow campground KS remarked, "Some of these sites have big concrete umbrella over them. Where there are trees, there are nice sites that are shaded."
Clean facilities: The shower buildings receive positive reviews for cleanliness across multiple campgrounds. At Cedar Bluff, "Very clean shower house facility. Wide open grass spaces with tables and shelters for picnic tables," reports one visitor.
Fishing-friendly amenities: Pa's Lake at Page Creek is specially designed for accessibility. A camper described it as "the most precious thing I have seen, a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in. They even have a giant fishing pole and the bobber is a light."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat can be intense in this region. One camper at Creek Side Resort noted, "The temperature was over 100 until almost 7:30 pm and our camper with the AC on high remained over 90 until almost 8:30," highlighting the importance of heat management strategies.
Water levels: Lake levels at Cedar Bluff fluctuate significantly, affecting waterfront activities. A visitor observed, "The lake is down but amenities are nice," while another mentioned, "There is an old boat ramp which the inlet has dried up."
Wildlife awareness: Be cautious around the facilities as native wildlife is present. One camper warned, "I saw a copperhead right by the bathhouse so be careful."
Limited services: Grocery and supply options are limited near most camping areas. A visitor advised, "Not a lot of groceries or gas nearby - plan accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Look for loops with playground equipment for younger children. A camper noted, "Butterfield has a bath/shower house and the largest variety of activities (archery range, BMX track, playground)."
Swimming areas: The lake at Horse Thief Reservoir provides swimming opportunities during summer months. A visitor commented, "Beautiful lake to fish, swim, and ski. It doesn't have much if any shade, so bring your own."
Activity planning: Some campgrounds offer organized activities during peak season. At Creek Side Resort, campers can enjoy "Flicks by the Crick" movie showings, making for entertainment options beyond typical outdoor activities.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with small children, select sites near facilities. One camper advised, "Bathrooms were quite a bit away," when describing primitive camping at Page Creek, suggesting families choose developed sites closer to restrooms.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Different camping loops offer varying amenities and pad types. A camper detailed, "Arapahoe: no bathhouse but located not too far from Butterfield's. All pads were concrete and appeared to have recently been redone."
Self-check-in guidance: Be prepared for self-registration if arriving after hours at Cedar Bluff. "The office was closed when we arrived and the self-check-in process was a bit confusing and cumbersome. Each loop has different prices and then you have to add the prime fee if applicable."
Road conditions: Access to some areas may involve unpaved roads. One camper at Wakeeney KOA warned about a different campground, saying "Dirt road was troublesome; lots of things shifted in the RV!"
Hookup availability: RV sites vary in available services. "Some sites don't have sewer hookups although they have an on-site dump station," noted a visitor at Creek Side Resort, suggesting checking specific site amenities before booking.
