Cedar Bluff State Park offers yurt camping options at both shoreline areas near Ransom, Kansas. The park spans over 12,000 acres with the reservoir covering approximately 6,800 acres when at conservation pool level. Summer temperatures typically range from 80-95°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall bring milder conditions suitable for outdoor activities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cedar Bluff State Park's lake provides excellent fishing conditions throughout the year. One visitor noted, "Growing up in southwest Kansas it is difficult to take a quick weekend trip anywhere close. Horsethief sure changed that. A quick hour drive from Garden City and you can be on the water or setting up your camper" at Horse Thief Reservoir.
Historical explorations: Visit the C2T Ranch while staying at their campground to learn about regional history. As one camper shared, "This place is an incredible continuously working Ranch since 1884. It is also the site of the first recorded Buffalo Soldier conflict out of Fort Hays (25 miles away)" at C2T Ranch and Campground.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution makes the area perfect for stargazing, especially during new moon phases. The open plains provide unobstructed views of constellations and occasional meteor showers. A camper at Cedar Bluff mentioned, "If you want dark skies and solitude, this is the place."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between camping areas. One reviewer stated, "Great campsite. Lots of privacy and space between sites. Bathrooms good and Verizon service ok" at Page Creek Area — Cedar Bluff State Park.
Water recreation: The reservoirs offer swimming, boating, and fishing options. A visitor commented, "It doesn't have much if any shade, so bring your own. Otherwise it is a great place to stay, especially if you have a boat" at Horse Thief Reservoir.
Off-grid convenience: Castle Rock RV Park provides basic amenities without unnecessary frills. A camper shared, "What a great place to get off the road for the night. Don't come here looking for amenities, just a quiet place to stay. 50A service, great water pressure and sewer" at Castle Rock RV Park.
What you should know
Limited shade: Many camping areas have minimal tree coverage. A visitor observed, "Sites right on the lake and the bath house is nearby for many of the sites" but also mentioned that many sites "have limited shade" at Cedar Bluff.
Shower facility variations: Facilities differ between campgrounds and even within the same park. One camper reported, "I used the shower building that had the toilet and vanity all in one room; the water pressure got weaker the hotter the water was and the electrical outlets don't work."
Seasonal insects: Waterfront locations can have significant insect activity, especially in warmer months. A tent camper mentioned, "Only complaint is that it got very buggy at night, but that's what you get for a spot so close to the water" at Cedar Bluff State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pa's Lake for young anglers: Cedar Bluff features a special fishing area designed for children and disabled individuals. A visitor described it as "the most precious thing I have seen, Pa's Lake. It's a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in. They even have a giant fishing pole and the bobber is a light."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds have updated play equipment for children. One camper mentioned Cedar Bluff has "new looking playground equipment" near the swimming areas, making it convenient for families to supervise children while enjoying the beach.
Advance reservations: Popular family-friendly spots fill quickly during peak seasons. A camper advised, "Spots can fill up quick so be sure you call ahead. However, there are plenty of primitive spots that have room most weekends."
Tips from RVers
Self-check procedures: Many campgrounds use self-pay stations for late arrivals. A camper noted, "Self pay station was available for those wishing to stay who didn't book before 12 noon day of. Lots of open spaces beyond what was available to thru the website."
Road conditions: Access roads may be unpaved or rough. One RVer cautioned, "Dirt road was troublesome; lots of things shifted in the RV!" suggesting securing items before traveling to certain campgrounds.
Utility reliability: Water pressure and electrical service quality vary between campsites. A visitor at Horsethief reported, "Great camp ground with clean and maintained amenities. Having a lake this close is a treat even if it's not a big lake."
