Cedar Bluff State Park provides campers with various accommodation options spread across two distinct sections near Ransom, Kansas. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 2,100 feet with the reservoir reaching depths up to 32 feet when at capacity. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting both recreation opportunities and access to certain amenities throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing activities: Cedar Bluff Reservoir offers fishing opportunities despite water level changes. At Bluffton Area — Cedar Bluff State Park, visitors note "the lake water has receded dramatically" but fishing remains popular with "fish cleaning station right outside the loop" for convenient catch preparation.
Beach activities: The park features sandy beach areas for summer recreation. One camper at Cedar Bluff mentioned "some are near the sandy beach" while another praised the "amazing swimming area" where families can cool off during hot Kansas summers.
Recreation facilities: Beyond water activities, the park offers diverse recreational options. A visitor described finding an "archery range, BMX track, playground, and an interesting game called Neos 360 which is part electronic game and part competitive sport, suitable for all ages."
What campers like
Scenic dispersed camping: Many campers appreciate the spacious, open sites. At Page Creek Area — Cedar Bluff State Park, one visitor described "beautiful grassed site on the edge of the lake" with "wide open grass spaces with tables and shelters for picnic tables."
Concrete shelters: Unique concrete shelters provide practical protection in unpredictable weather. A camper mentioned they "appreciated the concrete shelters for possible storms -that luckily didn't happen" during their stay.
Dark night skies: The rural location provides excellent stargazing opportunities away from city lights. A visitor recommended Cedar Bluff State Park for those seeking "dark skies and solitude," noting "this is the place" for unobstructed astronomical viewing.
What you should know
Variable water levels: The reservoir experiences significant water fluctuations affecting recreation. Multiple reviewers mention "the lake water has receded dramatically" and "the water was down so the water was way out in the distance" affecting waterfront sites.
Wildlife awareness: Native wildlife requires caution around campsites and facilities. One camper warned to "be careful" after spotting "a copperhead right by the bathhouse" during their stay at Ellis Lakeside Campground.
Self-check procedures: Arrive prepared for self-registration during off-hours. A visitor described the process as "a bit confusing and cumbersome" with "each loop has different prices" requiring exact change in "cash or checks."
Weather considerations: Kansas weather can change rapidly with high winds common. One camper noted "30 mph winds nixed" their paddleboarding plans, while others mention cooling temperatures at night even after hot days.
Tips for camping with families
Specialized fishing area: Cedar Bluff offers a dedicated fishing pond for younger anglers. A visitor described finding "Pa's Lake. It's a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in" complete with "a giant fishing pole and the bobber is a light."
Playground options: Multiple playgrounds across the park provide recreation for children. Campers mention "new looking playground equipment" at Wakeeney KOA where one family "spent the entire day lounging and enjoying the basketball court, corn hole, park, ice cream social, and of course, the swimming pool!"
Educational opportunities: The area offers historical learning experiences. One visitor to a nearby ranch campground noted it was "the site of the first recorded Buffalo Soldier conflict out of Fort Hays (25 miles away)" providing history education alongside camping.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: Different camping loops offer varying amenities and privacy levels. A detailed review explains "Butterfield has a bath/shower house and the largest variety of activities" while "Arapahoe: no bathhouse but located not too far from Butterfield's. All pads were concrete and appeared to have recently been redone."
Long pull-through sites: Several campgrounds feature extra-long sites for larger rigs. At Creek Side Resort, campers praise "extra long sites - probably 90 feet long" with "almost all are pull-thru" making setup easier for big RVs.
Pet-friendly considerations: For pet owners seeking camping near Ransom, Kansas, several campgrounds accommodate animals with specific facilities. One reviewer mentioned a KOA with "the dog park is big and clean" allowing pets to exercise safely while another campground provides "plenty of primitive spots" where pets can settle during overnight stays.
