Cedar Bluff State Park and surrounding campgrounds offer camping options within 30 miles of Ransom, Kansas. The area sits at approximately 2,400 feet elevation in the High Plains region. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while winter nights often drop below freezing. Wind conditions can change rapidly throughout the day, affecting both tent and RV camping experiences.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Cedar Bluff State Park features a large swimming beach that remains usable despite water level fluctuations. "The swimming beach is large and looked clean. There is new looking playground equipment," notes Nancy C., who visited in April.
Fishing access: The Bluffton Area includes designated fishing spots and cleaning stations. "This 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," explains a visitor at Bluffton Area — Cedar Bluff State Park.
Boating options: Boat ramps at Cedar Bluff provide water access, though water levels fluctuate seasonally. "There is a large now unused boat and vehicle parking lot however the dock is lying on the dirt," reports David M. about current conditions at Dispatch Campground.
Historic exploration: C2T Ranch and Campground offers a unique historical experience near Ransom. "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)," shares Seth S.
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: The tent-only areas at Cedar Bluff State Park offer seclusion not found in RV sections. "The tent only sites were totally empty and we were the only ones in the loop. Gorgeous view, just up the bank from a small beach," reports Danielle C.
Concrete storm shelters: Bluffton Area provides safety features appreciated by visitors. "Appreciated the concrete shelters for possible storms—that luckily didn't happen," mentions Liz C., highlighting an important weather safety feature.
Ease of overnight access: The self-registration system works even for late arrivals. "Stopped by in Nov at 11pm. Self pay. Power hookup and dump site. Great spot," notes a traveler at Bluffton Area campground.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive regular maintenance at most area campgrounds. "Very clean shower house facility. Lots of space. Many stalls for showers, there's also a nearby host," reports a camper about Page Creek Area.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: The lake at Cedar Bluff has receded significantly in recent years. "Unfortunately the lake water has receded dramatically," reports a recent visitor to Dispatch Campground at Cedar Bluff State Park.
Wind conditions: The open plains location means steady winds are common. "Little windy. Full hookups are popular. Cabins and dispersed camping sites are empty. Cools down nicely at night," notes David M. at Roonii Campsite.
Wildlife awareness: Campers should watch for local wildlife, including snakes. "The bathrooms suck and I saw a copperhead right by the bathhouse so be careful," warns a visitor at Horse Thief Reservoir.
Tree coverage limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited shade. "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," advises a camper at Horse Thief Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Wakeeney KOA offers numerous recreational options for children. "My kiddos LOVED the pool. We spent the entire day lounging and enjoying the basketball court, corn hole, park, ice cream social, and of course, the swimming pool!" shares Joanna M.
Playground access: Cedar Bluff State Park provides recently updated play equipment. "There is new looking playground equipment. The most precious thing I have seen, Pa's Lake. It's a little lake built for disabled and youths to fish in," describes Nancy C.
Recreational variety: Some campgrounds feature unique activities beyond standard offerings. "Butterfield has a bath/shower house and the largest variety of activities (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," explains a visitor to Bluffton Area.
Evening events: Look for special activities at campgrounds. "They even have an ice cream social and fresh baked good in the morning," reports a Wakeeney KOA guest.
Tips from RVers
Site lengths: Creek Side Resort in Hays provides exceptionally long spaces. "Nearly no trees, but extra long sites - probably 90 feet long. Almost all are pull-thru," notes Gordon D., making it ideal for larger rigs.
Pad surfaces: RV parks near Ransom, Kansas offer various pad types. "All pads were concrete and appeared to have recently been redone," reports a visitor about Arapahoe loop at Bluffton Area, while "Gravel and cement pads. Well kept grounds" describes Dan Q. about Creek Side Resort.
Overnight convenience: Many RV parks cater to interstate travelers. "Fairly quiet spot with space around the trailer. Overall, a nice place to hop in overnight, and maybe a little longer depending on what you're doing," says Joseph F. about Wakeeney KOA.
Temperature management: Summer heat affects RV comfort significantly. "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," warns Amy D. at Creek Side Resort.
