Best Campgrounds near Ulysses, KS
Camping near Ulysses, Kansas includes a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites across the high plains landscape of southwestern Kansas. Frazier Park in Ulysses provides convenient in-town camping with concrete pads and basic amenities, while Cimarron National Grassland, about 40 miles southwest, offers a more natural experience with sites nestled among ponds and prairie. The region features several small county and city parks with RV hookups, alongside more primitive options for those seeking solitude. As one camper noted, "The Cimarron Grassland is an amazing part of the Great Plains ecosystem and definitely worth a look when driving through the southwest corner of Kansas."
Weather conditions in this region can be extreme, with hot, dry summers and cold, windy winters. Most campgrounds are accessible year-round, though water systems at some locations like Beymer Water Recreation Park are winterized from November through March. Gravel and dirt access roads can become challenging after rain, particularly at locations like Arkalon Park where visitors report "mushy, slip-slide drives through deep soft red dirt." Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, and campers should be prepared for sudden weather changes. Cell service is generally reliable near towns but can be spotty in more remote areas like Wilburton Fishing Pond.
The camping options around Ulysses cater to different preferences and needs. RV parks like Western Star RV Ranch and BECS RV Park offer full hookups, laundry facilities, and amenities for longer stays or overnight travelers. These established sites typically range from $10-20 per night with varying levels of amenities. For nature enthusiasts, the Cimarron National Grassland provides more primitive camping with vault toilets and drinking water for around $7 per night. The grasslands are particularly popular with birdwatchers and wildlife photographers, as the area serves as a migration stopover for many bird species. Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, though leash rules apply, and several offer fishing opportunities at stocked ponds.
