Camping options near Salina, Kansas range from state parks to privately owned facilities within a 50-mile radius of the city. The central Kansas region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 1,200 and 1,500 feet, with relatively flat terrain punctuated by occasional rolling hills and reservoir shorelines.
What to do
Hiking trails at Kanopolis State Park: Access miles of trails with unique limestone formations, approximately 30 miles southwest of Salina. A camper noted, "What really makes this park is all the hiking, biking and horse riding trails. Literally miles and miles of trails with some of the best rock formations you will find in Kansas."
Swimming and water recreation: Milford State Park provides lake access with designated swimming areas. "Perfect for the night. Covered pavilion with a view of the lake. We happened on it thru Dyrt on our way out to Yellowstone and it fit our needs exactly."
Basketball and outdoor games: Many campgrounds offer sports facilities for active recreation. At Salina KOA Campground, a visitor appreciated the "basketball court, playground, and swimming pool. Clean bathroom/showers."
What campers like
Shaded camping areas: Trees provide relief from summer heat at many campgrounds. At Owl's Nest Campground, campers enjoy "quite a bit of shade, which is nice in the Kansas heat once summer rolls around."
Lakeside views: Waterfront sites offer scenic camping experiences. At Lucas Park, "You can park with a water view nearly everywhere. Swim beach is a short drive from the camp ground itself. Scenic hiking trails."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and showers matter to campers. One visitor to KOA Kampgrounds observed, "The showers and restrooms we're clean and well lit. Would definitely stay here again."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Many campgrounds are situated near major highways for convenience but this affects noise levels. A camper at Owl's Nest Campground noted, "Close to Hwy 70 with some noise. Laundry/shower area available."
Seasonal water conditions: Kanopolis State Park and other lake areas may have water quality issues during certain times. "A little pricy for what it is. The area kind of smelled like dead fish. We ended up leaving because we found several tics and were worried about our dogs."
Reservation systems: Most parks require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Lucas Park, a camper shared, "Rangers were around throughout the day which said to me they put a lot of work into integrity of the reservations and experiences."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with kid-friendly facilities for entertainment. At KOA Kampgrounds, families enjoy "a gator pulling train cart, pedal carts, a jumping pad, basketball hoops that are adjustable and an outdoor ping pong table. Also a playground that could use some updates."
Weekend activities: Look for campgrounds offering special weekend programming. One family reported at KOA Kampgrounds, "Tons of extras it made our overnight stay feel like a part of our vacation instead of just a stopping point."
Tick prevention: Bring appropriate insect repellent, especially for wooded areas. A visitor to Curtis Creek Milford Lake advised, "If you bring kids keep away from tree trunks as I saw some poison ivy starting to grow at the base of several trees."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility information: For larger rigs, check campground specs before arriving. A visitor to Salina KOA explained, "Clean facility. Spaces for all types from tents to motor homes. Level shaded spaces. All pull through."
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have better prepared sites than others. At Curtis Creek Milford Lake, campers report, "We booked the buddy sites to have an extra large site beside the beach area and it was worth it. All sites seemed well kept and level."
Full hookup availability: Premium glamping close to Salina, Kansas often includes utility connections. At French Creek Cove, RVers should note "Shorter RV trailers are preferred. 30 amp service."
