Historic Lake Scott State Park lies within a canyon formation in western Kansas at around 2,800 feet elevation, creating a surprising landscape contrast from the surrounding farmlands. The spring-fed lake sits 100 feet below the surrounding plains, with camping areas distributed around the shoreline and nearby bluffs. Summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s, while winter nights can drop well below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on the lake: Rental equipment is available at the small beach house and store, though only on weekends. "An easy walk to the swim beach and little bait shop and store open on the weekends. The lake is small and quiet with fishers and kayakers," notes a visitor from Circle Drive Campground.
Explore nearby geological features: Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park are both within 20 miles. "Amazing sites nearby...Jerusalem Badlands & Monument Rocks about 15-20 minutes north off of US 83," according to a camper at Circle Drive Campground.
Disc golf course: The park includes a complete course suitable for various skill levels. "There is a great disk golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it," mentions a visitor to Lakebank Drive Campground.
What campers like
Sheltered camping locations: The canyon setting creates natural wind protection in some areas. "These spaces are blocked from the wind and feel more private than the Lakeview campground, but you are a bit further from bathrooms/dumpsters," notes a camper at Timber Canyon Campground.
Unique landscape contrast: The transition from flat farmland to canyon creates a dramatic entrance experience. "Driving through Kansas and coming up on this park and it's views made it a great spot to stop at along the way," explains a visitor to Elm Grove Campground.
Weekday tranquility: Most crowds appear on weekends, with quieter conditions midweek. "We pulled up on a Saturday afternoon and the park was packed. Thankfully we had reservations... By Sunday evening there was hardly anyone left so we felt like we had the whole park for the next couple days."
What you should know
Bathhouse conditions vary: Some facilities may need maintenance or have unusual designs. "The bathhouse left a lot to be desired. A good cleaning to remove dead bugs would've went a long way... We also checked the other batthouse on the opposite side of the lake and it was the same way."
Wildlife impacts: Geese populations can affect campsite selection, particularly in lakeside areas. "One thing that did limit our choice of sites was a LARGE herd of geese that covered all of the lakeside sites as well as the next row in. I didn't want to set up in bird poop in the dry grass."
Campground-specific facilities: Not all areas have the same amenities. "Water hydrant at all the sights in our little camp area. Lots of space at each site with table and fire pit. Not all pits have grates. There is no toilet at this little camp area but there is flush bathrooms and showers within 1/2 mile," reports a camper at Lakeview Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: The designated beach area provides safe water access. "Well painted swimming area. Small store for essentials and bait. Mr. Larry is the best!" notes a visitor to Lakebank Drive Campground.
Cabin options: For those not tent camping, the park offers cabin rentals. "We wanted to try some parks in Western kansas. Heard some good things about them. This park is pretty good. It was a nice quiet location just north of Scott City and south of colby," shares a visitor to Apache Campground.
Weekend activities: Additional services operate Friday through Sunday. "The general store that's very small is only open on Friday Saturday and Sunday," advises an Apache Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. "Sites are on gravel or grass & not always level for our 30' 5th wheel. Verizon cell is available as is electricity & water. Dumping service is at the entrance."
Pedestals and hookups: Some electric hookups serve multiple sites. "Most sites have full hook ups. The electric is in sort of a central pedestal, and people are snaking cords to it 4 campers per pedestal," reports a visitor to Pine Tree RV Park.
Site selection strategy: Certain loops offer better privacy or amenities. "Sites are a little close to each other. Water and electric sites. Sites are not marked real clearly," notes a Circle Drive Campground visitor.
