Historic Lake Scott State Park sits within a scenic gorge that contrasts dramatically with the surrounding Kansas plains. The spring-fed lake creates a hidden oasis with natural springs, sandstone bluffs, and wooded areas at 2,965 feet elevation. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 90°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms during peak camping season.
What to do
Explore unique rock formations: Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park are both approximately 15-20 minutes from the campgrounds. "Amazing sites nearby...Jerusalem Badlands & Monument Rocks about 15-20 minutes north off of US 83," notes Bob M. from Circle Drive Campground.
Try kayaking on the lake: The spring-fed waters are perfect for paddling, especially during weekdays when boat traffic is minimal. "We spent the hot part of the days kayaking in the lake. The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekends," according to Shannon G. who stayed at Circle Drive.
Visit historical sites: The park contains several preserved historical locations within walking distance of campgrounds. "There are amazing sites within 20 miles. The Little Jerusalem SP is a must. In the area, we saw turkey, owl, lots of buzzards, geese, albino buffalo and more cows than I have seen in one place," shares Nancy C.
Play disc golf: The park features a complete course suitable for all skill levels. "There is a great disc golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it," mentions Angie S. from Timber Canyon Campground.
What campers like
Unique landscape: The sudden transition from farmland to canyon surprises first-time visitors. "As you approach this lake, you will think your GPS is lying to you. You are in the middle of corn fields and no lake is visible, even when you are just a mile away. The lake sits in a gorge, and you won't see it until you are right at the top of and/or descending into the gorge," explains Jason W.
Midweek tranquility: The dog friendly campgrounds near Scott City empty significantly Sunday through Thursday. "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," shares Shannon G. from Lakebank Drive Campground.
Well-spaced campsites: Many sites offer good spacing and privacy, particularly in Circle Drive. "Sites were well spaced and ours was fully shaded. An easy walk to the swim beach and little bait shop and store open on the weekends," notes Angie S.
Wildlife viewing: The park's ecosystem supports diverse animal species. "In the area, we saw turkey, owl, lots of buzzards, geese, albino buffalo and more cows than I have seen in one place," reports Nancy C.
What you should know
Geese presence: Large numbers of geese frequent the lakeside areas, which can affect site selection. "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," explains Stacy R.
Weekend store hours: The park store operates limited hours. "The general store that's very small is only open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday," notes Wayne H. from Apache Campground.
Specific site recommendations: Some campground loops offer better experiences than others. "These spaces are blocked from the wind and feel more private than the Lakeview campground, but you are a bit further from bathrooms/dumpsters," mentions Katie L. about Timber Canyon.
Varying bathroom facilities: Restroom availability and quality differs between campground loops. "ReserveAmerica for reservations... No toilets in this CG. Nearest is about 1/3 mile away - vault toilet," advises Leslie B. from Lakeview Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Group camping areas: Designated group sites are available with enhanced amenities. "There is a group camping site with large fire ring, grill, volleyball court etc," notes Ryan L.
Swimming areas: The designated swimming beach provides safe water access for children. "Well painted swimming area," mentions Keri F. from Lakeside Campground.
Weekend activities: Local events sometimes occur in the park. "On Saturday, the local car club drove their vintage cars to the park for a pop up car show," shares Nancy C.
Playground options: Multiple play areas are available throughout the pet-friendly camping areas near Scott City. "Great sites, friendly staff, equestrian trails, frisbee golf course, well painted swimming area," summarizes Keri F.
Tips from RVers
Loop-specific considerations: Different camping loops offer varying amenities and layouts. "Sites are a little close to each other. Water and electric sites. Sites are not marked real clearly," advises Larry E. about Circle Drive.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for proper RV setup. "Not very level where I was," notes Leslie B. about Lakeview Campground.
Hookup information: Electric pedestal arrangements vary by loop. "Gorgeous scenery but 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," shares sKenyon who camped at Circle Drive Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Full hookup sites are recommended during busy periods. "Nice state park hidden away in the middle of nowhere, great stop on the way to Colorado, internet service four bars, no air TV, camp sites are spaced apart," reports Steve W.
