Historic Lake Scott State Park sits at 2,978 feet elevation in western Kansas, where a spring-fed lake nestled in a canyon creates a stark contrast to the surrounding flat plains. Summer temperatures frequently reach 90°F while winters can drop below freezing, with strong winds common throughout the year. The park and surrounding rv parks near Scott City, Kansas feature various terrains from rocky outcroppings to cottonwood groves, providing diverse camping experiences.
What to do
Hiking and exploring geological formations: Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park is located about 19 miles from Scott City, offering unusual chalk formations. "Little Jerusalem SP is a must. In the area, we saw turkey, owl, lots of buzzards, geese, albino buffelo and more cows than i have seen in one place," shared one Circle Drive camper.
Swimming and beach activities: The lake at Scott State Park provides a small swimming area during summer months. "There's even a few histoical sites to visit and it is close to Monument Rocks, which is what bought us to Kansas. The lake isn't deep - could stand pretty far out. Small beach area but you can get in water anywhere," noted a visitor to Circle Drive Campground.
Kayaking and boating: Rentals are available seasonally at the lake. "The lake was small but very pretty, easy to kayak, SUP and fish. There are a few short trails to hike," explained a camper at Elm Grove Campground.
What campers like
The unexpected scenery: Many campers are surprised by the landscape. "This park is a gem!!! Just a mile away all you can see is the flat flat farmlands of KS and then the road dips down into the canyon and you're in another world with a spring fed lake and shady cottonwood trees, mesas and rock formations," described a visitor to Elm Grove Campground.
Historical features: The area contains several points of historical interest. "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 buffelo and more cows than i have seen in one place. On Saturday, the local car club drove their vintage cars to the park for a pop up car show," reported a camper at Circle Drive.
Peaceful atmosphere: Particularly during weekdays, the campgrounds can be quite serene. "We pulled in on a Thurs. The campground was almost empty. Buy Friday afternoon, it was pretty full. By Sunday afternoon, we had it to our self again," noted one Elm Grove camper.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Specific campgrounds offer different experiences. "These spaces are blocked from the wind and feel more private than the Lakeview campground, but you are a bit further from bathrooms/dumpsters. Primitive spaces had a picnic table and fire ring, and you'll likely find a little 'cove' all to yourself," explained a visitor at Timber Canyon Campground.
Weather patterns: Wind can be particularly challenging in this region. "38 Mph wind gusts all night long made for some miserable camping. Not sure if that's normal around here or not," shared a camper at Apache Campground.
Wildlife awareness: Geese are common residents around the lake. "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 so the sites with a good view were out," reported a visitor to Elm Grove.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites strategically: Some campsites work better for families than others. "I stayed for one night on the site with the covered shelter, and it worked out wonderfully because we had a huge lightning storm in the middle of the night. This particular site would be difficult for family with young children because it is far away from the pit toilet," advised a Timber Canyon camper.
Recreation options: Multiple activities are available for children. "First time here. Camped in Circle Drive in our Popup. Friendly staff, clean grounds and lots of trees. Lake isn't deep - could stand pretty far out. Small beach area but you can get in water anywhere. Dogs not allowed on beach anywhere. Had a great day kayaking and staying in water to keep cooled off," shared a visitor.
Campground amenities: Facilities vary between camping areas. "Elm Grove Campground: Standard Campground in middle nowhere Kansas. While this campground had a sign explaining their color coded services, there were no actual services. There were no formal fire rings on grills, but most sites had remains of improvised fire rings," noted one visitor.
Tips from RVers
RV park alternatives: When state park campgrounds are full, nearby RV parks offer options. "Great place for a stop over. Proceeds go to the local railroad museum/foundation," noted a visitor at Fort Wallace RV Sites, one of the rv parks near Scott City, Kansas.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven terrain. "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," mentioned one Circle Drive camper.
Seasonal considerations: Facilities may have limited operation during off-seasons. "My site did not have a dump. Rather expensive for no amenities. Right off the highway. Lots of nice trees so there's shade. Not too noisy. Many big rigs here. I have T-Mobile and I had only one bar," reported a visitor at Pine Tree RV Park.
