Scranton, Kansas sits in a region known for its reservoir-based camping opportunities. Located at approximately 1,060 feet of elevation, the area experiences seasonal temperature fluctuations with summer highs often reaching the 90s. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with campgrounds generally less crowded during colder months.
What to do
Kayaking at Pomona State Park: Located at 22900 S. Hwy. 368 in Vassar, this park offers access to Pomona Lake for water activities. "Beautiful area to camp, and cheap. Our camp was in burning heart, it was very quiet and very clean. Even being full, it felt secluded," notes Jeremy S. about Pomona State Park Campground.
Lakeside fishing: Fish year-round at multiple locations within short drives from Scranton. "Excellent clean restrooms and showers. Great views of the lake from many spots. Also good cell service," shares Michelle H. about camping at Eisenhower State Park Campground.
Family swimming beaches: Access designated swimming areas during summer months at several nearby lakes. "There is a park for this kids and a great swim beach in the summer," explains Adam M. about Lone Star Lake Park, located about an hour's drive from Scranton.
Seasonal activities: Winter campers can enjoy wildlife viewing and quieter camping experiences. "We stayed in one of the campgrounds with undesignated primitive spots. Found a nice place to park right on the lake. It was super quiet, being winter," reports Courtney S. about her experience at Pomona State Park.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Many campers appreciate tree coverage during hot Kansas summers. "The campground here is covered in trees, Awesome. We're in a Montana high country 384br, 41' fifth wheel. Its a beautiful park, right on Pomona lake," says Ty A. about his stay at Pomona State Park Campground.
Lake views: Sunset views over reservoirs rank highly among camper preferences. "In fairness, most sites are on the water or have a water view. Spectacular sunsets," notes Nancy C. about Eisenhower State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and showers enhance the glamping near Scranton experience. "This is a nice KOA but the trains run ALL NIGHT long. It is worth the price if only because of the clean bathrooms and kid friendly activities," explains Darius C. about his stay at Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA.
Privacy options: Some glamping sites offer more seclusion than others. "I started the weekend off with a work camp trip here. We were in the larger camper site. They were very nice and accommodating! After everyone left I moved to a few non shore power site down by the water. Beautiful view, with a quiet serene feel," shares Tanner P. about his experience at Pomona State Park.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Some camping areas experience railroad disruptions. "There was a train that comes by every couple of hours," notes Douglas S. about Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA, while another camper reports, "trains passed by really loudly all night long - it finally stopped at about 5am."
Seasonal availability: Not all luxury camping options remain open year-round. "Open from 1 May until 30 September," states JC C. about Carbolyn Park, which offers 29 total sites including 26 electric sites for $16 and 3 primitive sites for $12.
Reservation requirements: Many glamping sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "Spent the weekend here and glad we had reservations prior as it was full even though it was the end of October and the weather wasn't the best," advises Michelle H. about Eisenhower State Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on proximity to amenities versus quiet. "I recommend staying at a loop as far from the marina as possible, and get an interior spot. Vehicles were driving by all night!" warns Derek S. about his experience at Pomona State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "We camped in the Hobie Cove campground and the site itself was OK. Not a lot of choices for sites that are flat or offer a lot of shade. We did have a good time though exploring the area," shares Brandon B. about Perry State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Some glamping sites near Scranton offer programmed events for children. "My kids love camping here, we came in an RV and we're barely ever inside it until we were ready to sleep. So much fun activities for the kids to do to keep them entertained and occupied, giving the adults time to do things like conversations and hanging out without kids interrupting," explains Dawn H. about her family's experience at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with designated beach areas. "Nice little secluded campground on a small lake. The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option," recommends Tommie J. about Lone Star Lake Park.
Off-peak timing: Consider weekday visits for a quieter family experience. "Can definitely get busy but good for family camping. Playground is in the middle and there's a great dock and beach. Views of the lake are fantastic. Just not the best spot if you're wanting peace, quiet, solitude, etc.," advises Chris L. about Lone Star Lake Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check if RV sites require additional equipment. "Site a little off level, nothing a few blocks or boards couldn't solve. 30 amps of clean 122 vac, water tucked in between two pine trees that blocked the view of the sites to the left and right of us," shares Dan & Penny F. about their fall camping experience at Pomona State Park.
Hookup options: Different campgrounds offer varied utility access. "This campground is close to home for us, but we love it as a quick get away. Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy," explains Jason W. about glamping at Hillsdale State Park.
Site spacing concerns: Some RV sites provide limited separation. "Utility camping is a little close together for my liking. Still decent overall," notes Wendy C. about Perry State Park.
Lake access for larger rigs: Consider proximity to water when selecting sites for larger vehicles. "The COE has done an admirable job developing this lakeside area for plentiful campsites and decent shade. Access to the water is easy so bring watercraft and swimming attire," advises John G. about his experience at Eisenhower State Park.
