El Dorado State Park and surrounding areas offer upscale outdoor accommodations within the scenic Flint Hills region of Kansas. Located at around 1,300 feet elevation, the area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. The tallgrass prairie ecosystem surrounds most glamping locations near Strong City, Kansas, with seasonal wildflower blooms creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: El Dorado State Park features a large lake that attracts anglers throughout the camping season. At Bluestem Point Area, campers can take advantage of the lake access for various fishing activities. "The lake was flooded so the water was a bit off," notes one camper, highlighting how water conditions can vary seasonally.
Water recreation: Glamping close to Strong City provides excellent access to swimming and boating activities. The Shady Creek Area offers direct water access from many campsites. A visitor mentioned, "Nice campsite, tons of sites with nobody else here. Not buggy either," suggesting comfortable conditions for water activities even during typically buggy seasons.
Hiking options: Explore the tallgrass prairie ecosystem on developed trails throughout the region. At Eisenhower State Park Campground, visitors can access multiple hiking paths directly from their luxury accommodations. One camper shared, "We road bikes, but the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible. In the summer, I can see why this place would be a fun destination. Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Many glamping sites offer good separation between camping units. At French Creek Cove, campers appreciate the layout. "One of the nicer lakes I've been to, and cheap, the road is a little rough, but it's a neat place," notes one visitor who valued the setting despite access challenges.
Shade availability: Trees provide welcome relief during hot Kansas summers at several locations. According to a camper at Harvey County East Park, "Been camping here since I was a kid, always try to camp at catfish point. Nice and quiet and a great peaceful place to relax." The established tree cover makes this location popular for glamping near Strong City.
Convenient amenities: Most upscale camping options include electrical hookups and water access. Visitors appreciate the practical amenities that make glamping comfortable. "This is a Great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another! Love the cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors! Lots of fish!" reports a camper about Harvey County East Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping locations require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. At Owl's Nest Campground, "Reserve online, reasonably priced. One week stay in this little park, close to Junction City and Fort Riley. Full hookups in pull-through half circle asphalt tar or back-in sites."
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between camping areas. "The showers/restroom facilities are a bit rough, but there if you need them," notes a camper about Harvey County East Park, while another mentions that "Excellent clean restrooms and showers" are available at Eisenhower State Park.
Noise factors: Some camping areas experience more noise than others. A visitor to Owl's Nest Campground reported, "I would give this place 3.5 stars for the visual atmosphere, however, given the noise levels from the interstate and highway, I can't give it four. It has lots of trees but they don't seem to do much to block the constant noise."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several locations feature swimming beaches ideal for children. Eisenhower State Park has "a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax," according to a recent visitor, making it a top glamping destination for families near Strong City.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds include play equipment for younger campers. At Bluestem Point, "Decent beach area with playground equipment for kids. The general store carries camping essentials, beer, and ice," notes one camper.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites away from water during windy conditions. "It was super duper windy off of the lake for us, so be ready for wind," warns a camper about the Five Star loop at Eisenhower State Park, suggesting families with small children might prefer more sheltered locations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Water connections may have usage restrictions at some parks. At Harvey County East Park, "Just to note, the water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter.'"
Site levelness: Most RV sites at glamping destinations near Strong City are relatively level. A visitor to Bluestem Point mentioned, "This was our first time camping in our new travel trailer and we were pleased with having such an easy to use campground so close to home. The sites were level and spacious."
Access road conditions: Some camping areas have rough access roads. About French Creek Cove, a camper noted, "Very nice spots, it is a cove off of the main lake nestled way back of the main, very dusty dirt road getting here but very nice spots. I go back every year." This suggests the destination is worth the slightly challenging drive for RVers seeking premium glamping experiences.
