Glamping and cabin camping options near Tonganoxie, Kansas provide access to outdoor recreation within a 30-mile radius of this small city in northeastern Kansas. The region sits at approximately 850 feet elevation with moderate humidity levels throughout the summer camping season. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, though several offer year-round accommodations with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Hiking trails and overlooks: Weston Bend State Park Campground features well-maintained hiking trails leading to scenic Missouri River overlooks. "The trails were the best feature of this park. The campground was small and not very many campsites for tents. The restroom/showers were modern," notes Chad K.
Lakeside recreation: Russell Crites Primitive in Hillsdale State Park offers multiple water activities with rentable equipment. "There are kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks. The people are friendly and so fun," shares Jamie S.
Archery practice: Outdoor enthusiasts can practice at the dedicated bow range at Hillsdale State Park. "It has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations," mentions Jason W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many visitors praise the maintenance standards at Weston Bend State Park Campground, particularly the bathrooms. "These are the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think Mabye ever. The camp hosts were super nice stop by to make sure that I was all set up and didn't need any help," reports Lauri J.
Shaded sites: Camp Branch Campground offers electric sites with ample tree cover. "Nice level camping spots both all electric, water, and sewer and minimal utilities. Some sites close to water. Great fishing, hiking, and 18 hole golf course close by," notes Mike D.
Fishing access: Camp Branch Campground provides easy lake access for anglers. "Always have fun and decent fishing staff are friendly and so are the park rangers can leave my phone in bathroom or shower house and go back to campsite and nobody takes it," explains Leland L.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple reviews mention frequent train noise at Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA. "Trains passed by really loudly all night long - it finally stopped at about 5am. We stayed on a Friday night," warns LauraJane B.
Limited waterfront sites: Despite lake proximity at Hillsdale State Park, waterfront sites are limited. "Unfortunately, the waterside sites are minimal and most seem to be RV sites. We often find ourselves in a field with port-a-potties instead of lakeside with views," cautions Cate S.
Seasonal closures: Some facilities close during off-season. "Due to unseasonably cold weather they shut off water with no notice and halfway through our stay. Ended up leaving early since we had no water," reports Bridget U. about Crow's Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lone Star Lake Park provides family-friendly facilities. "The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option," suggests Tommie J.
Camp Branch amenities: Families appreciate the well-maintained facilities. "During the camping season this campground has nice large shower houses and clean bathrooms. They sell ice and firewood at gates. Pleasant campground, very nice lake. I camp with kids from infant through 18 and hot showers and decent bathrooms are a must for us," shares Charlotte B.
Off-peak visits: For a quieter family experience, consider timing. "We have started staying here last couple of years. Nice big spots with electric only. It is quite a ways to shower house but much quieter than other campgrounds on Smithville lake. More family friendly," recommends Robin R.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Smiths Fork Recreation Area provides complete amenities for RVers. "Of everywhere Smith's Fork is the only one (so far) that offers Electric (30 & 50 amp), Water (2) and Sewer at every campsite. At just $30 per day it is a steal!" shares Don M.
Site leveling: Some sites require additional equipment. "Some sites are a long walk to any facilities," notes J Chad N. about Camp Branch Campground, while another camper mentions at Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA: "Easy check in friendly folks. Level site. Pull through FHU everything worked as expected. Would stay here again."
Site spacing: RV sites at Smith's Fork offer good separation. "These RV spots have great shade, are spaced nicely apart, and are a quick walk to the lake! Amazing sunsets!" reports Steven N.
