The Topeka area features a diverse landscape of rolling hills and reservoirs across Shawnee County, with elevations ranging between 850-1,000 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F from June through August, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with temperatures in the 60-70°F range. Winter camping is available at most parks but requires preparation for overnight lows that can dip below freezing.
What to do
Archery practice: Hillsdale State Park offers a specialized bow range for target practice with elevated platforms simulating tree-stand shooting positions. "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," notes a Hillsdale State Park visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing: Rent equipment at multiple locations including the Eisenhower State Park marina. "The general store is super helpful, as they sell firewood and ice, and have kayak and canoe rentals. There are a few swim beaches, and plenty of sand to sit in and relax," reports a camper at Eisenhower State Park.
Kid-focused activities: The Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA offers programmed family events. "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," shares a KOA visitor.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront camping: Many campers appreciate the privacy at Pomona State Park's primitive sites. "After everyone left I moved to a few non shore power site down by the water. Beautiful view, with a quiet serene feel," notes a visitor at Pomona State Park.
Dog-friendly facilities: Multiple parks accommodate pets, with dedicated areas for dogs to exercise. "We travel with two adorable rescues and appreciated the awesome dog park where they could run a bit. The restrooms are adequate and clean. Views are beautiful as you will see for yourself," shares a camper at Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA.
Shaded campsites: Tree coverage provides relief during hot Kansas summers. "The campground here is covered in trees, Awesome. We're in a Montana high country 384br, 41' fifth wheel. It's a beautiful park, right on Pomona lake," explains a visitor about their camping experience.
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Lawrence experience railroad noise throughout the night. "There was a light from a nearby cabin lighting the whole tenting area, and the trains were one right behind the other... ALL NIGHT LONG!!!!! Every thirty minutes or so, a train passed by. It wouldn't be so bad, but it was LOUD!!!!!!!" warns a camper about their experience.
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Topeka, Kansas, several state parks offer these accommodations. Eisenhower State Park provides yurt rentals with lake views. Hillsdale State Park's yurt camping attracts those seeking a glamping experience, though one visitor notes the park has "lots of glamping" and describes it as "very corporate camping."
Seasonal crowding: Weekends during summer months experience high occupancy rates. "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," reports a visitor at Perry State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campsites near play areas to keep kids entertained. "The campground has a playground and clean facilities. Makes for a great family camping option," shares a visitor at Lone Star Lake Park.
Avoid marina-adjacent sites: These locations experience more vehicle traffic throughout the day and night. "We were in the Heart Stays loop. It was level and beautifully shaded. Thursday night we were the only ones in the loop, however it was near the boat ramps and there was a lot of vehicle traffic all the time," reports a camper at Pomona State Park.
Consider weekday visits: Less crowding occurs Sunday through Thursday, with quieter camping experiences. "The campground is kept up great! Enjoy going there each time! We just had a family get together where we rented 6 sites. It accommodated us all!" notes a Perry State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling blocks needed: Many campsites require minor adjustments for comfortable RV setup. "Enjoyed a nice cool weekend of fall camping. 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," advises an RV camper at Carbolyn Park.
Loop selection matters: Eagle Loop at Perry State Park has an open layout that some RVers find disappointing. "Was surprised at the layout of this campground loop when we pulled in. Thankfully it was just a pit stop on our drive out west, but it was essentially a parking lot," comments a visitor.
Water hookup availability: Water access varies by campground and loop, with some parks offering full hookups. "Nice state park on the lake can be crowded and a little crazy on weekends. Like most state parks no sewer hookups but easy access to dump station," reports a Perry State Park camper.
