Best Tent Camping near Toronto, KS

Tent campsites in the Toronto, Kansas area are concentrated primarily in two state parks: Cross Timbers State Park and Fall River State Park. These natural areas offer a variety of tent camping experiences ranging from more developed sites with amenities to primitive walk-in locations. Cross Timbers features the Chautauqua Hills Campground with drive-in tent sites, while Fall River State Park provides multiple tent camping options including Bluestem Campground, Wind Hill Campground, and South Rock Campground.

The tent camping areas near Toronto provide varying levels of amenities. Most developed tent campgrounds offer drinking water, electric hookups, and shower facilities. Sites at Chautauqua Hills and Wind Hill campgrounds include fire rings where fires are permitted, and both allow pets. South Rock and Rock Ridge South campgrounds represent more primitive tent setups with fewer amenities, making them suitable for campers seeking a more rustic experience. Potable water is unavailable at these primitive sites, so tent campers must bring their own supply. All sites are drive-in accessible, though terrain varies throughout the region.

Fall River State Park provides tent campers with direct access to hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and water recreation activities. The park terrain offers a mix of wooded areas and open spaces, providing both shaded and sun-exposed tent sites depending on location. Areas farther from developed campgrounds provide deeper seclusion for backcountry camping enthusiasts. Tent campers should note that reservations are available for many of the developed sites at both Cross Timbers and Fall River State Parks, which is recommended during peak summer months when the areas see increased visitation. The tent-only areas at South Rock provide a quieter alternative to the mixed-use campgrounds that also accommodate RVs.

Best Tent Sites Near Toronto, Kansas (10)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Tent Camping Reviews near Toronto, KS

140 Reviews of 10 Toronto Campgrounds


  • S
    May. 30, 2020

    Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park

    Bed bugs!!! Don’t rent Cabin 5 Larkspur

    I’m exhausted, the last 12hrs has been a dumpster fire. Last thing we expected was a bed bug infestation. Woke at midnight with a few annoying bites, on further inspection we were covered in bed bugs, urrrgghh. After picking them off our pj’s and getting over the initial shock we went home to quarantine our clothes, shower and sleep. Returned in the morning to checkout and trash our sleeping bags and pillows. Everyone is disappointed, and I’m out of pocket for 2 nights accommodation and 4x sleeping gear...whoever the host is should be ashamed of themselves, I’m trying to warn the next people, this cabin is booked solid but in reality uninhabitable! The porch is also infested with burrowing bumblebees, scary for kids and adults alike.

  • Angie S.
    Jun. 21, 2020

    Timber Road Campground — Elk City State Park

    Park is Great. Camping, well...

    Elk City State Park is great. It's full but not crowded, hiking is about as good as it gets in Kansas, dedicated Mountain Biking trails which I rarely see and it's rather pretty. Swimnarea is muddy but the kids didn't mind. Comfort Cove camping is adequate. Shower house is clean (by KS State Park standards), quiet hours respected and my kids enjoyed the playground. Our site is miniature. No place for a clothes line, no fire pit to speak of even though everyone else has one. We are boxed in tighter than a KOA and we feel it. There are sections more spread out with more room per site but not Site 243. Also, very little shade and very few shades sites which is weird in an area abundant in big giant shade trees.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2021

    Timber Hill

    A Walk on the Hill Side

    .• 20 Non electric

    • No hookups

    • FCFS•$10.00

    • Boat ramp

    • Drinking water

    • Dump station

    • Pit toilets

    • Boat Trailer Parking

    • Campfire Rings

    • Dock

    • Drinking Water(peak season)

    • Grills

    • Hitching Racks

    • Horseback Riding Trails

    • Lake Access

    • Non-Potable Water

    • Parking Area

    • Paved Roads

    • Paved Sites

    • Picnic Tables

    • Table& Benches

    • Trailhead Parking

    • Trailheads

    • Trash Collection

    • Vault Toilets

    • Water(Seasonal)

    • Accessible Drinking Water

    • Accessible Parking

    • Dump Station

    • Paved Parking

    • Pets Allowed

    • Horse Staging Area

    Part of this drive will be on a gravel road but it is well maintained. This is a small and very quiet campground and had very few campers. Sites are small and heavily forested which will make for a very shady stay.

    Located on Bill Hill Lake outside of Cherryvale, Kansas and set in the gently rolling prairie with a large scattering of trees. The area considers itself as Kansas “Little Ozarks.” It is a beautifully serene setting dotted with campgrounds and day use areas. The Bill Hill Lake is a reservoir and holds 1,240 acres of water with 367 acres available for use by the public. The park is nestled in the rolling, wooded countryside with thick oak-hickory forests surrounded by prairie and farmland, the lake shore supplies a variety of habitats for birds and mammals. Cherryvale Park offers a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of trees for shade, and the lake is only a short walk away from the campsites. Campers can venture onto several hiking and equestrian trails including Big Hill Lake Horse Trail, a 17-mile trail with a variety of terrain for all ages to explore. The trail winds along a scenic hardwood ridge that offers gorgeous views all along the way. Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy lake for fishing. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for fishing tournaments. Almost all of the land around the lake is open to public hunting, except for parks and areas around the dam and control structures. Principal species hunted are whitetail deer, turkey and squirrel. Families with kids will enjoy visiting the sand-covered beach nearby for cooling off from the summer heat and enjoying a picnic Campers can venture onto several hiking and equestrian trails including Big Hill Lake Horse Trail, a 17-mile trail with a variety of terrain for all ages to explore. The trail winds along a scenic hardwood ridge that offers gorgeous views all along the way. Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy lake for fishing. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for fishing tournaments. Almost all of the land around the lake is open to public hunting, except for parks and areas around the dam and control structures. Principal species hunted are whitetail deer, turkey and squirrel. Families with kids will enjoy visiting the sand-covered beach nearby for cooling off from the summer heat and enjoying a picnic. 

    Getting Here Latitude 37° 17' 43.8324" N Longitude 95° 26' 51.8352" W From Dennis, KS go south on Gray Rd to 21000 Rd and turn right. Follow signs to park. 

    Need to Know• Check in and out is 3pm. Campsites are reservable online or by phone at recreation.gov or 877-444-6777. No pay station at park. 

    Contact Information Mailing Address 19065 Cherryvale Parkway, Cherryvale, KS 67335 Physical Address 20013 Timberhill Parkway, Cherryvale, KS 67335 Phone Number For campground inquiries, please call: 6203362741 

    Need to Know• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited within the Mound Valley Swimming Beach Area

    Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information. 

    Upon arrival at Big Hill Lake a visitor may choose from a plethora of fun activities. Camping with and without electricity, boat launches, ball field, swimming beach and so much more. For trails you will find the Big Hill Lake Horse Trail which surrounds¾ of the lake and is 17 miles long. It provides a variety of terrain for all ages. The trail provides amazing views and riders will enjoy tethering areas and three parking areas along the trail. The parking areas are equipped with limited facilities that can be used for overnight camping by the trail riders. Riders will have the opportunity for wildlife viewing. For those that wish to hike you will find the Ruth Nixon Memorial Trail. The trail enjoys blue bird houses that were set in honor or Ruth Nixon. It is about one mile and offers the hikers the chance to observe local wildlife. The scenery along the way is spectacular. This trail links the Overlook Day Use Area and Cherryvale Recreation Area. There are rest areas along the way so take advantage of those inviting stops to enjoy the lake views and just take in the scenery. Big Hill Lake is one of the clearest lakes in Kansas and considered a trophy fishing lake. Sport fish include largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and sunfish. Hunters will find about 800 acres of project land that is managed for wildlife. Game species are lardge and varied around Big Hill Lake. Hunters will find bob white quail, rabbit, grey and fox squirrels, mourning dove, migratory waterfowl, wild turkey and white tailed deer. Hunters may also utilize another 1350 acres of land located about½ mile from the project. Wildflowers are in abundance in the spring and fall along with the beautiful trees such as persimmon, osage orange, redbud and dogwood. Swimming on the sandy beaches along the lake is a joy. Alcohol is not allowed on the beach area. Glass containers are also not allowed on the beach or in the water. 

    Boats that are propelled by a motor of any kind or a sailboat must be numbered and registered with the state of Kansas or legally registered with another state. 

    The Cherryvale area present day is a farming/ranching rural area with Friday night football the big excitement. In the 19th century Kansas was a bloody place. Before the “Civil War” you would have different groups battling for control. After the civil war the pioneers began their westward journey through the many trails that crossed the plains. In 1870 a group of five families settled in western Labette County. Cherryvale had not been established. This group stands out because of one particular family. The Bender family, a normal– mother– father– son– daughter from Germany. John Bender, Sr., his wife Ma Bender, son John, Jr. and daughter Kate. Now I am not going to get involved in their story but I will touch on some of the highlights and let you know the story includes an inn, a store, a hammer, a trap door, lonely single male travelers, haunted property and the only place where a mass murder is celebrated by a state historical marker. Google the Bender family in Kansas and enjoy a bit of the old west

    LNT 

    Better than when you found it

    Stay safe– Happy Travels

  • Dionna F.
    Jul. 2, 2019

    Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park

    You know you’ve been camping too much when....

    ....the camp host offers you dog food and asks if your homeless....haha

    Bluestem Point Rocks & Rolls! My SOBF (significant other boyfriend) and I have camped here over six times. We didn’t even leave when they had the semi-floods and crazy lightning storms in May & June 2019 (and we only live 30 minutes away). The picnic tables are great because they are shaped like a sail and you can turn them to block the wind or sun. You can also put a tarp on top and block out the rain. The camp hosts (Bob and Jean) are so friendly and accommodating. They also keep the place spic and span.

  • A
    Sep. 14, 2020

    Arrow Rock

    Off the Trail

    Nice and clean. Friendly hosts. Lots of trees, birds and water views. Offers primitive and electric hookups. Showers, bathroom, water stations. Picnic tables and fire ring/grill. I would stay here again.

  • Levi H.
    Mar. 21, 2023

    Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area

    Clean, Spacious & Weekenders Paradise

    Stayed 22 days in Site 21 in the NLOO Loop, close to bathrooms, in July and August 2022. No Showers in this loop so beware. Bathrooms were clean. Showers in the other two loops were always clean and rarely used. 

    I was working in the area, so I needed to stay an extra eight days beyond the COE 14-day limit. Ranger was easy going and granted me an extra 10 days no problem. 

    This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August. Completely clears out Sunday evening and it is mostly dead empty until around Thursday. Clearly a popular camping spot for people in the region, but really didn't see a lot of out-of-county or even out-of-state tags camped. 

    Cherryvale is about 6 miles west of the lake and has a Dollar General and Casey's Convenience Store as well as a Redbox, and Parsons is about 20 minutes northeast of here if you need something more substantial than DG or Casey's offers. 

    My AT&T signal didn't work here at all until I set up my WeBoost.

  • T
    Sep. 19, 2020

    Boulder Bluff Area — El Dorado State Park

    Beautiful and peaceful

    We stayed in the equestrian loop. All but a couple primitive sites are back-in. The layout of the fire rings, grills and picnic tables are all weird... Not consistent and usually on the wrong side of your trailer. The parking pad was nowhere near level, so you'll want to plan for that. The trees are lovely. You're very near the water and the breeze was beautiful. The toilet at the loop are pit. The bath house was not clean and many of the showers didn't work.. Water is lukewarm but water pressure was great. No stall doors on toilets or showers. We used the city of El Dorado dump station. The park is massive. Lots of amenities in El Dorado. And a quick jump to Wichita. We will be back.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2024

    Bluestem Point Area — El Dorado State Park

    Actually stayed at Bemis CG

    We actually camped at Bemis Campground about a mile and a half south of this campground. Right off of the main road. There was about 15 or 20 spaces all with electric. I believe there was vault toilets only but no dump station. We had to come up to the blue stem area to dump. Nice little campground right on the lake but downside was that it was right next to the road so a little bit of traffic noise and not really any place to hike or walk. Spaces were fairly level and nicely spaced apart. Probably would recommend taking a back in spot rather than a pull through spot as the pull through were all pretty small and had no shade.

  • M
    Jun. 3, 2022

    Santa Fe Safari RV Campground

    2 free days with amenities is hard to beat

    I just got here and set up. Its a partly cloudy day high 78 and moderate wind for Kansas. I have only put my screen shelter up so far. Your by the road and a business so you will here them till they close later in the evening and traffic going by. Yet beautiful lake and lots of things to do. Free for 2 days with hook ups. Showers and toilets. But only one shower to share so do that during the day while its not occupied is my advice. Yes RVers their is a dump station. 10 bucks a night if you stay longer. Im gonna pay just because.


Guide to Toronto

Tent campsites near Toronto, Kansas primarily cluster around Fall River and Cross Timbers State Parks where the landscape transitions between tallgrass prairie and oak-hickory forests. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Camping locations span elevation ranges from approximately 900 to 1,100 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain throughout the area.

What to do

Water recreation: Boat rentals available at Fall River State Park where Toronto Lake stretches across 2,600 acres with 51 miles of shoreline. The marina offers fishing boats, pontoons, and kayaks seasonally from April through September.

Wildlife observation: Dawn hiking recommended on the Spider Leg Trail which covers 5.5 miles through mixed woodland habitat. Early morning hours provide optimal viewing conditions for white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species.

Fishing: Four accessible fishing piers around Wind Hill Campground where anglers regularly catch white bass, crappie, walleye, and channel catfish. The lake contains submerged timber structures that serve as prime fishing spots, particularly in spring months.

What campers like

Storm shelters: Concrete facilities at Bluestem Campground provide safety during severe weather, which can develop quickly in Kansas spring and summer. Each shelter includes basic emergency supplies and weather radio access.

Spacious sites: Level, well-maintained grounds throughout most tent camping areas. Sites at Cross Timbers State Park average 30-40 feet apart, providing adequate separation between camping groups while still maintaining a community atmosphere.

Cell coverage: Reliable service at most established campgrounds despite rural location. Most tent campsites in Chautauqua Hills Campground maintain 3-4 bars of service for major carriers, allowing campers to stay connected if necessary.

What you should know

Water availability: Seasonal restrictions affect some primitive tent sites. During drought conditions from July through September, water access may be limited at certain locations. Campers should bring 1-2 gallons per person per day during these periods.

Reservation windows: Book 4+ months ahead for summer weekends, particularly for sites with electricity. Rock Ridge South Campground tends to fill last and often has availability even on holiday weekends.

Weather preparation: Strong storms possible throughout camping season. Tent campers should bring additional stakes and rain gear, particularly in spring months when thunderstorms develop rapidly across the open landscape.

Tips for camping with families

Playgrounds: Two accessible locations within Fall River State Park featuring equipment suitable for children ages 3-12. The main playground near the park office includes adaptive equipment for children with mobility challenges.

Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities available for children ages 5-12 during summer weekends. Programs typically run 60-90 minutes and focus on local wildlife, plant identification, and basic outdoor skills.

Safe swimming areas: Designated beach at West Wingwall features gradual entry points and roped-off sections for different swimming abilities. The swimming area is monitored during peak summer weekends from 10am-6pm.

Tips from RVers

Tent-only sections: Quieter overnight stays available in designated areas separated from RV traffic. These sections typically provide better tree cover and natural windbreaks compared to mixed-use camping areas.

Limited generator hours: Noise restrictions enforce quiet times between 10pm-7am at all developed campgrounds. This creates more peaceful tent camping experiences even in mixed-use areas that accommodate both tents and RVs.

Access considerations: Gravel roads lead to most tent campsites near Toronto, Kansas. While generally well-maintained, heavy rain can create temporary access issues for low-clearance vehicles, particularly at primitive sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Toronto, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Toronto, KS is Chautauqua Hills — Cross Timbers State Park with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Toronto, KS?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Toronto, KS, with real photos and reviews from campers.