Ulysses, Kansas sits at an elevation of 2,972 feet in southwestern Kansas, experiencing hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. The surrounding High Plains region features flat to gently rolling terrain with sandy soil conditions that can affect camping accessibility after rainfall. Winter campers should note that many water systems shut down during freezing months.
What to do
Fishing ponds access: Beymer Water Recreation Park features small ponds for fishing, though access requires membership. "Small pond (requires membership to fish) lots of birds around," notes Tammey about the Beymer Water Recreation Park.
Santa Fe Trail hiking: Walk portions of the historic Santa Fe Trail through the grasslands. "23 miles Santa Fe Trail are within the Parks boundaries. Bobwhite, and coyote, dear and other birds spotted through the Park," explains Terri B. about Cimarron Campground.
Bird watching: The wetland areas provide excellent opportunities for bird watching. "The area is fantastic for bird lovers, and we watched flocks of Starlings tuck themselves into the marsh grasses for the night. Raptors, warblers, and many other bird species use the area as a fly-over stop during migration," shares Shari G.
What campers like
Affordable pricing: Sites are typically very budget-friendly in the area. "For $10 bucks it works. We came through in November and the water was turned off. It has a bathroom but we didn't use it so I can't report on its condition. The park was clean," reports Doug W. about Beymer Water Recreation Park.
Dark skies for stargazing: The remote location offers excellent night sky viewing. "I slept out under the magnificent stars, staring at the milky way late into the night," explains David S. about the Cimarron National Grassland.
Shaded sites: Some locations provide tree cover for summer shade. "They are under trees so shade was good. Sites are unimproved and very soft when wet. Folks are generally nice," comments Phil B.
What you should know
Water availability varies seasonally: Water systems often shut down during cold months. "I am here now in very late November. The water is turned off. But electricity and a flat spot of dirt for 10 bucks is a great deal," notes Butch K. at Seven Winds RV Park.
Site conditions after rain: The sandy soil can become problematic when wet. "Stayed May 2021 - was dry when we arrived, rained that night - no problems leaving," reports Ashley M.
Limited yurt camping options: While yurt camping near Ulysses, Kansas is possible, temporary yurt structures are only available during special events. No permanent yurt camping facilities exist within 50 miles of Ulysses, though some travelers bring portable yurt-style tents.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some locations offer play areas for children. "Small playground, a bit run down. Quiet with few people. Small pond & mulberry trees," notes DeAnn M. about Beymer Water Recreation Park.
ADA accessible fishing: Some ponds have accessible features for visitors with mobility needs. "Not very many spots but nice fishing at small ponds. One pond has ADA access. Small playground nearby," explains Keri F. about Cimarron National Grassland.
Weather preparation: The open plains can experience sudden weather changes. "Although the night was chilly & windy, this grassland provided us a comfortable place to sleep and a very peaceful night," shares Olivia K.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many sites are naturally level, making setup easier. "We stopped on the way home to Colorado. It's cheap, level and has 30 amp power and water. Cell coverage is a solid 4bar 4g LTE with Verizon," explains Doug W.
Entrance access: Some campgrounds have multiple entry points that may be preferable. "We went in the entrance off the main road and had to weave around to the site but believe there is an entrance off the dirt road right before the park," advises Ashley M.
Clearance concerns: Watch for low-hanging branches at some locations. "CAUTION: Before you get to site 1, there are 2 trees the one on the left has the scars to show the damage it has done to taller vehicles," warns Terri B.
