Camping options near Ulysses, Kansas are scattered across the flat plains of southwestern Kansas at an elevation of around 3,000 feet. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and cold winters, with significant temperature variations between day and night. Most campsites in the area sit on open terrain with limited natural shade, requiring campers to plan accordingly for sun protection.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5-6 small stocked ponds at Cimarron Campground - Cimarron National Grassland provide year-round angling. "Several Ponds some are stocked with trout in the winter a stamp is needed for the rainbow trout. During the summer they are stocked with catfish," notes one reviewer. The ponds include accessible fishing areas for visitors with disabilities.
Hiking historical trails: The Santa Fe Trail runs for 23 miles through the Cimarron National Grassland area. "Hiking is close by on the Sante Fe Trail which follows the original path of the old wagon trail through the plains," reports a visitor. The relatively flat terrain makes for easy walking, though "the sandy soil makes any long walk or ride just a little bit more difficult."
ATV and off-road recreation: Syracuse Sand Dunes Park offers designated areas for off-road vehicle enthusiasts about 55 miles from Ulysses. "They have poker runs and atv/utv rodeos several times a year," mentions a camper. The park features both riding areas and a small pond for cooling off after dusty rides.
What campers like
Affordability and value: Most campgrounds near Ulysses offer reasonable rates. At Beymer Water Recreation Park, "Cheap ($10/night for 30 amp & water). Great to recharge the batteries," reports one camper. Another adds, "For $10 bucks it works. We came through in November and the water was turned off."
Wildlife viewing: The prairie ecosystem supports diverse bird populations. At Wilburton Fishing Pond, visitors enjoy "Lots of nice, quiet atmosphere" where you can observe native grassland species. A camper notes, "The sunrises alone are worth the price of admission" when describing the Cimarron Grassland area.
Solitude and peace: Many campgrounds in the region offer uncrowded experiences. "I was the only one here and it was nice and peaceful," writes a Wilburton Pond visitor. Another camper describes it as "Tranquility in the Middle of Nowhere" and notes "There are no dedicated camping spots here yet it's so far out that it's a nice spot for a night."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings can be dramatic in this region. A Wilburton Pond camper advises, "It was very chilly at night, but that is to be expected in November. I don't have a heater, so I had to bundle up." Summer visits require planning for heat as most sites offer minimal natural shade.
Seasonal water availability: Water access varies by season at several campgrounds. One visitor to Beymer Water Recreation Park reports, "We came through in November and the water was turned off." Call ahead during shoulder seasons to confirm utility status.
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging, particularly after rain. A visitor to Arkalon Park describes "a scary, mushy slip slide drive through deep soft red dirt" to reach the campground, adding they "prayed it wouldn't rain before time to leave."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs by location and carrier. "I had excellent cell service (Verizon)" reports a Wilburton Pond visitor, while another site notes "Weak T-mobile." For remote work needs, Western Star RV Ranch offers "Free wifi" though some report it as "poor WiFi."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Arkalon Park features "a big playground for kids and miles of hiking trails, even lakes to fish." One visitor highlights its "park facilities like a play structure and lots of green grass."
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Ulysses: Most sites welcome pets but have specific requirements. At Western Star RV Ranch, campers appreciate the "grassy area for pet walk" with full hookups. Many campgrounds allow dogs but require them to be leashed in common areas.
Safety considerations: The region's remote nature means planning ahead for emergency needs. Arkalon Park provides "3 well placed underground tornado shelters" according to a visitor. The nearest veterinary services and major medical facilities are typically located in larger towns like Liberal or Garden City, about 30-60 minutes away.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Arkalon Park earns praise for having "hot showers and flush toilets, and did I mention hot water?" while some reviewers note other facilities "needed attention and was very basic."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Finding stable, level parking is generally straightforward in this region. At Seven Winds RV Park, "All the sites are pull through everything worked sewer water electric $20 a night for 30 amp." Another reviewer simply states it's "Level" and "a decent place for an overnight stop."
Hookup availability: Electric options range from none to full service. Western Star RV Ranch offers "full hookups" while Cimarron Campground has vault toilets and water spigots that "they check monthly." For those seeking pet-friendly camping with full services, several RV parks around Ulysses accommodate travelers with dogs.
Overnight stops: The region serves well for cross-country travelers. "Nice place for a stop over. We stayed 2 nights after a 500 mile driving day," reports a Western Star visitor. Another describes it as "Welcoming staff, grassy area for pet walk, full hookups, shower, bathroom, rec area and laundry."
