In the heart of eastern Kansas, Vassar offers lakeside camping surrounded by oak and elm woodlands at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly reaching the 90s and mild winters, making it suitable for year-round camping. Campgrounds near Pomona Lake provide both primitive and developed camping options with varying levels of accessibility depending on seasonal lake levels.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pomona State Park Campground, anglers can take advantage of the lake access for various fish species. "I started the weekend off with a work camp trip here. After everyone left I moved to a few non shore power site down by the water. Beautiful view, with a quiet serene feel," notes one camper.
Swimming and boating: Pomona Lake offers water recreation throughout the warmer months. Shady Acres RV Park provides convenient access, as one visitor mentions, "Close to Hillsdale Lake for swimming and boating."
Walking trails: Several campgrounds feature nature trails for exploring the local ecosystem. "Trails to take walks by the lake" are available at Pomona State Park according to a recent camper, making it easy to stretch your legs after setting up camp.
Local attractions: When staying at Topeka / Capital City KOA, you're within driving distance of notable sites. "Some fun things to do outside of the campground are the Evel Knievel museum and Brown vs. Board of Education historical park," suggests a recent visitor.
What campers like
Quiet camping areas: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at certain campgrounds. At Deer Creek Valley RV Park, "Located next to a creek and ample space around your site" creates a more secluded feel despite being near urban areas.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained amenities. "The shower house in the main barn has individual shower/toilet/sink areas. The shower house in the park has the typical stalls. These are kept very clean," reports a Topeka KOA visitor.
Dog-friendly options: Many rv sites near Vassar, Kansas accommodate pets with dedicated areas. One camper at Deer Creek Valley noted, "Huge grassy enclosed dog run which is priceless traveling across country with two dogs."
Shaded sites: During hot Kansas summers, tree cover is highly valued. At Pomona State Park, a camper praised, "The campground here is covered in trees, Awesome. We're in a Montana high country 384br, 41' fifth wheel. Its a beautiful park, right on Pomona lake."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Emporia RV Park, a visitor noted, "Downfall is right next to interstate. Internet is not the best, but it is secure."
Seasonal closure information: Not all facilities operate year-round. While Pomona State Park remains open through winter, less developed areas may have limited access.
Site leveling requirements: Prepare to level your rig at some parks. A Pomona State Park camper mentioned, "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."
Weekend crowding: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. "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. Friday night the campground filled up," observed a camper at Pomona State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Pony Express RV Park, "Owner is great. Open year round. In the country but a short trip to a small town or an hour to Kansas City," making it suitable for families wanting activities.
Swimming options: During summer months, pools provide relief from heat. The Topeka KOA offers "a salt water swimming pool" that many families enjoy after travel days.
Recreation facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated activity spaces. One Topeka KOA visitor appreciated their "adorable activities room with air hockey, a library, & a pool table."
Pet policies: If traveling with animals, check specific rules. "We camp with our 3 dogs each time and never put them on a leash. Rangers informed us as long as they stay in your site, they're not strict about it," reports a Pomona State Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: RV camping near Vassar offers options for various rig sizes. At Crossroads RV Park and Campground, "Maintained RV site. Neat and quiet area. Electric and water hookup available. Sewer available."
Hookup placement: Consider utilities location when setting up. A Topeka KOA camper advised, "The water and sewer hookups are in the middle between sites, which can make hooking up somewhat awkward depending on the layout of your rig. A longer water hose and sewer extension are a good idea."
Level pads: Some rv camping options near Vassar feature more level sites than others. A Deer Creek Valley visitor noted, "The pull-thru RV pads are huge and the grass in between is sizable for each."
After-hours arrival: Check for late check-in procedures. One camper appreciated that "the hosts were so nice and organized...texting us late check in info. The sites were all nice and wide, level, and pull through...such an easy set up!"
