Harvey County East Park offers lakeside camping that serves as a cost-effective alternative to glamping close to Walton, Kansas. Located at 314 N East Lake Rd in Newton, the park features multiple camping areas with varying levels of amenities across 30 square miles of rolling prairie. Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping spots and water access for recreation.
What to do
Fishing for families: At Harvey County East Park, fishing opportunities abound with plenty of shoreline access. "This is a Great place for families to enjoy spending time with one another! Love the cleanliness of bathrooms and outdoors! Lots of fish!" notes Jesse H.
Mountain biking trails: Santa Fe Lake offers trail systems for cyclists of all skill levels. "The mountain bike trails as well as hiking trails are perfect for beginners to experts. It is large enough for wake but we love taking our kayaks out," shares Helena P.
Disc golf course: Cheney State Park features an 18-hole disc golf course among its recreational options. A camper notes, "Boating, fishing, birding, 18 hole disc golf course, swimming, biking or just relaxing, this place is great."
What campers like
Sandy beaches: Harvey County East Park offers natural sandy beaches that make swimming and lounging more comfortable. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping," reports Anika L.
Secluded coves: French Creek Cove provides a more private glamping experience away from busier areas. "Very nice spots, it is a cove off of the main lake nestled way back of the main, very dusty dirt road getting here but very nice spots," says papa T.
Wildlife viewing: Bald eagles can be spotted at West Shore Camping Area, making it a destination for birdwatchers. "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!" shares Nancy C., who also enjoyed the park's extensive trail system.
What you should know
Cost considerations: Glamping options near Walton range from budget-friendly to more expensive. At French Creek Cove, a camper notes, "Great place to camp. Well worth $12 per night. Shady sites, fire rings, covered picnic tables." In contrast, Santa Fe Lake charges more: "It was $32 to stay the night, and the showers were coin-op."
Water hookup limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions on water use. At Harvey County East Park, "The water hookups are shared between sites and currently have signs reading, '15 MINUTE TIME LIMIT. Do Not Leave Water Hose Connected, Even If You Have A Splitter.'"
Road conditions: Access roads to some glamping sites can be challenging. French Creek Cove has a "very dusty dirt road" according to reviews, while other sites may have flooded access roads during wet seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bluestem Point Area offers play areas near camping sites. "Decent beach area with playground equipment for kids. The general store carries camping essentials, beer, and ice," reports Stanleigh S.
Site selection for shade: Many campsites lack adequate shade, which can be important for summer trips. At West Shore Camping Area, one loop "has giant Cottonwood trees shading the sites," while a reviewer at Harvey County East Park recommends "the large and shady sites."
Swimming options: Look for designated swimming areas with gradual entries for children. "Relaxing and clean swimming area. Bathroom was clean," notes Rita G. about Harvey County East Park.
Tips from RVers
Loop recommendations: At Shady Creek Area, RVers appreciate the spacious sites and water access. "Nice campsite, tons of sites with nobody else here. Not buggy either," shares Zach A.
Electric hookup details: Campgrounds offer varying levels of electric service. French Creek Cove provides "30 amp service" according to a reviewer, while Harvey County East Park has both 50 and 30 amp sites: "All of the 50 amp sites are on the inner loop and all of the lake side sites are 30 amp."
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some locations. At West Shore Camping Area, "The sites are all gravel or grass with the exception of handicap sites. I wouldn't say they were level, but all doable."
