Glamping in Wichita, Kansas offers convenient access to outdoor recreation within the Arkansas River Valley, where elevations range from 1,200 to 1,500 feet. The region's continental climate brings hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F between June and September, while spring and fall provide milder conditions for outdoor activities. Water-based recreation at area reservoirs forms the backbone of the camping experience.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Santa Fe Lake features trails suitable for varying skill levels. "The mountain bike trails as well as hiking trails are perfect for beginners to experts," notes Helena P. about the Santa Fe Lake property located 30 minutes east of Wichita.
Paddling opportunities: The calmer waters at Santa Fe Lake create ideal conditions for kayaking. "This lake is a nice break from places like Cheney and Afton. It's small so there aren't a lot of big boats disturbing the water, which makes paddling a lot more enjoyable," reports Chris L.
Fishing access: El Dorado State Park provides multiple fishing spots around its large reservoir. The park includes several camping areas with shoreline access. "The picnic tables are great because they are shaped like a sail and you can turn them to block the wind or sun," explains Dionna F., which provides comfort during longer fishing sessions.
Stargazing opportunities: The open Kansas skies offer excellent night viewing at several campgrounds. "Quiet evening and fantastic stargazing," writes Joyce R. about her experience at Beaumont Hotel & RV Park, located in the Flint Hills about an hour east of Wichita.
What campers like
Convenient lake access: Harvey County East Park features waterfront sites with boating infrastructure. "I also like how they put boat docks behind all of the lake side sites," notes Stanleigh S., adding practical details about the electrical options: "This campground 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."
Beach areas for swimming: Several parks maintain sandy beach areas for summer water activities. "Sandy beaches at most of the tent campsites are our favorite things about this lake! Also, super affordable camping," writes Anika L. about Harvey County East Park.
Historical elements: Some camping areas feature interesting historical components. The Beaumont Hotel & RV Park offers a unique camping experience with aviation history. "The history of the hotel and accompanying landing strip was fascinating, and the path to the ponds at sunset was beautiful," shares Sarah B.
Clean facilities: Wellington KOA maintains high cleanliness standards. "Friendly staff, extremely clean bathrooms and showers! Nice grassy spot for our tent!" reports Wandering W. about this glamping-friendly property south of Wichita.
What you should know
Shared water hookups: At some campgrounds, water connections require coordination with neighbors. At Harvey County East Park, "the biggest con for this campground is that you have to share a water source with the campsites next to you," explains Stanleigh S.
Seasonal bathroom closures: Facilities may close during off-season periods. "After told at the office that there were showers in Bluestem all of the modern showers were locked due to water line problems," reports Donna G. about her experience at Bluestem Point Area.
Wind conditions: Kansas weather patterns can impact water activities. About Cheney State Park, Nancy C. notes, "It was WINDY every day so I couldn't kayak or SUP. I think it is just Kansas, though."
Late arrival processes: Some campgrounds have systems for after-hours check-ins. "Pulled in around 11pm, had to use the late check-in process. Well organized and easy with individual maps for each site number," shares Aaron S. about Wellington KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground combinations: Family-friendly sites often feature both water play areas and playground equipment. "We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids. It is close to home but a nice getaway," mentions Holly D. about Cheney State Park West Shore.
Weekend activity considerations: El Dorado State Park can get busy during peak times. "Biggest complaint was the lack of shade on our spot and the amount of young people partying all night," warns Randall J., suggesting mid-week stays might be preferable for families seeking quieter experiences.
First-timer friendly options: Shady Creek Area at El Dorado State Park provides spacious, less crowded camping. "Nice campsite, tons of sites with nobody else here. Not buggy either," notes Zach A., making this area suitable for families new to camping or glamping near Wichita.
Tips from RVers
Electrical options: Consider power needs when selecting sites. At El Dorado State Park, "Very few 50 amp site to choose from and no 50 amp sites with shade," reports Stanleigh S., important information for RVers with higher electrical requirements.
Level site availability: Harvey County East Park sites vary in levelness. "The sites are all gravel or grass with the exception of handicap sites. I wouldn't [say] they were level, but all doable," explains Nancy C. about nearby Cheney State Park, reflecting a common condition at regional campgrounds.
Laundry facilities: Wellington KOA offers coin-operated laundry services. "This is a very clean and well maintained camp ground. We just needed one night and used the coin operated laundry," notes Jack B., helpful for those on extended road trips.
