El Dorado State Park spans over 4,000 acres near Wichita, Kansas, with multiple camping areas situated around the 8,000-acre reservoir. The park sits within the Flint Hills region, characterized by tallgrass prairie and limestone outcroppings. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with humidity levels reaching 60-80%, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions for equestrian trail riding.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: El Dorado Lake contains numerous species including walleye, crappie, and channel catfish. "This lake has everything we look for. Good fishing, 2 swim large swim beaches, plenty of out buildings and play areas," notes Leigh M. about El Dorado State Park Boulder Bluff.
Biking trails: Paved paths throughout the park provide excellent terrain for casual riders. "There are lots of paved trails and paved roads in the campground that are nice for biking. There are some trails through the woods also," explains Mary about El Dorado State Park.
Swimming beaches: Multiple designated swim areas accommodate different camping loops. "The designated swim areas are great for the whole family because there is a wide and far out area that doesn't get too deep while being roped off," writes Zephyr Y. about Bluestem Point at El Dorado.
What campers like
Lake views and sounds: Sites near the water offer natural ambiance. "We pulled in our PUP for a night sleep. The spot we chose to pop up was right near the water, and you could hear the waves hitting the shore all night long. A beautiful and peaceful sound," shares Brittany G. about the Equestrian Loop at El Dorado.
Proximity to amenities: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to supplies. "Lots of amenities in El Dorado. And a quick jump to Wichita," notes Tracy N. This makes these horse campgrounds near Wichita, Kansas particularly convenient for weekend trips.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the environment during regular weekends. "My experience over the holiday weekends has usually been that's when the rowdy crowd shows up but this campground was comfortable and family-oriented," writes Brad H. about the Boulder Bluff Area.
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities across different camping areas have inconsistent maintenance. "This is a BIG park with multiple camping areas. The restrooms with showers and dumpsters are widely available during camping season," notes Zephyr Y. about Bluestem Point at El Dorado State Park.
Weekend crowding: Popular areas fill quickly, especially during peak season. "It's a popular weekend get-away. It's less than an hour from Wichita, clean, taken care of," explains Brad H. about Boulder Bluff Area.
Uneven campsite quality: Site conditions can differ significantly across camping loops. "It is always maintained and always welcoming," says Jacinda V. about Winfield City Lake, another equestrian camping option near Wichita.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites near recreation areas for convenience. "We usually stay on the Walnut River side as there is a large playground with tent sites close enough to keep an eye on the kiddos," recommends Kara S. about Walnut River Area.
Activity planning: Bring bikes for additional recreation options. "There is a large playground for kids, a nice swim beach away from the main lake, an archery range, and they are building a pistol/rifle range next to the ranger station for public use," describes Jason S. about Walnut River Area.
Site selection timing: Reserve sites early during summer months. "It's a small campground, nearby hiking but no other activities. It is clean, lots of trash cans and restrooms are clean," notes Angee S. about Sand Hills State Park, another option for horse camping near Wichita.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Water and electric sites are more abundant than full hookups. "We had electric and water. We visited this park in early April. It was very confusing to get a site because there was no camp host available and the park office was closed," shares Mary about El Dorado.
Leveling requirements: Bring additional leveling equipment for most sites. "The parking pad was nowhere near level, so you'll want to plan for that," advises Tracy N. about the equestrian camping areas near Wichita.
Dump station options: Consider city facilities as alternatives. "We used the city of El Dorado dump station," mentions Tracy N., noting a practical solution for RV waste disposal when visiting these horse-friendly campgrounds.
