Wichita camping areas feature prairie landscapes with an average elevation of 1,300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while winters can drop below freezing, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons. Campsites throughout the region typically have gravel pads with varying degrees of levelness, with several areas offering waterfront options.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Three fishing ponds at Military Park McConnell AFB FamCamp provide recreation near campsites. "All the shopping and food locations on base are less than 3 minutes from the campground and off base food and shopping is less than 10 minutes away. There are 3 fishing ponds, RC track and a paint ball course," notes Stanleigh S.
Hiking and biking trails: Santa Fe Lake offers multiple trail systems for various skill levels. "The main trail is composed of a gravel camping road that encircles the man-made lake. Several trails offshoot from this main road, each is marked for either hiking (trail running), mountain biking, or camping," explains Armaan M. The trails support different activities: "Great trails to walk, hike and bike."
Water recreation: Paddling and boating options vary by lake size. "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," shares Chris L. about Santa Fe Lake. Some campsites even provide direct water access: "Our campsite had a nice little launch spot which made things super simple."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: The West Shore Camping Area — Cheney State Park attracts diverse wildlife. "Yep, we saw bald eagles every day of our stay. Majestic!" reports Nancy C. The nature trails provide additional wildlife viewing opportunities: "Nature trails are great for the kids."
Clean facilities: USI RV Park maintains well-kept amenities. "The bathrooms are super clean, there is a very nice playground and fenced dog run," says Jennie D. This attention to cleanliness extends to the overall property: "Clean, friendly, secure, and quiet!"
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer generous camping areas. At Lake Afton Park, "the sites are big!" according to Lai La L. Other campers note the campground layout: "Chill spots everywhere. Good place to bring your bike and ride in the mornings."
What you should know
Water availability changes seasonally: Winter camping requires planning for water access. "There are specific sites available year round that have water and electric available. These are located in the Marina and Lakeside campgrounds on the East side. The water spigots are insulated," explains Michelle G. at East Shore Camping Area — Cheney State Park.
Campsite leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. At Lake Afton Park, campers note "sites are not level but for 14$ a night for water and electric not bad." Another camper observed: "most screwed up backward spot choices I've ever seen. seriously. does not make sense."
Reservation requirements vary: Some parks have minimum stay requirements on weekends. "We only needed one night, but had to pay for two nights (it was on a weekend, but this place was no where near full, so the demand isn't there to warrant a 2 night requirement)," reports one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: All Seasons RV Park provides dedicated play spaces. "Close to everywhere, flat gravel sites, friendly owners and employees, full hookups, nice dog park and kid's playground," shares Bonnie A. These features make it "a great stop for a cross country trip."
Swimming options: During summer months, beach areas offer water recreation for children. "We love camping here because the campsites are decent size and they have cabins for our family without campers or tents. We also enjoy the lake and playgrounds for the kids," reports Holly D. about West Shore Camping Area.
Budget-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with multiple free recreation options. "Great place to hang out with the family. Awesome for fishing in the boat if you can find the right spot!" suggests Dakota H. Many sites include hiking, biking, and fishing without additional fees beyond camping costs.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: Air Capital RV Park serves as a practical stopover. "Got tired of driving and found this RV Park on Dyrt App. Nice clean looking park easy to get in and around. We had no reservations and they were almost full but enough for us," notes Charley K. The concrete pads provide stability but may require adjustment: "Backin site, very close together, concrete, but not level."
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for tank management. "Needed a FHU site to flush the black tank near Wichita. Wanted to stay in the area after a Boondocker's Welcome stay to finish our sight seeing," shares Rick G. Dump stations are available at multiple campgrounds but may have seasonal restrictions.
Pet exercise areas: Many pet friendly camping options near Wichita, Kansas feature dedicated dog areas. "There is a very nice playground and fenced dog run," at USI RV Park. The "big stretch for dogs to run around and exercise" at Camp the Range provides another option for pet owners needing space after travel days.
