Camping near Winfield, Kansas offers lakeside sites in the southeastern Kansas prairie region, characterized by rolling hills and open grasslands. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation and receives about 40 inches of annual rainfall, creating seasonal fishing opportunities at multiple lakes. Weather patterns include pronounced seasons with hot, humid summers reaching into the 90s and mild spring conditions that attract many weekend campers.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds feature disc golf facilities for outdoor recreation. At Napawalla Park in Oxford, campers can enjoy a "recognized disc golf course" alongside other activities including "horse shoes, basketball, sand volleyball and children's playground," according to one reviewer.
Mountain biking and hiking: Santa Fe Lake provides a network of trail systems appropriate for various skill levels. A visitor noted, "The mountain bike trails as well as hiking trails are perfect for beginners to experts." Another explained the layout: "Several trails offshoot from this main road, each is marked for either hiking (trail running), mountain biking, or camping."
Waterfall exploration: For something beyond typical lake activities, Cowley County Fishing Lake features a waterfall area that adds visual interest. One motorcyclist camping there noted, "At the time I was there, the waterfall was dried up and I was able to take a trail down to the bottom and see everything up close."
Evening entertainment: The fairgrounds camping area sometimes offers impromptu musical performances. A camper at Winfield Fairgrounds RV described, "Sometimes they will even start playing music and encourage to even jump in or just sit and listen."
What campers like
Peninsula camping spots: Cowely County Fishing Lake receives positive comments for its unique waterfront sites. One camper described the layout as having "several spots beside the lake or built on little peninsulas surrounded by water on three sides." These sites provide exceptional views and fishing access.
Affordable rates: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable fees at many area campgrounds. Napawalla Park offers especially good value with one visitor noting, "If you don't use the electricity it's only $3.50 and if you choose to hook up to the electric, which is located on utility poles, then it's $10 per night on the honor system."
Uncrowded weekday camping: The region's lakes tend to be quiet midweek. A motorcyclist camping at Cowley County Fishing Lake reported, "Throughout the day, there was about three people fishing. It felt like I had the place to myself."
Sunset viewing spots: Santa Fe Lake features strategic bench placement for evening relaxation. A visitor explained, "There are several beautiful views of the small damn and the broken sections that create a little waterfall. The sunset in particular was really peaceful and easy to watch from the benches."
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility conditions can differ significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Wellington KOA praised the "extremely clean bathrooms and showers," while another reviewer at Walnut River RV Park mentioned a "terribly stinky bathroom."
Site types and terrain: Most campgrounds offer fairly basic accommodations on grass or gravel. At Napawalla Park, one camper noted, "I was concerned about the ground being soft because it had just rained, but I had no problems in my 24' class C rig."
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities close outside summer months. One reviewer at 4 Mile Creek RV Resort observed in March that water was available, but bathroom closures are common in cooler months.
Honor system payment: Many area campgrounds operate on self-registration. As described at Napawalla Park: "There's a box next to the bath house where you leave your cash payment."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: 4 Mile Creek RV Resort offers family-friendly amenities including "nice showers and restrooms. Medium size pond with a small pavillon and large grill." Napawalla Park also provides playground equipment alongside multiple recreational facilities.
City park alternatives: Cave Park in Oxford offers free primitive camping for one night only alongside playground equipment and pavilions, making it suitable for brief family stops.
Swimming areas: Santa Fe Lake includes a designated swimming beach mentioned by several reviewers. One camper recalled, "My first camping trip a group of friends went out to camp for the night, and to swim at the beach."
Multiple recreation options: Wellington KOA provides family-oriented site amenities. A reviewer noted they had a "very nice patio on slot with fire pit, table, chairs and covered swing," offering comfort for extended family time.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require additional preparation. At Wellington KOA, one RVer noted that "sites are gravel and maybe a little rutted, some more gravel would help level things up."
Seasonal rate changes: Pricing may increase during summer months at popular destinations. At Santa Fe Lake, a camper mentioned the $32 nightly rate seemed high given that "the showers were coin-op."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may present challenges. One reviewer warned about 4 Mile Creek RV Resort: "Rough gravel roads two miles into and out of property, but only about 2 miles south of Hwy 400."
Proximity to conveniences: Several campgrounds offer nearby access to supplies. A camper at Napawalla Park noted, "Across the main street from the park there's a gas station/quick mart store and supplies are there."
