El Dorado State Park provides equestrian camping options approximately 40 miles northeast of Winfield, Kansas. The park spans 4,000 acres with multiple camping areas including Boulder Bluff Area and Walnut River Area. Horse owners can access trail systems throughout the park while staying at sites designed to accommodate trailers and horses.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Winfield City Lake offers multiple access points for anglers. "It's a small lake but big enough to go fishing and do your boating fun on like skiing, tubing and etc," notes Judy C. about Winfield City Lake.
Waterfall exploration: Cowley County Fishing Lake features a unique waterfall area. "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," shares Mike V. about Cowely county fishing lake.
Bike riding: The paved roads and trails at El Dorado State Park make it ideal for cycling. "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," reports Mary about El Dorado State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Cowley County Lake offers premium water-adjacent camping. "Very nice primitive campsite. Several spots beside the lake or built a little peninsulas surrounded by water on three sides," explains Jake F. about Cowely county fishing lake.
Shade coverage: The mature trees at El Dorado State Park provide cooling relief during summer months. "It's shaded with huge trees, nice sized sites some of which are very spread out," notes Angie S. about Walnut River Area — El Dorado State Park.
Swimming areas: Designated swim beaches provide safer water access. "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," reports Zephyr Y. about El Dorado State Park.
What you should know
Weekend atmosphere: Campgrounds near Winfield can get busy and noisy during peak times. "This lake tends to get a little rowdy on the holidays/weekends. The rv sites are not in the best location in regards to the water, so we prefer to camp non electrical here," advises Anika L. about Winfield City Lake.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between camping areas. "Broken soap dispensers, cold water, no privacy in showers, etc," reports Donna G. about the Walnut River Area.
Terrain preparation: Sites may require additional setup equipment. "The parking pad was nowhere near level, so you'll want to plan for that," advises a camper about Boulder Bluff Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Certain areas of El Dorado State Park offer convenient playground proximity. "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 Boulder Bluff Area — El Dorado State Park.
Swimming beach features: The swim beach at El Dorado offers family-friendly depths. "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," notes a visitor.
Avoid holiday weekends: For quieter family camping near Winfield, consider non-peak times. "We won't be back to El Dorado State Park Big Oak campsite any time soon, at least not during the busy summer camping season," advises Angie S. after experiencing noisy neighbors.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Winfield City Lake, consider non-electric options for better water proximity. "The rv sites are not in the best location in regards to the water, so we prefer to camp non electrical here," suggests Anika L.
Hookup options: Winfield City Lake provides various utility connections. "There is camping around the lake with RV hookups in spots around the lake. A few full hookups, water & electric hookups and many just electric spots," explains Judy C.
Leveling requirements: Bring appropriate leveling equipment for horse campgrounds near Winfield, Kansas. "The parking pad was nowhere near level, so you'll want to plan for that," notes Tracy N. about the equestrian camping area.
