Historic Lake Scott State Park spans 1,020 acres in western Kansas, located near Scott City at an elevation of approximately 2,970 feet. The spring-fed lake sits within a dramatic canyon that contrasts sharply with the surrounding flat farmland. Water temperatures remain consistent throughout the year, typically ranging from 58-78°F depending on the season.
What to do
Explore nearby geological formations: Monument Rocks and Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park are both approximately 20 miles from Circle Drive Campground. "There is no shortage of things to do. We will definitely return," notes camper Shannon G. who visited both attractions during their stay.
Kayaking and paddling: The small, no-wake lake provides calm waters ideal for water recreation. According to Nancy C. at Elm Grove Campground: "The lake was small but very pretty, easy to kayak, SUP and fish." Rental options are available at the beach store during summer weekends.
Disc golf: The park maintains a full course with paved walkways. "There is a great disc golf course and ADA fishing docks with paved walkway access for those who need it," shares one visitor who appreciated the accessible recreation options.
What campers like
Unexpected scenery: The dramatic landscape shift from flat farmland to canyons surprises first-time visitors. Jason W. describes Scott State Park as "An Oasis in Western Kansas," noting "As you approach this lake, you will think your GPS is lying to you. You are in the middle of corn fields and no lake is visible, even when you are just a mile away."
Quieter weekdays: For campers seeking solitude, midweek visits offer more privacy. Shannon G. observed: "We pulled up on a Saturday afternoon and the park was packed. Thankfully we had reservations. By Sunday evening there was hardly anyone left so we felt like we had the whole park for the next couple days."
Self-pay convenience: For late arrivals, the park offers a self-registration system. Emily G. appreciates that "there is a self pay station so coming in late is not a problem."
What you should know
Seasonal facility limitations: Not all amenities operate year-round or all week. "The boat house rents kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats but only on weekend," reports Shannon G. Shower houses may have limited availability in early spring and late fall.
Site selection considerations: Campsite quality varies throughout the park. At Lakeside Campground, Keri F. recommends sites with "perfect views" but notes that location matters. Some campers mention that sites aren't always level for larger RVs.
Wildlife impacts: Large numbers of geese can affect lakeside sites. "A LARGE herd of geese covered all of the lakeside sites as well as the next row in," reports one camper who had to choose sites away from the shoreline to avoid bird droppings.
Shower house conditions: Bathroom and shower facilities receive mixed reviews. One visitor noted older facilities that "left a lot to be desired," while others found them "clean and well kept." Expect basic amenities rather than modern facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and swimming access: The designated swimming area provides shallow water entry. "Lake isn't deep - could stand pretty far out. Small beach area but you can get in water anywhere," notes Shawn S. at Circle Drive.
Historical sites: The park contains several historical points of interest for educational opportunities. As Price T. mentions, "Great hiking around the lake and good spots," with historical markers and structures throughout the property.
Weekend activities: Weekends offer more organized recreation options. One camper describes a unique experience: "On Saturday, the local car club drove their vintage cars to the park for a pop up car show."
Tips from RVers
Limited level sites: RVers should be prepared for potentially uneven terrain. According to sKenyon: "Gorgeous scenery but sites are on gravel or grass & not always level for our 30' 5th wheel. Verizon cell is available as is electricity & water. Dumping service is at the entrance."
Utility access: The Circle Drive area offers electric and water hookups with a dump station near the park entrance. Larry E. notes: "Sites are a little close to each other. Water and electric sites. Sites are not marked real clearly."
Best loops for larger rigs: The Circle Drive campground generally accommodates larger vehicles better than other areas. Bob M. advises: "We enjoyed our 2 night stay in the Circle Loop. Only negative was no fire pits in this loop, but all the tent sites had fire pits. Strange."
