Dispersed camping near Wright, Kansas is primarily limited to a few designated areas within driving distance. The region experiences continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, making spring and fall the optimal seasons for primitive camping excursions. Camping options in this area of western Kansas require self-sufficiency as amenities are sparse and terrain can be challenging after precipitation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Goodman State Fishing Lake, visitors should be aware of road conditions when planning their trip. The lake provides fishing access, though camping facilities are minimal and road quality is questionable. A visitor named Rick M. reported challenging conditions, stating, "This place is definitely not a place to go. The roads have massive chunks taken out of them and I had it back up the entire weird road."
Casino entertainment: For those looking for a convenient stopover with entertainment options, Boot Hill Casino in Dodge City provides overnight parking with access to gaming facilities. Trevor H. noted, "If you're comparing this to a rest stop or Walmart parking lot, this was way better. No trucks in and out all night, no traffic from the road, just the white noise of the hotel HVAC."
Local attractions: While staying at Boot Hill Casino, campers can access Dodge City attractions. Cher & Walter P. mentioned they "enjoyed local muse & whiskey distillery" during their stay, making it a practical base for exploring the area's cultural offerings.
What campers like
Security features: The well-lit parking area at Boot Hill Casino provides peace of mind for overnight campers. Trevor H. appreciated the safety measures in place, noting the area is "Very well lit, cameras throughout the lot, felt very safe overall."
Quiet environment: Despite being a casino property, the overnight parking area offers a surprisingly peaceful setting. One camper mentioned, "We arrived around 11:00pm. There was one other camper in the parking lot with us, but the lot is huge and we were far enough away we couldn't hear them."
Scenic views: The western Kansas landscape provides expansive prairie vistas. Nancy C. shared her experience at Boot Hill Casino stating, "The views out back were wonderful. Beautiful sunsets." The unobstructed horizon makes for memorable sunset viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Spring in western Kansas brings strong winds that can affect camping comfort. Nancy C. noted challenges with "35-40 mph spring winds with gusts" that made finding level parking important for stabilizing their vehicle.
Parking restrictions: Boot Hill Casino has specific parking locations for overnight RVs. Nancy C. observed, "We called and asked about overnight. They said yes and requested we pull around back. However, we were one of the 3 that followed instructions. There were 7 or 8 large rigs and RVs that parked out front."
Road accessibility: Primitive camping near Wright, Kansas can present significant challenges after rain. At Goodman State Fishing Lake, Rick M. warned, "Every spot is grass and everything is rain-sodding. I almost flipped my bus a couple times," indicating the need for careful planning during wet conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom access: When staying at boot Hill Casino with children, plan for bathroom logistics. Trevor H. mentioned, "Only downside is the hike to use the bathrooms," which could be important information for families with young children needing frequent restroom breaks.
Indoor options: Having alternative entertainment during inclement weather can be valuable for family trips. The casino complex offers indoor activities when outdoor conditions aren't favorable. Nancy C. described it as "a huge complex with the casino, hotel and convention center," providing options beyond camping.
Meal planning: The casino location offers dining options that can supplement camp cooking. According to Nancy C., "The restaurant was good," providing a convenient meal option for families looking to minimize camp cooking during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Finding level parking: RV campers should be prepared to search for level spots at Boot Hill Casino. Nancy C. advised, "Finding a level spot was not easy. It wouldn't have mattered as much, but the 35-40 mph spring winds with gusts, made it necessary."
Extended stays: While most dispersed camping locations limit duration, Boot Hill Casino appears flexible. Nancy C. reported, "We stayed 1 night, but felt certain that multiple nights wouldn't have been a problem," which can be useful for RVers needing a multi-day base.
Vehicle size considerations: The parking area accommodates various RV sizes, though primitive camping options elsewhere may not. Trevor H. mentioned, "There was one other camper in the parking lot with us, but the lot is huge," indicating ample space for larger vehicles at this location.
