Dispersed camping options near Coffeyville, Kansas include sites at Osage Hills State Park and Spencer Creek Park. The region features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 700-1,000 feet and experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures and potential ice storms.
What to do
Swimming options: Spencer Creek Park includes both lake access and a designated beach area within walking distance from campsites. A camper noted, "Park has a play area, trail, soccer field, boat ramp and short walk to beach area. We stayed in site 3 which is a spacious site and short walk to beach."
Hiking opportunities: Osage Hills State Park offers several miles of trails for hikers of all abilities. A reviewer mentioned, "For the more adventurous, the park has easily-accessible lakes and creeks, hiking trails (easy-to-moderate in difficulty for the average, able adult), mountain biking trails, and scenic overlooks."
History exploration: Visit the historic CCC-built facilities at Osage Hills State Park where you can explore remnants of Depression-era construction. One camper recommended, "If you are going to do just a short hike, I recommend going to the look out and finding the trail to the old CCC camp. The trail goes close enough to the spots that you can go off trail and really explore!"
What campers like
Lake views: Whitehall Bay campers consistently praise the water views from select sites. One visitor shared, "We picked a spot right on the point of the cove where we could see all of the lake and its beauty! Sat by our campfire and watched the gorgeous sunset. An evening/night of peace and quiet."
Wildlife sightings: At Hawthorn Bluff, campers regularly spot various wildlife species. A reviewer wrote, "The grounds were well kept, clean and spacious. They offer fishing docks, boat launches, plenty of bank to fish from as well as small playground equipment in a few places for the kids."
Concrete pads: Lake Parsons offers sturdy concrete camping pads right along the waterfront. A visitor noted, "We were parked right on the water. They have concrete slabs with a great picnic table for each site. There is no sewer and 50 amp service is only on one side."
What you should know
Seasonal openings: Many glamping sites near Coffeyville operate on limited schedules. Hawthorn Bluff operates from April 1 to October 31, while Lake Parsons is open April 1 through November 1.
Reservation requirements: Settle Inn RV Park near Pawhuska requires advance booking, especially during peak season. A visitor advised, "The campground manager (owner?) was very pleasant and worked with us over several months when we requested reservations almost 8 months in advance."
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain that affects camping comfort. At Hawthorn Bluff, a camper warned, "Lake side spots are not advisable if you have little ones, the bluffs are very close to the fire pits and have about a 30ft drop."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. Spencer Creek Park offers "a play area, trail, soccer field" making it suitable for families with younger campers.
Swimming safety: Be cautious about water conditions when swimming with children. At Osage Hills State Park, one camper warned, "We have seen water snakes in this park so be careful when swimming. We can't tell them apart so we steer clear."
Educational opportunities: Take advantage of historical features to create learning experiences. At Osage Hills, a visitor shared, "What I really liked was that most of the park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Depression and New Deal eras. Many of the buildings were still in use including shelters and cabins."
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Access roads to some glamping destinations near Coffeyville can be difficult. About Whitehall Bay, a reviewer cautioned, "The last 4-5 miles are very narrow, with the vegetation growing right up to the pavement. I was lucky enough to only cross paths with oncoming traffic once, and right at a low-water bridge that was wider than the road."
Site leveling: Check campsite reviews for leveling information. At Osage Hills State Park, a camper noted, "The main loop is a little uneven so it may take some work finding a level spot in certain camp spots. The far end of the loop is the best, imo."
Full hookup availability: Whitehall Bay offers complete services at select sites. A regular visitor highlighted, "The best part of Whitehall Bay is the sewer is directly at your campsite, so no dumping afterwards. A big plus for me!!!"
