Your Ultimate Guide for Camping in Kansas

With its vast plains, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, Kansas offers a serene setting for families looking to embark on a memorable camping adventure. Kansas has dozens of campsites with something to offer everyone in the family. This post offers an in-depth look at campgrounds and parks throughout the state, from large parks to small secluded spots. We’ll share insider tips on the best places to camp in Kansas, all the gear you’ll need, the information you need before camping, and a list of fun, kid-friendly activities the whole family will enjoy. 

El Dorado State Park in the Flint Hills offers camping, fishing, and hiking. Tuttle Creek State Park near Manhattan features a reservoir, golf course, and scenic trails. Cedar Bluff State Park in western Kansas provides rugged terrain for primitive camping, along with water activities. Pack essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, and weather-appropriate clothing. Plan ahead by researching locations, making reservations at the campsite, obtaining proper permits, and following regulations. 

Keep reading for more information about camping in Kansas!

Choosing a Campsite

Kansas is best known for wide open spaces, vast prairies, and rolling hills. Whether you’re looking for a rugged hike up in the forested hills of the Smoky Hills or relaxing in the sun-soaked grasslands of the Great Plains, Kansas has it all. Here are three of the most popular campsites in Kansas:

El Dorado State Park

El Dorado State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife watching. It’s situated in the scenic Flint Hills region near the city of El Dorado. There are multiple campgrounds, accommodating tents and RVs, sitting on 2,000 acres surrounded by 4,000 acres of wildlife area. There are multiple bike trails, hiking trails, and horse trails (along with hitching posts and other equestrian amenities). 

Tuttle Creek State Park

Tuttle Creek State Park is located near Manhattan, Kansas, and encompasses the expansive Tuttle Creek Reservoir. This park is 1,200 acres broken up into five sections: River Pond, Rocky Ford, Cedar Ridge, Fancy Creek, and Randolph. Each camp group has various primitive (no electricity) campgrounds and electric campsites. The park has an 18-hole disc golf course, archery range, swimming beach, and picnic areas. Hiking and biking trails offer scenic views of the surrounding Flint Hills.

Cedar Bluff State Park

Cedar Bluff State Park is located in western Kansas and is known for having the finest primitive camping in the entire state. The rugged terrain provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. It’s split into two sections: the Bluffton Area (350 acres) & the Page Creek Area (≈ 500 acres). The Bluffton Area has shoreside basketball, swimming, a BMX track, and fantastic fishing areas. The Page Creek Area is great for boaters and jet skiers, with beautiful shorelines and large shaded trees.

What to Pack

• Start with the basics like a durable tent and a sleeping bag
• Weather-appropriate clothing for any temperature fluctuations, as Kansas weather can sometimes be unpredictable
• Remember essentials like a first aid kit, insect repellent, and a multi-tool for various tasks
• Adequate lighting, such as a reliable flashlight or headlamp, is crucial for navigating the campsite after dark
• Bring a portable water filtration system or sufficient bottled water to stay hydrated
• For food, bring non-perishable items and easy-to-cook meals
• Bring a map, compass, GPS device, and portable chargers for your electronic devices
• Pack some board games, books, or outdoor toys to entertain the little ones during downtime

Planning, Preparation, and Regulations

It’s essential to focus on planning, preparation, and understanding the regulations in place. Here’s what you can do and need to know to plan and prepare for your camping trip properly:

Research and Choose a Location

Research and select a suitable camping destination in Kansas. The state offers a variety of options, including state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds. Consider factors such as proximity to others, amenities, and the type of environment you prefer.

Make Reservations

Many campgrounds in Kansas require reservations, especially during peak seasons. Check the availability and make reservations in advance to secure your camping spot.

Permits and Fees

Some areas may require permits for camping. Ensure you have the necessary permits before setting up camp to avoid any legal issues. Kansas’ Department of Wildlife and Parks allows you to purchase permits online. Camping or park fees cover the costs of maintaining facilities, amenities, and services provided to campers. The specifics of camping fees can vary widely depending on the type of campground, location, amenities offered, and the managing agency. 

Camping Regulations

Familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of the chosen camping site. Different locations may have rules regarding campfires, pets, and noise. Adhering to these regulations ensures a positive experience for everyone.

Wildlife Awareness

Learn about the local wildlife and take precautions to coexist with animals safely. This includes proper food storage and waste disposal to avoid attracting unwanted visitors to your campsites.

Leave No Trace

Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Activities for Kids

• Nature Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items for kids to find in the surrounding nature, like leaves, rocks, or specific types of flowers. Give them a small bag to collect their treasures.
• Nature Art and Crafts: Collect items from nature, like sticks, leaves, and rocks, and use them to create nature-inspired crafts. You could make leaf rubbings, paint rocks, or create nature collages.
• Campfire Cooking: Teach kids simple and safe campfire cooking. Roasting marshmallows for s’mores is a classic, but you can also try cooking hot dogs on sticks or making foil-packet meals.
• Star Gazing: Kansas has vast open skies, making it an excellent place for stargazing. Bring a telescope if you have one, or lay out under the stars and identify constellations.
• Wildlife Watching: Set up a bird feeder or simply observe the wildlife around your campsite. Bring a pair of binoculars to make it even more exciting for kids.

Conclusion

Camping allows families to unplug, connect with nature, and create lasting memories together. With its diverse landscapes and family-friendly campgrounds, the Sunflower State provides an ideal setting for a fun, memorable outdoor adventure. Plan your camping trip thoughtfully, pack wisely, and embrace the beauty of camping in Kansas.