Exploring the Hidden Gems of Kansas: A Guide to the State’s Best Kept Secrets

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Kansas: A Guide to the State’s Best Kept Secrets

With its vast, flat fields and wide-open skies, Kansas is often overlooked as a must-see destination. But hidden amongst the prairies and small towns lie some of the most stunning landscapes and charming communities in the Midwest.

For those traveling by RV, Kansas is an excellent destination to explore. The state has a surprisingly large RV community, with dozens of campgrounds and RV parks scattered throughout its nine regions.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best RV campgrounds in Kansas, highlighting the unique features and hidden gems of each.

1. Wilson State Park

Located in the Smoky Hills of north-central Kansas, Wilson State Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The park spans over 9,000 acres and includes a stunning lake with over 100 miles of shoreline.

RV campers can choose from two campgrounds within the park. Both the Otoe and Hell Creek Campgrounds offer electric and water hookups, as well as access to modern restrooms and showers.

But the real draw of Wilson State Park is the outdoor recreation. The lake provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The park also boasts over 26 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as a designated wildlife area for hunting.

2. Clinton State Park

Just 15 minutes west of Lawrence, Kansas, Clinton State Park is a popular destination for both locals and out-of-town visitors. The park encompasses 1,500 acres, including a 6,800-acre lake perfect for water activities.

RV campers can choose from two campgrounds within the park. The Woodridge Campground offers both electric and water hookups, while the Rockhaven Campground is primitive, with no hookups. Both campgrounds provide modern restrooms and showers.

In addition to lake activities, Clinton State Park offers seven miles of hiking trails, as well as a mountain biking trail. The park also has a designated archery range and provides ample opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

3. Kanopolis State Park

Kanopolis State Park is located in the heart of the Smoky Hills, just south of Ellsworth, Kansas. The park encompasses over 15,000 acres and includes a 3,500-acre lake with excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

RV campers can choose from two campgrounds within the park. The Venango Campground offers electric and water hookups, while the Langley Point Campground is for primitive camping only. Both campgrounds provide modern restrooms and showers.

Kanopolis State Park is surrounded by rugged sandstone bluffs, offering striking views and unique geological formations. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and pronghorns. Visitors can explore the park’s trails on foot, horseback, or mountain bike, or take a relaxing drive through the park’s scenic byways.

4. Milford State Park

Milford State Park is located in the Flint Hills region of northeast Kansas, just 20 minutes west of Junction City. The park encompasses over 16,000 acres, including a 6,000-acre lake stocked with a wide variety of fish.

RV campers can choose from two campgrounds within the park. Acorns Resort offers full hookups, as well as cabins and other lodging options. The nearby Farnum Creek Campground offers both electric and primitive sites. Both campgrounds provide access to modern restrooms and showers.

In addition to boating, fishing, and swimming, Milford State Park offers over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park is also home to a designated wildlife area, which offers excellent opportunities for hunting and birdwatching.

5. Tuttle Creek State Park

Tuttle Creek State Park is the second-largest state park in Kansas, encompassing over 1,200 acres of land and water. The park is located just 10 minutes northwest of Manhattan, Kansas, and includes a 12,000-acre lake perfect for water activities.

RV campers can choose from three campgrounds within the park. The River Pond Campground and Pottawatomie Campground offer electric and primitive sites, while Fancy Creek Campground provides full hookups. All campgrounds have access to modern restrooms and showers.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do at Tuttle Creek State Park. In addition to lake activities, the park offers over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a designated wildlife area for hunting and birdwatching.

6. Eisenhower State Park

Eisenhower State Park is located on the north shore of Melvern Lake, just 30 miles south of Topeka, Kansas. The park encompasses over 1,785 acres and includes a 6,900-acre lake with excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

RV campers can choose from two campgrounds within the park. The Eisenhower Ridge Campground offers electric and water hookups, while the Juniper Point Campground is primitive. Both campgrounds provide access to modern restrooms and showers.

In addition to lake activities, Eisenhower State Park offers over 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as an equestrian trail. The park is also home to a designated wildlife area, which offers excellent opportunities for hunting and birdwatching.

7. Meade State Park

Meade State Park is located in southwestern Kansas, near the Oklahoma border. The park encompasses over 1,000 acres, including a 160-acre lake with excellent fishing and boating opportunities.

RV campers can choose from two campgrounds within the park. The East Shore Campground offers electric and water hookups, while the West Shore Campground is primitive. Both campgrounds provide access to modern restrooms and showers.

Meade State Park is surrounded by stunning sandstone bluffs and offers several hiking trails with breathtaking views. The park is also home to the Kansas Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Education Center, which provides educational programming and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Conclusion

While Kansas may not be on everyone’s radar, it’s a state full of hidden gems and outdoor possibilities. RV campers will find ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, as well as some of the friendliest communities in the Midwest.

From the rugged sandstone bluffs of Kanopolis State Park to the sparkling waters of Clinton State Park, Kansas has something for everyone. So pack up your RV and hit the road – you never know what hidden gem you’ll discover next.