Waterfront camping at a price that still feels reasonable is getting harder to find, especially when you’re talking about lakefront sites with hookups. Kansas quietly holds onto a handful of campgrounds where you can park near the water without paying an arm and a leg.
There’s another angle worth noting. Many of these campgrounds are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which means the America the Beautiful Senior Pass can reduce camping fees by 50 percent for eligible travelers. That brings some waterfront stays down into single-digit territory on certain nights.
Here are some of the best waterfront RV campgrounds in Kansas, where rates come in at $24 or less.
1. Turkey Point Campground
Location: Near Osage City, Kansas
Price: $22
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233657
Turkey Point Campground sits along Melvern Lake on the edge of the Flint Hills, an area known for open views and steady lake activity. Many sites are positioned close to the water, and the campground layout gives easy access to boating and fishing.
The park supports both family and group camping, with a mix of electric and water hookups throughout. Campers also have access to showers, a dump station, playgrounds, and a boat ramp.
2. West Rolling Hills Campground
Location: Near Junction City, Kansas
Price: $24
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233608
West Rolling Hills Campground overlooks Milford Lake and takes advantage of its elevation to provide wide lake views from many campsites. Site spacing helps keep the area from feeling packed during peak seasons.
Most sites include electric and water hookups, along with access to flush toilets and showers. The nearby marina is perfect for those who want to spend time on the lake, while the playground is nice for families staying more than a night or two.
3. Cottonwood Point Campground
Location: Near Marion, Kansas
Price: $19
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233468
Cottonwood Point Campground is one of the larger camping areas on Marion Reservoir, with a layout that favors shade and breathing room. Tall trees line much of the shoreline, helping campsites feel tucked away even during busy periods.
Many sites include electrical service, and the campground features multiple boat ramps, picnic shelters, and group areas. It’s a great option for anglers and boaters who want easy water access paired with roomy sites.
4. Curtis Creek Park
Location: Near Junction City, Kansas
Price: $22
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233474
Curtis Creek Park sits within the broader Milford Lake recreation area, surrounded by thousands of acres of protected public land. Several campsites offer views toward the lake and dam.
Modern restrooms, hot showers, a playground, and a boat ramp are available to campers. The surrounding land offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities without needing to leave the park.
5. Farnum Creek Campground
Location: Near Milford, Kansas
Price: $22
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234647
Farnum Creek Campground is smaller and quieter than many neighboring lake parks. Its double-loop design limits through traffic and helps maintain a relaxed pace.
More than half of the sites offer electric hookups, and campers have access to hot showers, a playground, and a boat ramp.
6. Hillsboro Cove Campground
Location: Near Marion, Kansas
Price: $17
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233512
Hillsboro Cove Campground is known for its straightforward layout and direct access to the water. Located just off Highway 56, it balances convenience with a calm atmosphere.
Individual sites include tables, grills, hookups, and sun shelters. A large group area sits nearby, and the boat ramp makes it easy to get on the lake quickly.
7. Kit Carson Campground
Location: Near Council Grove, Kansas
Price: $22
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10159225
Kit Carson Campground sits on Council Grove Lake in a greener part of eastern Kansas. The campground is small, which helps it keep a low-key feel.
Sites include electric and water hookups, flush toilets, and shaded areas. Open grassy sections give campers room to spread out without leaving the campground.
8. Lucas Park Campground
Location: Near Lucas, Kansas
Price: $24+
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233547
Lucas Park Campground lines the north shore of Wilson Lake, an area known for clear water and wide-open views. Many campsites look directly out over the lake.
The campground includes modern sites, a large group area, hiking trail access, a boat ramp, and a fishing dock.
9. Mound Valley Campground
Location: Near Cherryvale, Kansas
Price: $20
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233555
Mound Valley Campground sits on Big Hill Lake in southeastern Kansas. The lake system includes multiple campgrounds, equestrian trails, and several day-use areas.
Campers can combine swimming, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and picnicking without relocating. It’s heavily wooded, so if lots of trees are your thing, this is the spot for you!
10. Rock Creek Campground
Location: Near Perry, Kansas
Price: $22+
Link: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233605
Rock Creek Campground is situated on the southern end of Perry Lake in a more wooded area. The campground offers a mix of developed and primitive camping areas.
Spacious campsites, group picnic shelters, and a playground make this a popular spot. Plus, there’s a scenic road that follows the shoreline along the length of the campground, offering beautiful views of the lake.
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