Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas
Discover the best hiking campgrounds across Kansas. Experience the best of both worlds with camping that puts you right at the heart of incredible hiking opportunities. Direct trail access and stunning mountain vistas.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
About Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas
Hiking camping Kansas offers an unexpected adventure through diverse landscapes that challenge the state's flat reputation. From the dramatic limestone bluffs of the Little Ozarks in the southeast to the striking red sandstone formations of the Smoky Hills, Kansas delivers surprising terrain variety for hikers seeking both challenge and beauty.
Best Time
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking conditions in Kansas, with April through May and September through October delivering mild temperatures, lower humidity, and spectacular scenery. Spring brings wildflower blooms across the prairies and forests, with the Flint Hills particularly stunning during the controlled burn season when fresh green growth emerges.
Activity Highlights
- Direct trail access
- Mountain and forest settings
- Backpacking base camps
- Scenic wilderness views
Explore Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve campsites well in advance through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks online system, especially for weekend visits to popular parks like Elk City, Kanopolis, and Wilson Lake locations.
- 2Bring sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, as many trails feature rocky terrain, limestone outcroppings, and uneven surfaces that challenge lightweight trail runners.
- 3Pack more water than you think you'll need—Kansas heat and humidity drain reserves quickly, and water sources along trails are limited.
- 4Download offline trail maps before arrival, as cell service is spotty in many state parks and GPS can be unreliable.
Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas FAQ
We've ranked 20+ hiking campgrounds in Kansas based on trail access, hiking variety, scenery, and user reviews. Top options are near national forests, state parks, and wilderness areas.
Permit requirements vary by location in Kansas. Many wilderness areas and popular trails require day-use or backcountry permits. Check with the managing agency (National Forest, National Park, or State Park) before your trip.
Late Spring through Fall (May-October) is generally best for hiking camping in Kansas. High-elevation trails may have shorter seasons due to snow. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
Popular Kansas Campgrounds Book Fast
The best hiking campgrounds in Kansas book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
Outdoorithm
Just now
🎉 Site opened up!
Elk City State Park
Your preferred dates
Quick! This site typically books within hours.
Find Your Perfect Kansas Campground
Create your free account to save favorites, set availability alerts, and get personalized recommendations.
- Search 20+ hiking campgrounds in Kansas
- Set alerts for hard-to-book sites
- Get personalized recommendations for your trip
- Compare campground amenities
- Check weather forecasts
No credit card required. Free forever for core features.
