Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas

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.

20+ Campgrounds4.5★ AverageBest: Late Spring through Fall (May-October)

Hiking Campgrounds in Other States


Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region


About Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas

Hiking camping in Kansas reveals a surprising diversity of landscapes that challenge common perceptions of the Sunflower State as merely flat prairie. From the dramatic limestone bluffs of the Ozark gateway region to the iconic tallgrass prairies of the Flint Hills, Kansas offers hikers an unexpected variety of terrain and ecosystems to explore.

Best Time

Spring and fall provide the ideal conditions for hiking camping in Kansas, with April through May and September through October offering comfortable temperatures, vibrant scenery, and fewer crowds. Spring brings wildflower displays across the prairies and redbud blooms in the forests, while fall showcases stunning foliage in the oak-hickory woodlands and golden prairie grasses.

Activity Highlights

  • Direct trail access
  • Mountain and forest settings
  • Backpacking base camps
  • Scenic wilderness views


Campground Locations

Showing top 20 campgrounds near Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas

Map Key
1
Elk City State Park
2
Kanopolis State Park
3
Lucas Park
4
Wolf Creek (Ks)
5
Eisenhower State Park
6
Sylvan Park
7
Venango Park
8
Canning Creek
9
Cherryvale Park
10
Crawford State Park
11
Outlet Channel
12
Santa Fe Trail
13
Whitehall Bay
14
Pomona State Park
15
Cedar Bluff State Park
16
Turkey Point
17
Coeur D'Alene
18
Tuttle Creek Cove
19
Card Creek
20
Milford State Park

Plan Your Trips

Popular Activities

Backpacking on extended trails like the 33-mile Black Hawk Trail loopPhotography of sandstone formations, limestone bluffs, and prairie landscapesMountain biking on designated multi-use trailsHorseback riding on equestrian trail systemsFishing in reservoir lakes and streamsSwimming and water recreation at lakeside campgrounds

Tips & Recommendations

  • 1Reserve campsites early for weekend visits during peak season, as popular hiking destinations like Elk City State Park and Lucas Park fill quickly.
  • 2Download trail maps before arrival, as cell service can be spotty in remote areas, and pick up trail brochures at park offices for detailed route information and difficulty ratings.
  • 3Bring plenty of water—Kansas heat and humidity can be intense, and many trails lack water sources.
  • 4Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support are essential for bluff trails with rocky, uneven terrain, while lighter footwear suffices for prairie paths.
20 campgrounds ranked
Based on real camper reviews
Curated for Hiking Campgrounds in Kansas

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.

Availability Alerts

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.

Checks every 2 min
SMS, email, push
150,000+ campsites

Outdoorithm

Just now

🎉 Site opened up!

Elk City State Park
Your preferred dates

Quick! This site typically books within hours.


Outdoorithm

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. Every feature is free to use.