Curtis Creek
4.2685 reviews5203 N. K-57 Hwy.
Curtis Creek
$14.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Curtis Creek offers nightly rates ranging from $14.00 for tent-only non-electric sites to $24.00 for standard electric sites during peak season. Displayed rates exclude any discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched on a scenic peninsula jutting into Kansas's largest reservoir, Curtis Creek Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. This intimate Corps of Engineers park serves as your gateway to the vast expanse of Milford Lake, where endless adventures await. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring hidden coves by boat, or hiking through native prairie landscapes, Curtis Creek offers an authentic Kansas outdoor experience with all the amenities today's campers appreciate.
Curtis Creek offers diverse camping options, including tent, RV, and buddy sites. There are also standard electric and non-electric sites.
Historical SignificanceBeyond its recreational appeal, the Milford Lake region tells a deeper story of Kansas heritage and conservation. Nearby, the Milford Education Center invites curious minds to discover the area's natural and cultural history through interactive exhibits and programs. The Fish Hatchery near the dam offers fascinating glimpses into wildlife management efforts that help maintain the lake's legendary fishing. Throughout the area, protected zones preserve both cultural artifacts and critical wildlife habitat, creating a living museum where past and present converge along the water's edge.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through September, Curtis Creek comes alive as campers flock to enjoy the best of Kansas weather. Spring arrives with gentle breezes and wildflower blooms, perfect for those seeking mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for water activities, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll across the prairie, creating dramatic skies. As autumn approaches, the heat gives way to crisp mornings and comfortable days, painting the shoreline in golden hues. The shoulder seasons offer some of the most pleasant camping conditions, with clear starry nights perfect for gathering around the campfire.
ElevationCurtis Creek rests at the gentle elevations characteristic of the Kansas prairie landscape, where the rolling hills meet the expansive waters of Milford Lake. This modest elevation provides just enough rise to offer sweeping views across the water while maintaining easy access to the shoreline below.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunrise reflections dancing across 15,700 acres of pristine water, with 163 miles of varied shoreline waiting to be explored. Curtis Creek's peninsula location gifts campers with water views in multiple directions, creating an almost island-like atmosphere. The surrounding landscape showcases Kansas at its finest – native grasslands swaying in the breeze, mature trees providing welcome shade, and protected wildlife areas where deer, waterfowl, and countless bird species make their homes. Each season brings its own visual feast, from spring wildflowers to autumn's golden prairie grasses.
Geological RegionCurtis Creek occupies a privileged position on a natural peninsula extending into Milford Lake, Kansas's crown jewel of water recreation. This remarkable 33,000-acre region represents one of the state's most successful conservation stories, where careful land management has created a harmonious balance between recreation, wildlife preservation, and cultural heritage protection. The lake itself, though man-made, has become so integrated with the natural landscape that it feels as timeless as the prairie it transformed, offering visitors a chance to experience the heart of Kansas's outdoor splendor.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome sites are described as accessible, and a floating fishing dock provides accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some described as spacious and others noted as tight or sloping.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some are described as "secluded with great views," while others are "very tight and congested."
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose waterfront sites for better views and tranquility. Sites on Loop A generally offer better maintenance and facilities compared to Loop C.
Best CampsitesReviews highlight campsite A018 for tent camping due to its uninterrupted lake views. Other popular sites include A019 and C020 for proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 6 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 6 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit or within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not provided directly about number of guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (A, C, and others). Specific sites are designated for buddy camping, tent-only, and RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to September 30. Peak season runs during this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or through their mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability not explicitly detailed. User reviews suggest availability during less busy periods.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled arrival date but are subject to fees: $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and a first-night recreation use fee for late cancellations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Curtis Creek provides a wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking, birding, and water skiing. Wildlife viewing is also popular, especially with nearby features like the Wildlife Viewing Tower and Trails.
Hiking
The Waterfall Trail and Crystal Trail are highlighted as nearby attractions for hiking enthusiasts. Specific difficulty levels or trail lengths were not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, with options for catching trout closer to shore via an "accessible floating fishing dock." Milford Lake is described as a "great fishing lake" by users.Swimming
The campground features a swimming beach, but algae issues were noted during certain seasons, affecting usability.Biking
Several miles of roadway within the campground make it ideal for biking. No specific trail information was provided.Boating
Boating activities, including water skiing, are popular. A boat ramp is available on-site.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with features like the Wildlife Viewing Tower and Trail nearby. Birding is also popular among visitors.Beach activities
A small beach area offers opportunities for relaxation, but some reviews noted algae problems during certain seasons.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but the campground is seasonal and closes in the fall.Water Sports
Visitors can engage in non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, although the availability of rentals is unclear.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood must be sourced locally and burned on-site to prevent tree-killing pests.
Hazards
General hazardsElectrical issues have been reported, including insufficient amperage at some sites. Algae blooms may affect water activities. Wildlife such as squirrels is common but not explicitly cited as hazardous.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported, though occasional electrical outages and water shutoffs are noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Geary Community Hospital in Junction City (~11 miles); Police and Fire stations are located in Junction City; Closest ranger station is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers managing Milford Lake.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and several reviews mention that the campground is kept clean, though some indicate problems with dog feces not being picked up by pet owners.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly alongside Milford Lake, offering easy access to its shoreline, fishing docks, and boat ramps.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include electrical outages, unlevel sites, lack of 50-amp service, and maintenance delays. Some users also complain about dog waste and lack of shade.
HostHosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. Mark is often mentioned as an excellent host.
Campground Map
5203 N. K-57 Hwy.
Driving directionsTake I-70 to the 290 exit and proceed north 5 miles to 837. Continue west on 837 for 6 miles to reach the park entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with clear directions provided from I-70. No seasonal closures or major navigation challenges reported.Nearby places
Junction City (approximately 11 miles, 15-minute drive)
Manhattan (approximately 27 miles, 35-minute drive)
Topeka (approximately 70 miles, 1-hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Junction City (~11 miles). Convenience stores also available closer along major routes.
Camper Reviews
4.3
85 reviews
Curtis Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Curtis Creek are mixed but generally positive, with many praising the "beautiful setting" and "friendly staff." However, several reviews highlight issues such as electrical problems, cleanliness in restrooms, and algae at the beach.
Review Summaries
Based on 85 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes "beautiful sunsets over the water," "clean bathrooms and shower facilities," and "helpful camp hosts." Visitors also appreciated the "quiet and spacious sites" and...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues raised by users include "30-amp electrical service that doesn't meet the needs of modern RVs," "lack of shade trees," and "problems with algae at the swimming beach." Maintenance...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest selecting sites with "good views of the lake" and avoiding uneven or sloped sites. Tent campers should be aware that many spots are gravelled. Several reviews recommend upgrading...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highlighted as the best times to visit due to milder weather and fewer maintenance issues. Summer reviews frequently mention electrical problems and algae at the beach.
Based on 85 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The campgrounds are amazing!" - Kennith B. "Bathrooms were nasty in campground A & at the shower house." - Kimberly S. "Quiet and beautiful. If you're planning to camp in a tent, there really aren't...
Based on 85 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes complaints about uneven terrain at sites like C001 and A020, while sites like A018 and A019 are praised for their views of the lake and spacious layout.
Based on 85 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited, but the floating fishing dock is mentioned as accessible.
Based on 85 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews note issues with "dog feces not picked up" in several areas, detracting from the experience for some visitors.
Based on 85 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025