How much does camping cost at Cheney State Park?

Camping fees at Cheney State Park range from $13-$28/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cheney State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Cheney State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cheney State Park before I book?

Yes! Cheney State Park has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cheney State Park?

Cheney State Park is open Cabin rentals are available year-round. Camping facilities do not have explicit seasonal closures mentioned.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cheney State Park?

Yes, Cheney State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Cheney State Park?

Fire policies at Cheney State Park: Fires are permitted only in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Cheney State Park?

Cell phone service at Cheney State Park is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Cheney State Park have?

Cheney State Park has 223 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cheney State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cheney State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cheney State Park?

Cheney State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Cheney State Park

3.95

76 reviews

16000 NE 50th St, Cheney , Kansas, 67025, United States

Top 25% in KSFall

SwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,444 ft

Price

$13 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

223 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Cheney State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,444 ft

Price

$13 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

223 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Cheney State Park Official Website

Get Directions

Cheney State Park

$13.00 - $28.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees range from $13 per night for primitive sites to $24-$28 per night for sites with electric hookups.

Hookup Site Fee$28.00

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3165400412

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Campground Map

16000 NE 50th St, Cheney , Kansas, 67025, United States

Cheney State Park

16000 NE 50th St, Cheney , Kansas, 67025, United States

Nearby places

Wichita (17 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Hutchinson (20 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Kingman (approx. 15 miles, approximately 20 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and bait are available at two stores/bait shops within the park, located at the marina and the west entrance. Additionally, a grocery store and other amenities are available 6 miles away in a nearby town.

Driving directionsFrom Wichita, go west on US 54/400 to the K251/Cheney State Park exit, then North on K251 4 miles to 21st, then west on 21st 2 1/2 miles to park entrance. From Kingman, go east on US 54/400 to the Mt. Vernon exit, go north 4 miles to the Stop sign/NE 50th, go east 1/2 mile to park entrance. From Hutchinson, South on K17 highway to NE 50th Street. East on NE 50th 6 1/2 miles to park entrance.

All roads leading to Cheney State Park are paved and accessible year-round. Seasonal closures or access restrictions are not mentioned in the authoritative sources.

Weather at Cheney State Park

Best Time to Camp at Cheney State Park

Fall delivers the best conditions, with daytime temperatures typically between 50-80°F from September into early October and steady winds for sailing. Water recreation stays strong into early fall, and trails see less weekend traffic after Labor Day. Nights cool to the 30s-50s°F range. Summer brings warmth ideal for swimming and boating. Heavy spring rains occasionally cause flooding near the shoreline. Winter camping is possible but quiet.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 25% in KS

Overview: Fall delivers the best conditions with pleasant temps and steady winds for sailing.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Cabin rentals are available year-round. Camping facilities do not have explicit seasonal closures mentioned.

About Cheney State Park

Cheney State Park offers 223 campsites spread across the east and west shores of a prairie reservoir near Wichita. Sites range from primitive to full-hookup ($13-$28/night), with cabin rentals also available. The park sits at 1,444 feet elevation where open grasslands meet tree-lined creek valleys, creating the persistent winds that draw sailors and windsports enthusiasts year-round.

Cheney State Park provides a mix of camping options, including primitive camping, RV sites with utilities, tent camping, and cabin accommodations.

Historical Significance

Cheney Lake has hosted National Sailing Regattas, establishing the reservoir as Kansas's primary sailing venue. The wind-driven culture here draws competitive sailors from across the region.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions, with daytime temperatures typically between 50-80°F from September into early October and steady winds for sailing. Water recreation stays strong into early fall, and trails see less weekend traffic after Labor Day. Nights cool to the 30s-50s°F range. Summer brings warmth ideal for swimming and boating. Heavy spring rains occasionally cause flooding near the shoreline. Winter camping is possible but quiet.

ElevationNestled within the gently rolling terrain of central Kansas, Cheney State Park's subtle topography creates the perfect canvas for both land and water adventures, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery.

Natural Features and SceneryCheney State Park surrounds the southern end of 9,500-acre Cheney Reservoir with 67 miles of shoreline, featuring open water, beaches, and prairie landscapes typical of central Kansas. The park spans 1,913 acres across Kingman and Reno counties, offering lake views and natural trails.[1][2][3]

Geological RegionSet in the heart of central Kansas's prairie ecosystem, Cheney State Park showcases the region's characteristic blend of sweeping grasslands and intimate tree-lined creek valleys. The area's unique geography creates the consistent winds that have shaped both the landscape and the park's identity as a premier destination for wind-powered recreation, where the ancient prairie meets modern adventure.

Scenic ViewsSeveral campsites offer views of Cheney Lake. Boaters often enjoy panoramic vistas of the reservoir and surrounding landscapes.

Lodging & AccommodationsEight modern cabins are available for rent on the West Shore. Reviews of the cabins are mixed. Some, like Tammy Rader, described the cabins as 'very nice and very clean,' while Ashlei McCarter found her cabin 'filthy' and 'uncomfortable.' Certain cabins, like the Catfish Cabin, are lauded for their proximity to the lake and a bait shop, with just a one-minute walk to the water.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3:00 PM for cabins, generic check-in times for campsites are not mentioned.

Check-out

12:00 PM for cabins, generic check-out times for campsites are not mentioned.

Stay Limit

Stay is limited to 14 consecutive days with a 14-day extension available with written permission from the park manager.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Only one camper/RV per utility site is allowed
specific guest limits per site are not stated.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites spread across multiple loops on both reservoir shores. The 223 electrical sites vary in spacing, with some areas feeling clustered and others more open. Primitive camping zones near dirt trails provide better separation. Not all sites have level pads. Tree cover is inconsistent across loops.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Park-Regulations.

Walk-in AvailabilityPrimitive camping is readily available, but electric and water sites fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not explicitly stated in authoritative sources.

AccessibilityThe park includes a handicap-accessible fishing complex at the Toadstool Loop jetty, consisting of a fishing pier and brush pile fish attractors.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious by some users, including Vicki Seely, who found her site 'spacious and easy to back into.' However, Robert Smiley noted that some sites do not have poured pads and are 'not totally leveled.

PrivacyPrivacy varies across the park. Some areas are described as 'clustered,' while others offer seclusion, especially around the primitive camping spots and dirt trails.

Total Campsites223 campsites

Recommended SitesThe South Loop is recommended for its popularity and cleanliness. Campers are advised to visit both sides of the reservoir to choose the best spot.

Best CampsitesEast shore campgrounds recommended for intimate feel, outstanding lake views, and proximity to boat launches (20 RV sites with electric/water). West shoreline's 53-site area for large rigs up to 70 feet. South Loop (45 sites) and central west shore (51 sites) near beaches, jetties, ramps. Avoid for big rigs if seeking views.[3][4]

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Amenities available

Cheney State Park offers a large range of amenities, combining primitive and modern facilities. Amenities include 223 electrical sites with water, 22 boat launching lanes, 10 restroom/shower houses, 2 modern restrooms, 6 vault toilets, 4 trailer dump stations, and 8 modern cabins. The park features designated swimming areas, picnic areas, and trails for hiking and biking. Boating enthusiasts can utilize 7 ramps, and a marina is available on the East Shore with supplies for boaters and fishermen. The park is known for its clean environment and well-maintained facilities, although reviews vary on the maintenance and cleanliness of specific amenities.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at Cheney State Park are abundant and cater to a variety of interests. Activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, biking, boating, wildlife viewing, cultural/educational programs, and more. The park is particularly known for its excellent sailing conditions and hosts National Sailing regattas.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWindy conditions and occasional flooding are mentioned as concerns in user reviews. Some reviews also highlight trash and cleanliness issues at certain sites.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services, including a medical clinic and hospital, are available within 10 miles from the campground. Police services can also be contacted via the park ranger.

Trash & RecyclingTrash containers are provided, and park users are required to carry out their trash where containers are unavailable. Recycling stations are available within a 10-mile radius.

Water FeaturesCheney State Park is adjacent to Cheney Lake. Several campsites are close to the water's edge, providing direct access for fishing and boating.

Camp HostHosts Sherri and Randy at the South Loop are praised by users. However, negative feedback has been given for the camp host at Smarsh Campground.

Cell CoverageT-Mobile 5G excellent; Verizon/AT&T LTE some coverage.[3]

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.0

76 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Cheney State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, user reviews highlight Cheney State Park's diverse recreational activities, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained facilities. However, issues such as inconsistent cleanliness, maintenance, and overcrowding during holidays are recurring themes.

Review Summaries

Based on 76 reviews

What Campers Love

Proximity to Wichita (17-20 miles), unique reservoir getaway, excellent fishing/boating, clean facilities, spacious sites for big rigs, swimming areas, nature trails.[3][4][5]

Based on 76 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include overcrowding during holiday weekends, inconsistent maintenance of facilities, trash in some areas, and lack of concrete pads at certain sites.

Based on 76 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The South Loop is praised for its views and friendly hosts, while some users found the Smarsh Campground less well-maintained. Sites near the water offer excellent views, though some lack concrete...

Based on 76 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Holiday minimum stays: 4 nights Memorial Weekend, 3 nights July 4th/Labor Day. Cabin rules: no pets/smoking inside, check-in after 3pm/check-out noon, no grilling on porch. Clean cabin before...

Based on 76 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter offers solitude and seclusion, with positive reviews from off-season campers. Summer, while vibrant, can experience overcrowding and cleanliness issues during holidays. Fall and spring are...

Based on 76 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The views are amazing wherever you are in the lake.' - Josiah Moler - 'Great Lake / state park for camping and fishing.' - T N - 'Loved the spot we camped at. Prepare for wind though.' - Rex...

Based on 76 reviews

Accessibility Features

The handicap-accessible fishing complex is positively noted, though no specific reviews from users with disabilities were provided.

Based on 76 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed or restrained. They are prohibited in swimming areas and public buildings. Dogs assisting visually or hearing impaired individuals are exempt from these...

Based on 76 reviews

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Go if

Sailors, motorboaters, and shore fishers chasing channel cat or white bass get the most out of this place. The South Loop has the best hosts and water views. Fall is the sweet spot: temps in the 50s-80s, wind stays strong, and holiday crowds disappear after Labor Day.

Skip if

Holiday weekends draw real crowds, beaches get trashy by July 4th, and the shower houses have minimal privacy. Campers who need level, concrete pads should confirm their site before booking since many spots lack them.

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