El Dorado State Park

4.43

211 reviews

618 NE Bluestem RD, El Dorado, Kansas, 67042, United States

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Kansas Family-Friendly Campgrounds Kansas Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Kansas +8 more

Quick Facts

1,362 ft

Price

$29 - $32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1100 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Kansas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,362 ft

Price

$29 - $32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1100 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Kansas State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

El Dorado State Park

$29.00 - $32.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees include $24 per night for a standard site, $5 daily vehicle pass, and a $3 processing fee. Full utility hookup sites may cost more.

Standard Site Fee$24.00

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

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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 211 reviews

195 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewssceneryshadespacious

"User reviews reflect a mix of opinions. Positive feedback includes comments about the park's spacious campsites, natural beauty, and variety of amenities. Negative feedback focuses on the condition of facilities and maintenance issues."

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Campground Map

618 NE Bluestem RD, El Dorado, Kansas, 67042, United States

El Dorado State Park

618 NE Bluestem RD, El Dorado, Kansas, 67042, United States

Driving directionsFrom the Kansas Turnpike: Two exits exist for El Dorado State Park. From the El Dorado North Exit, turn south on 77 Highway about 1/4 mile and then turn left onto Myers Rd. into the park. If you continue south into El Dorado, Kansas, then turn left on 12th Street, which will take you to the park. From the Cassoday exit on the turnpike, go south on 177 Highway approximately 14 miles to NE 10th Street, then turn left to the park. From the city of El Dorado, Kansas, go north on Main Street to 12th Street, then turn right to travel to the park. Alternatively, travel East from El Dorado on Central Street, approximately three miles to Bluestem Road, then turn left and travel approximately 1.5 miles to the park.

Road access is straightforward, with paved roads leading to the park. Seasonal closures are not mentioned, but user reviews advise caution regarding unclear signage on certain routes.

Nearby places

El Dorado (approx. 3 miles, 5-10 min by car), Cassoday (approx. 14 miles, 20 min by car).

Nearby supplies

Grocery stores, fuel, and camping supplies are within a few miles of the park, with reviews highlighting a grocery store approximately 2 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at El Dorado State Park

Experience the full spectrum of Kansas seasons at El Dorado, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings crisp mornings hovering around 25°F, perfect for bundling up around the campfire, while afternoons warm to a pleasant 46°F. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched paradise with temperatures soaring above 90°F, ideal for cooling off in the lake. Be prepared for dramatic summer thunderstorms that roll across the prairie, bringing refreshing rain and spectacular lightning shows that remind you of nature's power.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season with full amenities, beaches and active boating/fishing opportunities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers quieter visits and scenic changes; some services may run reduced schedules.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Mild weather and active trails/water access make spring a good season for visits.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round but cold and some services/camp areas close in off-season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak seasons are not explicitly mentioned but likely align with warmer months.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, though some campsites may close seasonally.

About El Dorado State Park

Discover endless outdoor adventures at El Dorado State Park, where 1,100 campsites spread across rolling Kansas terrain offer something for every type of camper. From secluded primitive spots perfect for stargazing to fully-equipped sites with all the modern conveniences, this expansive park welcomes families, solo adventurers, and everyone in between. Wake up to birdsong and spend your days exploring miles of scenic trails on foot, bike, or horseback, then return to camp where hot showers, laundry facilities, and clean restrooms ensure comfort meets wilderness.

El Dorado State Park offers a variety of camping accommodations, including primitive campsites, RV sites with full utility hookups, tent camping, group sites, and cabins.

Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this area awaits further documentation, the land itself tells the timeless story of Kansas prairie life, where generations have sought refuge and recreation along these waterways.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Kansas seasons at El Dorado, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter brings crisp mornings hovering around 25°F, perfect for bundling up around the campfire, while afternoons warm to a pleasant 46°F. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched paradise with temperatures soaring above 90°F, ideal for cooling off in the lake. Be prepared for dramatic summer thunderstorms that roll across the prairie, bringing refreshing rain and spectacular lightning shows that remind you of nature's power.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where sparkling waters meet prairie horizons. The park's centerpiece, a stunning man-made lake, mirrors the big Kansas sky and provides endless recreation opportunities. Ancient cottonwoods and sturdy oaks create natural cathedral ceilings throughout the campgrounds, offering blessed shade during hot summer days. Miles of smooth, paved trails wind through this diverse ecosystem, revealing hidden coves, wildlife viewing spots, and panoramic vistas that capture the essence of the Great Plains.

Geological RegionNestled in the heart of the Neosho Region, El Dorado State Park showcases the unique beauty of Kansas's river-carved landscape. This geological wonderland features the convergence of natural waterways and human engineering, where ancient river systems meet modern recreational lakes, creating a diverse aquatic playground that defines the character of southeast Kansas.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

14-day limit enforced.

Guests Allowed Per Site

One camping unit per site.

Groups

Group campsites include picnic shelters and can accommodate larger groups, but specific guest limits are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized into multiple loops and sections, some of which are primitive while others include utility hookups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the state park office, gate houses, camp hosts, or self-pay stations.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability varies; user reviews cite challenges finding a site during weekends and peak season.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled, but specific penalties are not mentioned.

AccessibilityThe park features a concrete trail designed for wheelchair access, and some campsites are accessible for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with some large enough to accommodate an RV and others suited for primitive camping. One review noted a specific site being 85 feet long and very wide.

PrivacyCampsites are 'separated a little from each other,' providing some privacy, and many sites are shaded with mature trees.

Total Campsites1100 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews suggest choosing shaded sites and those near bike trails or water features.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

El Dorado State Park provides a rich variety of activities including hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, cultural and recreational programs occasionally occur, such as Halloween events.

HikingThe park features a trail system that accommodates hiking, biking, and equestrian use. Trails vary from easy to moderate difficulty and include paved paths for biking and wooded trails.

FishingFishing is allowed in designated areas and includes opportunities in the park lake, reservoir, and nearby streams and rivers. Specific fish species were not mentioned.

SwimmingThe park offers designated swimming beaches. Alcohol is prohibited, and pets are not allowed in these areas. Some reviews noted that swim shoes might be necessary due to rocks in the water.

BikingPaved trails and roads make the park bike-friendly. It is also located near the Trans America Bicycle Trail, making it a good detour point for long-distance cyclists.

BoatingBoating is popular and supported by boat ramps and docks. Both powered and non-powered boating are accommodated.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities are available, though specific species were not mentioned.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include local wildlife, terrain, and water features. User reviews mention water shoes due to rocky lake bottoms.

Fire PolicyCampfires are limited to designated fire rings and grills.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 11 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services including hospitals and police stations are available within 10 miles of the park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash containers are provided, and all trash must be disposed of in these containers. Recycling facilities are available within 10 miles of the park.

Water FeaturesNearby water features include rivers, streams, and man-made lakes, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.

Camp HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.

Weather at El Dorado State Park

Reviews

4.4

211 reviews

Recommended

El Dorado State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reflect a mix of opinions. Positive feedback includes comments about the park's spacious campsites, natural beauty, and variety of amenities. Negative feedback focuses on the condition of facilities and maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 211 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciated the park's large, shaded, and spacious campsites, as well as its variety of activities like hiking, biking, and swimming. The park's natural scenery, including trees and the lake,...

Based on 211 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the poor condition of bathrooms and showers, with some mentioning the lack of privacy. Others pointed out maintenance issues such as broken picnic tables, unclean fire...

Based on 211 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring swim shoes for rocky beaches. Arrive during office hours or plan ahead to navigate the park, as many found it confusing without a camp host or clear signage. Utilize the laundry facilities if...

Based on 211 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Campers noted that visiting in the off-season can be quieter but also comes with reduced services, such as closed offices and unavailable maps. Summer months are busy but offer full access to...

Based on 211 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The campsites were abundant, and the pricing for a full hookup site was very inexpensive.' - 'Great place to stay!! Very clean sites. Friendly service. Quiet nights and plenty of stuff to keep you...

Based on 211 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific comments include mentions of spacious sites with full hookups, such as one site being 85 feet long and wide enough for a family gathering. Some sites are noted to be shaded and private.

Based on 211 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park offers wheelchair-accessible trails and some accessible campsites. However, no specific feedback from disabled campers was mentioned.

Based on 211 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. They are prohibited from swimming beaches. Cabins are pet-friendly with a $50 fee, but some users mentioned stricter enforcement of rules.

Based on 211 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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El Dorado State Park