Marion Cove
03 reviews2105 N. Pawnee, Marion, KS, 66861
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
17 campsites
Season
Apr 1–Dec 31 (open);...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
Reservable
Sites
17 campsites
Season
Apr 1–Dec 31 (open);...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Marion Cove
$0.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Reservation fees vary by method: $8 online/app, $9 via contact center, and $3 in-person. Peak season rates are $10 (April 1 – October 31), and...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$10.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider620-382-2101
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 3 reviews
3 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulcleansites
"Reviews of Marion Cove Campground reflect its suitability for primitive camping and its focus on activities like fishing and boating. Visitors praise the cleanliness of the campsites and the well-maintained facilities but note some drawbacks, such as noise from nearby oil pump operations during specific weather conditions."
Fees & Passes at Marion Cove
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Stay limited to 14 nights in rolling 30 days.
Cancellation: Reservations canceled the day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night’s recreatio...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Marion Cove Campground website.
Best Time to Camp at Marion Cove
From April through October, Marion Cove transforms into an outdoor paradise, with warm days perfect for lakeside adventures and cool evenings ideal for campfire stories. As autumn transitions to winter, the campground takes on a quieter charm—early spring visitors during week 12 can expect crisp mornings starting around 36°F, warming to pleasant afternoons near 55°F, accompanied by gentle breezes that whisper through the surrounding forest.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 1–October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Apr 1–Dec 31 (open); Jan 1–Mar 31 (closed)
About Marion Cove
Tucked away on the northern shores of Marion Reservoir Dam, Marion Cove Campground beckons those seeking an authentic back-to-nature experience. This intimate hideaway features 17 pristine primitive campsites, where the absence of electrical hookups invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the wilderness. Perfect for tent enthusiasts who prefer their camping experiences unspoiled and serene, Marion Cove remains one of the area's best-kept secrets, offering solitude and simplicity in equal measure.
Marion Cove Campground caters to primitive tent camping with its non-electric sites. RV camping is not explicitly supported due to the lack of hookups, but smaller RVs may be accommodated within the general tent camping policy. The campground does not offer luxury or alternative accommodations like cabins, group sites, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceSince the completion of Marion Reservoir in 1968, this expansive waterway has evolved into the heartbeat of regional recreation. For over five decades, families have created lasting memories along these shores, transforming what began as a water management project into a beloved destination where generations gather to celebrate the simple pleasures of outdoor living.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through October, Marion Cove transforms into an outdoor paradise, with warm days perfect for lakeside adventures and cool evenings ideal for campfire stories. As autumn transitions to winter, the campground takes on a quieter charm—early spring visitors during week 12 can expect crisp mornings starting around 36°F, warming to pleasant afternoons near 55°F, accompanied by gentle breezes that whisper through the surrounding forest.
Natural Features and SceneryMarion Cove sits at the edge of an outdoor wonderland, where 6,200 acres of shimmering water meet 6,000 acres of pristine public forest. Wake to misty mornings over the reservoir, spend days exploring hidden coves and forest trails, and end your evenings watching the sun paint the water in shades of gold and crimson. This spectacular natural canvas changes with each season, offering photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers endless opportunities to discover something new.
Geological RegionNestled where dense woodland meets the sparkling expanse of Marion Reservoir, the campground occupies a unique position in this water-carved landscape. The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of towering trees that frame spectacular lake views, while the interplay of land and water has shaped a diverse ecosystem that serves as home to abundant wildlife and offers visitors a front-row seat to nature's daily performances.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for Marion Cove Campground.
Sites SizeCampsites are of standard size for tents, with no mention of oversized options to accommodate larger groups or RVs.
Sites PrivacyNo specific details about privacy levels at the campsites are provided.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1–6 are recommended for their shelters and picnic amenities.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 14 nights in rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Three tents or two tents and one RV permitted per campsite.
Groups
No group camping facilities or policies are outlined.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are grouped into loops; sites 1–6 feature shelters, and sites 7–17 offer basic firepits.
Open and Closed SeasonApr 1–Dec 31 (open); Jan 1–Mar 31 (closed)
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov website, app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled the day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night’s recreation use fee. Reservations canceled earlier than one day prior incur only the $10 cancellation fee. No-show fees are $20.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Marion Cove Campground offers a range of recreational activities that center around its natural surroundings. Visitors frequently engage in camping, fishing, and boating, all of which benefit from the campground’s proximity to Marion Reservoir and its abundant aquatic resources. The two-lane boat ramp facilitates easy water access for anglers and recreational boaters.
Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Marion Cove Campground, with anglers targeting species like channel catfish, walleye, white bass, and wipers. The lake's proximity and the availability of a nearby boat ramp enhance fishing opportunities. User reviews compliment the fishing experience, even during colder weather.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Marion Cove Campground. Visitors have access to a two-lane boat ramp, making it convenient to launch boats into Marion Reservoir.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically highlighted, but fishing and camping are noted as ongoing even in late December.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned, but the availability of a boat ramp suggests potential opportunities for such activities.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with designated fire rings provided.
Hazards
General hazardsSome noise disturbances from nearby oil well pumps during north winds, according to a user review.
Weather at Marion Cove
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13.3 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1–October 31
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Marion Reservoir, which features abundant fishing opportunities and a boat ramp.
Common complaints"With a north wind you could hear an oil well pump that seemed loud even though the well was a good distance off," according to a user review.
Host"Would be nice to see the camp host," stated by a user review.
Campground Map
2105 N. Pawnee, Marion, KS, 66861
Nearby places
Marion (approximately 3 miles)
Hillsboro (approximately 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearby cities of Marion and Hillsboro offer grocery stores, restaurants, and other supplies.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
3 reviews
Marion Cove has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Marion Cove Campground reflect its suitability for primitive camping and its focus on activities like fishing and boating. Visitors praise the cleanliness of the campsites and the well-maintained facilities but note some drawbacks, such as noise from nearby oil pump operations during specific weather conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers frequently mention the cleanliness of the campsites, with one user stating, "One of the cleanest I have experienced. No broken glass or trash. Very well maintained." The fishing and boating...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
One recurring issue mentioned by a user is the noise from a distant oil well when the wind comes from the north, which can affect the tranquility of the site. Additionally, there is a desire for more...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest selecting sites closer to the community water hydrant (site 1) if easy water access is a priority. They also recommend being prepared for a minimalistic camping experience due to the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors report enjoying the campground even during colder months, such as late December, with open restrooms and good fishing conditions. However, the lack of electric hookups might make it less...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Nice two ramp with a small dock...Fishing was good, as cold as it was. No issues, the park is well taken care of." - Tyler Dixon; "Camp site was one of the cleanest I have experienced... No broken...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 (Loop: Main) is noted for its cleanliness, while site 15 is described as being well-equipped with 15, 30, and 50 amp plugs, though this review conflicts with official descriptions of the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No user reviews explicitly address accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically mention experiences with pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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0 review
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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