Hillsboro Cove

Star4.46
206 reviews
2105 N. PAWNEE, MARION, KS, 66861-9740, USA
Scenic ViewsFishingSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,368 ft

Price

$16 - $21/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

51 campsites

Season

Open April 1 - Decem...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Hillsboro Cove site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Hillsboro Cove
$16.00 - $21.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates for individual sites range from $18 to $21 per night while non-peak season rates range from $16 to $19 per night. Group sites are...
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Standard Site Fee$19.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
620-382-2101
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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 206 reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanshowersrestrooms

"User sentiment about Hillsboro Cove is generally positive, with many praising its cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to water. However, concerns about maintenance, reservation issues, and absent gate attendants occasionally surfaced."

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Campground Map

2105 N. PAWNEE, MARION, KS, 66861-9740, USA

Hillsboro Cove

2105 N. PAWNEE, MARION, KS, 66861-9740, USA

Driving directionsFrom Marion, Kansas, take Highway 56 for about five miles. Turn right on Nighthawk, then turn right again into the park.
The campground is easily accessible from major roads, including Highway 56. Roads within the campground are in need of patching, according to user reviews.
Nearby places
Marion (5 miles), Hillsboro (approximately 10 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be obtained in nearby Marion and Hillsboro.

Best Time to Camp at Hillsboro Cove

Experience the dynamic beauty of Kansas through changing seasons at Hillsboro Cove. Winter transforms the landscape into a crisp, serene wonderland perfect for those seeking solitude and stark beauty. As spring awakens the surrounding forests, comfortable temperatures invite outdoor adventures, while summer brings warm days ideal for water activities. Seasoned campers often note the refreshing breezes that sweep across the reservoir, keeping even the warmest afternoons pleasant and providing perfect conditions for sailing enthusiasts.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 8% in KS

Peak season for boating, swimming and fishing (Apr–Oct); high activity and water recreation.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in KS

Fall noted as particularly serene with pleasant weather and fewer crowds in reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring brings higher lake levels and active water recreation; good but busier than fall.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Campground closed part of winter (open through Dec 31); winter offers solitude but limited services.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 1 - October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open April 1 - December 31, 2025.

About Hillsboro Cove

Nestled along the pristine shores of Marion Reservoir, Hillsboro Cove beckons as a peaceful waterfront sanctuary where families gather and anglers cast their lines into crystal-clear waters. This cherished retreat features 51 thoughtfully positioned campsites and a spacious group camping area, all embraced by the gentle sounds of lapping waves and rustling forest leaves. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, hiking scenic trails, or simply watching the sunset paint the water golden, Hillsboro Cove offers an authentic escape into nature's embrace.
Hillsboro Cove accommodates diverse camping preferences with individual, group, and RV sites featuring electric hookups.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights within 30 days

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Hillsboro Cove offers a diverse range of activities, including fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, swimming, and hunting. Reviews often highlight excellent fishing opportunities and easy water access.
FishingFishing is highly rated, with opportunities to catch Channel Catfish, Walleye, White Bass, Wipers, and White Crappie. Guests appreciate the readily accessible boat ramp.
SwimmingSwimming is supported with accessible swimming sites near the campground, providing safe water access.
BoatingBoating is a prominent activity with a boat ramp available, making it convenient for guests to explore the reservoir.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a popular activity, with deer, pelicans, blue herons, sea gulls, and eagles frequently observed.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention dead trees that need removal and occasional water pump issues at some sites. Windy conditions are common.

Weather at Hillsboro Cove

Reviews

4.5
206 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Hillsboro Cove is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Hillsboro Cove is generally positive, with many praising its cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to water. However, concerns about maintenance, reservation issues, and absent gate attendants occasionally surfaced.
Review Summaries
Based on 206 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests frequently noted clean facilities, friendly staff, and large, well-maintained campsites. "Restrooms and showers are always clean," said one user, and another highlighted, "Beautiful campground...
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Based on 206 reviews

Common Concerns

Several complaints included maintenance issues, such as outdated electrical hookups and vault toilets lacking exhaust fans. Reservation system challenges and absent gate attendants also caused...
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Based on 206 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend booking early, bringing water for sites without hookups, and choosing waterfront spots for the best experience. "Great views of the water, right around the bend from the swimming...
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Based on 206 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is a particularly serene season, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Winter reviews noted the solitude but also colder amenities. Spring and summer often bring higher lake levels and more...
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Based on 206 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Beautiful view of the reservoir with level parking and a fire ring with an adjustable grill." 2. "Restrooms and showers are always clean. Easy water access for boats, kayaks, canoes." 3. "The...
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Based on 206 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback highlights differences in amenities and experiences. For example, campers at site #044 often mentioned its great views and proximity to the swimming beach. Site #052 was...
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Based on 206 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility feedback is limited, with no explicit reviews addressing features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 206 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet owners appreciated the open grassy areas and trails, making it suitable for long walks. "We have a four-legged kid who camps with us so we really enjoy the large grassy areas for long walks," one...
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Based on 206 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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