Does Blackthorn Retreat have toilets?

Yes — toilets are available at every site at Blackthorn Retreat.

Is drinking water available at Blackthorn Retreat?

Yes — potable water is available at every site at Blackthorn Retreat. Full convenience store 1.5 miles away.

Does Blackthorn Retreat have showers?

Yes — showers are available at every site at Blackthorn Retreat.

Does Blackthorn Retreat have picnic tables?

Yes — picnic tables are available at every site at Blackthorn Retreat.

Does Blackthorn Retreat have cooking equipment?

Yes — cooking equipment is available at every site at Blackthorn Retreat.

Does Blackthorn Retreat have a playground?

A playground is available at 13 of 14 sites at Blackthorn Retreat.

Does Blackthorn Retreat have wifi?

Wifi is available at 11 of 14 sites at Blackthorn Retreat.

Does Blackthorn Retreat have trash disposal?

Yes — trash disposal is available at every site at Blackthorn Retreat.

How do you get to the sites at Blackthorn Retreat?

2WD accessible. Short walk at some sites; drive in at the rest. Wheelchair accessible at some sites.

Are pets allowed at Blackthorn Retreat?

No — pets are not allowed at Blackthorn Retreat.

Are campfires allowed at Blackthorn Retreat?

Yes — campfires are allowed at Blackthorn Retreat. Always review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.

What is the check-in process at Blackthorn Retreat?

You'll meet and greet with your host Dave upon arrival.

What is the cancellation policy at Blackthorn Retreat?

Full refund 3 days before check in time starts.

What time is check-in and check-out at Blackthorn Retreat?

Check-in at 2pm. Check-out times vary by site.

How far in advance can you book, and how long can you stay at Blackthorn Retreat?

Book up to 12 months ahead. Same-day bookings at some sites; the others need 12 hours' notice. Stay up to 29 nights depending on the site.

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Blackthorn Retreat

Hosted by Dave · Randolph, Kansas

14 sites · RV, Tent, Lodging · 101 acres

99%

200 reviews

Best Hipcamps in Kansas

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2026.

Best in Kansas: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

Staff verified

Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

Dave is a Star Host

Star Hosts are highly rated, responsive, and committed to providing incredible experiences.

Blackthorn Retreat is a private campground unlike anywhere else in the area. Our campsites are nestled among towering oak, osage orange, walnut, and cedar trees. The result is a forest sanctuary where nature still thrives, wildlife roams freely, and campers can find both solitude and adventure. Here you’ll find a variety of ways to stay: dispersed camping under the trees, secluded sites for maximum privacy, canvas tents already set on wooden decks, a group gathering space, small cabins, and even areas for hammocks, RVs, and camper trailers. Every site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, and all guests enjoy access to clean porta johns, a hot-water outdoor shower, potable water, an electronics charging station, and plenty of communal amenities—a massive BBQ grill, multiple fire rings, a pavilion, clay pizza oven, and a playground for the kids. Beyond your campsite, 80 acres of woods, winding trails, and a river are yours to explore. Whether you’re here to watch wildlife, listen for the birds at dawn, share stories by the fire, or simply slow down and breathe in the stillness, Blackthorn Retreat is ready to welcome you. Adventure awaits—come see for yourself.

Select a site

Tent-only sites

3 sites

The Swing Camp

98%

(25)

Tent site · Sleeps 6

During the exploration of our woods we found a tree that needed an old fashioned swing. This campsite is perfect for kids age 5-90. The fully shaded campsite has room for two tents and trees for hammocks. It includes a picnic table, fire ring and, of course, the old fashioned board swing. Parking is about 20 feet away and you can see your vehicle from camp. The porta john and central gathering area is about a three minute walk away. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Camp Ash!

96%

(13)

Tent site · Sleeps 6

Camp Ash is tucked into the woods but still close to wifi! This secluded little spot has room for up to three tents, a large picnic table and large fire ring. Fully shaded by evergreen trees, no good for sun tanning but great in the summer heat! Perfect for a family or small group of friends. This is a walk in spot with parking a couple hundred feet away. You can hear traffic from the road although it decreases significantly during the night. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Group Camping in the Woods

100%

(3)

Tent site · Sleeps 20

This campsite easily accommodates groups up to about 20 people. Laid out in a semi circle with tent sites around the edges. There's room for five, 6 person dome tents (10'x12') with one spot being 16'x20' for a large cabin or bell type tent. This mostly shaded area has a large fire ring, two large picnic tables, and a counter/food prep station for your use. Supplies can be unloaded right at camp but parking is about a minute walk away. The porta john is about a minute walk the other direction. The main gathering area, clay pizza oven and outdoor shower is about a three minute walk away. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

RV/tent sites (dispersed)

6 sites

Blackthorn Basecamp

100%

(85)

RV/tent site · Sleeps 6 · Vehicles under 20 ft

Setup a tent, hang a hammock or stay in one of our primitive structures. Blackthorn-USA is an Outdoor Adventure School in Randolph, KS. teaching Primitive Skills, Bushcraft, Homesteading and more. Our campsites range from moderately secluded, semi groomed areas to completely wild and untraveled. Off road vehicle parks, ziplines, kayak rentals and outstanding hunting and fishing are just a short drive away. Our forests of cedar, oak, walnut, osage orange, cottonwood and more, along with our close proximity to water, provide excellent habitat for whitetail deer, raccoon, bobcat, fox, beaver, muskrat and many others. Many birds make their home here as well. It’s not uncommon to see turkey, hawks and eagles during the day or hear various owls at night. The Flint Hills provides us with an abundance of flint and other unique rocks from glacial deposits. The diversity of plants, trees, wildlife and other natural resources make this an ideal place to learn, grow and relax under the stars.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

No electrical hookup

No water hookup

Lodging

5 sites

The Gothic Pod

100%

(62)

Glamping pod · Sleeps 2 · 1 bed · 1 toilet

Our Gothic Pod is based on the ancient Gothic Arch design. It features: Full Size Bed Mini-Fridge Microwave Air Conditioning Heat Free WiFi USB Ports Fire Ring And access to our 80 acre wooded camping area with multiple fire rings, a clay pizza oven, trails, creek access and more! Notice! This Pod has a ceiling height of 6' 2". If you are tall, consider our Gothic Pod 2 which has a higher ceiling. Thanks!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Gothic Pod 2

98%

(30)

Glamping pod · Sleeps 2 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet

Our Gothic Pod 2 is based on the ancient Gothic Arch design. It features: Full Size Bed Mini-Fridge Microwave Air Conditioning Heat Free WiFi USB Ports Fire Ring And access to our 80 acre wooded camping area with multiple fire rings, a clay pizza oven, trails, creek access and more!

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Bell Ravine

97%

(16)

Bell tent · Sleeps 6 · 1 bedroom · 4 beds · 1 toilet

Spend a weekend in our 3 meter canvas Bell Tent. This elevated, platform tent is perched on a rock outcropping overlooking a small valley. It's not uncommon to see deer walking through or squirrels playing in the valley below while sitting on the deck. This campsite is walk in with parking a couple hundred feet away. The porta john is about a two minute walk and the central gathering area about 3 minutes away. This is a moderately secluded spot off the main trail. A picnic table and fire ring are provided. Room for an extra tent for kids, friends or even a screened popup canopy. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Rock Ridge

100%

(13)

Canvas tent · Sleeps 4 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 toilet

Spend the weekend in this 7'x7' canvas pyramid tent perched on the edge of a rock outcropping. Mostly shaded by large Oak and Walnut trees. Fully screened doors on both sides for air flow and the views. Comes with a full size inflatable mattress. Free firewood for this new site in 2023! This campsite is walk in with parking about a minute away. The porta john is about a two minute walk and the central gathering area about 3 minutes away. This is a moderately secluded spot off the main trail. A picnic table and fire ring are provided. Room for an extra tent for kids, friends or even a screened popup canopy. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, the central gathering area, wood pizza oven, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore.

Short walk to site

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Shepherds Wagon

100%

(1)

Shepherd's hut · Sleeps 3 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet

Step back in time and experience the cozy charm of a traditional shepherd’s wagon, used for centuries by shepherds tending their flocks. This rustic yet inviting space combines history with comfort—your own little kitchen, dining room, bedroom, and retreat all rolled into one. The shepherds wagon features a full size bed, bench seating, a slide out table and various cabinets and cupboards to keep your camp organized. A fold out bed can be used for an additional person. Windows on each end with screens to let the fresh air in while keeping the bugs out. Enjoy a weekend getaway with campfire cooking and covered wagon living! This campsite is drive up and parking is at the site. The portal john is about a 5 minute walk and the central gathering area about 6 minutes away. This is a moderately secluded spot off the main trail. A picnic table and fire ring are provided. Room for an extra tent for kids, friends or even a screened popup canopy. You also have access to our 80 acre wooded property, trails, creek access and plenty of places to explore. With abundant wildlife, tranquil surroundings, and a truly unique stay in the shepherd’s wagon, this is the perfect getaway for nature lovers, families, or anyone craving peace under the stars.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Reviews

99%· 250 reviews

Themes

Review summary
Generated from real Hipcamper reviews
Campers have consistently praised the campsite for its serene and private setting, with many appreciating the opportunity to connect with nature. Host Dave is frequently described as friendly, accommodating, and attentive to guests' needs. The property offers a variety of amenities including trails, a playground, and outdoor showers, which many guests found convenient and enjoyable. While positive feedback is dominant, those seeking a more structured camping experience might want to consider the rustic nature of the site.
Kade P.
Camped at Rock Ridge, Oct 2026.
Recommends
Great host, helped us out last second when we needed a place to camp
Scott G.
Tent camped at Blackthorn Basecamp, Oct 2026.
Recommends
Hidden gem in Kansas… great host… great location… great privacy… nature galore, heard every type of animal Kansas has to offer…
Stephen T.
Camped in a 15 ft travel trailer at Blackthorn Basecamp, Oct 2026.
Recommends
This site was quiet and peaceful, the outdoor shower was very welcome after a long drive, and Dave was very accommodating!

Amenities

Fire pitsFirewood provided, Firepit, Communal, Wood burning fireplace
Portable toilets
Potable waterSpigot, Pump or well
ShowersHot water
Picnic tables
WifiAt some sites
Trash disposalRecycling bin, Trash bin
Cooking equipmentCommunal, Private, Pizza oven, Grill over firepit, BBQ
PlaygroundAt some sites
No electricity hookup
No water hookup
No laundry
No hot tub

Things to know

Walk-in access at some sites2WD accessible. Short walk at some sites; drive in at the rest. Wheelchair accessible at some sites.
No pets allowedPets can't join this trip.
Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
Check-in processYou'll meet and greet with your host Dave upon arrival.
Cancellation policyFull refund 3 days before check in time starts.
Check-in and check-outCheck-in at 2pm. Check-out times vary by site.
Booking windowBook up to 12 months ahead. Same-day bookings at some sites; the others need 12 hours' notice. Stay up to 29 nights depending on the site.

Extras

Firewood bundle$8.00 per itemStart your stay off right with a large bundle of firewood waiting for you at your campsite. Eastern Red Cedar wood makes a cheerful, crackling fire and insects hate the smoke.
Gallon of Drinking Water$3.00 per itemA gallon of drinking water just like you'd find in the store, except we'll have it waiting for you at your campsite.
Unlimited Firewood$40.00 per itemA pallet of split, dry firewood. Great for groups or cold fall days.
Late Checkout$10.00 per nightAn extra hour in the campsite and an extra 3 hours on property. Perfect for when you want to sleep in but still spend some time exploring, hiking or just enjoying some lunch.
Smoked Ribs$15.00 per itemHalf rack of fully cooked, dry rub, KC style ribs wrapped in foil. Just heat up and enjoy. Order two and you get the full rack cut in half. Locally raised, processed and smoked.
12 Farm Fresh Eggs$6.00 per itemOne dozen chicken eggs from a farm right down the road.
6 Farm Fresh Eggs$3.00 per itemHalf a dozen chicken eggs from a farm right down the road.
Pitched tent$25.00 per itemA dome tent for up to 4 adults set-up and ready to go at your campsite. Great for folks without tents, friends or kids who want to camp "on their own".
Smores Kit$10.00 per itemHersey's chocolate bars, marshmallows, graham crackers and fudge stripe cookies. Everything you need to make a pile of smores.
10' Pop-Up Canopy$20.00 per itemA 10' pop-up canopy set up and waiting for you at your campsite. Perfect for shade or keeping your picnic table dry during an unexpected rain shower. Additional days -- $15/each.
2 Burgers & 2 Brats$30.00 per itemBrats and 1/3 pound burgers for a little variety. Thawed and ready for you to throw on the fire or grill. Comes with buns, assorted condiment packs and a pan of homemade potatoes.
Propane Heater$20.00 per nightMr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater. Perfect for tents and campers but powerful enough to heat up a cabin in all but the coldest of days. CSA certified for safe indoor and outdoor use. Includes one canister of propane gas (additional canisters can be purchased -- $7/each.
Power Station$25.00 per nightThe BLUETTI Power Station offers 268 Watt Hours will keep you going on any adventure. Numerous powering options including: two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, two AC outlets and 12V output. Additional days-- $10/each.
Fire Log (Swedish Candle)$15.00 per itemA Swedish Fire Log and fire starter for cooking, gathering around or just a unique experience.
Private Porta John$120.00 per itemA fresh , clean porta john waiting for you close to your campsite. This extra is required for groups of 18 or more. Or anyone who would just like their own. This fee covers one week.
Fire Class$20.00 per itemLearn to get a campfire going in any conditions. 1/2 hour minimum and probably longer depending on how much you like playing with fire. We'll cover tinder, kindling, fire prep and multiple ways of ignition.
Electric Hook-up$10.00 per nightAt select sitesThis is available to our Park-N-Go guests only. 110 volt, 20 amp plug-in and extension cord to run to your vehicle.
Bounce House$50.00 per item3 hours playtime with a Obstacle Course style bounce house for kids up to 100 pounds. We'll do the setup and take down, the kids just have fun and burn energy! Great for birthday parties! Additional hours -- $15/each.
4 Burgers & 4 Brats$60.00 per itemBrats and 1/3 pound burgers for a little variety. Thawed and ready for you to throw on the fire or grill. Comes with buns, assorted condiment packs and a pan of homemade potatoes.
4 Brats$30.00 per item4 Bratwurst from locally raised and processed pork. Thawed and ready for you to throw on the fire or grill. Comes with buns, assorted condiment packs and a pan of homemade potatoes.
4 Burgers$40.00 per item4 - 1/3 pound, locally raised and processed beef burgers. Thawed and ready for you to throw on the fire or grill. Comes with buns, assorted condiment packs and a pan of homemade potatoes.