The best river, stream, or creek camping in Kansas

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your one-stop destination for camping in the United States. If you're looking to camp near a river in Kansas, you're in luck! With over 169 options available, you'll have plenty of choices to find the perfect spot. Whether you prefer the serene C2T Ranch on the Saline River with 712 rave reviews, the peaceful oasis of The Light Center with 159 reviews, or the secluded beauty of Blackthorn Retreat with 98 reviews, you'll find the ideal campsite for your river adventure. And with popular amenities like pet-friendly areas, showers, and trash facilities, you'll have all the comforts you need. Plus, you can enjoy activities like exploring historic sites, engaging in snow sports, and fishing to make your camping experience even more memorable. So pack your gear and get ready for an amazing camping trip in Kansas!

95% (2.6K) 2,927 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kansas

C2T Ranch on the Saline River

1. C2T Ranch on the Saline River

99%
(2662)
Plainville, KS · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
You won't believe you are still in Kansas! C2T Ranch is a working regenerative cattle ranch, with over 4 miles of Saline River running through it. Amazing 150' tall limestone cliffs rise above river and several spring fed creeks feed into the river. There is hiking galore in the canyons or on the cliffs, fishing in the rivers, or bird watching on the native prairie above the cliffs. Fossil hunters can find a variety of fossilized shells, as well as native septarian and calcite for the rockhounds. Our picturesque, secluded campground has primitive and powered campsites, plus several glamping tent, all dispersed along an amazing horseshoe bend of the Saline River, each with direct river access. We're only a 20 minute drive north of Hays, Kansas and I-70, come visit us today!
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The Light Center

2. The Light Center

98%
(463)
Baldwin City, KS · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging
The Light Center is a 95 acre natural sanctuary nestled in a wooded creek valley amidst the farm land of Kansas. • We have a refinished community barn with two private rooms and a community kitchen, a 30ft Pacific Yurt and lots of great places to camp. • If you're just driving through or want an 'easy' camping experience with wifi, pitch your tent in the spacious yard around the barn. • We have lots of places to hike to and several wonderful remote camping spots. Choose from hiking out to camp near the large creek that winds through our land, gathering with friends in a meadow or tucking into a spot in the woods with a beautiful view of the Kansas plains. • Out here, on a clear night, you can see all of the stars. We are an organic, sustainable farm providing natural sacred spaces for hiking and camping. We welcome peaceful camping for people with reverence for the land and all beings. We have goats, free-range chickens, guinea hens, dogs and cats. For the safety of our livestock and other guests, we do require visitors to keep their dogs on a leash at all times. The Light Center is a retreat center serving as a beacon, lighting the way into a vibrant future. We are creating new paths with open hearts. We offer events, celebrations and ceremonies about harmonizing with the earth and inspiring personal, local and global connections. We provide a safe space to nurture and inspire spiritual growth and empower youth.
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Fun Family Farm - Overview

3. Fun Family Farm - Overview

99%
(72)
Robinson, KS · 16 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Fun Family Farm (FFF) near Robinson, KS is an organic farm where our hobby is creating fun! This entry is to give you an overview of the farm and also in case you want to hold a laid-back, nature-oriented, special event at the FFF, where our mantra is, “nothing will be perfect, but everything will be fine.” So, if you are looking for artificial perfection, look elsewhere. This is camping, not Glamping! ---For any of the guest houses, bring your own linens or sleeping bags, or rent from us. ---The Blue Bedroom has a double bed in it, as does the Hippie Van. Both have either air conditioners or heaters as needed. ---The Big Yellow Bus has a queen bed and two sets of bunk beds in addition to a wood stove, air conditioner, small refrigerator, and a microwave. ---Braden's Brown Bus has a double bed and a futon, air conditioner, sink and a small refrigerator. ---The Hippie Van is a painted VW van with the seats removed and a double bed built in. AC and Heat are available. Some of the fun we create on the farm includes: ---Super-deluxe horseshoe pit and dart board ---Lots of rural roads, paved and unpaved for bike riding (bring your own bike) --- Smallish pond with a beach for swimming ---Creek for wading and looking for fossils ---Several fire-pits with seating ---Lots of shaded sitting areas for visiting and flowers for viewing ---Mowed trails through the woods ---Lawn games including lighted bocce ball ---Playground equipment and a large sandbox for the kids ---Cows, pigs, ducks, geese, turkeys, and chickens at various stages of growth depending upon the time of year. ---If the weather is right, an ice skating rink Amenities Include: ---An Outdoor shower ---Fire-pits with hot dog sticks, grates, and seating ---Gas Grill ---Access to town water for drinking ---Access to well water for sand and water play ---Two NICE outhouses in the barnyard (one is known to the local children as “the magic bathroom” due to its blue lighting) ---Seldom used outhouse at the pond. If you are interested in renting the entire farm for a family reunion or wedding etc., message us at least 6 months in advance and we will be able to block off the dates you are requesting.
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Council Grove Lake

4. Council Grove Lake

100%
(2)
Park in Kansas · 119 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Council Grove Lake and its outdoor adventures.
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Wilson Lake

5. Wilson Lake

100%
(3)
Park in Kansas · 268 sites
Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Wilson Lake.
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Boyer's Lake

6. Boyer's Lake

Iola, KS · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape the city and immerse yourself in nature at our private lakeside retreat—a hidden gem for campers who crave peace, privacy, and breathtaking night skies. Nestled far from the glare of city lights, this is the perfect spot for stargazing, where the Milky Way stretches across the sky in dazzling clarity. Wake up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the occasional call of farm animals in the distance. During the day, watch bald eagles soaring overhead and nesting nearby. Bring your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore the calm waters—though swimming is not permitted. Love to fish? Cast a line and enjoy catch-and-release fishing right from the shore or your non-motorized watercraft. Each campsite includes a fire ring, making it easy to gather around a cozy fire under the stars. A porta-potty is available nearby for your convenience. Need firewood? Bundles are available for just $5 to keep your campfire glowing. This is a true off-the-grid experience, so come prepared—no running water or electricity, just unspoiled beauty and tranquility. Whether you're looking for a peaceful solo getaway or a quiet retreat with friends, this private oasis offers the perfect setting to reconnect with nature. Book your stay now and experience the magic of this hidden lakeside escape!
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Glamping the Flint Hills

7. Glamping the Flint Hills

99%
(119)
Junction City, KS · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tYHWJySa7pag2UEH2Awz8SA2tkbGhoXzDCdi7HzY_lI/edit?usp=sharing Once an old property of the railroad, then old dairy farm, now the property of a retired Army combat veteran: Equine Estates Rustic Ranch has over 80 acres of land and hosts the beauty of the Flint Hills of Kansas, seclusion of the great outdoors, and yet the location to all the amenities of the city just minutes away. Located just minutes from interstate 70, our home is easily accessible for the travelers both near and far. Our property can accommodate trailers with water and electric, tents, or even stay in one of our Glamping Bell tents or Rent a Tents.
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Inntirety Forest Healing Center

8. Inntirety Forest Healing Center

96%
(51)
Edwardsville, KS · 5 sites
Transform Your Story Into A Fairytale. Reawaken Your Inner Child & Reconnect With Your Authentic Self In A 5-acre Enchanted Forest. The Inntirety Healing Center is a wilderness retreat and glamping area in Kansas City, KS. It offers a path for awakening your body, heart, and mind and restoring harmony with life through self-discovery and emergence into the senses. Inntirety is a forest restoration project powered by love, and it will forever be a work in progress! The camping areas and trails leading to them are groomed, finished, and regularly maintained. Please consider that Inntirety is not in the 'luxury' camping category, as this is not our intention. We try to integrate into the natural setting and provide an intimate and immersive experience by combining earthing, exploration, play, and discovery. We have beautiful and unique amenities, including a forest barrel sauna, a wood fire-heated clawfoot tub flower bath experience, a mini zipline, an outdoor shower, and hanging tree pods. Finally, enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, which you can self-prepare! We supply homemade waffle mix, oatmeal, coffee, and tea. This land holds so much history, and unfortunately, prior inhabitants used a small area within this beautiful forest as a dumping ground for old appliances, car parts, and other retired debris. We are carefully working on removing and restoring this space as we can. As a nod to the prior inhabitants of this land, we are carefully collecting any artifacts found and reintegrating them into our building projects or transforming them into found-object art pieces. 10 minutes from The Legends, Speedway, and American Royal(coming soon). 10 minutes from Azura Amphitheater & Renissance Festival Grounds. 20 minutes from Downtown Kansas City, Historic River Market KC, The Crossroads. 20 minutes from Overland Park Convention Center. We are a substance, alcohol-free area for many reasons. A bottle of wine is acceptable, but Inntirety is a place of healing and exploration. Thank you for observing this request. We live on the property in the main house. Google Maps is mildly accurate, but it is like saying we are located at our neighbor's property. The house is green and has a wrap-around deck. If you aren't sure, please feel free to text me. We want to acknowledge that Inntirety Healing Center is on the traditional, ancestral, and current home of Native Americans, Indigenous, and First Nations people. We ask you to join us in acknowledging the many tribal groups from our area, including the Jíwere, Kaw/Kansa, Otoe-Missouria, Shawnee, and Kickapoo tribes. We honor the elders, both past and present, and this calls us to continue to learn their stories and how to be better stewards of the land we occupy. Camping/Glamping Sites We have four glamping areas: two bell tents, a vintage pop-up camper, a tiny treehouse cabin, and a more primitive camping area with a tee-pee-style tent. Each site has a firepit or chiminea. If it is unsafe to burn, we will let you know. If conditions are dangerous for burning, each site has a mini BBQ grill. It is very important to keep your door zipped or shut. We try our hardest to keep bugs out so you are comfortable within. Each site has insense, and this is a magical bug detourant. Inntirety Cafe / Lounge Mini-Kitchen Area If you don't feel like cooking or preparing your morning coffee at your site, you can use the community mini-kitchen area in the Inntirety Cafe. There are cooking utensils, a 2-burner electric stovetop, a French press, an electric kettle, and pots and pans. There is also a water station within the kitchen area. There is complimentary coffee, tea, creamer, sugar, butter, cooking oil, and a few other items for cooking. Please clean up the area if you decide to use the community mini-kitchen. * We do not have running water inside the community area, but a sink is set up near the Forest Sauna for washing dishes. Inntirety Lounge Our community lounge is located within the Inntirety Cafe. Inside, you will find books, games, art supplies, and more. You are welcome to cool off, chill out, and relax during your stay. If you would like to borrow a book, game, etc., to return it to your campsite, please return it upon leaving. Solar Shower Just outside of the Forest Sauna is a solar shower with a small changing area. We have a water warming station near the outdoor sink to use for your shower. Inside the cafe, there is a laundry basket you can place your laundry in after you are done. Body wash, shampoo, and conditioner are in a basket by the shower. Solar Shower Instructions: If you want a warm shower, plug in the water heater near the sink. It takes about 1 hour to heat the water. Fill the white bucket with water. Walk over to the solar shower area and place it on the cinder blocks. Put water pump in the bucket. To turn on the pump, press the button for 3 seconds first and then once to activate. Groomed Trails The Inntirety forest has a groomed trail about a 3/4 mile loop. If you go off the trail, please be aware that you will probably get poison ivy, ticks, and other things you might not want to bring home as a souvenir. Please stay on the trails. Zip Line We have a 100ft zip line that guests are free to use. Please sign a waiver in the lounge before usage. Forest Spa Add-Ons: Wilderness Barrel Sauna Please let us know if you would like to use the sauna. It takes some time for it to heat up. Further instruction is at the sauna. We will ask that you sign a liability release if you want to use the sauna.
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Wathena Riverfront Campground

9. Wathena Riverfront Campground

96%
(14)
Wathena, KS · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
It is a private camping club which is made up of 10 waterfront acres along the main channel/current of the majestic Missouri River. It is about 2.5 miles SW of Wathena, KS and is bordered by Walnut creek to the south and a small creek just north of the boat ramp. We do not have staff on site on a scheduled basis. Campground and riverfont access is for registered guest only, there are no public facilities. Larger RV sites with electric only (30 amp camper plugs). The nearest RV dump station is at Love's Truck stop in St. Joseph 14 miles to the East. Each site has its own fire ring. You may bring your own wood or buy some at Casey's in Wathena. There is a hydrant near the elevated deck which is supplied with city water in case you need to fill jugs. Feel free to fish and enjoy shore fires along the banks of the Missouri River, but do so at your own risk and supervise minors at all times. Remember to bring your own fishing gear for an immersive experience by the water. Experience the tranquility of the riverfront and make the most of your stay. There is a fairly steep boat ramp past site 10. There are public boat ramps that are maintained in nearby Elwood, St. Joseph (near the Casino) and Atchison. This ramp can only be used by registered campground guest only and users assume all risk to themselves and property. The campground is at the original steamboat landing and downtown of the now ghost town of Palermo, KS. Nearby town of Wathena (2.5 miles) is the site of the beginning of the California Trail where settlers were let off at the river NE of town (area and trail is marked) and headed west. The Pony Express started at nearby St. Joseph, MO (9 miles) and passed through the area. It has a museum. Wathena has Star 36 Diner (breakfast, lunch and supper), the legendary Dairy Barn (ice cream and food options), VFW bar, quilting store.
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El Dorado State Park

10. El Dorado State Park

88%
(4)
State park in Kansas · 847 sites
El Dorado State Park: A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts.
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Kanopolis State Park

11. Kanopolis State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Kansas · 147 sites
Discover Kanopolis State Park's rugged beauty and outdoor adventures.
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Cross Timbers State Park

12. Cross Timbers State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Kansas · 155 sites
Discover Cross Timbers State Park's diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures.
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Electrical hookup
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Fall River State Park

13. Fall River State Park

100%
(1)
State park in Kansas · 168 sites
Discover Fall River State Park's diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures.
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Geist Family Farms

14. Geist Family Farms

100%
(47)
Topeka, KS · 1 site · Tent, RV
Geist Family Farms is a beautiful, peaceful 25 acres just north of Topeka, Kansas. The property features a well-stocked pond, wooded area with a creek, firepit, large fishing dock, and sandy swimming beach. Enjoy fishing, swimming, kayaking, camping, campfires, walking trails and exploring this peaceful property. There is only one campsite on property offering a private, safe and fun experience exclusively for you and your group. Geist Family Farms is 15 minutes from downtown Topeka, 10 mins from grocery store, and only 5 mins from gas, restaurants and conveniences. Owners live on-site, and are available when needed. Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
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Blackthorn Retreat

15. Blackthorn Retreat

99%
(233)
Randolph, KS · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
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The Farm at Quail Valley

16. The Farm at Quail Valley

100%
(10)
Winfield, KS · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Farm at Quail Valley Escape to 47 acres of natural beauty at The Farm at Quail Valley on the edge of the Flint Hills, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. Nestled just outside Winfield, KS, our property offers a peaceful retreat for campers, families, and adventurers looking to reconnect with nature while still enjoying convenient amenities. 🌿 The Setting Our farm is home to wide-open fields, rolling hills, shady cottonwood and pecan trees, and three scenic ponds. You’ll often spot goats grazing the land as part of our natural landscaping team. Whether you’re here to unplug, fish by the water, or simply stargaze under the Kansas sky, the farm offers a serene backdrop for your getaway. 🏕 Camping Options RV & Camper Hookups: We offer 30- and 50-amp electric service along with fresh water hookups for your stay. Tent Camping: Spread out in open spaces or find a quiet spot near the trees. Facilities: A bathroom is available on-site for your comfort and convenience. 🎶 Things to Do • Cast a line and enjoy fishing in our ponds. • Bird watching while taking a hike on the property. • Play a round on our disc golf course designed by Eric McCabe. • Kayak or Paddleboard • Visit with our friendly goats or relax near the ponds. • Enjoy live music and community events hosted seasonally on our boxcar stage. • Head into nearby Winfield or Arkansas City for dining, shopping, and local charm. ✨ Why You’ll Love It The Farm at Quail Valley combines the beauty of a small working farm with the amenities campers appreciate. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend under the stars, a fun family outing, or a unique stop on your RV travels, you’ll feel right at home here.
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Scattercreek

17. Scattercreek

94%
(16)
Mc Louth, KS · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:One of the only north running creeks in the state of Kansas. Plenty of woods and open fields. Lots of turkey and deer roam the property. Just around the corner is Jefferson Hill winery and bed and breakfast. This landscape holds many great camping spots through its holds.
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Camping @ the Horse Farm

18. Camping @ the Horse Farm

93%
(149)
Derby, KS · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
After living in the country, I know how peaceful it can be. So, being so close to the city and having this space that is secluded and peaceful, it seemed only fair to share it with someone who is interested in the same thing. You are welcome to walk the farm and see the animals, please do not feed the animals or enter their stalls or pens without permission and the presence of our staff. Staff does live on the farm, we do lock gates at night, you can have access to come and go at any time. If you need gates unlocked, we are just a phone call away. When checking in, please confirm your location! Camping at the horse farm The Circle of Trees Secluded by the city Please note we do have LGD on the farm, and they do visit. They are friendly and used to people. There are farm animals and wild animals on our sites. All Dogs are required to be current on vaccinations and kept on a leash at all times. You are welcome to walk the farm and see the animals, please do not feed the animals or enter their stalls or pens without permission and in the presence of our staff.
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Hughes Holler

19. Hughes Holler

100%
(30)
Marquette, KS · 2 sites
The Hughes Holler camp site is located in the mix grassed prairie of central Kansas. The site was once a homestead of some of the early pioneers of the area. While none of the remnants of the former farmstead remain. The the tranquility of sitting at a campfire on the banks of the pond can let ones mind wonder about what life would have been like living there in days gone by. The site includes a spring fed pond with abundant fishing, predominately white bass. Guests are allowed to keep any fish they wish to eat on site. But please release any others back into the pond. There is a wooded area which provides nice shade for an area to relax from the Kansas summer sun and wind. Campers can also enjoy a camp fire either pond side of underneath the trees. Sleeping accommodations are in a deluxe water proof tent. There are 2 queen air mattress which will comfortably sleep 4 people. There is also a composting toilet on site. Glamping Hosts provide some hot drink mixes, a coffee perculator, pot for boiling water, or making soup, a cooking grate for the fire, some hygiene products. We are working on a solar shower! We are located 2 miles from the Kanopolis Lake wildlife and recreation area. Which includes numerous hiking trails at Horse Thief canyon. As well as 7 miles from historic Marquette with its unique downtown shops and activities: distillery, motorcycle museum, soda fountain shop/homemade ice cream, disc golf course, grocery store, bar and grill and liquor store. Also, located just 15 miles from Little Swedon, Lindsborg, KS. Great shopping and museums, art galleries for you enjoyment!
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Riverside

20. Riverside

Emporia, KS · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Riverside 14, a peaceful riverside camping escape in the heart of Kansas. This quiet, nature-filled property offers a relaxing setting right by the water, making it an ideal stop for RV travelers, road trippers, and anyone looking to unwind in a scenic outdoor environment. Enjoy wide-open skies, calming river views, and the simple beauty of nature all around you. The site provides a comfortable and convenient base while still feeling private and tucked away from the noise of busier campgrounds. Guests can enjoy fishing, wildlife watching, and peaceful walks along the riverbank, or simply relax at their campsite and take in the sounds of the water. With easy access for RVs and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a great place to slow down and recharge. Perfect for both short stays and longer getaways, Riverside 14 offers a classic Kansas camping experience centered around space, simplicity, and natural beauty.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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