The best campgrounds near Emporia, Kansas with showers

Planning a camping trip near Emporia, Kansas and looking for a campsite with shower facilities? Look no further than The Light Center! With over 180 available options in the area, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or something more comfortable, there's something for everyone. Some of the top campsites in the area include Daniel's 100-yr-old farm (111 reviews), and Blackthorn Retreat (98 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities such as pet-friendly sites, toilets, and cooking equipment, as well as activities like wind sports, biking, and horseback riding. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, camping in Emporia, Kansas has never been more affordable. Start planning your outdoor adventure today!

98% (800)

Top-rated campgrounds

Planning a camping trip near Emporia, Kansas and looking for a campsite with shower facilities? Look no further than The Light Center! With over 180 available options in the area, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you're looking for a rustic experience or something more comfortable, there's something for everyone. Some of the top campsites in the area include Daniel's 100-yr-old farm (111 reviews), and Blackthorn Retreat (98 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities such as pet-friendly sites, toilets, and cooking equipment, as well as activities like wind sports, biking, and horseback riding. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15, camping in Emporia, Kansas has never been more affordable. Start planning your outdoor adventure today!

98% (800)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Basecamp Flint Hills

98%

(413)

17mi from Emporia · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Allen, KS

Located on the Flint Hills Trail State Park in Allen Kansas, Basecamp Flint Hills offers camping in the scenic Flint Hills of Kansas. BFH is 20 miles north of the world capital of gravel cycling, Emporia KS, and 20 miles east of historical Council Grove. BFH has hammock trees and shaded acreage for tent camping, a no-frills bunkhouse, and two back-in camper sites for those who prefer a bit more luxury. This is a community style campground where picnic tables and campfires will be shared with your neighbors. We encourage you to expand your circle and enjoy the experience! Seasonal facilities include an open air, cold water shower and port-a-potty available April through October. We do not currently have adequate infrastructure to accommodate horses.

2. The Light Center

98%

(443)

50mi from Emporia · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging · Baldwin City, KS

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.

3. Unbound Gravel Ranch

100%

(16)

12mi from Emporia · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Reading, KS

Discover a peaceful countryside camping spot designed exclusively for Unbound Gravel riders! Revel in the camper's paradise tailored to biker comforts, just a short 10-15 minute drive from Emporia and the race start. Our amenities include barn shower access, shared bathroom, a convenient bike wash, and on Saturday/Sunday morning, enjoy complimentary coffee, juice, water. Included in your booking are Saturday/Sunday breakfast options that include an oatmeal bar, fruit, and biscuits and gravy. After your epic ride, unwind by the firepit and relish the camaraderie of fellow riders. Welcome to your haven in the heart of gravel racing! 🚴🏕️

4. The Dam Campsites

28mi from Emporia · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Burlington, KS

Small farm campsites with trees and a pond, offering river access on the Neosho River. Located off Hwy 75, we are a veteran-owned and operated, family-friendly campsite. Just 11 miles from Wolf Creek Power Plant, 5 miles from John Redmond Reservoir, less than a mile from modern conveniences, and only half a mile from town. We are small but have plenty to offer! Hunters are welcome. Our Services • RV Full Hookup • Leveled gravel spaces • 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical • City water • Sewer • Tent Camping • Grass tent camping with no amenities Additional Amenities • Firewood available • Fire pits

5. Bare Ass Acres

97%

(67)

4.7mi from Emporia · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Emporia, KS

30 acres with large shop, pond, and hedgerows. 3 miles west of Emporia off hwy 50. Learn more about this land: 30 acres hay field with a pond for swimming or fishing. Shouse (shop house) owner lives on site. Looking for people that come to Emporia Kansas for community events like the Dirty Kanza, Disc Golf, and more.

6. Lake Georgia-Sue

95%

(135)

45mi from Emporia · 155 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ottawa, KS

Welcome to Lake Georgia-Sue — Your 85-Acre Getaway in East Central Kansas Escape to Lake Georgia-Sue, an 85-acre oasis of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Conveniently located in East Central Kansas—just a short drive from Kansas City, Topeka, Lawrence, and Wichita—our property offers the perfect blend of peace and play. At the heart of the property is our 8-acre lake, ideal for fishing, swimming, kayaking, small craft boating, and even windsurfing. Whether you’re here to unwind by the water or explore the land, there’s something for everyone. Horse enthusiasts will love the on-site pastures, private round pens, and access to hundreds of miles of scenic riding trails that intersect the property. Our campsites are spacious, private, and peaceful—no crowded neighbors here. Choose from lakefront or forest sites, perfect for both primitive camping and RVs (electric hookups available via generator; fresh water also provided). Guests enjoy access to modern comforts, including showers, toilets, an air-conditioned clubhouse, a playground, and a variety of friendly farm animals—ponies, pet pigs, goats, and chickens. We’re proudly pet-friendly, too! Lake Georgia-Sue is also ideal for group gatherings—from family reunions and birthdays to weddings and retreats—with space for up to 25 campers. We’re just a short drive from several state lakes and great local restaurants (and sometimes we even take a trail ride into town for BBQ or Mexican food!). Come experience the peace, privacy, and playfulness of Lake Georgia-Sue—your Kansas countryside escape awaits.

7. Dry Creek Post

100%

(73)

31mi from Emporia · 9 sites · Lodging · Cedar Point, KS

While cruising the winding backroads of the Flint Hills to the property, you will immediately become enchanted by the peaceful scenery, beautiful skies with striking cloud formations, wind swirling through the trees, an abundance of animal life, and the flora and fauna. When you arrive at the property, hosts Kirt and Kim will be there to greet you with a smile, and give you a tour of the grounds. And, if you are lucky, Kim will bring you a basket of fresh baked goods. Farm dogs Charlie and Buddy, no doubt, will be there to tag along on your tour - but not to worry, they are friendly dogs who keep guard over the chickens and goats, and are sure to become your two new best friends. After your tour of the vast and serene property, you will be shown to one of the three group tents, or the more secluded tent on the other side of the property - depending on which tent(s) you reserved. All of the glamping tents are safari style with spacious interiors and luxurious details you are sure to love. The three group tents can sleep up to 4 each, and are furnished with a queen and two twin-sized beds, along with cozy decor. There is no electricity in the tents, but there are lanterns and solar lights to help guide your way back to your retreat after dark. The group tent area also includes a community fire pit for late night S'mores, another outdoor area with a gazebo and a grill, and an enclosed outhouse and shower. The secluded tent is for those who want a little more privacy. This tent is furnished with a queen size bed, and is stylishly decorated. This tent also includes a fire pit, private outdoor seating area with grill, and a private enclosed outhouse and shower. Along with the incredible tents, Dry Creek Post also offers many perks that bring guests back time after time. There is a shared outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, propane oven, and an outdoor dining table large enough to seat 10, plus, the Rowdy Rooster Clubhouse. The Rowdy Rooster is the infamous clubhouse that is always a hit with guests. This clubhouse is original to the property, and was renovated by owners, Kim and Kirt, for guest use. Along with the hand-painted "Texaco" sign on the floor, the clubhouse has a rustic feel, and gives you the feeling that you have stepped back in time, or into a really cool bar in the city. The Rowdy Rooster includes a bar area, mini fridge, table and chairs, popcorn machine, lots of games, and blankets for chilly nights. Its the perfect spot to sit and play cards, have a few cocktails, or an impromptu dance party. The Rowdy Rooster also has an attached deck with seating, another fire pit, and a movie screen for special movie nights! While there are many activities at Dry Creek Post to keep you busy, there are also many scenic places to visit in the area. Some of those locations include Chase State Fishing Lake, Council Grove Lake, Herington City Lakes, Flint Hills Scenic Byway, Flint Hills Wildfire Drive, Marion Reservoir, and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. There are also many cultural events in the area, including the Flint Hills Rodeo, Unbound Gravel, and Symphony in the Flint Hills. You'll also want to make a stop at the historic Chase County Courthouse in Cottonwood Falls, an Italianate architectural stunner that is still in use today. After visiting the courthouse, there are shops, an art gallery, antique shops, and spots to eat, so go out and wander the charming downtown area and support the local community. No matter what your adventure is within the area, Dry Creek Post is the perfect spot to unwind and find tranquility, an experience you won't soon forget.

8. Mill Creek Campground

46mi from Emporia · 1 site · RV · Paxico, KS

Welcome to Mill Creek Campground in Historic Paxico, Kansas Mill Creek Campground offers a beautiful and scenic vacation spot near Manhattan, Wamego, and Topeka, Kansas. We have 47 available campsites with 50 AMP and 30 AMP service. Most are pull-through sites equipped with water, sewer, and electrical hookups. We also offer three dry cabins (please bring your own linens). Enjoy Mill Creek, which runs the entire length of the campground property — perfect for fishing or floating when the water isn’t too high. Reservations can be made online or by phone. Book today to reserve your spot for your next vacation! Amenities: • Clean laundry facility • Bath/shower house • High-speed Wi-Fi available • Pet-friendly • Propane filling station We score very high in beauty, cleanliness, and facilities, and we’ve been proudly serving campers for over 50 years. Come experience a beautiful getaway in the heart of the Kansas Flint Hills region.

Camper favorites near Emporia

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Dam Campsites

28mi from Emporia · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Burlington, KS

Small farm campsites with trees and a pond, offering river access on the Neosho River. Located off Hwy 75, we are a veteran-owned and operated, family-friendly campsite. Just 11 miles from Wolf Creek Power Plant, 5 miles from John Redmond Reservoir, less than a mile from modern conveniences, and only half a mile from town. We are small but have plenty to offer! Hunters are welcome. Our Services • RV Full Hookup • Leveled gravel spaces • 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical • City water • Sewer • Tent Camping • Grass tent camping with no amenities Additional Amenities • Firewood available • Fire pits

Bare Ass Acres

97%

(67)

4.7mi from Emporia · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Emporia, KS

30 acres with large shop, pond, and hedgerows. 3 miles west of Emporia off hwy 50. Learn more about this land: 30 acres hay field with a pond for swimming or fishing. Shouse (shop house) owner lives on site. Looking for people that come to Emporia Kansas for community events like the Dirty Kanza, Disc Golf, and more.

Lake Georgia-Sue

95%

(135)

45mi from Emporia · 155 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ottawa, KS

Welcome to Lake Georgia-Sue — Your 85-Acre Getaway in East Central Kansas Escape to Lake Georgia-Sue, an 85-acre oasis of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Conveniently located in East Central Kansas—just a short drive from Kansas City, Topeka, Lawrence, and Wichita—our property offers the perfect blend of peace and play. At the heart of the property is our 8-acre lake, ideal for fishing, swimming, kayaking, small craft boating, and even windsurfing. Whether you’re here to unwind by the water or explore the land, there’s something for everyone. Horse enthusiasts will love the on-site pastures, private round pens, and access to hundreds of miles of scenic riding trails that intersect the property. Our campsites are spacious, private, and peaceful—no crowded neighbors here. Choose from lakefront or forest sites, perfect for both primitive camping and RVs (electric hookups available via generator; fresh water also provided). Guests enjoy access to modern comforts, including showers, toilets, an air-conditioned clubhouse, a playground, and a variety of friendly farm animals—ponies, pet pigs, goats, and chickens. We’re proudly pet-friendly, too! Lake Georgia-Sue is also ideal for group gatherings—from family reunions and birthdays to weddings and retreats—with space for up to 25 campers. We’re just a short drive from several state lakes and great local restaurants (and sometimes we even take a trail ride into town for BBQ or Mexican food!). Come experience the peace, privacy, and playfulness of Lake Georgia-Sue—your Kansas countryside escape awaits.

Dry Creek Post

100%

(73)

31mi from Emporia · 9 sites · Lodging · Cedar Point, KS

While cruising the winding backroads of the Flint Hills to the property, you will immediately become enchanted by the peaceful scenery, beautiful skies with striking cloud formations, wind swirling through the trees, an abundance of animal life, and the flora and fauna. When you arrive at the property, hosts Kirt and Kim will be there to greet you with a smile, and give you a tour of the grounds. And, if you are lucky, Kim will bring you a basket of fresh baked goods. Farm dogs Charlie and Buddy, no doubt, will be there to tag along on your tour - but not to worry, they are friendly dogs who keep guard over the chickens and goats, and are sure to become your two new best friends. After your tour of the vast and serene property, you will be shown to one of the three group tents, or the more secluded tent on the other side of the property - depending on which tent(s) you reserved. All of the glamping tents are safari style with spacious interiors and luxurious details you are sure to love. The three group tents can sleep up to 4 each, and are furnished with a queen and two twin-sized beds, along with cozy decor. There is no electricity in the tents, but there are lanterns and solar lights to help guide your way back to your retreat after dark. The group tent area also includes a community fire pit for late night S'mores, another outdoor area with a gazebo and a grill, and an enclosed outhouse and shower. The secluded tent is for those who want a little more privacy. This tent is furnished with a queen size bed, and is stylishly decorated. This tent also includes a fire pit, private outdoor seating area with grill, and a private enclosed outhouse and shower. Along with the incredible tents, Dry Creek Post also offers many perks that bring guests back time after time. There is a shared outdoor kitchen with a grill, sink, propane oven, and an outdoor dining table large enough to seat 10, plus, the Rowdy Rooster Clubhouse. The Rowdy Rooster is the infamous clubhouse that is always a hit with guests. This clubhouse is original to the property, and was renovated by owners, Kim and Kirt, for guest use. Along with the hand-painted "Texaco" sign on the floor, the clubhouse has a rustic feel, and gives you the feeling that you have stepped back in time, or into a really cool bar in the city. The Rowdy Rooster includes a bar area, mini fridge, table and chairs, popcorn machine, lots of games, and blankets for chilly nights. Its the perfect spot to sit and play cards, have a few cocktails, or an impromptu dance party. The Rowdy Rooster also has an attached deck with seating, another fire pit, and a movie screen for special movie nights! While there are many activities at Dry Creek Post to keep you busy, there are also many scenic places to visit in the area. Some of those locations include Chase State Fishing Lake, Council Grove Lake, Herington City Lakes, Flint Hills Scenic Byway, Flint Hills Wildfire Drive, Marion Reservoir, and the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. There are also many cultural events in the area, including the Flint Hills Rodeo, Unbound Gravel, and Symphony in the Flint Hills. You'll also want to make a stop at the historic Chase County Courthouse in Cottonwood Falls, an Italianate architectural stunner that is still in use today. After visiting the courthouse, there are shops, an art gallery, antique shops, and spots to eat, so go out and wander the charming downtown area and support the local community. No matter what your adventure is within the area, Dry Creek Post is the perfect spot to unwind and find tranquility, an experience you won't soon forget.

Mill Creek Campground

46mi from Emporia · 1 site · RV · Paxico, KS

Welcome to Mill Creek Campground in Historic Paxico, Kansas Mill Creek Campground offers a beautiful and scenic vacation spot near Manhattan, Wamego, and Topeka, Kansas. We have 47 available campsites with 50 AMP and 30 AMP service. Most are pull-through sites equipped with water, sewer, and electrical hookups. We also offer three dry cabins (please bring your own linens). Enjoy Mill Creek, which runs the entire length of the campground property — perfect for fishing or floating when the water isn’t too high. Reservations can be made online or by phone. Book today to reserve your spot for your next vacation! Amenities: • Clean laundry facility • Bath/shower house • High-speed Wi-Fi available • Pet-friendly • Propane filling station We score very high in beauty, cleanliness, and facilities, and we’ve been proudly serving campers for over 50 years. Come experience a beautiful getaway in the heart of the Kansas Flint Hills region.

Public campgrounds near Emporia

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(1)

Turkey Point Campground

23mi from Emporia · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · in Melvern Lake Dam

Arrow Rock Campground

24mi from Emporia · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · in Melvern Lake Dam

West Point Campground

25mi from Emporia · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eisenhower State Park KS

Doud Campground

25mi from Emporia · 72 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eisenhower State Park KS

Churchill Campground

26mi from Emporia · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eisenhower State Park KS

Abilene Campground

26mi from Emporia · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eisenhower State Park KS

Black Jack Campground

26mi from Emporia · 26 sites · Tents, RVs · in Eisenhower State Park KS

100%

(1)

Riverside West Campground

26mi from Emporia · 36 sites · Tents, RVs · in John Redmond Lake

Dam Campground

26mi from Emporia · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in John Redmond Lake

Five Star Campground

26mi from Emporia · 30 sites · in Eisenhower State Park KS

100%

(2)

Santa Fe Trail Campground

26mi from Emporia · 33 sites · Tents, RVs · in Council Grove Lake

Richey Cove Campground

26mi from Emporia · 43 sites · Tents, RVs · in Council Grove Lake

Stories from the community

A

Alex

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

Susan was very kind and lighthearted and gave us great information about her land and the campsites. The site we choose was perfect and the weather was perfect. Highly recommend Susan and The Light Center.

Nate

2 weeks ago

17 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Basecamp Flint Hills

Sweet little set up. We went in the off-season and brought our own small porta potty and it worked out great. The host had a lot of firewood available and were very communicative.

Stevie

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lake Georgia-Sue

I stayed in The Stevie glamping yurt at Lake Georgia Sue Campground, and it was absolutely perfect. The view was beautiful, the area was peaceful and quiet, and everything was spotless. The entire property is stunning, with horses, goats, mini pigs, and other animals that add to the overall experience. The lake itself is gorgeous, and the residents and employees were incredibly friendly and accommodating throughout my stay. It truly feels like a little hidden gem. Location-wise, it’s great too—Jesse James Cave is just a short drive away, and there’s a local diner nearby with amazing food. If you’re visiting in the fall, the scenery is especially breathtaking. Highly recommend staying here, especially in The Stevie!

Christopher

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

Such a great site, and the riding is fantastic no matter what direction you head from camp. Amy is a great host, communicating quickly. The onsite facilities are perfect, and I'm anxious to come back this spring. If you're a light sleeper, I'd recommend ear plugs, but I wear them at most every camp site. The cows have a lot to say!

b

blake

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

Great place , right off the trail. Well maintained and safe

b

blake

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

Awesome location, right off the trail. Amy was very helpful and in constant contact around our reservation. I wish there were more campsites like this on other bike trails.

S

Siobhan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Basecamp Flint Hills

Solo camped while driving back out to the east coast, rained all night and site didn’t flood. Very safe and great place to stay for a night.

R

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Basecamp Flint Hills

I loved hammock camping here — the area was quiet, easily navigable, and the stars were super visible. Lots of trees spaces hammock-distance apart.

D

Dave

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

Nothing fancy, but everything a bike packer or motorcycle camper might need. Be sure to bring food or dine before you arrive, there are no stores or restaurants anywhere nearby.

A

Ashley

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lake Georgia-Sue

This place is amazing! My best friend and I decided to have a girls weekend and camp out. The hosts were so nice and accommodating. The property was absolutely beautiful! We went towards the end of October and it was still stunning! Tons of animals that are so used to people and dogs that they ignored our dogs thinking they were big and tough. We are already planning on going back next weekend!

S

Sabena

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

Susan was lovely, she came out to meet us and showed us different remote sites. Due to our tent size (6 person) we chose the first one. All the sites were nice and remote. 2 sites by the stream are on the smaller size so take account. You can see the stars clearly at night! Had a nice small fire going The chickens run from you 😂 and the goats like ear and butt scratches.

T

Taylor

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Lake Georgia-Sue

Loved visiting Lake Georgia Sue. The Stevie was magical and secluded. Every bit of our experience was pleasant. We enjoyed being in nature and seeing so many adorable animals. We also made use of a tandem bike for a ride around the lake. 10/10 recommend.

charlie

October 2025

16 ft car

3 nights at Basecamp Flint Hills

Endless views, clean easy to find. Close to the trail and quiet.

C

Cynthia

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Basecamp Flint Hills

Great place for tent camping and watching the sunset then later star gazing

T

Tristen

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Basecamp Flint Hills

Great little spot! Cool communal style site with a portapotty, shower, and direct access to the trail. Highly recommended!

S

Samuel

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

This place is my go to get away. Susan is one of a kind and helped us with everything we needed including fire wood, a wheelbarrow, and a lighter to get the fire going. Alongside the beautiful land there are animals and amazing hiking trails. This place is one of a kind and would recommend to anyone.

T

Ted

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

Great place to camp. They have everything i needed toilet, shower and firewood. Located directly off the trail.

L

Linden

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

Best place to camp on the Flint Hills Trail. It’s very peaceful and I have met some of the coolest people while camping there.

R

Robb

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Lake Georgia-Sue

Loved our campsite! All the room for days. Loved hearing the fish jump out of lake. Nice piece of land!

J

Johm

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Basecamp Flint Hills

BFH is a great space. Quiet, clean, well cared for. Right off the trail, no hunting around for it. Would recommend to all travelers on the Flint Hills Nature Trail. Will definitely stay here again.