The best campgrounds near Lawrence, Kansas with hiking

Looking to go camping near Lawrence, Kansas and enjoy some hiking? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 290 options in the area that cater to hiking enthusiasts, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. And with prices starting as low as $10 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Need some recommendations? Check out these top campsites with rave reviews: Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground (292 reviews), The Light Center (159 reviews), and Milo Farm Sacred Land (134 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as showers, campfires, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities like whitewater paddling, surfing, and of course, hiking!

92% (661)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping near Lawrence, Kansas and enjoy some hiking? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 290 options in the area that cater to hiking enthusiasts, you're sure to find the perfect campsite for your outdoor adventure. And with prices starting as low as $10 per night, camping has never been more affordable. Need some recommendations? Check out these top campsites with rave reviews: Harmony Lake Farm Park & Playground (292 reviews), The Light Center (159 reviews), and Milo Farm Sacred Land (134 reviews). Enjoy popular amenities such as showers, campfires, and toilets, and engage in exciting activities like whitewater paddling, surfing, and of course, hiking!

92% (661)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Light Center

98%

(443)

17mi from Lawrence · 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.

2. Lake Georgia-Sue

95%

(135)

26mi from Lawrence · 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.

3. The Hitch N' Post

100%

(65)

24mi from Lawrence · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Wellsville , KS

Enjoy the beautiful timber, canoe pond, peaceful creek, the native wildlife, and the sound of nature throughout the property. Disc golf, hiking trails, canoeing, fishing, and swimming in creeks are favorites by most guests. Guests can also learn how to throw a tomahawk, hunting knife, and atlatl near the camping sites. Learn more about this land: Enjoy the beautiful timber, canoe the pond, peaceful creek, the native wildlife, and the sound of nature throughout the property. Disc golf, hiking trails, canoeing, fishing, and swimming in the creek are favorites by most guests. Guests can also learn how to throw a tomahawk, hunting knife, and atlatl near the camping sites. Our campsites are just a short walk from the farmhouse ,or drive right to your camp site. . To your own private location. If you are bringing an RV, for an additional charge there is a gravel lot with water and electrical hook ups.

4. Forest Retreat & Spa

77%

(13)

33mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Kansas City, KS

*NEW UPDATE construction work is complete - easier access to camping/RV site #1 with level clearings at site #2 & #3. one acre fenced dog run for four legged campers - can access with a 4 wheel drive or dispersed camping to relax under the stars with your your furry friend.* 8 acres of Foraging orchard with a meandering creek - close to city attractions Learn more about this land: Forest Retreat Located 10 min from downtown and 7.5 miles from Legends ( home of Sporting KC! ), this historic farmstead boasts 8 acres of foraging orchards, a meandering creek and a bevy of sweet hens. (Free eggs :) Multiple campsites available : Forest Garden - ( 2 campsites ) Autumn Olive grove - ( 4 campsites ) Stoney Creek - ( 1 campsite ) Meadow Pass - ( 3 campsites ) One acre fenced dog run (drive in) RV site with water and electrical hook up (RV and campers 18' and under please)

5. Perdue Homestead Farm-CLOSED

94%

(152)

45mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Edgerton, MO

CLOSED DUE TO BUREAUCRATIC PLATTE COUNTY GOVERNMENT PLANNING & ZONING NON-ELECTED "COMMITTEE" OVERREACHING THEIR AUTHORITY OF CONTROL Nestled in historic Platte County, Missouri, our property provides an rural agritourism experience off-grid out in the natural environment. We are 20 minutes from historic Weston, MO, 30 minutes from historic St. Joseph, and 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City. We also offer local, farm fresh, grass raised Beef and Pork products from famous McBee Meats (series the McBee Dynasty). Please contact Host or order under extra's before your arrival. Includes Brats, Ground Beef, Beef Sticks, all-beef hot dogs, beef sticks, Eggs, etc. We are a 420 friendly property. Campers must comply to all Missouri regulations. Under no circumstances should visitors trespass over to any of the neighboring properties. We have had multiple campers trespassing across the fence to the neighbors property. Neighbors are nice people but because of the multiple incidents and damage done to fences and their property, they did notify me that they will prosecute. Thank you for respecting this policy. All campsites are Private and Primitive. Please bring your own potable water and portable toilet

6. Scattercreek

93%

(14)

21mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Mc Louth, KS

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.

7. Edge Of The Road Camping Ground

100%

(17)

25mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Carbondale, KS

Inspired by the surrounding landscape, Edge Of The Road Camping Ground was designed to make your visit a unique, comfortable and fun experience. Here you can take full advantage of numerous beautiful views that are guaranteed to make your stay with us a memorable one. The property is 15 acres with a 2-acre pond. We have (large but gentle) guardian dogs, and a flock of chickens, ducks, and guinea fowl. Spring weather camping is the best! The campsites are secluded from the main house so you are able to enjoy the sounds of nature. There are no structures in place. Located in rural Kansas, 12 miles south of Topeka along the path of the Santa Fe Trail. This camping spot will make you feel like you're one with nature and is within driving distance to quality shopping and entertainment. Pop up your tent or park right next to the private pond. Sites are hidden from the road and secluded. However, we do live on the edge of the railway so the train will make an appearance during your stay. Whether it's a spot to crash before and after a day of skiing, taking a road trip, or simply shaking off cabin fever, this is the spot for you. The pond has a dock to sit on as you watch the sunrise. Bring your fishing gear and cast a line into our well-stocked pond. A table, fire rings, wood, and a smoker grill for cooking are provided for your use. Enjoy a day of fishing or strolling the property and finish off a relaxing day by watching the sunset by the fire. Camping is primitive with no shower facilities. A generator is available upon request. We can't wait to see you! Enjoy your stay!! Explore our site to see what we have to offer, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.

8. Saddle Ridge Retreats

100%

(31)

5.6mi from Lawrence · 5 sites · Lodging · Lawrence, KS

Saddle Ridge Retreats is located at Saffer Barn in Lawrence, Kansas. We are situated on nearly 90 gorgeous acres. There's trails for horseback riding and hiking. A stocked pond for fishing! Stay in our luxurious 16ft dome tents or our silo cabin fully furnished to have all the comforts of a full bedroom. This is the perfect place to escape for the weekend or even a mid-week break considering we are less than 10 mins from Downtown Lawrence and 40mins from Kansas City.

9. Saddle Ridge Retreats Lawrence

100%

(30)

5.6mi from Lawrence · 3 sites · Lodging · Lawrence, KS

Saddle Ridge Retreats is located at Saffer Barn in Lawrence, Kansas. We are situated on nearly 90 gorgeous acres. There's an endless amount of manicured trails for horseback riding and hiking. A stocked pond for fishing! Stay in our luxurious 16ft dome tents or our silo cabin, all fully furnished to have all the comforts of a full bedroom. This is the perfect place to escape for the weekend or even a mid-week break considering we are less than 10 mins from Downtown Lawrence and 40mins from Kansas City.

10. Timber Creek Farm

91%

(35)

12mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Oskaloosa, KS

Our property is secluded from the road with thick timber. The creek wraps around our entire property making it perfect and accessable for the multiple waterfalls and pools to cool off in. Perfect for family time! Beautiful glimpses of local wildlife like deer, turkey, blue herrons and many other birds!Learn more about this land:It's a secluded Tent Camping site Tucked in Timber with access to our creek for kids (and adults! :) ) to play. Views of our prairie and local wildlife. Thickets of blackberry bushes for picking in season! (June through July!)

11. Dream Acres

67%

(9)

21mi from Lawrence · 3 sites · Lodging · Topeka, KS

A hidden gem in Topeka, KS. Roughly 44 acres and 41 buildings and cabins for your stay. We have a creek that runs through the property and you can bring your kayak or fishing poles. We also have roughly 3 miles of wooded trails for you to explore. There is a playground for the kids to play on, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball pit. This is very camp at the lake style. Bedding is not included for camp bunk beds. Cabins do not have restrooms built in, but we have shower houses on site for you to use. They do have electricity, heat, and air conditioning. We have grills on site for cooking as well as a bon fire pit to enjoy smore's. Dream Acres at Forest Park is 4 miles away from Lake Shawnee. The World-Famous Topeka Zoo is 5 miles from the park. Lots of historical sights and museums close by also.

Camper favorites near Lawrence

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Edge Of The Road Camping Ground

100%

(17)

25mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Carbondale, KS

Inspired by the surrounding landscape, Edge Of The Road Camping Ground was designed to make your visit a unique, comfortable and fun experience. Here you can take full advantage of numerous beautiful views that are guaranteed to make your stay with us a memorable one. The property is 15 acres with a 2-acre pond. We have (large but gentle) guardian dogs, and a flock of chickens, ducks, and guinea fowl. Spring weather camping is the best! The campsites are secluded from the main house so you are able to enjoy the sounds of nature. There are no structures in place. Located in rural Kansas, 12 miles south of Topeka along the path of the Santa Fe Trail. This camping spot will make you feel like you're one with nature and is within driving distance to quality shopping and entertainment. Pop up your tent or park right next to the private pond. Sites are hidden from the road and secluded. However, we do live on the edge of the railway so the train will make an appearance during your stay. Whether it's a spot to crash before and after a day of skiing, taking a road trip, or simply shaking off cabin fever, this is the spot for you. The pond has a dock to sit on as you watch the sunrise. Bring your fishing gear and cast a line into our well-stocked pond. A table, fire rings, wood, and a smoker grill for cooking are provided for your use. Enjoy a day of fishing or strolling the property and finish off a relaxing day by watching the sunset by the fire. Camping is primitive with no shower facilities. A generator is available upon request. We can't wait to see you! Enjoy your stay!! Explore our site to see what we have to offer, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions.

Saddle Ridge Retreats

100%

(31)

5.6mi from Lawrence · 5 sites · Lodging · Lawrence, KS

Saddle Ridge Retreats is located at Saffer Barn in Lawrence, Kansas. We are situated on nearly 90 gorgeous acres. There's trails for horseback riding and hiking. A stocked pond for fishing! Stay in our luxurious 16ft dome tents or our silo cabin fully furnished to have all the comforts of a full bedroom. This is the perfect place to escape for the weekend or even a mid-week break considering we are less than 10 mins from Downtown Lawrence and 40mins from Kansas City.

Saddle Ridge Retreats Lawrence

100%

(30)

5.6mi from Lawrence · 3 sites · Lodging · Lawrence, KS

Saddle Ridge Retreats is located at Saffer Barn in Lawrence, Kansas. We are situated on nearly 90 gorgeous acres. There's an endless amount of manicured trails for horseback riding and hiking. A stocked pond for fishing! Stay in our luxurious 16ft dome tents or our silo cabin, all fully furnished to have all the comforts of a full bedroom. This is the perfect place to escape for the weekend or even a mid-week break considering we are less than 10 mins from Downtown Lawrence and 40mins from Kansas City.

Timber Creek Farm

91%

(35)

12mi from Lawrence · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Oskaloosa, KS

Our property is secluded from the road with thick timber. The creek wraps around our entire property making it perfect and accessable for the multiple waterfalls and pools to cool off in. Perfect for family time! Beautiful glimpses of local wildlife like deer, turkey, blue herrons and many other birds!Learn more about this land:It's a secluded Tent Camping site Tucked in Timber with access to our creek for kids (and adults! :) ) to play. Views of our prairie and local wildlife. Thickets of blackberry bushes for picking in season! (June through July!)

Dream Acres

67%

(9)

21mi from Lawrence · 3 sites · Lodging · Topeka, KS

A hidden gem in Topeka, KS. Roughly 44 acres and 41 buildings and cabins for your stay. We have a creek that runs through the property and you can bring your kayak or fishing poles. We also have roughly 3 miles of wooded trails for you to explore. There is a playground for the kids to play on, a basketball court, and a sand volleyball pit. This is very camp at the lake style. Bedding is not included for camp bunk beds. Cabins do not have restrooms built in, but we have shower houses on site for you to use. They do have electricity, heat, and air conditioning. We have grills on site for cooking as well as a bon fire pit to enjoy smore's. Dream Acres at Forest Park is 4 miles away from Lake Shawnee. The World-Famous Topeka Zoo is 5 miles from the park. Lots of historical sights and museums close by also.

Public campgrounds near Lawrence

100%

(3)

Clinton State Park Campground 1

5.8mi from Lawrence · 167 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clinton State Park

67%

(3)

Clinton State Park Campground 3

6.4mi from Lawrence · 218 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clinton State Park

100%

(1)

Bloomington East Campground

7mi from Lawrence · 320 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clinton Dam and Lake

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground

7.7mi from Lawrence · 48 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clinton Dam and Lake

Bloomington West Campground

7.8mi from Lawrence · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Clinton Dam and Lake

100%

(3)

Slough Creek Campground

15mi from Lawrence · 267 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry Lake

100%

(2)

Rock Creek Campground

15mi from Lawrence · 141 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry Lake

Cottonwood Bridge Campground

17mi from Lawrence · 24 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry State Park

Cougar Pass Campground

17mi from Lawrence · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry State Park

Lakeview Campground

17mi from Lawrence · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry State Park

100%

(1)

Eagle Landing Campground

17mi from Lawrence · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry State Park

Wild Horse Campground

18mi from Lawrence · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Perry State Park

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.

Timothy

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hitch N' Post

Absolutely amazing site! Steven went above and beyond my expectations. We showed up with 4 kids between the ages of 5 and 12, and he pulled no stops entertaining them, including walking his horse down to our campsite for the kids to pet. Be sure to ask him what his record is with the ax throwing!!!😉😆 we will definitely be returning.

Emily

October 2025

With pets

4 nights at The Light Center

The Barn at the Light Center is a perfect relaxing stay. It is quiet and serene, the property around it is beautiful to walk around! I would definitely love to stay there again and recommend it to everyone I know!

A

Anson

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

It was a great experience, host was super helpful. Area was clean and provided a lot of quality of life aspects.

Queen-sized waterbed with tubes of water (not one sloshy bladder) Comfortable

E

Erica

October 2025

2 nights at The Light Center

I needed a place to rest and recharge in nature, and this was perfect. The farewell greeting by the goats as I left the building was the icing on the cake!🥹

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.

O

Olivia

October 2025

Group trip

1 night at The Light Center

Great space, plenty warm, clean. Note that there is no phone service in the yurt.

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.

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!

E

Emilie

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

The yurt is set back on a trail that is peaceful, beautiful and quiet, but very near the barn. The barn is a lovely well kept community space with a cozy finished kitchen two bathrooms, large dining space a library. I wish we could've stayed longer to explore the light center. It is a wonderful place with great energy.

J

Jade

October 2025

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

We had such a great time at the Redtail yurt and already can’t wait to visit again! Susan was extremely accommodating and had such a beautiful property. Highly recommend! (Probably a smart idea to bring lanterns since the yurt doesn’t have electricity, other than that 10/01)

M

Melissa

October 2025

With kids

2 nights at The Light Center

Lovely spot. We had a wonderful time. Pleanty of trails and it is so quiet and peaceful...perfect of unplugging. Definetely recommend.

P

Philip

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Forest Retreat & Spa

Nice, off the beaten path place. Would stay again!

Lindsey

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

Staying in the Redtail Yurt was so serene and peaceful. It felt private but was a short walk to the community amenities. There were lovely trails into woods and meadows around the property, and we loved seeing the free range chickens and goats wandering around. The yurt was cozy and had comfy beds with clean bedding. We will definitely be back!

K

Kailey

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Light Center

such a cute spot! we carcamped for a night and the shower and kitchen were great. pretty spots to take cute pics!

Clay

September 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Scattercreek

Quiet, peaceful location in the country, about 25 minutes from Lawrence. We camped on the road between a tree line. Heard coyotes and owls at night.

Rachel

September 2025

Tent

1 night at The Light Center

What a beautiful and amazing place! I stopped by on a roadtrip and was greeted by some really cute goats! Then went into the barn house and met two really nice people staying there as well! Susan was nice enough to come greet me and showed me some of the land. I also got such a good night of sleep hearing calming nature sounds! Would recommend! Thanks so much!