- Glamping
The best glamping sites in Melvern Lake Dam, KS
100% (1)
Discover the serene beauty of Melvern Lake Dam and its array of outdoor activities.
The best glamping sites in Melvern Lake Dam, KS
Unbound Gravel Ranch
1. Unbound Gravel Ranch
100%
(16)
11mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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! 🚴🏕️
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$25
/ night
Basecamp Flint Hills
2. Basecamp Flint Hills
98%
(415)
23mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$15
/ night
Lake Georgia-Sue
3. Lake Georgia-Sue
95%
(135)
23mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 155 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$20
/ night
The Light Center
4. The Light Center
98%
(447)
28mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 13 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$25
/ night
Saddle Ridge Retreats Lawrence
5. Saddle Ridge Retreats Lawrence
100%
(31)
48mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 3 sites
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$135
/ night
Saddle Ridge Retreats
6. Saddle Ridge Retreats
100%
(31)
48mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 5 sites
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$135
/ night
The Little Forest Nest
7. The Little Forest Nest
100%
(3)
34mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 1 site
Forest Nook Retreats is a secluded woodland sanctuary tucked away on the Clinton Lake Peninsula, surrounded by a thousand-acre forest and wildlife reserve. Located just a few miles from Bloomington Beach, this peaceful wooded environment offers multiple private areas for guests to pitch tents under the canopy of trees, gather around fire pits, and reconnect with nature in a truly off-grid experience.
This is a mostly off-grid camping location, offering the serenity of nature with just a touch of modern comfort. A three-prong electrical outlet is available at The Little Forest Nest, and limited access to power banks can be arranged for tent and RV campers in other parts of the forest.
Whether you’re looking to tent-camp in the woods, bring a small camper or RV, or enjoy a more structured glamping stay, there’s something here for every nature lover seeking the healing stillness of the fo(REST). While the land continues to evolve, smaller campers are preferred at this time. Several scenic spots are available for dry camping.
Guests will find multiple fire pits, wood piles for shared use, and an abundance of sticks and fallen logs that can be freely collected for kindling and campfires. Solar lights gently illuminate pathways and forest nooks at night, and Adirondack chairs and hammocks are scattered throughout the property, offering peaceful places to rest, stargaze, or daydream.
The Little Forest Nest is a cozy queen-bed tiny house nestled among the trees and prairie views. This off-grid glamping retreat includes a rustic cedar-chip composting toilet in an outdoor outhouse. A heater is available in the fall and winter months, and fans are provided during the summer.
Perfect for 1–2 guests, The Little Forest Nest is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or anyone looking for peace, quiet, and a unique connection to nature.
You can view The Little Forest Nest on Airbnb here: https://www.airbnb.com/l/vIcvBU9H
🌿 To enjoy personalized specials and direct booking options, feel free to reach out to me directly! Booking outside of Airbnb can often include thoughtful add-ons or seasonal discounts.
Toilets
Campfires
Cooking equipment
from
$87
/ night
The Nest at Duck's Landing
8. The Nest at Duck's Landing
100%
(3)
37mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 1 site
We are on 7 beautiful acres in Baldwin City, KS. We're in town, but you'll feel like you're secluded in the country so you get the convenience of being close to downtown Baldwin, just 3 minutes away, while also feeling like you're in the middle of nowhere peacefully camping, just you and the birds. Our "glamper" is a 1960's retro camper that has been fully restored. The outside still looks very retro, but when you step inside you'll instantly surrender to the relaxation that awaits. Sink into the pile of fluffy pillows, take in the breathtaking boho vibe and the many amenities including A/C and Heat, wifi, a microwave, television with Netflix, refrigerator, waterless toilet and hand-washing sink. Games and snacks are tucked away in the kitchen area for you to enjoy your leisurely time at The Nest! With a large deck on the front you can take in the views of a nearby pond and a meandering creek which serves as a wildlife highway. Don't be surprised when a deer walks within view or a blue heron flies overhead. The deck is adorned with overhead lights that stretch to a nearby firepit and outdoor sitting area. On the other side of the camper you can snooze your worries away in the hammock, perfect for napping or reading a favorite book. The pond, just feet away from the camper is full of fish including crappie, catfish and bass and fishing poles are available for your use. Near the pond you'll find a small shelter house for up close views of the pond. The family of geese and ducks you'll see walking around are permanent residents of Duck's Landing, hence the name. Adjacent to the property there's a 9 hole golf course. Additionally Baldwin has several restaurants and shops to spend a leisurely day exploring our beautiful, historic town.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$75
/ night
Dream Acres
9. Dream Acres
67%
(9)
38mi from Melvern Lake Dam · 3 sites
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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$75
/ night
100% (1)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Melvern Lake Dam adventure.
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Drew
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Saddle Ridge Retreats Lawrence
Jon’s communication was excellent.
The bed was very comfortable. And the silo was clean.
The ranch was easy to find. We really enjoyed the animals.
See more
E
Essence
January 2026
With pets
Loved the camper at ducks landing. The property was beautiful Sarah was very thorough with all her explanations to ensure had the best experience on her property. It was below freezing the entire time we stayed and the heat in the camper kept us more than comfortable she left extra blankets which we didn’t end up using and also she left us extra water since the pump sink was frozen. Had a great time kicking back by the fire on a beautiful cold night in Baldwin city. We can’t wait to travel through again.
See more
Tonja
December 2025
With pets
Peaceful setting. Best for minimalist seeking a camping experience but indoors. Full kitchen. Bring your food. Rest. Reflect. Perfect.
See moreJ
Johnathan
December 2025
1 night at The Light Center
I had a lovely stay at The Light Center. The barn was nice and inviting. There were plenty of books to read and a relaxing massage chair.
I would have liked to explore the trails while I was there, but it was freezing and I did not pack accordingly. 😅
Susan's was a lovely host and I would recommend anyone to stay.
See more
J
John
November 2025
With pets
Great piece of property Great place to hike and enjoy nature. Susan was very friendly and informative. I would recommend microwave in the shared kitchen.☮️❤️
See more
K
Keith
November 2025
With kids
Enjoyed a bonfire on a cold evening at the Retreat, and the silo was comfortable with the wood stove keeping the chill out. We hiked around the ranch and squeezed in a little fishing. Thanks for a great evening! looking forward to another visit
See more
Stevie
November 2025
With kids
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!
See more
Emily
October 2025
With pets
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!
See more
A
Anson
October 2025
Group trip
It was a great experience, host was super helpful. Area was clean and provided a lot of quality of life aspects.
See more
A
Autumn
October 2025
3 nights at The Little Forest Nest
Unique stay under the stars and close by to many nice trails. Host was kind and communicative. Rained on our last day but was fun to sleep in and watch the rain come down on the glass ceiling. Had lots of deer visitors. Great fall stay.
See moreE
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!🥹
See moreT
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.
See moreO
Olivia
October 2025
Group trip
Great space, plenty warm, clean.
Note that there is no phone service in the yurt.
See moreE
Emilie
October 2025
With kids
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.
See moreJ
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)
See more
E
Elise
October 2025
With kids
The Little Forest Nest was the perfect getaway for some R&R. We stayed for one night and it was the just what we needed #refresh!
See moreM
Melissa
October 2025
With kids
Lovely spot. We had a wonderful time. Pleanty of trails and it is so quiet and peaceful...perfect of unplugging. Definetely recommend.
See more
B
Bevin
October 2025
2 nights at The Little Forest Nest
What a wonderful little space! I stayed with one other camper and the accommodations were perfect! The “nest” you’ll be staying in is beautiful decorated, cozy, and very comfortable.
The land is gorgeous, private, and has almost everything you’ll need for an outdoor stay including a fire pit, plenty of seating, a small outdoor toilet space, and some good forest views ✨
I appreciated that there are some good hiking trails located around the area that you can drive to quickly. If you want to find more excursions, the host has a book in the nest that outlines all sorts of fun things to do in the area!
Overall, a really great experience perfect for solo, couples, or small groups!
See moreE
Emily
October 2025
Weekend Trip to Lake Georgia-Sue
Fred and his staff have created such a special space over in the Stevie tent, and the entire property, for that matter! They made us feel very welcome, while still giving us the privacy we desired.
You can feel how much care has gone into the grounds and my partner and I could not have had a more enjoyable stay! There are cute little side trails, horses and goats wandering about, and plenty of space for exploring and activities. Could not recommend more!
See more
Lindsey
October 2025
With kids
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!
See more 100%
1 ratings · 0 reviews