The best camping near Glen Elder State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Glen Elder State Park adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Glen Elder State Park and its abundant outdoor activities.  

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Glen Elder State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Glen Elder State Park

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Hayland Farms

3 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Dorrance, KS
Hayland Farms is a picturesque 120-acre hay meadow in North Central Kansas, featuring pristine native grasslands and scattered groves of trees, along with a lush 40-acre alfalfa patch. This charming property is home to Tom and Heddy Mahoney and is conveniently located just a few minutes south of I-70. For those seeking a tranquil escape, the camping area is nestled within a secluded grove of cedar and cottonwood trees, offering a serene retreat. The campground is equipped with a firepit, picnic tables, and a combination shower house and toilet facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay. (Note: Shower service's at camp ground are closed seasonally during winter and months where freezing temperature are possible. Alternative shower facilities are located in the aircraft hangar apartment.) Hayland Farms is also a private aviation airport and is identified on aeronautical sectional charts as 87KS. If you are and aviator and would like to use the campground/runways, you must call first to make arrangements. For additional information visit (haylandfarms.com). Click on "Pilot/Runway Information". Each fall, for one day, Hayland Farms comes alive as it hosts an aviation fly-in, a car and tractor show, and a variety of other exciting events. For more information on dates and activities, visit haylandfarms.com.
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Potable water
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$35
 / night

The best camping near Glen Elder State Park guide

Overview

About

Glen Elder State Park offers some quality camping on Waconda Lake. The lake was once a mineral spring and the former home of a sanitarium, making the waters extra mysterious. The park hosts a plethora of historical explorations including the Waconda Heritage Village (a living museum), the Hopewell Church, and the Wakonda Indian Festival. If you’re craving some Mother Nature, the lake is surrounded by a wildlife area where you can watch eagles soar, geese flock, and deer and pheasant frolic midst the grasses. Don’t forget your hiking boots, fishing pole, or tent at home. At a park like this you’re gonna need them!

Notable campgrounds

  • Kanza Campground: Features a large heated showerhouse and prime sites with 50 amp, water, and concrete pads.
  • Cheyenne Campground: Offers a showerhouse, picnic tables, and fire rings, with several sites boasting 50 amp service and grills.
  • Kaw Campground: Includes a showerhouse and picnic areas, with a selection of sites equipped with utilities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as reservations for Glen Elder State Park open on December 15 at 12pm CST for the following year.
  • Consider off-peak seasons for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Keep an eye on park alerts for any updates on campsite availability and conditions.
  • Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan in case your preferred site is booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Glen Elder State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers a full array of activities but can be quite warm. Winter visitors can enjoy the stark beauty and solitude of the park, although some facilities may be closed.

Know before you go

  • Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
  • Be prepared for Kansas weather, which can change rapidly, by bringing appropriate clothing and gear.
  • Accessibility varies across the park, so inquire ahead if you require ADA facilities.
  • Free wifi is available at select hotspots within the park, courtesy of Cunningham Telephone & Cable.
  • Remember to respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.

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