The best camping near Tuttle Creek Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Tuttle Creek Lake adventure.

Discover the natural splendor of Tuttle Creek Lake and its outdoor adventures.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Tuttle Creek Lake

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Tuttle Creek Lake

Top-rated campgrounds near Tuttle Creek Lake

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Blackthorn Retreat

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents101 acres · Randolph, KS

The most unique feature of this property is that it was unaltered for the last 50 years. Purchased in 2015 by us for use in outdoor skills instruction as Blackthorn-USA. In 2018 we developed Blackthorn Retreat as a private campground. Densely wooded and home to many animals this property is unlike any other place in the area.It was, and is, our intention to create campsites and usable space without the use of heavy equipment to maintain the natural setting and diverse wildlife habitat. While we are now altering the property, we are working with our land as opposed to forcing it to our will.Come see us. Adventure awaits!

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Pink Gravel Campsites

7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Dwight, KS

This campground can be found within city limits of the small town of Dwight located in northern Morris County, Kansas. It's a perfect place to stay during your back road adventure through the Flint Hills of Kansas. Enjoy exploring all the corners of our small town on two feet or two wheels. Have a picnic or play horseshoes in the City Park, visit the Dwight Library or schedule a visit to the Swartz School museum. On Main Street you can find two large limestone structures from the early days of Dwight - the old limestone hardware store and the limestone bank. Dwight is minutes from Ag Heritage Park and Museum in Alta Vista; the historic Council Grove with shopping, restaurants, lakes and Flint Hills Nature Trail; or Fort Riley Army Base, home of the Big Red 1. Our campground geared toward short stays for those looking for a quiet, safe place for an overnight or for a few nights as you visit friends, family or attending nearby event. Nearby towns within 70 miles (1 hour) of Dwight, Ks: Alta Vista - 7 miles - by way of HWY 4 White City - 10 miles - by way of HWY 4 Council Grove - 18 miles - by way of HWY 4 and 177 South Junction City/Fort Riley - 19 miles - by way of HWY 57 Herington - 30 miles - by way of HWY 4 and 77 Manhattan - 34 miles - by way of Hwy 4 and 177 North Milford Lake - 40 miles - by way of Hwy 57 and 77 Abilene - 45 miles - by way of HWY 57 and I-70 Emporia - 52 miles - via Council Grove to Hwy 56 to Road F. Topeka - 63 miles - via Hwy 4 to 177 to I-70

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Equine Estates Rustic Horse Ranch

16 sites · RVs, Tents83 acres · Junction City, KS

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.

The best camping near Tuttle Creek Lake guide

Overview

About

Holding space in northeast Kansas, the Tuttle Creek Lake area is comprised of 10,900 acres of lake, and an additional 20,000 acres of land surrounding it. There are six well-maintained parks around the lake that include paved roads, nature trails, an artificial beach, and are well-suited to camping activities. Two parks even cater to off-road vehicle enthusiasts. The northern half of the park is leased to the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism, for the protection and enhancement of wildlife. If you’re stopping by on the last weekend of June, check out the Country Stampede Music Festival that’s hosted here every year, and has booked superstars like Toby Keith and Travis Tritt.

Notable campgrounds

Stockdale Park: A serene camping spot ideal for anglers and boaters seeking tranquility.
Tuttle Creek Cove: Offers a family-friendly atmosphere with easy access to water activities.
Cedar Ridge Park: Perfect for campers who enjoy picturesque lakeside views and picnics.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as campgrounds fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Check for cancellations regularly, especially close to your desired camping dates.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a reservation.

When to go

The best time to visit Tuttle Creek Lake is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers a wealth of water activities, though it can be quite warm. Winters are quieter but can be cold, with some facilities closed or operating at reduced hours.

Know before you go

Always wear a life jacket when on the water, and be aware of lake conditions for safe boating.
Visitor Center hours are 8am to 4:30pm Monday through Friday, closed on federal holidays.
Remember to acquire firewood locally to prevent the spread of tree-killing insects and diseases.
Check the Corps of Engineers website for the latest information on rules, regulations, and closures.
Bring your ID if you plan to purchase an America the Beautiful Pass at the lake office.