The best camping near Scott State Park

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

100% (1 reviews)

Discover the historic beauty of Scott State Park and its myriad of outdoor activities.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Scott State Park

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

Top-rated campgrounds near Scott State Park

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The Light Center

13 sites · Lodging, Tents95 acres · 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.

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Lake Georgia-Sue

81 sites · RVs, Tents85 acres · Ottawa, KS

Lake Georgia-Sue is an 85 acre oasis of relaxation and fun. We are located in East Central Kansas, not far from Kansas City, Topeka, Lawrence, and Wichita. The lake itself is 8 acres, with a lot of fish, swimming, small craft boating, kayaking, and wind surfing. The property has numerous sites where you can private pasture your horses, work them in our private round pens, and trail ride them in the hundreds of miles of trails that intersect the property. These are VERY large and private campsites with no nosey or loud neighbors. Sites are for primitive camping, RVs needing electric hookups via available generators, fresh water. Lakefront sites or forest sites are available. Showers, toilets, AC Clubhouse, playground, ponies, pet pigs, goats, and chickens. Pet friendly. Group camping for up to 25 people. Great for weddings, birthdays, etc We are just a short drive from four larger state lakes. An abundance of good restaurants are just ten minutes away, and sometimes we take a trail ride to eat Mexican or BBQ in the village close by.

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BaseCamp Humboldt

4 sites · RVs21 acres · Humboldt, KS

Base Camp is a 21 acre modern glampground + RV Park, trailhead, and bike park. We have beautiful cabins, mini A-frames and full service pull-through RV hookups. Located in Humboldt, KS at the trailhead to the Southwind rail trail. Base Camp features a quarry pond for fishing and small watercrafts, large open fields for recreation and a bike skills course perfect for beginners and seasoned riders alike. Currently, we do not offer tent camping. Our RV spots are located in our paved parking lot. Each rental includes water, 30 and 50 amp electric and sewer hookups. Humboldt, KS was listed in the 2022 NYT 52 Places for a Changed World because of the work of A Bolder Humboldt. ABH developed BaseCamp and is feverishly working to breathe life into our downtown square. You will find a coffee shop, candy store, a Bruncherie, and nightlife. We are grateful for your support of our efforts through your visit to Humboldt.

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The Hitch N' Post

5 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · 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.

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Melvern Overlook

3 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Olivet, KS

This beautiful property overlooks the stunning Melvern Lake. The property has a preserved natural view with no buildings in or homes within sight. The camping spot includes a fire pit, mowed area and is 200 yards off the access road and only 2 miles from the blacktop road. The view from the campsite overlooking the lake is breathe taking.

Beeman's Cabin

1 site · Lodging18 acres · Hamilton, KS

Tranquility and peacefulness surround you and help you push the "reset" button on life! Step out the door and immerse yourself in nature! Evenings can be spent around the fire pit, roasting marshmallows (which are complimentary), listening to coyotes howling in the distance, or just gazing at the stars! Our furry friends will abide for your attention and will be a constant companion as you stroll down to the creek or up the trail to catch the setting sun. Life is better in the Country! The space 18 acres to explore with a winding creek and wildlife. Stars in the sky - both the actual stars and fireflies! Birds, coyotes, turkey, quail, whitetail deer - all share the same space. Great opportunity to teach children about nature! Explore at your own risk! The open floor plan of the cabin means that the beds are on one end and the eating area on the other! A small kitchenette (sink and electric skillet) is adjacent to the bathroom - which consists of a sink, toilet, and shower. The eating area also has a microwave and toaster oven. Paper goods are provided, but so are real dishes, silverware, and utensils. Folgers medium roast coffee is provided, as well as condiments in the refrigerator. If you'd like eggs ($2 per half dozen - when we have them, ask about availability) or ground beef ($4 per pound), arrangements can be made for that to be available, just let me know in advance. Outside, a propane grill is available for your grilling convenience. A TV with a DVD player is provided - but why stay inside when there's so much to see outside?? there are also puzzles, playing cards, and assorted games if the weather forces you to stay inside! Guest access Guest parking is located adjacent to the cabin. 3 steps must be climbed to gain access to the cabin. We encourage you to explore our space! We have a chicken house, 4H animals, dogs & cats to see and pet! Other things to note We are a working, ranch family and our house is adjacent to the cabin - close but not too close. We travel back and forth to our ranch on 4-wheelers and ATVs. Our dogs are not only pets but are also ranch security. This means that at night, they will bark when they feel that coyotes are getting too close to our pets and chickens, so they are just doing their jobs and are not trying to keep you awake at night!

The best camping near Scott State Park guide

Overview

About

Boasting more than 26 archaeological sites in the area, Scott State Park is hands down one of the most historic spots in Kansas. Between Native American battle grounds and settler homes, you'll find activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Hunt or fish for wildlife just like the days of yore, or hike around the hallowed grounds and keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife ranging from bobcats to beavers. Horse lovers, have no fear, equestrian campsites in the area mean your four-legged friends are more than welcome. Whether you're swimming in your birthday suit, or just digging your toes into the white sand beaches, it'll be hard to complain about the amount of activities here.

Notable campgrounds

Circle Drive: Offers water and electric hookups amid lush settings, perfect for both RVs and tents.
Lakeview Campground: Closed for upgrades but known for its scenic vistas and proximity to the lake.
Elm Grove: A tranquil area with primitive camping, ideal for those seeking a rustic experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, as reservations for the upcoming year open in mid-December and can fill up quickly.
For a longer stay, ensure you have a reservation to avoid being bumped from your site.
Consider off-season camping for more availability and a peaceful park experience.
Explore nearby camping options if your preferred campground is full or closed for upgrades.

When to go

The best time to visit Scott State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers full access to all park activities but can be hot. Winters are quiet and serene, though some facilities may be closed.

Know before you go

Check the latest park alerts for any closures or special notices before your visit.
Remember to disconnect your water supply hose when temperatures drop to prevent freezing.
Be aware of the local wildlife and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe encounter.
Cell phone service is available in most park locations thanks to a new tower.
Recycling is encouraged, with aluminum can drop-off points provided in the park.