As summer ends across Kansas the welcome fall weather begins to transform landscapes to rich oranges, reds, yellows and browns. Cooler temperatures make for cozy fall campsites. Experience the beauty of Kansas at these five perfect fall camping spots in the state.
A great out-of-the-way fall campsite perfect for crisp weather is Drury Park near Caldwell. This is an excellent spot to observe the changing colors of fall and listen to nature. This camping location is perfect for nature lovers—no swimming, alcohol, or guns are permitted at this park, which skirts a portion of the Chikaskia River. Your view also includes the Drury Dam and waterfall, operated by the Drury Recreation Area Inc.
One of Kansas’ oldest state parks is Kanopolis near Marquette. It has more than 200 primitive campsites where you can find your own personal space. More than 15,000 acres of rolling hills, majestic bluffs, and wooded areas make this lake’s campsites extra special in the fall. Nature trails, wildlife viewing, fishing, waterfalls add to the beauty of this state park.
Canning Creek Cove Park is located near Council Grove Lake in eastern Kansas. This campsite park is by Council Grove Lake and is part of the rolling Flint Hills and grassy prairies of eastern Kansas. During the fall, you can step outside your tent and enjoy the first light of the day, taking in the breathtaking colors painted by this landscape.
The Blackjack Campground is in the Cross Timbers State Park near Toronto. This is a wooded camping area by Toronto Lake situated along the hills of the Verdigris River Valley in southeastern Kansas. Its canopy of trees allows sunlight to highlight the park’s fall colors and dance off the native wildflowers. Lake activities, hiking, biking, and walking trails provide scenic tranquility.
Located near Fall River, Kansas, this state park is truly something to experience in the fall. There are six hiking trails located within the park, so there is plenty of opportunity for a scenic foliage hike. This is a favorite spot among bird watchers, photographers, and naturalists, due to its immense natural diversity.