Canning Creek
4.6696 reviews1130 City Lake RD, COUNCIL GROVE, KS, 66846, USA
Canning Creek
$17.00 - $225.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
Hookup Site Fee$27.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$225.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on the site type and season. Group site fees are higher due to capacity.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of the expansive 3,310-acre Council Grove Lake, Canning Creek Campground invites you to experience the untamed beauty of Kansas's legendary Flint Hills. Here, modern camping amenities blend seamlessly with endless opportunities for adventure—cast your line into pristine waters teeming with fish, launch your boat for a day of exploration, or set off on scenic trails that wind through one of America's last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems.
Canning Creek Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, from tent camping to RV camping and group sites.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of history at this storied landscape where the Osage Nation once gathered to sign the pivotal treaty that opened the legendary Santa Fe Trail. Just moments away in the historic town of Council Grove, weathered markers and preserved sites tell tales of pioneers, traders, and Native Americans who shaped the American frontier. Every trail and overlook connects you to centuries of human stories etched into these rolling hills.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives with gentle breezes and wildflower blooms, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures, while autumn paints the prairie in golden hues under crisp, clear skies. Summer brings warm days ideal for water activities, though the famous Flint Hills winds can add their own dramatic flair to your camping experience. As winter's chill settles over the prairie, the campground enters its quiet season, waiting for spring's return.
ElevationPerched at the gentle elevations characteristic of the Flint Hills region, the campground offers sweeping vistas across the undulating prairie landscape and shimmering lake waters below.
Natural Features and SceneryAwaken to the sight of mist rising from Council Grove Lake as deer graze in nearby meadows and wild turkeys strut through your campsite. The rolling tallgrass prairie stretches endlessly in every direction, creating a sea of green that dances in the wind. Spring and summer bring explosions of native wildflowers—purple coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and prairie roses—while hiking trails reveal hidden coves, limestone outcroppings, and panoramic views that capture the raw beauty of this preserved prairie ecosystem.
Geological RegionSet within the iconic Flint Hills of eastern Kansas, Canning Creek Campground sits atop ancient limestone layers that create one of North America's last great tallgrass prairies. This remarkable geological region, shaped by millions of years of shallow seas and erosion, remains largely unplowed due to its rocky substrate—preserving a landscape that looks much as it did when the Osage Nation signed their historic treaty establishing the Old Santa Fe Trail. The undulating hills, carved by centuries of wind and water, create a dramatic backdrop that has captivated travelers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include paved roads and campsites, with some sites being highly rated for their ease of access. However, reviews did not specifically mention features for disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'spacious,' with concrete pads, level areas, and covered shelters for picnic tables. For example, campsite 32 includes a concrete pad for a 25' camper.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some described as secluded ('site 29 makes you feel like you’re by yourself') and others noting proximity to busy areas like boat ramps.
Total Campsites43 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRocky shorelines require water shoes for swimming. Site 18 is next to a busy boat ramp and can get noisy. Sites near the lake like 29 and 35 offer good views.
Best CampsitesSites 9, 29, 35, and 46 are highly recommended for views, cleanliness, and lake access.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two camping units allowed per site.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate 40, 75, and 100 guests, with shelters, picnic tables, and electrical outlets. However, some reviews noted issues such as broken outlets and limited lighting.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout43 reservable sites, including three group sites. Sites are mixed between shaded and grassy open areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 to October 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov, phone app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival date are permitted with a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational activities are available at Canning Creek Campground, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The location also offers proximity to historical and scenic areas like the Flint Hills Scenic Byway and the National Tallgrass Prairie Preserve.
Hiking
Hiking trails, including the scenic Pioneer Nature Trail, are available along the lakeshore and into the forest. Trails feature wildlife, greenery, and wildflowers.Fishing
Fishing is one of the highlights at Council Grove Lake, with crappie and catfish being most abundant. The lake was the first in Kansas to be stocked with Saugeye.Boating
Boating is popular, and the campground provides two boat ramps for convenience.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including deer, quail, and wild turkey. The trails and nearby prairie offer excellent opportunities for spotting various species.Winter Activities
Winter camping may offer scenic views but limited activities. No specific winter activities were mentioned in the sources.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible, but rip rap at some sites limits ease of access. Canoeing and other non-motorized sports were noted in reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include raccoon encounters at campsites if trash or food left unattended.
Active alertsNo current advisories or alerts.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
For emergencies, call Morris County Sheriff Office at (620) 767-6310. No explicit mention of hospitals or police stations nearby.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground, but some reviews report issues such as overflowing bins or inaccessible trash cans due to aggressive dogs guarding them.
Proximity to water featuresLakefront sites with views and access to Council Grove Lake.
Common complaintsUsers frequently mention cleanliness of facilities, noise from boat ramps, lack of park attendants, and occasional rude staff.
HostHosts generally helpful, though some reviews mention lack of staff presence.
Campground Map
1130 City Lake RD, COUNCIL GROVE, KS, 66846, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-70, take Highway 177 south for 30 miles. Turn west across Dam Road, then turn right on to City Lake Road and continue for 2 miles. Campground entrance road is on the right.
Accessible via paved roadways. No seasonal closures or difficult terrain mentioned.Nearby places
Council Grove (2 miles southeast)
No additional cities listed.
Nearby supplies
Grocery and essentials likely available in Council Grove, 2 miles southeast of the campground. No specific stores or supply locations mentioned.
Camper Reviews
4.7
96 reviews
Canning Creek is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews for Canning Creek are highly positive, with most users praising clean facilities, spacious sites, and beautiful views. However, some negative experiences include issues with maintenance, aggressive pets, and rude staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 96 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the campground's cleanliness, scenic views, and spacious sites. Comments include 'beautiful area, great workers, and excellent camp site maintenance' and 'clean and quiet...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include maintenance issues like broken outlets, lack of toilet paper, and trash removal problems. Others noted aggressive pets and limited staff presence ('no park ranger or attendant...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water shoes for rocky swimming areas and secure food to prevent raccoon visits. Some users suggest booking sites with shade for hot days. For group camping, plan to bring extra lighting.
Based on 96 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are ideal seasons for camping, with users enjoying wildlife and hiking in cooler weather. Summer reviews mention heat and bugs, while winter feedback highlights quiet and scenic views...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground with a stunning view of the lake and clean facilities.'
2. 'Modern restrooms with showers were clean and well stocked during our entire visit.'
3. 'Rip rap prevented safe...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 29 is described as private and secluded. Site 32 offers a concrete pad and excellent facilities. Site 41A was praised for its view and quiet location. Group sites like S-2 are appreciated for...
Based on 96 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility options include level pads and paved roads, but features for disabilities were not specifically mentioned.
Based on 96 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept contained. Some users reported issues with aggressive pets and unattended animals disrupting their stay.
Based on 96 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025