Santa Fe Trail
4.3769 reviews1026 Lake Rd, COUNCIL GROVE, KS 66846-9322, USA
Santa Fe Trail
$17.00 - $225.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$225.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees range from $17 for standard non-electric sites to $225 for group electric sites. Additional reservation fees ($8 if online, $9 via contact center, $3 in person) and service fees apply.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the expansive 3,310-acre Council Grove Lake, Santa Fe Trail Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. Wake up to panoramic views of the iconic Flint Hills before launching your boat for a day of fishing, or set out on scenic trails that wind through native prairie. The campground caters to every type of adventurer, from RV travelers who appreciate the convenience of electric hookups and flush toilets to groups seeking the perfect basecamp for their outdoor gatherings. A well-maintained boat ramp provides easy lake access, making this a premier destination for water sports and lakeside relaxation.
Santa Fe Trail Campground offers a range of camping options suitable for various preferences, including standard electric, non-electric, and group camping sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at this campground that sits near one of America's most storied travel routes. This sacred ground witnessed the signing of the treaty between the Osage Nation and the United States that officially established the legendary Santa Fe Trail, forever changing the landscape of westward expansion. Just a short drive away, the town of Council Grove serves as an open-air museum, where historic markers guide visitors through the very spots where wagon trains once gathered supplies and traders shared tales of their journeys across the frontier.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal tapestry of the Kansas prairie, where each season paints the landscape with its own distinctive palette. Autumn transforms the surrounding hills into a breathtaking canvas of amber, rust, and gold, creating some of the most photographed vistas in the region. Summer brings warm days perfect for water activities, though occasional flooding can add an element of nature's raw power to your adventure. Winter visitors are treated to crisp, clear skies and the occasional dusting of snow that transforms the prairie into a serene wonderland, while spring and fall often feature those characteristic prairie winds that have shaped this land for millennia.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain characteristic of the Flint Hills region provides natural vantage points throughout the campground, offering sweeping views across the lake and surrounding prairie landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in one of North America's last remaining tallgrass prairie ecosystems, where native grasses ripple like ocean waves across the endless Flint Hills. The campground's crown jewel, Council Grove Lake, was born from the construction of a dam in 1964, creating a stunning water oasis that perfectly complements the surrounding sea of grass. This unique convergence of aquatic and prairie environments creates diverse habitats that support abundant wildlife, from soaring hawks to grazing deer, while wildflowers paint the hillsides with seasonal splashes of color.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Flint Hills, one of the world's last intact tallgrass prairie ecosystems, the campground showcases the region's distinctive rolling topography carved by centuries of wind and water. These ancient hills, named for the abundant flint deposits left by prehistoric seas, create a mesmerizing landscape where limestone outcroppings punctuate waves of native bluestem and switchgrass that can grow taller than a person on horseback.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is equipped with paved roads and concrete pads at many sites, which could aid accessibility. However, uneven terrain at certain campsites might present challenges for some visitors.
Sites SizeSites are generally described as spacious, with several accommodating larger vehicles like RVs. Benita C. noted 'nice sized campsites that are quite wide.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies, with some sites offering more seclusion than others. Rob S. mentioned, 'Some are close to your neighbor and some are more private.'
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended Campsites'Avoid site 015 for leveling issues; site 006 for direct boat access.'
Best Campsites'Site 20 highly rated for its view and privacy. Site 35 noted as less uneven.'
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two camping units allowed (one RV and one tent or two tents).
Groups
The group camping area can accommodate up to 75 guests.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout. Sites vary in levels and are either paved or grassy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 to October 30, reservable from June 21.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not clearly mentioned, prioritizing reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations subtract the first night's recreation use 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Santa Fe Trail Campground provides a variety of recreational activities for visitors. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and hunting. The area’s natural beauty and proximity to Council Grove Lake enhance these experiences. Reviewers consistently praise fishing opportunities and the scenic hiking trails, such as the Pioneer Nature Trail.
Hiking
Hiking trails wind along the lake shore and into the forest. The Pioneer Nature Trail is highlighted as the most scenic, featuring wildlife, greenery, and wildflowers.Fishing
Fishing is highly regarded, with crappie, catfish, and saugeye being abundant. Rob S. called it 'good fishing,' and the lake is noted as the first in Kansas to stock saugeye.Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an activity, but specific details about designated swimming areas or safety measures are not provided. Trent S. shared that he and his boys 'went swimming' during their stay.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, with a boat ramp available for easy access to the lake. Matthew S. noted that the lake had 'minimal boat traffic in the cove,' making it ideal for kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to see quail, prairie chickens, wild turkeys, and deer. The Pioneer Nature Trail provides an excellent setting for observing local fauna.Water Sports
Kayaking and other non-motorized water sports are popular, enhanced by the calm and scenic lake environment.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated rings.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsUneven ground and steep access to water mentioned in reviews.
Active alertsUser mentions construction affecting water supply.
Weather forecast
72
°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
Morris County Sheriff Office (620-767-6310) for law enforcement and emergencies.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30 (peak season)
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available throughout the campground. Campers are reminded to avoid using fire rings for trash disposal and to keep the area clean.
Proximity to water featuresLakefront sites; marina nearby.
Common complaints'Uneven sites,' lack of level RV parking, closed dump station.
HostUsers describe hosts as 'friendly and professional.'
Campground Map
1026 Lake Rd, COUNCIL GROVE, KS 66846-9322, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-70, take Highway 177 south for 30 miles. Continue west across the dam road, then right onto City Lake Road. After a mile turn right into the campground entrance.
Access is paved and suitable for most vehicles. Seasonal conditions were mentioned for flooding (user reviews) but no specific note of closures.Nearby places
Council Grove (2 miles southeast, 5 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Council Grove town (2 miles southeast) has grocery stores, antique shops, camping supplies, and restaurants. Marina offers boat rentals and frozen margaritas.
Camper Reviews
4.4
69 reviews
Santa Fe Trail is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Santa Fe Trail Campground receives generally positive reviews, with an emphasis on cleanliness, beautiful lake views, and well-equipped facilities. However, some complaints about uneven sites and maintenance issues occasionally arise.
Review Summaries
Based on 69 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the campground's scenic location, spacious sites, and friendly staff. Benita C. highlighted 'lovely lake next to a lovely historic little town' and 'ground impeccably...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include uneven sites, with Theresa W. noting their setup was 'still wasn’t level' even with additional leveling equipment. Other issues mentioned include bathroom contractors and...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend choosing sites carefully to avoid unlevel spots. Some suggest visiting during the week for a quieter experience.
Based on 69 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer are the most popular seasons for camping, with activities like fishing and kayaking being highlights. Autumn offers scenic foliage along the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, making it a...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The campground was very clean and spacious with large paved parking areas for each site.' - Fred C.
2. 'Nice shady spot with a great view of the lake.' - Sandi M.
3. 'The lake is relatively calm...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 15 is noted for its beautiful lake view but is described as very unlevel. Campsite 31 gets mixed reviews for its location, with some users enjoying the great view while others complain about...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility may be challenging in some areas due to uneven terrain, particularly for those with mobility issues.
Based on 69 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets must be contained at all times. Robyn D. appreciated the pet-friendly environment but noted the need to keep pets leashed or penned.
Based on 69 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025