Glen Elder State Park
00 review2131 180 Rd., Glen Elder, Kansas, 67430, United States
Glen Elder State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Information about fees is missing from the provided authoritative sources.
About this campground
Glen Elder State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts to the pristine shores of Waconda Lake, where endless adventures await beneath Kansas skies. This waterfront paradise combines modern comforts with natural splendor, featuring hot showers, contemporary restroom facilities, and a full-service marina that serves as your gateway to aquatic exploration. Whether you're powering across the lake, casting a line at sunrise, or cycling along scenic trails, every day brings new possibilities. Well-appointed campsites feature concrete pads with secure tie-downs, fresh water hookups, and electrical connections, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable.
Glen Elder State Park accommodates various camping preferences, including primitive sites, RV camping, and cabins.
Historical SignificanceThe shores of Waconda Lake hold stories waiting to be discovered, where prairie history meets modern recreation in the heart of Kansas.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Kansas seasons at Glen Elder, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter transforms the park into a quiet retreat, with crisp air and frosty mornings perfect for peaceful contemplation. As spring awakens the prairie, mild temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking and wildlife watching. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days that beckon swimmers and boaters to the sparkling waters of Waconda Lake. When autumn arrives, comfortable temperatures and changing colors make for spectacular camping weather, drawing visitors who seek the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
ElevationNestled in the rolling terrain of north-central Kansas, the park offers gentle landscapes that welcome explorers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryWaconda Lake serves as the stunning centerpiece of this natural oasis, its expansive waters reflecting endless prairie skies and creating a photographer's dream at every turn. Seasonal wildflowers carpet the shoreline in vibrant colors, while diverse wildlife—from soaring hawks to white-tailed deer—call this protected habitat home. The interplay of water and land creates ever-changing vistas, where sunrise paints the lake in gold and sunset transforms the horizon into a canvas of purple and orange.
Geological RegionPerched in the remarkable High Plains Region, Glen Elder showcases the subtle beauty of Kansas's ancient prairie landscape, where geological forces have sculpted gentle hills and vast horizons over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers a modern handicapped-accessible fish cleaning station and concrete camp pads with secure tie-downs, water, and 50-amp electricity in Kaw, Cheyenne, and Kanza campgrounds.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious by some, with specific complaints about RV sites being 'packed in like sardines' unless premium sites are reserved.
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews on privacy. Some campsites are noted as cramped, especially in RV areas, while tent camping areas provide more room.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose camping spots under tall trees for shade. Tent camping offers more space compared to RV areas.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers not provided, but premium sites near tall trees and waterfront spots are recommended.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM for cabins.
Check-out
12:00 PM for cabins.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days with a possible 14-day extension upon park manager approval. A five-day absence is required before returning.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific details provided on guest limits per site.
Groups
No specific information about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes Osage area with swimming beach and reservable group shelter. Sections like Kaw and Kanza provide modern amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonMid-March through October for modern restroom/shower buildings. Year-round cabin rentals.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Park-Regulations.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific details provided on walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyNo information provided on cancellation policies.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Glen Elder State Park offers a variety of activities, including swimming, boating, fishing, biking, and hiking. Wildlife viewing, picnicking, and volleyball are also common. The park’s rural setting provides a peaceful ambiance, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The park includes the Waconda Nature Trails, which are under development but usable. No specific details about the difficulty or length of trails are provided.Fishing
Fishing is highly popular at Waconda Lake, with opportunities both from the bank and by boat. Fish cleaning stations are available. Visitors have praised the fishing experience as 'great' and 'never disappointing.'Swimming
Swimming is allowed in designated areas, including a sandy beach. Specific safety measures, such as alcohol restrictions on swimming beaches, are enforced.Biking
Bicycling is available both within the facility and in nearby mountain/trail biking areas.Boating
Boating is a major draw of the park. The marina provides fuel and boat rentals, and boating activities range from kayaking and canoeing to powerboating. No-wake zones exist around swimming areas.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with opportunities to observe birds and native flora. Specific viewing platforms or areas are not mentioned.Beach activities
The sandy beach offers swimming and sunbathing, with picnic tables nearby that rotate to provide shade.Winter Activities
No specific information provided on winter activities.Water Sports
Includes activities like kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing, supported by the marina and boat rentals.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills. Must be extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsZebra mussels present in Waconda Lake; wear water shoes to avoid cuts. Mosquitoes can be an issue, particularly in June. RV sites may have muddy areas during wet conditions.
Active alertsNo specific active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services are located greater than 10 miles away, including hospitals and medical clinics.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch through October (modern facilities available).
Trash and recyclingNo explicit details provided about trash and recycling facilities, although compliance with trash disposal regulations is required.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly located on Waconda Lake; contains swimming areas and fishing spots.
Common complaintsComplaints include crowded RV sites, mosquito prevalence, and poor cleanliness of facilities at some campsites (e.g., Kaw site).
HostCampground hosts are present but may not always guide campers effectively to reserved spots.
Campground Map
2131 180 Rd., Glen Elder, Kansas, 67430, United States
Driving directionsThe Glen Elder State Park main entrance is located on Hwy 24 at the Hwy 128 junction. Approximately 12 miles West of Beloit or 6 miles East of Cawker City on Hwy 24.
The park is accessible via Hwy 24 and Hwy 128. The roads leading to the campground are paved and suitable for vehicle travel.Nearby places
Beloit (12 miles, ~20 minutes), Cawker City (6 miles, ~10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: Grocery store, restaurant, seasonal festivals, and camping supplies. The park itself has a marina providing boating, fishing, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Glen Elder State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's cleanliness, spaciousness, and range of activities, with particular praise for fishing, boating, and the cabins. However, some visitors noted issues with overcrowding in RV sites and unclean facilities in specific areas like Kaw.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious facilities, excellent fishing and boating opportunities, well-maintained cabins, and beautiful lake views. Reviewers also appreciated the welcoming and helpful staff.
Common Concerns
Overcrowding in RV sites, lack of playgrounds for children, unclean shower facilities in some areas like Kaw, and reports of mosquito problems during summer.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Choose camping areas with tall trees for shade, bring water shoes due to zebra mussels in the lake, and reserve premium RV sites for more space.
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for peace and solitude, while summer sees increased activity, with fishing and boating being popular. Mosquitoes and cottonwood debris are common complaints during summer.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Clean, spacious, and comfortable. Hot showers too!' 2. 'Beware, however, tent campers, that the primitive sites are also occupied by RVs as well.' 3. 'The lake was so beautiful, and my kids would...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Kanza Loop received mixed reviews, described as cramped and lacking shade. Kaw Campground's shower facilities were criticized for poor cleanliness. Premium RV sites recommended for more space.
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews from users with disabilities, but the park includes handicapped-accessible features like the fish cleaning station.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. They are not permitted on swimming beaches or in public buildings.
Last updated August 10, 2025