Arrow Rock
4.3663 reviews22862 Arrow Rock Parkway, Lebo, KS, 66856, USA
Arrow Rock
$16.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$22.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees range from $16 for standard nonelectric sites to $22 for standard electric sites. Additional fees may apply for changes, cancellations, or no-shows.
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of Melvern Lake, Arrow Rock Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water adventures and prairie serenity. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line from the shoreline, or exploring nearby hiking trails, this modern campground serves as your gateway to endless recreation. While the campground itself offers an open, sun-drenched setting with limited shade, its contemporary amenities ensure a comfortable stay as you immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Flint Hills.
Arrow Rock Campground features options for RV, tent, and primitive camping, as well as designated group sites. The campground accommodates various camping preferences with 19 sites offering electricity and water hookups.
Historical SignificanceCamp at the edge of one of America's most precious ecosystems—the Flint Hills preserve the continent's last remaining tallgrass prairie, a landscape that once stretched across millions of acres. This rare and magnificent ecosystem tells the story of the American heartland, where Native peoples, pioneers, and ranchers have all left their mark on these rolling hills.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Kansas prairie at Arrow Rock. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxation under expansive blue skies. As autumn arrives, the landscape shifts to cooler temperatures and quieter surroundings, offering a more contemplative camping experience. Note that water and electric services conclude after October 1st, making late-season visits ideal for those seeking a more rustic adventure.
ElevationPerched within the gentle contours of the iconic Flint Hills region, Arrow Rock Campground offers a prairie camping experience at moderate Kansas elevations, where rolling terrain creates natural vantage points and intimate valleys throughout your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking tapestry of the Flint Hills, where native grasses like big bluestem and Indian grass paint the landscape in waves of amber and green. The campground's open setting contrasts beautifully with the rolling, wooded hills that embrace the lake's southern shores, creating a diverse ecosystem where prairie meets water. This unique position offers campers both sweeping vistas and intimate natural spaces to explore.
Geological RegionArrow Rock Campground sits proudly on the eastern edge of Kansas's legendary Flint Hills, a geological wonder where ancient limestone and chert create the foundation for America's last intact tallgrass prairie. These rolling hills, sculpted by millions of years of wind and water, offer a camping experience unlike anywhere else—where every horizon tells the story of an untamed landscape that has endured through the ages.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible facilities are available, but a reviewer pointed out issues: 'HANDICAP SPACE #21 WAS EXTREMELY UN-LEVEL AND THE HANDICAP RESTROOM WERE NOT CLEAN.'
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating RVs, tents, and other equipment. Specific details include: 'The sight #3 was well shaded and we had room for the RV, truck, and pontoon boat.'
Sites PrivacySite privacy varies, with some campers noting spacious layouts while others mentioned close proximity and foot traffic through campsites.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 3 provides room for RVs and boats, site 22 is described as peaceful but lacks shade, and site 34 offers proximity to water and clean facilities. Review multiple quotes for site-specific guidance.
Best CampsitesSites such as 3, 22, and 34 are noted for proximity to water, scenic views, and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in required before 24 hours of reservation time.
Check-out
Check-out by noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site accommodates typical RVs, tents, and vehicles.
Groups
The campground overview mentions designated group sites with room for multiple campers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout33 sites available with both electric/non-electric options. Campsites are back-in type and angled, with gravel pads noted.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1st to September 29th. No reservations available from September 29th to May 1st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome picnic sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-up availability for standard campsites not mentioned explicitly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled arrival date. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional fees and forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations may also incur fees.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Arrow Rock Campground at Melvern Lake offers a diverse array of activities, including boating, swimming, hiking, hunting, and fishing. Reviews frequently highlight the lake's suitability for water recreation and its scenic beauty. The 4-mile Tallgrass Heritage Trail begins within the campground, offering campers additional opportunities to explore the surrounding tallgrass prairie.
Hiking
The campground features access to the 4-mile Tallgrass Heritage Trail. User reviews about hiking were mixed: 'We were excited for the opportunity to hike the trail along the shoreline but were not able to due to its lack of maintenance.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities include walleye, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, and various bass species. User reviews frequently praise fishing, such as, 'Good camping and fishing from bank.' The proximity to the lake facilitates easy access for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is available, with one user mentioning, 'Nice beach area where people could swim and kayak.' Another noted swimming access near the dam area, 'Swimming beach at Melvern Lake near dam is clean, with good water quality.'Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Melvern Lake, with a boat ramp and dock facilities provided. A reviewer stated, 'Nice size boat ramp close by, also near was a picnic area where you could see three ways far off of gorgeous view.' Another highlighted their experience, 'The camp host are great people. We really enjoyed our stay with the grandchildren, cooking out and boating.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with reviews frequently highlighting deer sightings and other wildlife. One reviewer noted, 'Nice shady location with deer in the area in morning and evening.' Another described ample opportunities for observing wildlife.Beach activities
Beach activities are available with easy access to swimming and kayaking areas. One user stated, 'Nice beach area where people could swim and kayak.'Water Sports
Includes kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Reviewers noted the availability of these activities near the shoreline.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted on-site, but adherence to local firewood restrictions is required.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsLimited shade near the water increases exposure to heat. Be cautious of rocky grounds in primitive spots, as noted in user reviews.
Active alertsNo information on active alerts provided.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.8 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
Melvern Lake Project Office: Call (785) 549-3318. For emergencies, call 911.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1st to September 29th each year.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling specifics were not mentioned. Cleanliness is emphasized in user reviews: 'Clean, nice site. Quiet during weekdays.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Melvern Lake, offering boat ramps, docks, and trails. Beaches provide swimming access.
Common complaintsIssues include uneven sites, lack of shade, noise from nearby trains, and occasional lack of lawn maintenance. Some users noted difficulty in finding trails and maintenance issues in older shower facilities.
HostFriendly camp hosts noted in multiple reviews. Hosts actively maintain site cleanliness and assist with reservations.
Campground Map
22862 Arrow Rock Parkway, Lebo, KS, 66856, USA
Driving directionsFrom US-75, take the Olivet exit. Continue onto K-276 west for 1 mile, then turn north onto South Fairlawn Road and continue another mile. Turn west onto Arrow Rock Parkway and follow to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads. Seasonal water and electric amenities available; no water or electric after October 1st.Nearby places
Lebo (approx. 4 miles), Topeka (approx. 40 miles), Emporia (approx. 30 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in Lebo, KS approximately 4 miles away for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
63 reviews
Arrow Rock is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Arrow Rock Campground has garnered mixed feedback from campers. While many praise its scenic views, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities, others highlight issues like unlevel campsites, train noise, and challenges with cancellations.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes clean facilities, friendly camp hosts, scenic views, and ample recreational activities. Reviewers often mention the proximity to Melvern Lake as a key advantage.
Based on 63 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common concerns include uneven campsites, occasional maintenance issues, and noise from nearby trains. One reviewer pointed out, 'Would not book a site unless you absolutely know for sure that you're...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers include bringing yard games for grassy areas and being prepared for spotty Wi-Fi. Another suggests, 'Visit mid-August but note swimming access may be limited due to algae.'
Based on 63 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the campground is quieter and less crowded during weekdays. Seasonal challenges include excessive heat in summer and lack of water/electricity during off-season months.
Based on 63 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Peaceful and open scenery.' 2. 'The bathrooms were spotless and the fishing was great.' 3. 'We’ve been coming here for 20 years. Love that the campground is right off of the lake and you will...
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Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site #3: 'Well shaded and we had room for RV, truck, and pontoon boat.' 2. Site #22: 'Pretty uneven though and definitely not wide enough gravel.' 3. Site #04: 'Arrow Rock is a small campground...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features received mixed reviews, with one camper stating, 'HANDICAP SPACE #21 WAS EXTREMELY UN-LEVEL AND THE HANDICAP RESTROOM WERE NOT CLEAN.'
Based on 63 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related reviews were sparse but included complaints about tall grass impacting pet outings.
Based on 63 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025