Carbolyn Park
4.6746 reviews5260 Pomona Dam Road, Vassar, KS, 66543-9212, USA
Carbolyn Park
$14.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for sites range from $14 per night for standard non-electric sites to $20 per night for standard electric sites during peak season.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rolling hills of eastern Kansas, Carbolyn Park offers an intimate escape where ancient shade trees create a natural cathedral above your campsite. This peaceful retreat on the shores of Pomona Lake invites you to cast a line into pristine waters, launch your boat for a sunset cruise, or simply unwind at a lakeside picnic. Adventure seekers can explore winding hiking trails, while hunting enthusiasts will find prime territory in the surrounding woodlands. Don't miss the visitor center, where interactive displays reveal the secrets of this remarkable ecosystem.
Carbolyn Park provides varied camping accommodations including sites with water and electricity hookups and primitive options.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground, the charming town of Lyndon serves as a living museum with 22 historical treasures waiting to be discovered. Among these gems stands a remarkable testament to American ingenuity—the nation's smallest Carnegie library still serving its community. This tiny literary landmark continues to inspire visitors with its story of how even the smallest communities cherished knowledge and learning in frontier Kansas.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, golden days perfect for lake activities and starlit evenings around the campfire. The dry climate keeps you comfortable as you explore, with gentle breezes off the water providing natural air conditioning. Plan your visit during the weather-friendly weeks when moderate temperatures and low humidity create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Note that this seasonal paradise closes its gates on September 30, allowing nature to reclaim its winter solitude.
ElevationNestled in the gently undulating landscape of eastern Kansas, Carbolyn Park rests at the comfortable elevations characteristic of the region's prairie heartland. While specific elevation markers aren't documented, the campground's position offers the perfect vantage point to appreciate the surrounding natural beauty without the challenges of high-altitude camping.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself awakening to the sight of majestic bald eagles soaring overhead while white-tailed deer graze peacefully in nearby meadows. The campground sits at the intersection of diverse ecosystems where rolling hills meet mixed grasslands, dense forests border productive croplands, and Dragoon Creek meanders through it all. Canada geese announce the changing seasons, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and beneath the lake's surface, prized game fish including crappie, walleye, and channel catfish await patient anglers.
Geological RegionPomona Lake emerges from a landscape shaped by millennia of natural forces, where eastern Kansas reveals its subtle drama through rolling hills and varied terrain. This geological tapestry weaves together prairie grasslands with dense forest groves, creating a mosaic of habitats that support an impressive array of wildlife. The interplay of water, wood, and grassland creates microenvironments where diverse species thrive, making every visit a potential wildlife watching adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not specifically mentioned; detailed accessibility reviews are unavailable.
Sites SizeSites are generally spacious; some users noted 'large shady trees and nice size sites.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as quiet and peaceful, with a secluded feel due to heavy tree coverage. One reviewer mentioned it being 'away from the hustle and bustle.'
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the playground for families; avoid those with walnut trees in fall due to sap dripping.
Best CampsitesSites 14 and 18 received positive reviews for ample shade and proximity to amenities. Site 16 was criticized for awkward hookup placement.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
6:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is up to 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 32 sites, 29 with water and electric hookups. The layout includes loops and shaded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to September 30 during the reservable season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability; the campground is reservable in advance through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for individual campsites will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Reservations can be canceled up to midnight the day before check-in.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Carbolyn Park offers multiple recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, hiking, picnicking, and hunting. The nearby trails around Pomona Lake provide opportunities for hiking and nature study. Deer Creek Nature Trail and Witches' Broom Trail are short hiking paths, while Black Hawk Trail features a 33-mile loop popular for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Three nearby trails meander around Pomona Lake. Deer Creek Nature Trail and Witches' Broom Trail are shorter, while Black Hawk Trail offers a 33-mile loop suited for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.Fishing
The lake's fish and wildlife resources make it an excellent fishing spot. Species include crappie, walleye, and channel catfish, among others.Biking
The Black Hawk Trail includes mountain biking paths. Users can enjoy a variety of terrains along this 33-mile loop.Boating
A boat ramp is available on-site, and Pomona Lake offers opportunities for kayaking, fishing boats, and other watercraft.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkey are frequently observed. One reviewer mentioned enjoying 'being surrounded by trees and listening to all the birds.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The visitor center has educational displays about Pomona Lake and its environment, enhancing the cultural and educational experiences.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not specified.Water Sports
Other water sports like kayaking may be possible based on the park's boating infrastructure.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policy guidelines mentioned; visitors should follow general park rules.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include large walnut trees that may drip sap in the fall. Wildlife such as bald eagles and deer are present, but no specific dangers are detailed in the authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
The local sheriff's department patrols the park during the recreation season. There is no direct mention of nearby hospitals or police stations, but Lyndon likely houses some emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are maintained by park staff. One user noted that 'the lady that cleans the bath room and empties the trash is rude,' but no specific complaints about the facilities themselves were reported.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Dragoon Creek and Pomona Lake, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsSome users noted issues with hookup placements, outdated facilities, under-sized bathhouses, and inconvenient check-in/check-out times.
HostCamp hosts are praised for being friendly, helpful, and attentive.
Campground Map
5260 Pomona Dam Road, Vassar, KS, 66543-9212, USA
Driving directionsLocated 25 miles south of Topeka on US 75. The park entrance is 4.5 miles north of Lyndon, KS on US 75 on the east side of the road.
The campground is accessible directly from US 75, with paved roads leading into the park. Access is straightforward but may include moderate traffic depending on the season.Nearby places
Lyndon, KS (less than 10 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Topeka, KS (25 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Lyndon, KS (less than 10 miles away) offers limited restaurants and shops for groceries and supplies. Larger towns such as Topeka provide more extensive options.
Camper Reviews
4.7
46 reviews
Carbolyn Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the peacefulness, cleanliness, and friendly hosts. Complaints include outdated facilities, awkward shower designs, and late check-out times.
Review Summaries
Based on 46 reviews
What Campers Love
Multiple reviewers praised Carbolyn Park's shaded campsites, friendly hosts, and cleanliness. Quotes include 'Nice shady campsites. Grass was mowed,' and 'Hosts were friendly as could be.'
Based on 46 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include outdated bathrooms, awkward open-air showers, and the late check-out time of 6 p.m. Several users also noted challenges with sewer dump setups and campsite layouts.
Based on 46 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water hoses designed for tight sewer setups. Prepare for outdoor shower experiences with potential insect activity. Arrive early since 6 p.m. check-in times can lead to delays.
Based on 46 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews are highly favorable due to shade and breezes, but open-air showers are cited as problematic during windy or rainy weather. Fall reviews note some inconvenience from walnut tree sap.
Based on 46 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'The campground is awesome.'
- 'Great small park...hidden away but not far from town.'
- 'Hosts were friendly as could be.'
- 'Nice and quiet.'
- 'Lovely mature trees.'
Based on 46 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 16: 'Shade was excellent. Hookups placed on wrong side.'
Site 24: 'No shade during the hottest part of the day.'
Site 09: 'Lovely campground.'
Site 18: 'Quiet place with friendly campers.'
Site...
Based on 46 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025