Michigan Valley
3.9599 reviews5260 POMONA DAM ROAD
Michigan Valley
$14.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season fees range from $14 for Standard Nonelectric sites to $60 for Group Shelter Electric sites. Additional costs may arise due to reservation fees and taxes.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Pomona Lake, Michigan Valley Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover eastern Kansas's hidden gem. Here, where crystal waters meet wooded shores, families gather to cast fishing lines at dawn, launch boats for afternoon adventures, and explore winding trails that reveal the region's natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a peaceful picnic spot or an action-packed weekend on the water, this lakeside haven delivers the perfect blend of recreation and relaxation.
Michigan Valley Campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences with its standard electric, non-electric, and group shelter sites. There are 87 campsites in total, with specific sites offering different levels of utility hookups.
Historical SignificanceJust beyond the campground's peaceful boundaries lies the charming town of Lyndon, where history comes alive through 22 carefully preserved sites that tell the story of Kansas's pioneer past. The crown jewel of this historical collection is the nation's smallest Carnegie library still serving its community—a testament to the enduring spirit of learning and literacy that Andrew Carnegie championed across America. These cultural treasures offer campers a chance to blend outdoor adventure with enriching historical exploration.
Weather and SeasonsEastern Kansas weather brings its own character to the camping experience, with warm summer days perfect for lake activities and cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. While seasonal rains occasionally sweep through the area, adding drama to the landscape and keeping the surrounding forests lush and green, savvy campers come prepared for nature's variability. The changing seasons paint the campground in different hues, from spring's fresh greens to autumn's golden tapestry.
ElevationThe campground rests comfortably in the gently undulating terrain of eastern Kansas, where the landscape offers just enough variation to keep hiking interesting while remaining accessible to campers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of shade trees envelops Michigan Valley Campground, creating cool retreats even on the warmest summer days. This verdant canopy is part of a diverse ecosystem where prairie grasslands seamlessly blend with agricultural fields and dense forests. Pomona Lake serves as the centerpiece of this natural tapestry, its waters reflecting the changing sky and providing a stunning backdrop for memorable camping moments. Wildlife enthusiasts find themselves in paradise here, where majestic bald eagles soar overhead, wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, and the lake teems with prized channel catfish waiting to test any angler's skill.
Geological RegionSet within the distinctive rolling hills of eastern Kansas, Michigan Valley Campground showcases the region's remarkable ecological diversity. This unique landscape, where tallgrass prairie meets eastern woodland, creates a patchwork of habitats that support an impressive array of wildlife. Majestic bald eagles patrol the skies above Pomona Lake, while white-tailed deer emerge at dusk from forest edges to graze in open meadows. Canada geese announce the changing seasons with their distinctive calls, adding to the natural symphony that defines this special corner of the Sunflower State.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features are not detailed in authoritative sources; however, a user review mentioned, 'I am handicapped; I wish I could use my golf cart to get around,' which indicates potential gaps in accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites range from standard electric and non-electric to group shelters. User reviews suggest that some sites are spacious, with one camper commenting, 'Nice roomy spot, clean facilities,' while others felt certain sites were not well-maintained.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some campers appreciated the shaded, secluded nature of the sites, while others mentioned issues such as aggressive dogs from neighboring sites.
Total Campsites87 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site A 23 due to flooding issues during rain. Seek sites like A 19 for lakeside views and G 12 for well-maintained amenities.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites such as A 06, A 19, and G 12 are praised for cleanliness, scenic views, and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6PM
Check-out
6PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limits are 14 consecutive nights, and 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Groups
Three group picnic shelters are available, all equipped with electric hookups. Specific details on capacity are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has multiple loops such as A, C, G, D, and F, offering electric and non-electric sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between May 1 and October 31 for reservations. Closed outside this window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or phone systems.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on first-come, first-served availability is not stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations result in forfeiting the first night's 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
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, hunting, hiking, and picnicking. Pomona Lake serves as a prime spot for these activities, with its 4,000-acre area providing ample opportunities for water sports and nature observation. Several trails near the lake cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders.
Hiking
Three trails near Pomona Lake provide opportunities for hiking and nature study. Deer Creek Nature Trail and Witches' Broom Trail are shorter trails, while Black Hawk Trail is a 33-mile loop popular for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.Fishing
Fishing is a favorite activity, with the lake being home to crappie, walleye, and channel catfish. The lake's fish resources provide ample opportunities for anglers.Swimming
While the campground features a swim beach, user reviews suggest that it is frequently closed due to issues such as blue-green algae, which one camper noted: 'The beach was closed due to blue-green algae, and the park ranger said there wasn’t a chance it would open all weekend.'Biking
The 33-mile Black Hawk Trail is noted for mountain biking opportunities, attracting riders with varying skill levels.Boating
Boating is a popular activity on Pomona Lake, with its large area accommodating various watercraft. However, no specific details about docking facilities or boat rentals are provided.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can observe wildlife such as bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkeys. The campground's shaded and secluded environment enhances the wildlife viewing experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed, but Pomona Lake's natural surroundings may offer opportunities for cold-weather recreation.Water Sports
Opportunities for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding may exist, given the lake's large size, but specific details are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed; campers are advised to follow firewood regulations to prevent pests.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding issues are frequently mentioned in user reviews, especially in sites like A 23. Blue-green algae occurrences make the lake occasionally unswimmable.
Active alertsBlue-green algae blooms have been reported, rendering the swim beach unusable at times.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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
The nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are not explicitly stated. However, the proximity to Lyndon suggests services may be available within a 20-minute drive.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available within the campground, although user reviews highlight occasional issues with trash, such as one camper noting, 'My kids ran to the playground where they found a lot of trash.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated directly along Pomona Lake, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention flooding, long grass, poor water pressure, blue-green algae, and electrical issues. Shower facilities are criticized for cold water and insufficient functionality.
HostUsers generally praise camp hosts as friendly and helpful. Specific names like Bud and Jenny are mentioned positively.
Campground Map
5260 POMONA DAM ROAD
Driving directionsFrom US 75 and K-268 junction, proceed east on K-268 for 7 miles to Pomona Dam Road. Turn north and travel 2.5 mi across the dam. Turn west on Wolf Creek Pkwy for 500 feet, then turn south and proceed to park entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but user reviews mention occasional road construction in the area. Seasonal closures or delays are not indicated, but directions suggest straightforward navigation.Nearby places
Lyndon is 20 minutes away, featuring limited restaurants and shops. This small town has 22 historical sites and houses the smallest Carnegie library still in use.
Nearby supplies
Lyndon is indicated as the nearest town for supplies, including limited restaurants and shops. Specific locations for camping supplies, groceries, and fuel are not mentioned.
Camper Reviews
4.0
99 reviews
Michigan Valley has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Michigan Valley Campground are mixed, with sentiments ranging from appreciation for the natural beauty and friendly camp hosts to frustrations over maintenance issues such as tall grass, cold showers, and lack of cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 99 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the natural surroundings, spacious sites, and wildlife. Comments include, 'Beautiful area with lots of shade,' and 'The grounds were well maintained. There was a view of the water,...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include maintenance issues such as tall grass, poor cell service, cold showers, and inadequate water pressure. A camper noted, 'The push button to get water to turn on for five...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing bug repellents and being prepared for potential closures of facilities like the swim beach due to algae. One review encouraged the addition of more full hookups.
Based on 99 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular times to visit, but maintenance issues such as overgrown grass and bugs are more prominent during these seasons. Fall reviews are generally more positive due to cooler...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Don’t expect to get any cell service because you won’t.'
2. 'The showers just outside the gate were ICE COLD.'
3. 'The camp host was very nice and even though the weather wasn’t the best, we...
Based on 99 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Several site-specific complaints and praises were noted. For instance, campers in A-23 experienced flooding, while C-09 was deemed a 'great spot.'
Based on 99 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility concerns were noted, with one user stating, 'I am handicapped; I wish I could use my golf cart to get around.'
Based on 99 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there were complaints about irresponsible pet owners not picking up after their dogs. One reviewer mentioned aggressive dogs running loose.
Based on 99 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025