Sandy Park
3.7110 reviews9400 Lake Rd.
Sandy Park
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$22 per night for standard electric sites during peak season (April 1 to October 30). Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$22.00
Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider580-762-5611
About this campground
Nestled in a tranquil pocket below the impressive Kaw Lake Dam, Sandy Park Campground offers a perfect escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem combines the best of both worlds with sun-drenched sites for those who love to bask in warmth and deeply shaded spots beneath towering trees for campers seeking cool refuge. The peaceful, rural setting creates an atmosphere where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and birdsong, making it an ideal retreat from the hustle of everyday life.
Sandy Park primarily offers standard electric campsites that cater to both RV and tent campers. The campground is described as quiet and wooded, providing a mix of sunny and shaded sites.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds stories spanning centuries, from ancient Native American settlements whose artifacts still whisper tales of the past to more recent pioneer history celebrated at the nearby Pioneer Woman Museum. Archaeological sites scattered throughout the region offer glimpses into the lives of those who called this area home long before modern campers arrived, creating a camping experience enriched by deep cultural roots.
Weather and SeasonsSandy Park enjoys wonderfully moderate temperatures during prime camping season, with predominantly dry conditions that make for comfortable outdoor adventures. While nature occasionally flexes its muscles with dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the prairie, these brief interludes only add to the authentic outdoor experience, leaving behind fresh, rain-scented air and spectacular cloud formations.
Natural Features and ScenerySandy Park's wooded landscape creates a natural amphitheater of beauty, where mature trees frame stunning views and provide habitat for local wildlife. The nearby Kaw Lake sparkles invitingly for water enthusiasts, while the Arkansas River winds its ancient path through the landscape, offering endless opportunities for exploration. This scenic environment transforms throughout the day as dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, creating an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is equipped with multiple accessibility features, including accessible drinking water, flush toilets, parking, showers, campsites, picnic areas, picnic shelters, a playground, and a scenic overlook.
Sites SizeThe campground offers standard-sized campsites with space for one tent and one camper or two tents per campsite.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as shaded and offering some privacy, with one user stating there were "a lot of trees for shade or wind block in our case." However, there are no specific comments on the level of seclusion between sites.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with shade for wind block or privacy, such as campsite 3 and 7.
Best CampsitesUser reviews indicated campsite 7 as a favorite for tent camping and campsite 8 for RVs.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
No specific group camping sites or related details are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are arranged in a loop near the dam.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 to October 30 for peak season reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available at Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival; a $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations starting midnight one day before check-in.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sandy Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can access the Eagle View Hiking Trail, which spans approximately 12 miles, and the Five Fingers Equestrian Trail. Fishing is popular, with one reviewer noting, "Great fishing." Boating and kayaking are facilitated by river access and an on-site boat ramp.
Hiking
The campground is located near the Eagle View Hiking Trail, an approximately 12-mile trail connecting Osage Cove and Burbank Landing. The Five Fingers Equestrian Trail also offers hiking opportunities along its route.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Sandy Park. One user noted, "Great fishing," and the campground's proximity to the Arkansas River and Kaw Lake enhances fishing opportunities.Swimming
While there is no designated swimming area at the campground itself, a swimming area is available less than a mile away, as noted by a user: "Swimming area in less than a mile from camping area."Biking
Biking opportunities are available, though no specific trails or recommended routes within the campground are mentioned.Boating
Boating opportunities are supported by the campground's boat ramp, which provides easy access to the Arkansas River. Activities like kayaking and canoeing are also mentioned as possibilities.Wildlife viewing
Sandy Park is an excellent spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Migrating bald eagles can be observed during the winter, and the area is known for its populations of whitetail deer, turkey, quail, rabbits, and squirrels. Hunters and birdwatchers alike find the area appealing.Winter Activities
The campground offers excellent opportunities for observing migrating bald eagles during the winter season, as Kaw Lake hosts one of the largest populations of these birds in the state.Water Sports
The campground supports non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing, facilitated by the Arkansas River access and boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted with locally-purchased firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsFloodgates at Kaw Lake Dam may result in loud sirens when water levels change.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30.
Trash and recyclingThe campground includes trash disposal facilities, but no specific details about recycling options, locations, or schedules are provided.
Proximity to water featuresNear Kaw Lake Dam and Arkansas River.
Common complaintsIssues with electricity outages and double-booked reservations were reported in user reviews. Loud noises from the dam were also mentioned.
Campground Map
9400 Lake Rd.
Camper Reviews
3.7
10 reviews
Sandy Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The feedback for Sandy Park is mixed. Positive reviews highlight the clean facilities, shaded campsites, and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. Negative feedback mentions issues with the reservation system, electricity outages, and occasional noise from dam sirens.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great location within easy walking distance to fish the dam. Plenty of shade in the campground with excellent restroom facilities." "Nice showers, pretty trees. Nice shady green campsite." "Great...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include electricity outages, double reservations, and noise from dam sirens. One reviewer stated, "Every time we stay there the electricity goes out," while another noted, "The dam made a...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend being prepared for occasional noise from the dam sirens and ensuring reservations are verified to avoid double bookings. Wildlife enthusiasts are advised to visit during the winter...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight excellent eagle viewing opportunities. Summer reviews mention shaded sites but note issues with dam sirens and electricity outages.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice showers, pretty trees. Nice shady green campsite." "Great fishing." "Bathroom with shower was very clean."
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Some reviewers provided feedback on specific campsites. For example, campsite 6 was described as lovely but received a low rating, while campsite 8 was noted for its shade but had issues with...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features at the campground, including accessible restrooms, showers, and campsites, were noted positively overall. However, no specific reviews from individuals with disabilities were...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and no specific complaints or praises regarding pet policies were mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025