Bemis Creek Campground

For Kansans seeking an authentic outdoor experience, a refreshing escape from the daily grind, or simply a tranquil spot to enjoy nature, Bemis Creek Campground in El Dorado, Kansas, stands out as an excellent choice. Nestled within the vast and beautiful El Dorado State Park, this campground offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient access to water-based activities, making it a perfect destination for both seasoned campers and families looking to create lasting memories.

El Dorado State Park itself is renowned as one of America's top state parks, celebrated for its exceptional fishing, boating, and family-friendly amenities. Bemis Creek Campground benefits directly from this prime location, providing campers with direct access to the expansive El Dorado Lake and its surrounding wilderness. Whether your passion is casting a line, exploring scenic trails, or simply relaxing by a campfire under the Kansas sky, Bemis Creek offers a suitable setting for your next adventure. It's not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to the best of Kansas's natural landscapes and recreational pursuits.

Bemis Creek Campground is strategically located within El Dorado State Park, at the address V722+32, El Dorado, KS 67042, USA. This places it directly on the eastern side of the massive El Dorado Lake, offering campers picturesque views and immediate access to the water. The campground is part of the larger Bluestem Point area within the state park, known for its scenic beauty and well-maintained facilities.

For Kansans traveling from various parts of the state, El Dorado State Park, and by extension Bemis Creek Campground, is remarkably accessible. It's conveniently situated near three state highways and the Kansas Turnpike, making the journey smooth and straightforward. The proximity to the city of El Dorado means that while you're immersed in nature, you're never too far from essential supplies, gas stations, and other urban amenities should you need them. This balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to services makes Bemis Creek Campground an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation without feeling completely isolated from civilization.

Bemis Creek Campground, as part of El Dorado State Park, provides a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.

• Campsites with Utility Hookups: The campground offers water and electric hookups at many of its sites (specifically noted are 24 sites with water and electric). This is a significant convenience for RV campers, allowing for a more comfortable stay.
• Primitive Campsites: For those who prefer a more rustic experience, primitive sites are also available within the broader El Dorado State Park, offering a range of choices for all types of campers.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets for convenience. Some larger areas within the state park may also offer modern shower and restroom facilities.
• Picnic Shelters: Reservable picnic shelters are available, perfect for group gatherings, family meals, or simply enjoying a meal outdoors.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available within the Bluestem Point area for RVs, ensuring proper waste disposal.
• ADA Accessible Facilities: The park provides ADA accessible vault toilets and picnic shelters, promoting inclusivity for all visitors.
• Reservable Campsites: Campsites at Bemis Creek are reservable, allowing campers to plan their trips in advance and secure their preferred spot.

Bemis Creek Campground and its surrounding El Dorado State Park offer several features and highlights that enhance the camping experience and make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas.

• Easy Access Trails for Fishing: A key highlight, as noted by visitors, is the "easy access trails for fishing close to water." This makes it incredibly convenient for anglers to reach prime fishing spots directly from the campground.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: El Dorado Lake is renowned for its diverse fish population, including largemouth bass, rainbow trout, flathead catfish, walleye, crappie, and white bass. Bemis Creek itself is a popular spot for largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and flathead catfish.
• Proximity to El Dorado Lake: Being situated directly on the shores of El Dorado Lake, campers have immediate access to all water-based activities the lake offers, including boating, swimming, and various watersports.
• Small, Cozy Area: Reviews suggest Bemis Creek is a "small area," which can contribute to a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger sections of the state park. This offers a sense of peace and quiet.
• Scenic Views: Campers often enjoy picturesque views of El Dorado Lake, with opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife, such as geese.
• Well-Spaced Sites: Some areas within El Dorado State Park are noted for having campsites that are "separated a little from each other" and "fairly level and nicely spaced apart," contributing to privacy and comfort. While specific to other areas, this speaks to the overall park design.
• Variety of Outdoor Activities: Beyond fishing, the larger El Dorado State Park offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding, along with swimming beaches and playgrounds.

As part of El Dorado State Park, Bemis Creek Campground generally operates under the standard pricing structure set by Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. While specific promotions might not be advertised for individual campgrounds, campers should be aware of several ways to potentially save or enhance their visit:

• Annual Vehicle Permits: For frequent visitors to Kansas State Parks, purchasing an annual vehicle permit early in the year can offer significant savings compared to paying daily entry fees.
• Off-Season Rates: Rates for campsites can sometimes vary by season, with potentially lower prices during the off-peak months.
• Kansas State Park Events: Keep an eye on the El Dorado State Park or Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks websites for any special events, fishing tournaments, or educational programs that might coincide with your visit.

It is always advisable to check the official Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website or contact the park office directly for the most up-to-date information on rates, reservations, and any potential special offers.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Bemis Creek Campground and El Dorado State Park:

• Address: V722+32, El Dorado, KS 67042, USA (within El Dorado State Park)
• El Dorado Lake & State Park Office Phone: (620) 672-5911

You can also typically find reservation information through platforms like ReserveAmerica, which partners with many state parks for online bookings.

For Kansans, Bemis Creek Campground at El Dorado State Park is more than just a place to camp; it's a readily accessible natural retreat that caters to a variety of outdoor interests. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects. Firstly, its convenient location near major highways and the Kansas Turnpike means that even a spontaneous weekend trip doesn't involve extensive travel, allowing more time to be spent enjoying the outdoors rather than driving.

The core appeal for locals is undoubtedly the fishing. With Bemis Creek itself being a hotspot for various species and offering "easy access trails for fishing close to water," it's a dream come true for Kansas anglers. The larger El Dorado Lake, consistently rated for its fishing opportunities, provides endless possibilities for both casual and serious fishermen.

Beyond fishing, the blend of a "small area" campground with the vast resources of El Dorado State Park ensures that whether you seek peace and quiet or a range of activities, you'll find it here. Families can appreciate the open spaces and opportunities for children to engage with nature, while individuals can find tranquility. The reliable utility hookups at many sites provide a level of comfort that makes camping accessible to a wider audience, including those new to the experience.

Ultimately, Bemis Creek Campground offers Kansans a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with nature, enjoy popular outdoor pursuits like fishing, and create memorable experiences, all within a well-maintained and easily reachable state park setting. It’s a true local treasure, offering the best of Kansas outdoor living.