Big Bear Campground
Big Bear Campground Overview
Rating
Phone (785) 828-4933
Address Vassar, KS 66543, USA
Website https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Pomona
Hours
Big Bear Campground Location & Map
Big Bear Campground About
For Kansans seeking a refreshing escape into the tranquility of nature, Big Bear Campground in Vassar, KS, stands out as a highly recommended destination. Situated within the beautiful surroundings of Pomona State Park, this campground offers a welcoming and well-maintained environment for all types of campers. Whether you're looking to park your RV, pitch a tent under the stars, or simply enjoy a quiet weekend away, Big Bear Campground provides the ideal setting for making lasting memories in the heart of the Sunflower State.
Kansas might be known for its vast plains, but it also boasts a remarkable collection of serene lakes and recreational areas, making it a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Pomona Lake, where Big Bear Campground is located, is a prime example of this, offering abundant opportunities for water-based activities and peaceful lakeside relaxation. For locals in Kansas, discovering a campground that combines convenience with a high standard of cleanliness and a tranquil atmosphere is invaluable. Big Bear Campground consistently receives praise for its well-kept grounds and quiet ambiance, reflecting the commitment to providing a top-tier camping experience.
The appeal of camping in Kansas extends beyond just a place to sleep outdoors; it’s an invitation to immerse oneself in the state’s diverse natural beauty. From birdwatching and hiking to fishing and boating, the outdoor opportunities around Kansas campgrounds are plentiful. Places like Big Bear Campground, often managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or Kansas State Parks, are designed to maximize visitor enjoyment while preserving the natural environment. This blend of accessible recreation and conservation efforts ensures that Kansans have beautiful, safe, and clean spaces to unwind and reconnect with nature, right in their own backyard. It's an opportunity to create cherished family traditions, enjoy peaceful solitude, or embark on an adventure with friends, all within the friendly confines of a well-regarded local campground.
Big Bear Campground is conveniently located in Vassar, KS 66543, USA, within Pomona State Park. Its precise location places it near the shores of Pomona Lake, a popular destination for water-based recreation in eastern Kansas. Vassar is a small community in Osage County, offering a rural and peaceful setting that is easily accessible from major population centers in Kansas, including Topeka, Lawrence, and even the Kansas City metropolitan area. The drive to the campground typically involves well-maintained state highways, making for a straightforward journey for campers arriving from various parts of the state.
The campground's proximity to Pomona Lake is a significant advantage, providing campers with immediate access to fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. This strategic location offers a perfect balance of secluded natural beauty and convenient access to regional amenities, making it a desirable spot for both short weekend trips and longer vacations.
Big Bear Campground, as part of Pomona State Park, is equipped with a range of services and facilities designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of its campers. These include:
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Campsites with Utility Hookups: The campground offers sites with water and electric hookups (both 30 and 50 amp available), catering to various RV sizes. While some reviews note that "camp spots could use a lot of leveling," utility hookups are consistently available to ensure a comfortable stay.
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Showers and Toilets: Modern restrooms and shower facilities are provided, ensuring cleanliness and comfort for all visitors.
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Potable Water: Access to clean drinking water is available throughout the campground.
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AC Clubhouse: An air-conditioned clubhouse offers a comfortable communal space, particularly useful during warmer months.
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Playground: A dedicated playground area provides entertainment for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
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Pet-Friendly Amenities: The campground is welcoming to pets, with features like ponies, pet pigs, goats, and chickens, adding a unique charm for animal lovers. Standard pet rules (e.g., leashing) apply.
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Group Camping: Facilities are available for group camping, accommodating up to 25 people, ideal for family reunions or larger gatherings.
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Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Most campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for outdoor meals and evening campfires.
Big Bear Campground is well-regarded by its visitors for several key features and highlights that contribute to a positive camping experience:
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Clean and Well-Kept Grounds: Reviewers consistently praise the campground for being "clean, mowed, well kept," indicating a strong commitment to maintenance and a pleasant aesthetic.
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Quiet Atmosphere: Many visitors highlight the peaceful environment, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and escaping the noise of daily life.
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Proximity to Pomona Lake: Being located in Pomona State Park provides excellent access to the lake for fishing, boating, swimming, and other water activities.
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Diverse Recreational Opportunities: Beyond camping, the park offers a variety of activities including disc golf, basketball courts, horseshoes, and wooded hiking trails for exploring the wilderness and potentially spotting wildlife.
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Abundant Shade and Wooded Scenery: The campground benefits from ample shade and a rich wooded environment, providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing setting.
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Family-Friendly Environment: With amenities like a playground and unique animal attractions (ponies, pet pigs, goats, chickens), Big Bear Campground is particularly suitable for families with children.
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Managed by Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWP): This oversight generally ensures good management and adherence to state park standards.
As a professional content writer specializing in local business SEO, it's important to convey that specific, ongoing promotions or special offers for Big Bear Campground are typically not extensively publicized as individual deals. Campsite fees and reservation policies are usually set by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWP), which manages Pomona State Park. Pricing generally varies based on the type of site (e.g., primitive, electric/water hookup, full hookup) and the season. Visitors should anticipate standard state park fees for camping and daily vehicle permits for entry into Pomona State Park. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current rates, reservation availability, and any potential seasonal discounts or passes (such as annual park passes), it is always best to directly contact the Pomona State Park office or visit the official KDWP website. Reservations are often made through platforms like ReserveAmerica, where specific site availability and pricing are listed.
For inquiries about reservations, current conditions, or specific amenities at Big Bear Campground, you can contact the Pomona State Park office directly:
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Address: Vassar, KS 66543, USA (within Pomona State Park)
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Phone: (785) 828-4933
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Mobile Phone: +1 785-828-4933
Direct contact is the most reliable way to obtain the specific details you need for planning your camping trip.
For Kansas residents seeking an accessible, clean, and enjoyable outdoor escape, Big Bear Campground at Pomona Lake is an excellent choice. Its consistent high ratings from campers underscore its strengths: a well-maintained and "clean, mowed, well kept" environment, coupled with a desirable "quiet" atmosphere. While some sites might benefit from additional leveling, this minor point is often overshadowed by the overall positive experience provided.
The campground's location within Pomona State Park grants locals easy access to a wealth of recreational activities on the lake, including fishing, boating, and swimming. Beyond the water, the park offers hiking trails, disc golf, and other land-based sports, ensuring there's something for every interest. The family-friendly amenities, such as a playground and the unique presence of friendly farm animals, make it particularly appealing for those camping with children, fostering a memorable and engaging experience for all ages.
Big Bear Campground embodies the ideal Kansas outdoor getaway—a place where tranquility meets recreation, and where the natural beauty of the state can be fully appreciated in a comfortable and welcoming setting. For Kansans looking to unwind, reconnect with nature, or enjoy quality time with loved ones without venturing too far from home, Big Bear Campground offers a reliable and highly satisfying option.
Customer Reviews
Pretty good campground but camp spots could use a lot of leveling. Other than that it's one of the better campgrounds.
Clean mowed well kept. I really like coming here.
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