Big Oak Campground

For Kansans yearning for a refreshing escape into the heart of nature, Big Oak Campground, nestled within the expansive and highly regarded El Dorado State Park, offers an ideal destination. This campground provides a beautiful and well-equipped setting for campers of all kinds, whether you're bringing an RV, pitching a tent, or simply seeking a tranquil spot to reconnect with the outdoors. It's a place where the grandeur of towering trees meets the convenience of modern amenities, creating a memorable camping experience in the heart of Kansas.

El Dorado State Park is a jewel in Kansas's crown, celebrated for its vast lake, diverse recreational opportunities, and stunning natural landscapes. Big Oak Campground is a prime example of what makes this park so special. It provides a central base from which to explore the myriad activities available, from fishing and boating on El Dorado Lake to traversing miles of scenic trails through the Flint Hills. This campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to adventure and relaxation, embodying the spirit of outdoor living that many Kansans cherish.

Big Oak Campground is conveniently located within the Walnut River Loop area of El Dorado State Park, at NE Big Oak Ln, El Dorado, KS 67042, USA. This placement offers campers excellent access to both the Walnut River and the sprawling El Dorado Lake. Being part of one of Kansas's largest state parks, Big Oak benefits from well-maintained infrastructure and clear signage, making it easy to find for visitors from across the state.

El Dorado State Park itself boasts exceptional accessibility, situated near major state highways and the Kansas Turnpike (I-35). This ensures a smooth and straightforward journey for campers, regardless of their starting point in Kansas. While immersed in the natural beauty of the park, campers at Big Oak are never far from the city of El Dorado, where essential services like grocery stores, fuel stations, and various dining options are readily available. This blend of secluded natural environment and convenient urban access makes Big Oak Campground an ideal choice for both short weekend getaways and extended family vacations, allowing Kansans to truly make the most of their outdoor time.

Big Oak Campground is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience, offering a range of services to meet the needs of diverse campers.

• Campsites with Utility Hookups: The campground features numerous sites (74 are specifically noted) with both electric and water hookups, making it highly suitable for RVs, trailers, and even tent campers who desire these amenities.
• Modern Shower Facilities: Campers have access to shower houses with restrooms, offering the comfort of hot showers. While one review mentioned issues with stall doors, the presence of these facilities is a significant convenience. These shower houses are noted as being ADA accessible.
• Flush Toilets: Modern restroom facilities with flush toilets are available, providing a step up from primitive vault toilets found in some other camping areas.
• Laundry Facilities: For longer stays, the availability of on-site laundry facilities is a major benefit, allowing campers to keep their clothes clean and fresh.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available throughout the campground.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and enjoying evenings around a campfire.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available within El Dorado State Park for RV waste disposal.
• Self-Pay Stations: Permits can be purchased from self-pay stations for after-hours arrivals.

Big Oak Campground stands out for its appealing features and the range of activities available within its immediate vicinity and the broader El Dorado State Park.

• Beautiful Setting with Ample Trees: As its name suggests, Big Oak Campground is characterized by large, mature trees that provide plenty of shade and a naturally beautiful environment, enhancing the outdoor experience.
• Central Access to Park Activities: The campground's location in the Walnut River Loop places campers "right around the corner from just about every camp-type activity you can conjure up," including hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, and boating.
• Proximity to Walnut River: Situated on the Walnut River, campers have easy access to river-based activities and scenic views.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The area is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot deer, wild turkey, raccoons, woodchucks, and even armadillos, particularly in the early morning.
• Accessible Facilities: The campground boasts ADA accessible facilities, including showers and restrooms, making it welcoming for all visitors.
• Spacious Sites: Sites within Big Oak are described as "spacious and shady," providing ample room for campers to set up comfortably and enjoy privacy.
• Proximity to El Dorado Lake: While on the Walnut River, Big Oak is just steps from El Dorado Lake, allowing campers to easily access the lake for fishing, swimming beaches, and various water sports.
• Amphitheater and Playgrounds: Within 1/4 mile of the campground, there are playgrounds for children and an amphitheater for events, adding to the recreational options.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Access to trails like the Walnut Ridge Trail, which is described as a "scenic trail accessed from the campground that follows the Walnut River," is a significant highlight for active campers.

As a part of the Kansas State Park system, Big Oak Campground's pricing and any potential "promotions" are typically integrated into the broader policies of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). While specific discounts unique to Big Oak may not be regularly advertised, campers can often take advantage of the following state-wide options:

• Annual Kansas State Park Vehicle Permit: For frequent visitors to Kansas State Parks, purchasing an annual vehicle permit ($25 for standard, $13.75 for senior/disabled Kansas residents) offers significant savings compared to daily entrance fees.
• Kansas State Park Passport: Available during vehicle registration at your county treasurer's office, this permit costs $15.50 and covers unlimited vehicle entry to all Kansas State Parks until your vehicle registration expires.
• Annual Kansas State Park Camping Permit: For those planning multiple camping trips throughout the year, an annual camping permit (e.g., $202.50 off-peak) can cover daily camping fees, though utility and prime site fees may still apply.
• Holiday Weekend Minimum Stays: Be aware that minimum night stays (e.g., 4 nights for Memorial Day, 3 nights for July 4th and Labor Day) are typically required for reservations during peak holiday weekends.
• Seasonal Availability: Camping season generally runs from May 1st to October 1st, so plan accordingly.

For the most current rates, reservation policies, and any potential special offers, it is always recommended to consult the official Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website or contact the El Dorado State Park office directly.

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

• Address: NE Big Oak Ln, El Dorado, KS 67042, USA (within El Dorado State Park)
• El Dorado State Park Office Phone: (316) 321-7180

Campsite reservations can often be made online through the KDWP reservation system or via platforms like ReserveAmerica.

For Kansans seeking a versatile and amenity-rich camping experience, Big Oak Campground at El Dorado State Park offers an exceptional choice. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, combining ease of access with a wealth of recreational opportunities and essential comforts.

Firstly, the campground's strategic location within El Dorado State Park, easily reachable from across the state, makes it an ideal destination for convenient weekend getaways and longer vacations without extensive travel. The "big oak" trees that give the campground its name provide abundant shade and a naturally appealing environment, crucial for comfortable outdoor living during Kansas summers.

The presence of electric and water hookups at numerous sites is a significant advantage for modern campers, catering to RVs while still offering a welcoming environment for tent camping. The availability of modern restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities ensures that campers can enjoy the outdoors without fully roughing it, making the experience more accessible and enjoyable for families and those new to camping. While some minor issues with facilities may occur, the overall provision of such amenities is a major plus.

Furthermore, Big Oak's central location within the Walnut River Loop grants unparalleled access to the vast recreational offerings of El Dorado State Park. From fishing and swimming in the lake to exploring extensive hiking and biking trails, there's no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. The opportunities for wildlife viewing add another layer of enjoyment, allowing Kansans to connect with the natural beauty of their state.

In essence, Big Oak Campground is a prime example of why El Dorado State Park is a beloved local treasure. It offers Kansans a comfortable, convenient, and activity-filled base to explore the outdoors, relax under shady trees, and create lasting memories with family and friends.