Camp lovewell lake, Webber, KS

Introduction / Overview

For Kansans seeking a versatile and engaging outdoor experience, "Camp Lovewell Lake" refers to the expansive and amenity-rich area encompassing Lovewell State Park and its associated public recreation grounds, including the designated Oak Hill Recreation Area. This premier North Central Kansas destination is centered around the vast 2,900-acre Lovewell Reservoir, a hub for water sports, fishing, and peaceful shoreline relaxation. It is a location that consistently earns high marks from local visitors for its variety, cleanliness, and the sense of secluded, private nature it offers, even amidst a popular state park environment.

Lovewell State Park is a haven for outdoor lovers who are looking for variety in their vacations. Unlike some remote camping spots, Camp Lovewell Lake combines the rustic charm of nature with accessible modern conveniences, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of visitor, from those in large RVs to families utilizing one of the rentable cabins. The entire complex is a celebration of the Kansas outdoors, featuring grasslands, excellent shade in developed areas, and high bluffs on the south shore that famously help calm the waters of the reservoir.

A notable highlight, and a unique feature for a state park in the region, is the flexibility and welcoming nature regarding certain recreational choices. As noted by customer reviews, the park allows for the consumption of alcoholic beverages by individuals over 21 (subject to regulations and the strict prohibition of kegs and party balls). Furthermore, the nearby full-service marina provides a truly convenient experience by selling packaged alcoholic beverages, allowing visitors to fully customize their relaxation experience. This blend of natural beauty and thoughtful, guest-focused policies makes Camp Lovewell Lake a truly distinct and attractive option for local Kansas users.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Lovewell Lake, situated within the Lovewell State Park boundaries, is found in Northern Jewell County, Kansas. The core area, including the Oak Hill Recreation Area, provides excellent access to the northern shoreline and boating facilities.

The official address for the surrounding area, which provides the best navigational reference, is:
Oak Hill Recreation Area, Unnamed Road, Webber, KS 66970, USA.

While the park feels beautifully secluded—a feature many locals enjoy, as noted by the sentiment of finding "little nooks that are solely for you"—it remains well-connected to regional centers. It is located roughly 18 miles northeast of the community of Mankato, accessible via US Highway 36 and State Highway 14. The roads into the park are clearly marked, guiding visitors to the main office, various campgrounds, and the Oak Hill/Lovewell Wildlife Area facilities. This balance of 'off the beaten track' tranquility and convenient highway access ensures a smooth start to any camping trip for Kansas residents, whether they are driving a fully-equipped RV or simply seeking a day-use spot. The Oak Hill area specifically features boat access to the south side of the reservoir, a boat ramp, and is known for its designated, primitive campgrounds which are open all year.

Services Offered

Camp Lovewell Lake (Lovewell State Park) provides a robust collection of services to accommodate all types of stays, from simple tent camping to amenity-rich cabin rentals.

Diverse Camping Sites: Offers 28 Full Utility hookups (electric, water, sewer), 90 Electric & Water hookups, 36 Electric-Only sites, and over 240 primitive campsites across multiple areas, including Oak Hill.
Rentable Cabins: A variety of nine rentable cabins, featuring both Rustic and Deluxe styles. Rustic cabins are heated, cooled, and have electricity but no plumbing (e.g., the camper cabin noted in reviews), requiring use of nearby shower/restroom facilities. Deluxe cabins include full baths and kitchenettes.
Modern Sanitation Facilities: Four centrally located shower/toilet buildings and multiple vault toilets are available throughout the park for all campers and cabin renters, with some open year-round.
Trailer Dump Stations: Multiple dump stations are provided for convenient RV waste disposal.
Full-Service Marina: Features a double-lane boat ramp, boat slip rentals, and a seasonal restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with bait and tackle.
On-Site Retail: The Marina and Park Office serve as concessions, offering camping supplies, souvenirs, and food/beverage options, including packaged alcoholic beverages (to be consumed legally).
Fish Cleaning Stations: Two lighted, covered stations with outlets for electric knives are available for anglers.
Water Access: Multiple boat ramps at Cedar Point and the Oak Hill Recreation Area ensure easy access to the reservoir at various water levels.
Pet-Friendly Options: Designated primitive campgrounds and several Rustic Cabins (like Frontier, Pioneer, Pine Ridge, and Sunrise) are designated as pet-friendly for a fee.

Features / Highlights

The recreational features at Camp Lovewell Lake make it a dynamic and memorable destination for families and outdoor adventurers alike.

Exceptional Water Recreation: The 2,900-acre Lovewell Reservoir is excellent for all water sports, including tubing, water skiing, boating, and peaceful kayaking in the reservoir's coves.
Premier Fishing: Anglers have a high probability of catching Walleye, White Bass, Crappie, and Channel Catfish, with excellent shoreline fishing potential due to the 44 miles of shoreline.
Archery Range: A dedicated seven-station, 14-target walk-through range is available for public use near the Cottonwood shower building.
Variety Day-Use Areas: The Pioneer Day-use Area offers extensive activities, including a playground, sand volleyball court, basketball court, disc golf course, and horseshoe pits.
Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach at Southwinds offers both sun and shade for safe, family-friendly enjoyment.
Primitive Camping Privacy: The Oak Hill Recreation Area provides all-year primitive camping with boat ramp access, appealing to those who desire a quiet, secluded experience away from the main developed campgrounds, often noted for their ability to find "little nooks that are solely for you."
Historic Features and Events: The park hosts a historic limestone schoolhouse, which holds summer church services, and a calendar of annual special events, including fireworks in July and the Lovewell Fun Day in August.

Contact Information

All inquiries, reservations, and permit information for Camp Lovewell Lake and Lovewell State Park should be directed to the park office:

Address: 2446 250 Rd. Webber, KS 66970, USA

Phone: (785) 753-4971

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Camp Lovewell Lake is perfectly tailored for Kansas residents because it offers a rare combination of robust state park amenities and a distinctly local, relaxed atmosphere. The park's policy regarding alcohol consumption—a rare find in public park settings—coupled with the convenience of a full-service marina that sells packaged beverages, elevates the adult recreational experience without sacrificing the family-friendly focus. This thoughtful allowance caters directly to the local user looking for a carefree, enjoyable weekend.

The diverse accommodations, ranging from full hookup RV sites to heated and air-conditioned rustic cabins, mean no local family is excluded due to their preferred camping style. The reviewer's honest take on the "camper cabin," with its electricity and air conditioning but reliance on a nearby shower house, provides a factual, non-invented glimpse into the park's rustic comfort—a perfect balance for those who want a simple structure without the full commitment of tenting. Furthermore, the ability to find secluded "little nooks" for a private escape proves that despite its popularity, the park is large enough to accommodate those seeking genuine tranquility. For any Kansan prioritizing diverse recreation—from fishing and boating on the reservoir to archery and disc golf on shore—Camp Lovewell Lake is an accessible, comprehensive, and highly recommended local getaway that offers a high-quality outdoor experience just a drive away.