FamCamp #1, Derby, KS

For many Kansans, especially those with a connection to our military community, finding a serene and well-equipped campground that offers a true escape without venturing too far from modern conveniences is a real treat. Tucked away in Derby, Kansas, near McConnell Air Force Base, lies FamCamp #1 – a true "tucked away oasis" that provides a peaceful and well-maintained setting for your RV adventures. This isn't just a place to park your camper; it's a dedicated facility designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable stay for authorized users, making it an excellent choice for a quiet getaway or a base while visiting family in the Wichita area.

FamCamp #1, also known as McConnell AFB FamCamp I, prides itself on providing a high-quality camping experience. It understands the needs of its guests, offering not just essential amenities but also a peaceful environment where you can relax, enjoy nature, and still have access to the resources of a major base. The consistent positive feedback regarding its quiet atmosphere, excellent utilities, and proximity to useful facilities highlights its commitment to a superior guest experience. For authorized patrons in Kansas, it represents a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with all the comforts of home.

Location and Accessibility

FamCamp #1 is conveniently located in Derby, KS 67037, USA, specifically within the McConnell Air Force Base vicinity. This strategic location offers unique advantages for authorized patrons, combining the tranquility of a dedicated campground with the accessibility of a major military installation and the nearby city of Wichita. For Kansans, this means a straightforward drive to a peaceful retreat that's still close to urban amenities.

Accessing FamCamp #1 is easy for authorized users, as it's situated near the Outdoor Recreation Office on McConnell AFB. Despite being on an active air force base, guests have noted that the "facilities are easy to access." The internal roads within the FamCamp are well-maintained, ensuring no problem with maneuvering RVs of various sizes. Its proximity to Wichita, Kansas, makes it an ideal spot for those visiting family or exploring the greater Wichita area, providing a quiet base just a short drive from city attractions, dining, and shopping. While you might occasionally hear the sound of a refueler taking off or landing, guests have been "surprised by how noise level was low" and even "enjoyed watching the big birds do touch and go," turning it into an interesting highlight rather than a disturbance. This balance of peaceful seclusion with convenient access to a major city and base resources is a significant draw for FamCamp #1.

Services Offered

FamCamp #1 is equipped with a range of services designed to make your RV stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. They focus on providing essential amenities that cater to the needs of modern campers.

Full Hookups: Each of the 10 pull-through spaces at FamCamp I offers full hookups, including reliable 30-amp and 50-amp electric service, water, and sewer connections. This ensures that your RV has all the necessary utilities for a comfortable stay, no matter the length. Guests have confirmed that "utilities worked fine."
Reliable Wi-Fi: A standout service, especially for those who need to stay connected, is the "superb" Wi-Fi. Unlike many RV parks where internet can be spotty, FamCamp #1 provides a strong and consistent signal, making it easy to work remotely, stream entertainment, or simply browse the web.
Excellent Cell Service: Beyond Wi-Fi, the park also boasts "T-Mobile 5G was blazing fast (300Mbps+)," indicating strong cellular coverage across multiple providers, a valuable asset for communication and connectivity.
Picnic Table at Each Pad: Every RV pad is equipped with a picnic table, offering a convenient outdoor space for dining, games, or simply relaxing.
Fire Pit at Each Pad: Guests can enjoy traditional campfire experiences with a dedicated fire pit at each site, perfect for cozy evenings and s'mores.
Access to Base Amenities: As part of McConnell AFB, authorized guests have access to various base resources, including the Dining Facility, which is "great and open to all," and the Outdoor Recreation Office, providing additional conveniences and activities.
Pet-Friendly Areas: While not explicitly detailed, the presence of walking paths and open spaces generally indicates a welcoming environment for pets, a common expectation for many RV travelers.

Features / Highlights

Beyond the essential services, FamCamp #1 offers several key features and highlights that enhance the camping experience, creating a truly enjoyable and peaceful retreat for authorized users in Kansas.

Spacious Concrete Pads: The campground features "spacious concrete pads," providing a level, clean, and stable surface for parking your RV. This contributes significantly to the ease of setup and comfort of your stay.
Peaceful and Quiet Setting: Despite its proximity to an air force base, the FamCamp is consistently described as a "peaceful, well maintained site" with a surprisingly "low noise level." This tranquility allows for true relaxation and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
Run/Walking Path: An accessible "run/walking path" winds through the area, perfect for leisurely strolls, invigorating jogs, or simply enjoying the fresh air and scenery.
Fishing Ponds: The presence of "fishing ponds" provides a fantastic recreational opportunity for anglers right within the campground area, adding to the outdoor activities available.
Ample Open Space and Pavilions: The campground boasts "lots of space and pavilions" near the Outdoor Rec Office. These open areas and shaded structures are ideal for gathering, picnics, or simply enjoying the outdoors.
"Tucked Away Oasis": This phrase perfectly encapsulates the feeling of finding a serene and comfortable spot that feels removed from the hustle and bustle, even while being conveniently located.
Watching Aircraft: For some, the occasional sight of "big birds do touch and go" from the nearby runway is a unique and enjoyable highlight, adding an interesting element to the peaceful setting.
Well Maintained: Guests consistently praise the "well maintained site," reflecting a commitment to cleanliness and upkeep that enhances the overall appeal and comfort of the campground.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a FamCamp located on a military installation, pricing and any special offers are typically determined by base regulations and are primarily aimed at authorized personnel. While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense may not be advertised, the inherent value of FamCamp #1 lies in its affordability for eligible users, particularly when compared to civilian campgrounds offering similar amenities. Reviewers have highlighted it as "affordable," which is a significant ongoing benefit.

Prospective guests (authorized users) are encouraged to contact the FamCamp directly for the most current information on daily, weekly, or monthly rates. They may also inquire about:

Any seasonal rates that might apply.
Policies for active duty, retired military, DoD civilians, or other authorized patrons.
Availability of long-term stay discounts.

Since the FamCamp is managed by the Outdoor Recreation Office, they are the best source for any specific programs or benefits related to military morale, welfare, and recreation (MWR) initiatives that might apply to your stay.

Contact Information

For authorized patrons in Kansas interested in booking a stay or learning more about FamCamp #1 (McConnell AFB FamCamp I), direct contact is recommended:

Address: Derby, KS 67037, USA (specifically within McConnell AFB)
Phone: (316) 759-4432
Mobile Phone: +1 316-759-4432

It is advisable to call during regular business hours to speak with the Outdoor Recreation Office staff. They can provide detailed information on eligibility, reservations, current rates, and any specific requirements for accessing the base and campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For authorized Kansans, particularly those with military affiliations, FamCamp #1 near McConnell AFB in Derby offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping destination. Its primary suitability lies in providing a "peaceful, well maintained site" that serves as a quiet "oasis" while still being conveniently located for visits to Wichita or family on base. The full hookups, spacious concrete pads, and excellent Wi-Fi ensure a comfortable and connected stay, surpassing the amenities often found at more rustic campgrounds.

The added benefits of dedicated walking paths, fishing ponds, and access to base facilities like the Dining Facility, all within an "affordable" framework, make it a truly comprehensive option. Whether you're visiting family, enjoying a short break, or just need a reliable and quiet place to stay with your RV, FamCamp #1 provides a secure, well-equipped, and welcoming environment tailored to the needs of its patrons. It's a prime example of a local gem that provides a fantastic outdoor experience with all the essential comforts, making it highly recommended for its target audience in Kansas.