North Loop Campground

For Kansans seeking a refreshing escape into nature, North Loop Campground, nestled on the west side of beautiful Cheney Lake near Cheney, Kansas, offers an exceptional camping experience. Renowned for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and spacious sites, North Loop provides an ideal setting for both RV and tent campers looking to unwind amidst stunning natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. This article will provide a detailed overview of North Loop Campground, highlighting its prime location, the array of services it offers, its standout features, and why it is a highly suitable destination for locals desiring a memorable outdoor adventure.

Cheney State Park is one of Kansas's premier recreation areas, celebrated for its vast lake and diverse landscape. North Loop Campground, as a key component of this expansive park, benefits from these broader offerings while providing its own distinct and peaceful character. Many visitors describe it as an "awesome place" where they "will definitely come back," underscoring its appeal as a cherished local spot. Whether you're an avid water sports enthusiast, a nature photographer, a family seeking a quiet getaway, or simply someone who appreciates a clear night sky, North Loop Campground promises a truly enjoyable and relaxing camping experience in the heart of the Sunflower State.

North Loop Campground is strategically located on the west side of Cheney Lake, near Cheney, KS 67025, USA. This positioning places campers directly within Cheney State Park, offering immediate access to the lake and its surrounding natural environment.

The accessibility of North Loop is a significant advantage for Kansans. Cheney State Park is conveniently situated approximately 16 miles west of Wichita, making it an easy and quick drive from Kansas's largest city and surrounding metropolitan areas. Major highways connect seamlessly to the park, ensuring straightforward travel for visitors from across the state. Once inside Cheney State Park, clear signage directs visitors to the West Shore area and, subsequently, to the North Loop campground.

Reviewers consistently praise the campground's "very clean and quiet" environment, highlighting its appeal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Despite its tranquil atmosphere, the park is well-connected to necessary amenities. The nearby town of Cheney offers basic supplies, and the larger city of Wichita provides comprehensive services, including grocery stores, gas stations, dining options, and medical facilities, all within a reasonable driving distance. The campground's location on the west side of Cheney Lake also offers distinct advantages, with a notable "beautiful sky" for stargazing and proximity to various recreational zones. This blend of natural serenity and convenient accessibility makes North Loop Campground a practical and highly desirable destination for any Kansas resident.

• Water and Electric Hookups: North Loop Campground offers 45 sites equipped with water and electric hookups (typically 30/20 amp, with some 50 amp service available in other areas of Cheney State Park). This ensures comfortable stays for RV campers, allowing for full use of their amenities.
• Spacious Sites ("Big Lots"): Reviewers note the presence of "big lots," indicating that the campsites are generously sized, providing ample space for RVs, tents, and outdoor living.
• Modern Shower Houses and Restrooms: Clean shower houses with modern restrooms are available within Cheney State Park, ensuring comfort and hygiene for all campers. Reviewers often praise the cleanliness of these facilities.
• Potable Water Access: In addition to individual site hookups, potable water spigots are generally available throughout the campground loops for easy refills.
• Sanitary Dump Stations: Multiple trailer dump stations are located within Cheney State Park, including a two-lane dump station at Smarsh, providing convenient waste disposal for RVers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Reservable Sites: Campsites in North Loop are reservable through platforms like ReserveAmerica, allowing campers to plan and secure their spot in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Maintenance Support: As highlighted by a reviewer, park maintenance staff are responsive and helpful, with "Ken with maintenance" being a "lifesaver" during a power outage, demonstrating a commitment to guest service.
• Pet-Friendly: While specific rules vary, generally, pets are allowed in Kansas State Parks and campgrounds like North Loop, though they must be kept on a leash and adhere to park guidelines. (Note: One external source for North Loop specifically stated "No pets allowed" but this contradicts general state park rules; it's best to confirm current policy directly with the park office).

• Quiet and Clean Environment: A consistent highlight from visitors is the campground's "very clean and quiet" atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and escaping urban noise.
• Spacious Sites ("Big Lots"): The generously sized campsites are a significant feature, providing privacy and comfort for campers, accommodating larger RVs and offering ample space for outdoor activities at the site.
• Proximity to Cheney Lake: North Loop Campground is located directly on the "West side of Cheney lake," offering easy access to the lake's abundant water-based recreational opportunities.
• Great Walking Trails: The campground boasts "Great walking trails" with "active wild life," providing excellent opportunities for hiking, nature observation, and enjoying the outdoors.
• Beautiful Sky: Reviewers specifically mention the "Beautiful sky," suggesting excellent conditions for stargazing and enjoying sunsets and sunrises over the lake.
• Diverse Wildlife: The presence of "active wild life" allows for exciting opportunities to observe various bird species and other animals in their natural habitat.
• Premier Sailing and Windsurfing: Cheney Lake is renowned for its consistent winds, making it one of the top lakes in the nation for sailing and windsurfing. National sailing regattas are often held here, providing a unique spectacle.
• Excellent Fishing: The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for various species, including Channel catfish, white bass, crappie, striped bass, wipers, and walleye.
• Boating and Water Sports: With numerous boat launching lanes and ample water, the lake is perfect for power boating, waterskiing, jet-skiing, and other water sports.
• Responsive Park Staff: The helpfulness of the "Camp goat" (camp host/staff) and maintenance personnel is a clear highlight, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable stay for guests.
• Scenic Views: Many sites offer views of the lake, contributing to the tranquil and picturesque camping experience.

As North Loop Campground is an area within Cheney State Park, any promotions or special offers are typically managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) or through authorized reservation platforms. While direct, independent promotions for North Loop are not consistently advertised, Kansans looking to camp there should be aware of the following general policies and potential savings opportunities applicable to Kansas State Parks:

• Vehicle Entry Permits: All vehicles entering a Kansas State Park, including Cheney State Park (and thus North Loop Campground), require a vehicle entry permit. Kansas residents can often purchase an annual "State Parks Passport" with their vehicle registration for a discounted rate ($25 for annual vs. $5 daily), which provides year-round access to all Kansas State Parks. For KS residents over 65 or disabled, the annual pass is $13.75, or $3.25 daily. This is a common way for frequent visitors to save money.
• Camping and Utility Permits: In addition to the vehicle permit, a separate camping permit is required for overnight stays. For North Loop, RV camp sites are $10 per site per night. An additional cost of $11 a night applies for 30 AMP electrical service with water, and $13 a night for 50 AMP electrical service with water (if available in North Loop, otherwise in other campgrounds). Fees vary by site type and amenities.
• Online Reservations: Campsites at North Loop are reservable via platforms like ReserveAmerica. While not a "promotion," booking in advance, especially for popular sites and during peak seasons, is highly recommended to secure your spot. There is often a reservation fee (e.g., $2.75).
• Seasonal Rates: Camping rates at Cheney State Park generally vary by season. While not explicitly detailed for North Loop, higher rates may apply during the peak season (typically April-September) and lower rates during the off-season (October-March). Water at campgrounds might be turned off during winter months (e.g., Oct 15 - Spring).
• Longer Stay Discounts: While not explicitly stated for North Loop, some state parks or reservation systems may offer reduced rates for extended stays (e.g., weekly or monthly rates). It's worth inquiring directly with the park office.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any potential special offers, current rates, or permit requirements, it is strongly recommended to:

• Visit the official Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website for Cheney State Park.
• Contact the Cheney State Park office directly by phone.

By consulting these official sources, Kansans can ensure they are fully informed about any applicable discounts or requirements for their camping trip to North Loop.

For inquiries regarding reservations, availability, or general information about North Loop Campground and Cheney State Park, please use the primary contact for Cheney State Park:

Address: Cheney, KS 67025, USA (North Loop Campground is located within Cheney State Park).

Phone: (316) 542-3664

Mobile Phone: +1 316-542-3664

Cheney State Park Office Hours (subject to change, so calling ahead is advised):

• Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (with a lunch closing from 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM)

Online reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, and can typically be made through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks' official booking platform (e.g., ReserveAmerica.com). For urgent assistance or specific site details, calling the park office is always the best approach.

For Kansans, North Loop Campground at Cheney State Park offers an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for a local getaway. Its convenient location on the west side of Cheney Lake, easily accessible from Wichita and other parts of the state, means less travel time and more time enjoying the beautiful Kansas outdoors. This makes it perfect for quick weekend trips or longer family vacations without venturing too far from home.

The campground strikes an excellent balance between comfort and natural immersion. Reviewers consistently praise its "very clean and quiet" environment and the generous "big lots," providing a peaceful and spacious setting for relaxation. The availability of water and electric hookups caters to those who prefer comfortable RV camping, while the overall natural beauty makes it appealing for tent campers too.

Beyond the amenities, North Loop serves as a gateway to the vast recreational opportunities of Cheney Lake. Its reputation as a premier sailing and windsurfing destination, coupled with excellent fishing, boating, and "great walking trails" with "active wild life," ensures there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. The "beautiful sky" at night provides incredible stargazing opportunities, a simple yet profound joy that is readily available. The responsive park staff, as noted by a reviewer, further enhances the experience, ensuring a well-managed and supportive environment. For Kansans seeking an accessible, affordable, and truly enjoyable camping experience that highlights the natural beauty and recreational potential of their state, North Loop Campground is an outstanding choice.