Outlet Park Campground

For Kansans seeking an ideal blend of peaceful outdoor immersion and convenient amenities, Outlet Park Campground stands out as a top choice. Situated gracefully by the waters of Pomona Lake, near the charming town of Quenemo, this campground offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature. Whether you're an avid RVer, a traditional tent camper, or a family eager for a memorable outdoor adventure, Outlet Park Campground provides a welcoming and well-equipped environment that promises relaxation and recreation for all.

Outlet Park Campground is a well-regarded destination within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) system, known for its commitment to maintaining high-quality recreational areas. Located by the serene spillway of Pomona Lake, it offers a tranquil setting that allows visitors to truly "get away from it all." The campground is praised for its consistently well-maintained park, roads, and facilities, ensuring a pleasant and comfortable stay for all visitors. The campsites, while somewhat close together, are designed to offer a sense of privacy and seclusion, allowing campers to enjoy their space. Families particularly appreciate the excellent condition of the playground, providing a safe and fun area for children.

One of the unique aspects often highlighted by visitors is the limited cell phone reception, which many embrace as an opportunity for a genuine digital detox. Despite this, the experience is consistently described as amazing, enriched by a friendly camp host and the charming "camp guard dog Abby," who adds to the welcoming atmosphere. With direct access to well-worth-exploring trails and abundant wildlife, Outlet Park Campground is a prime location for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of eastern Kansas, promising a quiet and enriching outdoor experience.

Outlet Park Campground is conveniently located at 5479 Outlet Pk Dr, Quenemo, KS 66528, USA. This location places it strategically by the Outlet Park area of Pomona Lake, making it an accessible and attractive destination for residents across Kansas. For those traveling from major cities like Topeka, Lawrence, or Kansas City, the campground is within a manageable driving distance via well-maintained state and local roads. Clear signage typically guides visitors directly to the campground once they are within the vicinity of Pomona Lake.

The accessibility within the campground itself is also a notable feature. The internal roads are well-maintained, allowing for easy navigation for both RVs and vehicles pulling trailers. While cell service might require a trip to higher ground or out on the lake for connectivity, this is often viewed as a positive for those seeking a true disconnect. The campground's direct connection to a network of trails right off the camping area provides immediate access to hiking and exploring, eliminating the need to drive to separate trailheads. This combination of convenient geographical location and well-planned internal accessibility makes Outlet Park Campground a seamless and enjoyable choice for a Kansas camping trip.

Outlet Park Campground provides a comprehensive array of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience:

• Electric and Water Hookups: Many sites offer electric (including 50-amp service) and water hookups, accommodating a wide range of RVs and trailers. Some sites also offer full hookups with sewer connections.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: The park, roads, and general amenities are consistently praised for their cleanliness and excellent upkeep.
• Flush and Vault Toilets: Restroom facilities are available, including modern flush toilets and more rustic vault toilets for convenience.
• Showers: Clean shower facilities are provided, ensuring a refreshing experience after a day of outdoor activities.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable water is readily available throughout the campground.
• Playground: An excellent and well-maintained playground offers a safe and engaging space for children.
• Reservable Picnic Shelters: Two group day-use picnic shelters with electrical hookups are available for reservation, ideal for family gatherings or events.
• On-Site Camp Host: A polite and friendly camp host is available to assist campers, often with the charming "camp guard dog Abby" on duty!
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed, though they must be kept on a leash and under control.
• Laundry Facilities: Some reports indicate the presence of laundry facilities, adding convenience for longer stays.
• Boat Ramp & Fish Cleaning Station: Direct access to Pomona Lake with a boat ramp and a fish cleaning station for anglers.

Outlet Park Campground offers numerous features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas:

• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Despite sites being somewhat close, the campground maintains a quiet ambiance, particularly by the spillway, offering a true escape from noise and crowds.
• Prime Waterside Sites: Many sites are located right where 110-Mile Creek takes a sharp turn, offering prime waterside access and views.
• Immediate Trail Access: A well-maintained trail system connects directly off the side of the campground, providing excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural landscape.
• Abundant Wildlife Viewing: Visitors frequently spot deer, various birds, and fish, enhancing the connection with nature. There's even mention of a "mystery visitor" that adds to the charm!
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground in excellent condition and the opportunity for shared outdoor experiences, it's an ideal spot for families.
• Boating and Fishing Opportunities: Proximity to Pomona Lake ensures fantastic chances for fishing (including walleye, crappie, catfish) and boating activities. A stocked fishing pond is also available, open year-round.
• Swimming Beach: A swimming beach is located within the park, providing a refreshing way to cool off on warm Kansas days.
• Well-Maintained Infrastructure: The overall cleanliness and excellent condition of the park's roads and facilities contribute significantly to a pleasant experience.
• Disc Golf Course: For recreational variety, a disc golf course is available in the park.
• Historical Suspension Bridge: A unique historical feature adds interest for explorers.

As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) campground, Outlet Park Campground operates under federal guidelines regarding fees and potentially offers benefits related to national recreation passes. While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are not typically advertised, campers can often take advantage of the following:

• America the Beautiful Pass Series: Holders of federal recreation passes, such as the Annual Pass, Senior Pass (for those 62+), Access Pass (for those with permanent disabilities), and Military Pass, may receive discounts on camping fees (typically 50% off the standard fee for individual campsites).
• Reservable Sites: Campsites are reservable from April 1 through October 31, allowing campers to plan their trips and secure a spot in advance, which can prevent disappointment during peak seasons.
• Winter Camping: Winter camping is available from November 1 to March 31, often at a reduced rate ($10.00 a night), providing a more budget-friendly option for off-season adventurers.
• Group Day-Use Shelters: The availability of reservable group day-use picnic shelters allows for cost-effective gatherings, which can be a form of savings for group events.

It is always recommended to check the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Melvern Lake Project Office (which oversees Outlet Park) directly for the most current fee schedules, reservation policies, and any available discounts or passes. Confirming availability and making reservations, especially for electric and water sites during popular times, is highly advisable.

To plan your visit or inquire about availability and specific amenities at Outlet Park Campground, please use the following contact information:

• Address: 5479 Outlet Pk Dr, Quenemo, KS 66528, USA
• Phone: (785) 453-2201 (This number appears to be a direct line to the campground office or a relevant local contact point)
• Mobile Phone: +1 785-453-2201
• Additional Contact: For general information related to Melvern Lake and its campgrounds (which may include Outlet Park), the Melvern Lake Project Office can be contacted at (785) 549-3318.

Calling ahead, particularly during peak camping seasons, is strongly recommended to check for campsite availability and any specific operational details. The staff can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information to ensure a seamless and enjoyable camping trip.

Outlet Park Campground is an ideal destination for locals in Kansas, offering a refreshing and accessible escape into nature. Its strategic location near Quenemo and on Pomona Lake makes it a convenient drive for residents from various parts of the state, ensuring that a rewarding outdoor experience is never too far away. For those seeking a genuine break from the constant connectivity of modern life, the limited cell service provides a unique opportunity for a true digital detox, encouraging deeper engagement with the natural surroundings and companions.

The campground’s commitment to cleanliness and excellent maintenance of its facilities, including a well-kept playground, makes it a comfortable and safe environment for families with children. The immediate access to well-maintained hiking trails and the abundance of wildlife sightings cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Whether it's casting a line in Pomona Lake, exploring the scenic trails, or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the campfire, Outlet Park Campground provides diverse activities that appeal to a wide range of interests. Its peaceful atmosphere and well-regarded facilities ensure that Kansans can create lasting memories and truly unwind, making it a cherished local gem for outdoor recreation.