Outlet Park Campground Loop A

For many Kansans, the call of the great outdoors is an irresistible one. When the urge to escape the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in nature strikes, a destination that offers both tranquility and adventure is paramount. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Flint Hills region, Outlet Park Campground Loop A in Melvern, Kansas, answers that call with its inviting atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. This campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to the serene beauty and recreational opportunities that Melvern Lake and its surrounding areas provide.

Whether you're a seasoned camper, an avid angler, a hiking enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape for the weekend, Outlet Park Campground Loop A offers a well-maintained and welcoming environment. Locals across Kansas consistently praise its natural beauty and the quality of its facilities, making it a reliable choice for a memorable outdoor experience. Imagine waking up to the sounds of nature, spending your day by the water, or exploring scenic trails – all within easy reach of your home in Kansas.

Outlet Park Campground Loop A is ideally situated at Outlet Area, Melvern, KS 66510, USA. This prime location places it directly below the Melvern Lake Dam, on the eastern edge of the picturesque Flint Hills of Kansas. For residents throughout Kansas, its accessibility is a significant advantage. Melvern is located in Osage County, a short drive south of Topeka, making it a convenient destination for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation without extensive travel.

The campground's proximity to Melvern Lake is one of its greatest assets. Melvern Lake, impounding nearly 7,000 acres of water on the upper reaches of the Marais des Cygnes River Valley, is a hub for water-based activities. The easy access to the lake means campers can transition from their campsite to the water in minutes, ready for boating, swimming, or fishing.

Beyond the lake, the surrounding region offers plenty to explore. The Flint Hills, a unique and ecologically significant tallgrass prairie ecosystem, provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Roads leading to Outlet Park Campground Loop A are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, from passenger cars to large RVs. This combination of natural beauty and practical accessibility makes Outlet Park Campground Loop A a truly desirable camping destination for Kansas locals.

• Campsites: Outlet Park Campground Loop A offers a variety of campsites suitable for both RVs and tents. Many sites are spacious and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 80 feet, with full hookups available (electric, water, and sewer) at many of them.

• Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides flush toilets and showers for camper convenience, ensuring a comfortable stay even while enjoying the rustic charm of camping. Note that facilities are generally open from April to October.

• Dump Station: An on-site dump station is available, making it convenient for RV campers to manage waste during their stay.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals, and many sites include fire pits for cozy campfires and s'mores.

• Boating Facilities: The campground features a boat ramp and an accessible dock, providing easy access to Melvern Lake for boating enthusiasts.

• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming beach within Outlet Park offers a safe and enjoyable area for cooling off during warmer months.

• Stocked Fishing Pond: Beyond the main lake, there's a stocked fishing pond within Outlet Park, providing additional fishing opportunities for all ages, open year-round.

• Group Picnic Shelters: Two group day-use picnic shelters with electrical hookups are available for larger gatherings or events, which can be reserved.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The park offers a network of well-maintained trails, including a paved surface trail and a two-mile gravel trail, ideal for walking, running, and biking. The Tallgrass Heritage Trail also begins within the campground area.

• Beautiful Scenery: Described by visitors as a "beautiful campground," Outlet Park offers picturesque views of Melvern Lake and the surrounding Kansas landscape. The natural beauty of the area is a major draw for those seeking a tranquil outdoor experience.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Melvern Lake is renowned for its fishing. Anglers can find a variety of species, including walleye, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, as well as various bass species. The stocked fishing pond within Outlet Park also provides a convenient spot for a relaxed fishing session.

• Well-Maintained Trails: The campground boasts "very well kept" and "nice" trails, including a scenic loop around the outlet area. These trails are perfect for walking, running, or cycling, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the park and enjoy fresh air.

• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers highlight the "spacious" nature of the lots, providing campers with ample room for their setups and a sense of privacy. This is a significant advantage for both RV and tent campers.

• Suspension Bridge: A unique highlight mentioned by a customer is the "suspension bridge," which offers an engaging feature for exploration and adds to the park's charm.

• Proximity to Melvern Lake Activities: Beyond camping, guests have easy access to Melvern Lake's myriad recreational activities, including swimming, boating, and various water sports. The vast 18,000 acres of land surrounding the lake also offer extensive hunting opportunities for deer, quail, turkeys, and more, managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks.

• Clean and Inviting Grounds: Despite not being able to personally verify facility cleanliness, one reviewer noted that "the grounds for camping looked outstanding, inviting, and very well kept up," indicating a high standard of maintenance.

Outlet Park Campground Loop A, being managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, typically operates under a standard fee structure rather than offering frequent, publicly advertised promotions in the same way a private business might. However, there are general discounts and seasonal considerations that campers in Kansas might find beneficial.

For instance, federal campgrounds often participate in programs that offer discounts to specific groups. These can include:

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series: While primarily for National Parks, some federal campgrounds, including those managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, may offer discounts on camping fees for holders of these passes, such as the Senior Pass or Access Pass. It’s always advisable to inquire about eligibility and specific benefits when making a reservation.

• Good Sam Club Discounts: While not directly offered by the campground itself, members of camping organizations like the Good Sam Club may receive discounts at participating campgrounds, and it's worth checking if Outlet Park Campground Loop A honors such affiliations or if their fees are already competitively priced.

Fees for campsites at Outlet Park Campground Loop A range from approximately $20.00 to $66.00 per night, depending on the site type (e.g., electric and water hookups, full hookups) and loop. The campground is generally open from the beginning of April to the end of October.

It is highly recommended for prospective campers to check the official reservation website or call the campground directly for the most current information on pricing, availability, and any potential seasonal offers or discounts that may apply. Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is also advised as sites can be reserved up to six months in advance.

To learn more about Outlet Park Campground Loop A, check availability, or make a reservation, please use the following contact information:

Address: Outlet Area, Melvern, KS 66510, USA

Phone: (785) 549-3318 (for general information)

Mobile Phone: +1 785-549-3318

For reservations, you typically would use the national reservation system for federal campgrounds, which can be accessed online or by calling the national reservation line (often 1-877-444-6777). However, the local phone number provided can be used for specific questions about the campground itself, its facilities, or local conditions.

For locals in Kansas, Outlet Park Campground Loop A offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature without venturing far from home. Its location in Melvern, nestled by the scenic Melvern Lake and within the historic Flint Hills, provides a diverse landscape for both relaxation and adventure. This isn't just a place to park your RV or set up a tent; it's a vibrant outdoor hub designed for enjoyment and convenience.

The reviews speak volumes about the campground's appeal. From the "beautiful campground" setting and "great fishing" to the "spacious lots" and "very well kept" trails, it’s clear that the park prioritizes the camper’s experience. The presence of a unique "suspension bridge" and the well-maintained grounds further enhance the appeal, offering more than just basic amenities. These features contribute to a fulfilling outdoor experience that encourages repeat visits from Kansans who appreciate quality and natural beauty.

The range of services—including electric, water, and sewer hookups for RVs, clean restrooms and showers, a dump station, and essential picnic facilities—ensures that camping here is comfortable and convenient for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. The easy access to Melvern Lake for boating and swimming, coupled with dedicated fishing opportunities in the stocked pond, caters to water lovers. For those who prefer dry land, the extensive network of hiking and biking trails, including the accessible paved surface trail, offers ample opportunities for exploration and exercise.

Ultimately, Outlet Park Campground Loop A is perfectly suited for locals because it offers a comprehensive and high-quality outdoor experience that is both accessible and deeply connected to the natural heritage of Kansas. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, where anglers can find their catch, and where anyone can find solace in the serene beauty of the Flint Hills. For a genuine taste of Kansas outdoor living, Outlet Park Campground Loop A truly delivers.