Riverfront Campground, Leavenworth, KS

Introduction / Overview

For Kansas residents seeking an affordable, scenic, and conveniently located spot for a short-term outdoor escape, the Riverfront Campground in Leavenworth, Kansas, is a noteworthy option. Managed by the City of Leavenworth, this campground offers a unique opportunity to camp directly on the banks of the majestic Missouri River, providing beautiful waterfront views and a tranquil natural setting. It is the perfect blend of a peaceful retreat and immediate access to the historic attractions and dining of downtown Leavenworth. The campground is open seasonally, typically from May through October 31st, catering to both RVs/trailers and tent campers, and focuses on short-term stays with a maximum booking period of one week.

The setting is undeniably a major draw. Guests can relax and unwind in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying birdwatching at dawn and dusk, or taking in the scenic backdrop of the bridge spanning the Missouri River. The campground is part of the larger Riverfront Park complex, which offers 424 acres of parks and recreational opportunities managed by the city, ensuring there's always something nearby to enjoy. Despite its proximity to the city, the campground maintains a basic, well-kept feel, making it a budget-friendly and straightforward choice for locals looking to reconnect with nature or simply enjoy a comfortable stopover in Northeast Kansas. With only 13 available pads, a quiet and contained community experience is often enjoyed by those who secure a spot.

Location and Accessibility

Riverfront Campground is ideally situated at 1201 Riverfront Park Rd, Leavenworth, KS 66048, USA. Its location is a primary selling point for local users in the Kansas region, offering excellent accessibility and a genuinely unique environment. The campground is literally nestled between the Missouri River and the historic downtown area of Leavenworth.

This key location allows for easy, direct access to the cultural and historical heart of the First City of Kansas. Museums, local dining, shopping, and unique small-town attractions are a short distance away, allowing campers to seamlessly transition from a peaceful natural setting to an engaging urban experience. For those interested in regional exploration, the campground is located along the Frontier Military Historic Byway, providing a perfect base for day trips to historic forts and landmarks across the Kansas landscape. Access to the campground involves crossing railroad tracks, a feature that contributes to the scenic, secluded feel but requires awareness, particularly for longer vehicles. The City of Leavenworth recommends that trailers be less than 32 feet long to navigate the tracks comfortably without issues. This strategic positioning, close to both river-based recreation and city amenities, makes Riverfront Campground a highly convenient choice for a Kansas weekend getaway.

Services Offered

As a city-operated campground, Riverfront Campground provides essential services and facilities focused on short-term, comfortable camping. These services are designed to accommodate both RV and tent campers seeking a straightforward, affordable experience.

Electric Hookups: All 13 RV, trailer, or tent pads are equipped with 30-amp electrical outlets.
Water Access: Two shared water hook-ups are available in the campground. Campers should bring a hose splitter and their own hose to connect for water at their site.
Restrooms and Showers: A dedicated restroom and shower house, featuring four private units, are available for paid campers who obtain a key with a refundable key deposit.
Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is available on-site for both registered campers and non-campers (for a fee), addressing essential sanitation needs.
Security and Access: The campground is a gated facility, enhancing security, and campers receive a key for both the gate and the restroom/shower house.
Pet-Friendly Stay: The campground welcomes pets, though a small per-pet, per-day fee is applicable.
Picnic Shelter Rental: A 25' x 25' picnic shelter is available for reservation by the day, complete with seven tables, for family gatherings or events.

Features / Highlights

Riverfront Campground’s highlights are centered on its natural beauty and the functional features that enhance the guest experience for local Kansans.

Missouri River Views: The primary highlight is the stunning, scenic riverfront location, offering campers unparalleled views of the Missouri River and the majestic bridge, particularly beautiful during sunrise.
Paved and Level Sites: The RV/trailer sites are level and paved, ensuring an easy and stable setup for campers.
Individual Site Amenities: Each site is equipped with a picnic table, a fire pit, and a grill, facilitating comfortable outdoor dining and campfire enjoyment.
Boat Ramp Access: A boat ramp is available for seasonal use, making the campground an ideal base for local boaters and fishing enthusiasts looking to access the Missouri River.
Gate Security: The presence of a security gate and a key system provides a measure of safety and privacy for registered guests.
Historic and Local Proximity: The campground’s location allows for quick, convenient access to the historic sites, museums, and local dining options of downtown Leavenworth.
Affordable Rates: The campground is noted for its budget-friendly daily rates, making it an accessible option for frequent short getaways for Kansas locals.

Contact Information

For Kansas residents interested in making a reservation or inquiring about current conditions at Riverfront Campground, please use the contact information provided below. Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially for holiday weekends.

Address: 1201 Riverfront Park Rd, Leavenworth, KS 66048, USA

Phone: (913) 290-0034

Mobile Phone: +1 913-290-0034

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Riverfront Campground is an exceptional destination for Kansas locals, especially those in the Northeast region, primarily due to its combination of natural beauty, affordability, and practical convenience. For Kansas families, weekend warriors, and those exploring the Frontier Military Historic Byway, this city-operated spot offers a unique, quality experience. The affordable daily rates and short-term stay limit (up to one week) make it perfectly suited for accessible, frequent getaways without committing to a long vacation or high costs.

The ability to wake up to a quiet sunrise over the Missouri River, fish, and launch a boat right on-site provides an authentic outdoor experience. Crucially, its close proximity to historic downtown Leavenworth means local campers are not isolated; they have easy access to dining, essential services, and cultural activities. This balance—the tranquility of riverfront camping with the convenience of a nearby city—is the ideal arrangement for local Kansans who want an escape that is both restful and practical. While campers should be aware of the 30-amp electric limit, the shared water hookups, and the proximity to the active train tracks, the overall value proposition—a scenic, paved, and secure campsite with essential amenities for a low price—makes Riverfront Campground a highly suitable and cherished local gem.