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Rocky Cove Campground

Rocky Cove Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (620) 362-3671

Address Farlington, KS 66734, USA

Website https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Crawford

Hours

Rocky Cove Campground Location & Map

KansasCrawford CountyFarlington

Rocky Cove Campground About

Welcome to Rocky Cove Campground, a truly unique and historically rich camping destination nestled in the scenic landscapes of Farlington, Kansas. For many Kansans, the allure of the outdoors is undeniable, and finding a campground that offers both natural beauty and a compelling backstory can elevate a simple trip into a memorable experience. Rocky Cove Campground perfectly embodies this, providing a serene lakeside escape with a fascinating connection to the state's past.

Kansas may be known for its vast prairies, but it also boasts beautiful lakes and state parks, offering diverse opportunities for outdoor recreation. Campgrounds like Rocky Cove are essential in providing access to these natural treasures. What sets Rocky Cove apart, as highlighted by visitors, is its historical significance: it was "Built by CCC" (Civilian Conservation Corps) and even features "a little museum about the troop that built the lake, back in the thirties." This unique heritage adds an intriguing layer to your camping adventure, allowing you to connect with a piece of Kansas history while enjoying the tranquility of nature.

While the campground offers a beautiful setting, with some sites right on the lake, it's also practical, providing essential amenities like electric and water hookups to ensure a comfortable stay. It’s a place where you can relax by the water, explore local history, and enjoy the peace of the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quiet weekend retreat, a fishing excursion, or a historical exploration, Rocky Cove Campground offers a distinct and engaging experience for locals throughout Kansas.

Location and Accessibility

Rocky Cove Campground is located in Farlington, KS 66734, USA. This places the campground within Crawford County, in the southeastern region of Kansas. Farlington itself is a small community, lending to the peaceful and natural setting of the campground, which is typically found adjacent to a significant natural feature, in this case, a lake (implied by the CCC history of building a lake).

The accessibility of Rocky Cove Campground is generally straightforward for Kansans. While it’s nestled in a more rural area, it’s still reachable via well-maintained state and county roads. For those traveling from larger population centers in Kansas, such as Pittsburg (a major city in Southeast Kansas) or even Topeka and Kansas City (further to the north), the drive involves scenic routes through the Kansas countryside.

It is important for visitors to note a specific access characteristic mentioned in a review: "There are many private homes around the lake and the only access is through the camp grounds!" This means that campers will share the access road within the campground with local traffic, including those going "to work" around 6:30 AM, potentially creating a "little rush hour." While the speed limit is 25 mph, campers should be aware of this shared access and exercise caution, especially when enjoying their campsites which may be close to the road. Despite this unique aspect, the direct access to the lake and the surrounding natural area remains a key advantage. Its location provides a true escape into nature while still being a manageable drive for many Kansas residents seeking outdoor recreation and a peaceful retreat.

Services Offered

Rocky Cove Campground provides fundamental services designed to facilitate a comfortable camping experience, particularly highlighting its electrical and water provisions, albeit with specific distinctions for different sites.

  • Camping Sites: The campground offers various types of sites to accommodate different camping preferences.
  • Electric Hookups: Available at many sites, allowing campers to power their RVs or other equipment. Note: "The cites on the lake side are electric only," meaning these scenic spots provide power but not direct water connections at the site.
  • Water Hookups: Available at some sites, typically on the non-lakeside of the road. Campers who desire both electric and water will need to choose sites not directly on the lake. This implies that other, non-lakeside sites offer both.
  • Historical Museum Access: A unique service is the presence of "a little museum about the troop that built the lake, back in the thirties." This offers an educational and engaging on-site activity for campers interested in the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the lake's construction.
  • Access to Lake Activities: While not a direct service of the campground, its location provides direct access to the lake, which likely supports activities such as fishing, boating (depending on regulations), and general relaxation by the water.
  • Maintained Campground Environment: The description "Nice campground" suggests that the general grounds are kept in good order, contributing to a pleasant and enjoyable camping atmosphere.
Features / Highlights

Rocky Cove Campground offers a distinctive set of features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for campers in Kansas, blending natural beauty with historical significance.

  • Historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Legacy: A truly unique highlight, the campground was "Built by CCC." This direct connection to a significant period in American history adds immense character and educational value to the camping experience. It's not just a campground, but a living piece of history.
  • On-Site CCC Museum: Complementing its historical roots, the presence of "a little museum about the troop that built the lake, back in the thirties" allows visitors to delve deeper into the campground's fascinating origins. This provides a cultural and educational activity right within the park, enriching the stay.
  • Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The campground is located directly by a lake, offering picturesque views and easy access to water-based activities. While specific sites have different hookup options, the overall lakefront access is a major draw for those seeking scenic beauty and aquatic recreation.
  • Electric Hookups Available: Essential for RVers and many modern campers, electric hookups are available, ensuring comfort and convenience. It's important to note the distinction: "The cites on the lake side are electric only," meaning a choice between lake views and full hookups may be necessary.
  • Water Hookups Available: For those prioritizing full amenities, water hookups are available at sites not directly on the lake, offering flexibility for different camping needs.
  • "Nice Campground" Reputation: The general positive sentiment of being a "Nice campground" indicates a pleasant overall environment, well-maintained facilities, and a good experience for visitors.
  • Proximity to Private Homes (Unique Context): While a "concern" for some due to traffic, the presence of "many private homes around the lake" implies a settled, residential lakeside community. This might contribute to a sense of local vibrancy around the natural area, although campers should be mindful of shared access roads.
Promotions or Special Offers

Specific promotions or special offers for Rocky Cove Campground are not detailed in the provided public information. Like many state or county-run campgrounds, or even privately managed ones, pricing is typically standardized, but seasonal variations or specific package deals might occasionally be offered.

Prospective campers are highly encouraged to contact Rocky Cove Campground directly for the most current information regarding rates, availability, and any potential special offers. It's advisable to inquire about discounts for extended stays, off-season rates, or any packages that might be available when booking your site. Given the unique historical aspects and varying site features (electric-only vs. electric and water), speaking directly with the management will ensure you get the most accurate and up-to-date details to plan your ideal camping trip at this historic Kansas lakeside retreat.

Contact Information

For inquiries about Rocky Cove Campground, including site availability, rates, specific amenities, or to make a reservation, please use the following contact details:

  • Address: Farlington, KS 66734, USA
  • Phone: (620) 362-3671
  • Mobile Phone: +1 620-362-3671

Calling directly is the most efficient way to get personalized assistance and the most current information regarding bookings and specific campground policies. The staff will be able to guide you through the options, especially concerning the different types of sites and their hookup availability, to help you plan your visit to this historic Kansas campground.

Conclusion: Why Rocky Cove Campground is Suitable for Locals

For Kansans seeking a camping experience that transcends the ordinary, Rocky Cove Campground in Farlington stands out as an exceptionally suitable and enriching destination. Its unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and practical amenities directly caters to what local users often look for in an outdoor getaway.

The most compelling reason for its suitability for locals lies in its rich historical context. The fact that it was "Built by CCC" and features "a little museum about the troop that built the lake, back in the thirties" offers a rare opportunity to connect with a tangible piece of Kansas's past while enjoying its present-day beauty. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's an educational and cultural experience that deepens appreciation for the state's heritage. For families, this provides an engaging activity that goes beyond typical camping, offering lessons in history alongside outdoor fun.

Furthermore, the campground's beautiful lakeside setting is a significant draw. While the shared access road with private homes is a consideration, the direct access to the lake provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water, activities deeply cherished by many Kansans. The availability of both electric and water hookups (albeit at different site types) ensures that campers can find an option that suits their comfort level, making it accessible for both seasoned RVers and those who prefer a more rustic tent camping experience.

Its location in Southeast Kansas makes it a convenient and manageable drive for many residents across the state, offering a peaceful retreat without being excessively remote. Rocky Cove Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a living testament to history, a gateway to lakeside recreation, and a comfortable haven for locals looking to unwind and create lasting memories in "The Sunflower State." Its unique character makes it a truly distinctive and highly recommended choice for any Kansas camper.

Customer Reviews

4.0
8 reviews
T
Tom Fattore
Oct 21, 2022

Nice campground. Built by CCC and has a little museum about the troop that built the lake, back in the thirties. One concern was the amount of traffic that comes through the camp sites. There are many private homes around the lake and the only access is through the camp grounds! The speed limit is 25 mph, but when you're sitting by your camp and a car goes by 10 feet from you, it seems too fast and too close. And at 6:30 or so, people start going to work, I assume, making for a little rush hour.

D
Dean Terry
Sep 11, 2021

If you want both electric and water, you won't be able to camp on the lake side of the road. The cites on the lake side are electric only.

D
Dean Terry
Sep 11, 2021

If you want both electric and water, you won't be able to camp on the lake side of the road. The cites on the lake side are electric only.

S
Steve Almond
Oct 24, 2021

nice place to camp. everyone had fun, lots of relaxing.

S
Steve Almond
Oct 24, 2021

nice place to camp. everyone had fun, lots of relaxing.

E
Ed limper
Aug 14, 2024

very good campground

E
Ed limper
Aug 14, 2024

very good campground

J
Josh Thurlow
Jun 22, 2021

Level parking pads. Quiet.

J
Josh Thurlow
Jun 22, 2021

Level parking pads. Quiet.