Sunflower Campground

For those of us here in Kansas who enjoy the comforts of home while embracing the great outdoors, finding an RV-friendly campground with all the right amenities is key. Look no further than Sunflower Campground at Hillsdale Lake in Paola, Kansas. This is the place for campers who prioritize convenience, cleanliness, and full hookups, making it a standout choice for an effortless and enjoyable camping experience. As one local reviewer enthusiastically stated, "This is the only camp area in Hillsdale with full hookups and it’s a great spot." This singular feature immediately positions Sunflower Campground as a premier destination for RVers within the popular Hillsdale State Park.

Sunflower Campground offers a unique blend of modern camping amenities and access to the natural beauty of Hillsdale Lake. While it may not boast dense shade trees, a characteristic noted by visitors, this open layout provides a significant advantage for satellite reception and offers a sense of spaciousness between sites. The campground is consistently praised for being "well kept and clean," with many "concrete and very level" spots, ensuring a smooth setup for any rig. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay, Sunflower Campground is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient base for exploring all that southeast Kansas has to offer, making it a favorite for many Kansans.

Sunflower Campground is perfectly situated within the popular Hillsdale State Park, near Paola, Kansas. Its address is 26353 Jayhawker Dr, Paola, KS 66071, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Hillsdale Lake, a significant recreational hub in Miami County, strategically located approximately 30 miles southwest of the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Accessibility to Sunflower Campground is a major advantage for Kansans. The park is easily reached via major state highways, including US-169 and K-7, which provide straightforward and well-maintained routes from both the Kansas City region and other parts of the state. Campers will appreciate the smooth journey into the park, with roads leading directly to the campground that are well-suited for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers. The convenience of its location means you can quickly transition from highway travel to settling into your campsite, all while being close enough to Paola for any necessary supplies. This blend of easy access and a desirable lakeside setting makes Sunflower Campground an attractive and practical choice for local campers seeking a comfortable and convenient outdoor experience.

• Full Hookups: Sunflower Campground is unique within Hillsdale State Park for offering full hookups at its sites. This means campers have access to electricity (30-amp and 50-amp options), water, and sewer connections directly at their site, providing maximum convenience for RVers.

• Level Concrete Pads: A significant highlight, many sites, particularly those on the outer side, feature "concrete and very level" pads. This makes setting up RVs much easier and ensures a stable, comfortable camping experience.

• Clean Facilities: The campground is consistently described as "well kept and clean," indicating a high standard of maintenance for both the sites and communal areas.

• Utilities: While water pressure was noted as "a little low" in one review, the utilities (electric and water) are confirmed to be functional, ensuring essential services are available.

• Spacious Sites: Reviewers appreciate the "nice amount of space between sites," allowing for a sense of privacy and room to spread out.

• Fire Pits and Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a fire pit and a picnic table, perfect for outdoor cooking, dining, and enjoying campfires.

• Proximity to Boat Launch: A "boat launch is fairly close," offering convenient access to Hillsdale Lake for boating and fishing enthusiasts.

• Direct Trail Access: The campground provides access to a "very nice walking trail that meanders throughout the whole state park," ideal for leisurely strolls or more extensive hikes.

• Reservations Available: Campsites can be reserved in advance, typically through the Kansas State Parks reservation system (e.g., ReserveAmerica.com), allowing campers to secure their preferred spot.

• Exclusive Full Hookups at Hillsdale: A major highlight is that Sunflower Campground is the only campground in Hillsdale State Park offering full hookups (electric, water, and sewer). This makes it the premier choice for RVers seeking ultimate convenience and an extended, comfortable stay without the need for frequent trips to a dump station.

• Satellite-Friendly Environment: The lack of extensive shade trees means that "getting satellite from any site is not a problem." This is a significant advantage for RVers who rely on satellite TV or internet for entertainment or work.

• Level, Concrete Pads: The prevalence of "concrete and very level" sites, especially on the outer loop, simplifies the leveling process for RVs and provides a firm, clean surface for your setup. This attention to site quality enhances the overall camping experience.

• Well-Kept and Clean Grounds: Consistent feedback praises the campground's cleanliness and meticulous upkeep, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for all visitors.

• Spacious Sites: The generous spacing "between sites" offers a sense of privacy and allows campers ample room to relax and set up their outdoor living areas without feeling cramped.

• Excellent Walking Trail Access: Direct access to a "very nice walking trail that meanders throughout the whole state park" provides fantastic opportunities for exercise, nature observation, and leisurely strolls right from your campsite.

• Proximity to Hillsdale Lake Activities: While not directly on the water's edge for all sites, the nearby boat launch offers easy access to Hillsdale Lake for fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. The lake itself is a major recreational draw in the area.

• Ideal for Weekend Getaways: Described as a "Great spot to go for the weekend!", its combination of convenience, amenities, and recreational opportunities makes it perfect for short, refreshing escapes.

As a key part of Hillsdale State Park, Sunflower Campground operates under the fee structure of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). Specific, short-term promotional deals on individual campsites are not commonly advertised directly for state park campgrounds, as they typically adhere to a standardized fee schedule. However, there are general ways for campers to save or benefit from their visits:

• Kansas State Park Vehicle Permit: An annual Kansas State Park Vehicle Permit is required for entry into any state park, in addition to nightly camping fees. For frequent visitors to Hillsdale Lake or other Kansas State Parks, purchasing an annual permit can be a cost-effective solution compared to daily permits, providing unlimited access for a year.

• Off-Season Rates: While not a discount per se, camping fees for state parks may sometimes be lower during the off-peak seasons (generally late fall through early spring) due to reduced demand and potentially fewer available services or amenities. It's advisable to check the official reservation system for seasonal variations.

• Reservations: The ability to reserve specific sites in advance through the Kansas State Parks reservation system (e.g., ReserveAmerica.com) ensures you secure your preferred spot, especially one of the coveted full hookup or level concrete sites. This is not a discount but offers significant convenience and peace of mind.

For the most accurate and current information on camping fees, permit requirements, and any specific group rates or potential offers that might be available, it is always recommended to:

• Visit the official KDWPT website for Hillsdale State Park (ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Hillsdale).

• Check the ReserveAmerica.com platform directly for Sunflower Campground to view real-time availability and pricing.

• Contact the Hillsdale State Park office directly using the phone number provided in the contact section.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, or any other questions regarding your stay at Sunflower Campground within Hillsdale State Park, please use the following contact details:

Address: 26353 Jayhawker Dr, Paola, KS 66071, USA

While Sunflower Campground has its specific address, the primary contact for all Hillsdale State Park campgrounds and facilities is the park office:

Hillsdale State Park Office:

26001 W. 255th Street, Paola, KS 66071

Phone: (913) 594-3600

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially during peak seasons or if you have specific needs regarding your campsite, such as confirming 50-amp availability or the precise location of a concrete pad.

For us Kansans, Sunflower Campground at Hillsdale Lake stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, particularly for those who prefer the convenience of full hookups and a comfortable RV camping experience. Its unique offerings within Hillsdale State Park make it a prime choice for locals seeking a hassle-free and enjoyable outdoor escape right here in our home state.

The biggest draw for locals is undoubtedly the exclusive availability of full hookups (electric, water, and sewer). This amenity significantly enhances the comfort and duration of stays, allowing RVers to fully relax without worrying about utility limitations. The consistently "well kept and clean" grounds, coupled with the prevalence of "concrete and very level" outer sites, ensure a smooth and easy setup, a detail highly appreciated by anyone who has wrestled with an uneven campsite.

While some might miss the shade trees, the open layout at Sunflower Campground is a distinct advantage for satellite reception, catering to those who wish to stay connected or enjoy their entertainment while camping. The "nice amount of space between sites" also contributes to a sense of privacy and tranquility, allowing campers to truly unwind.

Beyond the excellent individual sites, the campground's proximity to a "very nice walking trail that meanders throughout the whole state park" offers fantastic opportunities for exercise and exploring the natural beauty of Hillsdale. The nearby boat launch also provides easy access to the lake for fishing, boating, and other water activities that Kansans love. Sunflower Campground embodies convenience and comfort, making it an ideal "spot to go for the weekend!" or for extended stays. It's a perfect example of a local gem that balances modern amenities with the serene beauty of the Kansas outdoors, inviting Kansans to experience the best of lakeside camping.