Sunset Point Campground

For Kansas locals seeking an outdoor escape, Sunset Point Campground at Elk City Lake near Independence offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. This campground provides a distinct camping experience, particularly catering to those with RVs and boats, and is renowned for its scenic beauty, especially during the evening hours. Understanding its features and amenities can help you decide if it’s the ideal spot for your next Kansas adventure.

Campgrounds across Kansas vary widely in their offerings, and Sunset Point carves out its niche by emphasizing specific types of outdoor enjoyment. While traditional tent camping by the water might be challenging due to natural terrain, the open campsites and proximity to the lake make it a favorable spot for RV enthusiasts and those eager to get out on the water. The promise of beautiful sunset views alone makes it a worthwhile destination for many.

Elk City Lake, where Sunset Point Campground is located, is a significant natural resource in southeastern Kansas, drawing visitors for its recreational potential. The campground aims to complement this experience by providing essential facilities for comfortable stays. Whether you’re planning a family trip with an RV and kids, or a serene boating excursion, Sunset Point has aspects that cater to these specific needs.

It's important for local users to have a clear picture of what to expect to ensure their camping trip is enjoyable and meets their expectations. This article will delve into the specifics of Sunset Point Campground, from its exact location and accessibility to the services and features it provides. We’ll also touch upon insights from fellow campers to give a well-rounded perspective, helping you determine if this campground is the right fit for your next Kansas outdoor adventure.

The reviews from past visitors offer valuable insights, highlighting both the strengths and potential considerations of the campground. For instance, the open nature of the campsites, while perhaps less traditional for tent campers, is a benefit for RV users and helps mitigate issues like ticks. The presence of a playground is a clear bonus for families with children, making it a more appealing option for those traveling with little ones. These details are vital for planning a successful camping trip.

Ultimately, Sunset Point Campground strives to provide a memorable experience for its visitors by leveraging its natural setting and focusing on key amenities. Its suitability for locals will depend on their specific camping preferences and what they prioritize in an outdoor getaway. By understanding its offerings, you can ensure your visit to Elk City Lake is as enjoyable as possible.

Sunset Point Campground is situated within the scenic area of Elk City Lake, near Independence, Kansas. While the precise street address for the campground itself might be broad, its location within the Elk City Lake region is well-known and accessible for Kansas locals. Independence, KS 67301, USA, serves as the general address for the area.

Elk City Lake is a prominent reservoir in Montgomery County, southeastern Kansas, known for its extensive recreational opportunities. The lake and its surrounding parks, including Sunset Point, are managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring well-maintained facilities and public access.

Accessibility to Sunset Point Campground from various parts of Kansas is generally straightforward. Independence, a city of significant size in the region, is well-connected by state highways, allowing for relatively easy drives from nearby towns and cities. For instance, it's accessible via US-160 and US-75, making it a feasible weekend getaway for residents across southeastern Kansas.

Within the campground itself, the sites are described as being "away from trees," suggesting an open layout that is beneficial for larger RVs and helps reduce issues with ticks. While this layout might not be ideal for traditional tent camping with immediate water access, it provides clear pathways for vehicles and spacious individual sites.

For those with boats, the campground's proximity to the lake and potential boat ramps (though not explicitly detailed for Sunset Point itself, common at large lake campgrounds) is a key advantage. The review mentions it's a "perfect spot for camping" for those with a boat and an RV, indicating good access to the water for launching and enjoying the lake. The "beautiful views at sunset" are a testament to its prime positioning on the lake's edge, offering picturesque natural scenery for campers.

While direct access to the water from every campsite for fishing or swimming might be hindered by "bushes in the way" and "lots of big rocks," the overall accessibility to Elk City Lake's broader recreational areas remains a strong point. Campers can access various parts of the lake for their preferred activities, making Sunset Point a base camp rather than a direct waterside retreat for every activity.

Sunset Point Campground provides a range of services aimed at making your camping experience at Elk City Lake as comfortable and convenient as possible. While primarily catering to RV and boat campers, several key services are available:

• Campsites for RVs: The campground offers dedicated sites suitable for recreational vehicles, likely equipped with necessary hookups such as electricity and water, common for most developed RV parks within public recreation areas.

• Playground for Kids: A notable amenity for families is the presence of a playground, providing a safe and engaging area for children to play, which is a significant plus for family-oriented trips.

• Restroom Facilities: The campground includes restroom facilities for campers. While one review notes they are "okay" and mentions a potential issue with the women's restroom door not closing automatically, their availability is a basic and essential service for campers.

• Fire Pits with Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a fire pit that includes a grill. This allows campers to enjoy traditional campfire cooking and grilling, enhancing the outdoor experience. While the fire pits might not be large, the integrated grill is a convenient feature.

• Trimmed Trees: The surrounding trees are described as being trimmed, contributing to a neater appearance and potentially reducing hazards, while also maintaining a more open feel to the campsites.

• Online Reservation System (Implied): The mention of "reservation tickets for campsites a week in advance" implies a system for booking campsites, which is a common service for popular campgrounds, allowing campers to secure their spot ahead of time.

Sunset Point Campground offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a notable choice for campers in Kansas, especially those with specific preferences.

• RV and Boat Friendly: This is arguably the strongest highlight. The campground is particularly well-suited for campers with RVs and boats, offering an ideal setup for those who enjoy lake activities like boating and fishing from the water, or simply appreciate the convenience of an RV site.

• Open Campsites (Low Tick Risk): The sites are positioned "away from trees," which has the practical benefit of reducing the presence of ticks, a common concern for campers in wooded areas. This open layout also makes maneuvering RVs easier.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: The inclusion of a playground for kids is a significant feature, making the campground attractive to families traveling with children. This provides a dedicated space for younger campers to expend energy and enjoy their time outdoors.

• Beautiful Sunset Views: As its name suggests, one of the most celebrated features of Sunset Point Campground is the stunning view of the sunset over Elk City Lake. This natural spectacle provides a serene and picturesque backdrop for evening relaxation and is a definite highlight for any visitor.

• Grill on Every Fire Pit: The convenience of having a grill integrated into every fire pit simplifies outdoor cooking, allowing campers to easily prepare meals over an open flame without needing to bring separate grilling equipment.

• Quiet and Scenic Beauty: Reviews highlight the "quiet beauty of the water and the nature" at the campground. This suggests a tranquil environment, ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the peaceful outdoors.

• Proximity to Elk City Lake Activities: While direct water access from all campsites might be limited, the overall location within Elk City Lake means campers are close to various lake activities. This includes opportunities for boating, fishing (from designated areas or boats), and enjoying the expansive natural environment of the lake.

Publicly available information for Sunset Point Campground does not detail specific, ongoing promotions or special offers. Campgrounds, especially those managed by government entities like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (which often manages lake recreation areas), typically operate on set fee schedules rather than frequent promotional discounts.

However, it's worth considering a few general points regarding fees and potential opportunities:

• Standard Recreation Fees: Campgrounds within federal or state parks often have standard daily or nightly fees for campsites, which may vary based on amenities (e.g., electrical hookups, water access) and season.

• Annual Passes: For frequent campers or users of federal recreation lands, passes like the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass might offer discounts on camping fees. While primarily for national parks, some federal campgrounds may participate or offer similar programs.

• Senior or Military Discounts: Some public campgrounds provide discounts for seniors, military personnel, or individuals with disabilities. It is always advisable to inquire about such possibilities.

• Off-Season Rates: During less popular times of the year, outside of peak camping season (typically spring and summer), campgrounds might offer slightly reduced rates or be less crowded, making it a more economical and peaceful time to visit.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any fees, potential discounts, or specific policies that might indirectly act as "special offers," it is highly recommended to contact Sunset Point Campground directly using the provided phone number. They can inform you about current pricing structures and any specific conditions that might apply to your booking. It is also wise to check the official websites for Elk City Lake or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for any general recreation fee information applicable to their managed sites in Kansas.

For inquiries regarding reservations, availability, specific amenities, or any other questions about Sunset Point Campground at Elk City Lake, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: Independence, KS 67301, USA (Note: As a campground within a larger recreational area, a precise street address might not be available, but this zip code places it within the general vicinity of Elk City Lake.)

• Phone: (620) 331-6295

• Mobile Phone: +1 620-331-6295

It is important to note the customer review mentioning difficulty with "customer service assistance" when trying to call the office and regional number for a reservation issue. While this was one specific experience, it underscores the importance of planning ahead and potentially using any online reservation systems if available, in addition to calling. Direct communication with the campground staff is usually the best way to confirm details for your visit.

For Kansas locals, Sunset Point Campground at Elk City Lake offers a distinct and suitable outdoor experience, particularly for those whose camping preferences align with its unique strengths. Its suitability stems from its focus on RV and boating enthusiasts, its family-friendly amenities, and the serene beauty of its natural setting.

Firstly, for Kansas residents who own an RV or a boat, Sunset Point Campground is an excellent choice. The open campsites are well-suited for RVs, offering easy setup and reducing common issues like ticks. The proximity to Elk City Lake makes it an ideal base for boating and fishing activities, allowing locals to fully utilize their recreational vehicles and watercraft. This specific suitability for RV and boat owners sets it apart and makes it a highly convenient option for this segment of the camping community.

Secondly, the presence of a playground makes Sunset Point a strong contender for local families with children. Having a dedicated and safe area for kids to play significantly enhances the family camping experience, allowing parents to relax while children are entertained. This amenity positions the campground as a family-friendly destination within easy driving distance for many Kansans.

Moreover, the natural beauty and tranquility of the location are undeniable draws. Despite some challenges with direct water access from all tent sites, the "beautiful views at sunset" and the "quiet beauty of the water and the nature" provide a peaceful retreat from daily life. For locals seeking a serene environment to relax and enjoy the outdoors, Sunset Point offers a picturesque setting. The convenience of having fire pits with grills at each site also adds to the ease and enjoyment of outdoor cooking, a cherished part of the camping experience for many.

While traditional tent campers seeking direct lakeside access for fishing and swimming might find other lakes more suitable, Sunset Point clearly shines for those prioritizing RV comfort, boating access, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Its location near Independence, KS, also ensures reasonable accessibility for many residents across southeastern Kansas, making it a viable option for weekend trips or longer vacations. In essence, Sunset Point Campground is a suitable choice for Kansas locals who value convenience for RVs, family-oriented amenities, and a beautiful, peaceful natural setting for their outdoor adventures.