Veterans' Point

For Kansans who cherish the serenity of lakeside living and the joy of outdoor activities, Veterans' Point campground at El Dorado Lake offers an idyllic escape. Nestled within the vast and highly acclaimed El Dorado State Park, this particular area provides a unique blend of tranquility and recreational opportunities, making it a favored spot for many local adventurers. Whether you're a seasoned angler, a paddleboarding enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat by the water, Veterans' Point caters to a variety of outdoor preferences in the heart of the Flint Hills.

El Dorado State Park is renowned throughout Kansas for its expansive lake, diverse wildlife, and extensive facilities. Veterans' Point benefits from this exceptional setting, providing campers with direct access to the lake's calm waters and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore replaces the sounds of city life, and the unique amenities enhance your connection with nature. This campground is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a destination designed for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment, embodying the best of Kansas's natural beauty.

Veterans' Point is located within the expansive El Dorado State Park, near the city of El Dorado, KS 67042, USA. Specifically, it is situated in Area 3 of El Dorado State Park, often within the Shady Creek section of the park. This location provides excellent access to El Dorado Lake, a significant recreational hub in south-central Kansas.

The park's overall accessibility is a major advantage for Kansans. El Dorado State Park is conveniently located at the edge of the scenic Flint Hills, easily reachable from major state highways and the Kansas Turnpike (I-35). This means that a refreshing lakeside getaway is never too far from home. Once inside the park, Veterans' Point is well-marked, guiding visitors to its serene lakeside setting. While it offers a feeling of being immersed in nature, essential services in the city of El Dorado are just a short drive away, ensuring you have access to supplies, gas, and dining options whenever needed. The balance of peaceful surroundings and convenient access makes Veterans' Point an ideal choice for both short getaways and extended stays for Kansas residents.

Veterans' Point campground, as part of the well-managed El Dorado State Park, provides essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

• Primitive Campsites: Veterans' Point is primarily a primitive camping area, offering 16 designated sites for tent camping, providing a more rustic and immersive outdoor experience.
• Vault Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets for convenience.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available for campers.
• Shower House with Restrooms: A modern shower house with restrooms is conveniently located within 1/4 mile of Veterans' Point, ensuring access to more comfortable facilities. This facility is also ADA accessible.
• Campsite Amenities: While primitive, campsites typically include a fire ring and picnic table for cooking and relaxation.
• Shoreline Access: The campground offers very easy access to the lake's shoreline, particularly suitable for launching paddleboards and other small watercraft.
• Camp Hosts: During peak season, camp hosts are often available within the broader state park to assist campers and collect fees.
• Self-Pay Stations: Permits can be purchased from self-pay stations if the park office or gatehouses are closed.

Veterans' Point boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a standout choice for campers, particularly those in Kansas who appreciate specific types of outdoor activities.

• Easy Paddleboard Launch: A significant highlight noted by visitors is that it's "one of the easier places to launch our paddle boards from at the lake." This direct and convenient access to the water is a major draw for paddleboarding enthusiasts and kayakers.
• Calm, Less Windy Water: Reviews indicate the water at Veterans' Point is "not as windy as Cheney" and "still cool," providing a more tranquil and pleasant experience for paddle sports and swimming compared to other popular Kansas lakes.
• "Sailboat-Like" Picnic Tables: The campground features unique picnic tables that "can be turned to block the sun or wind," a "pretty nifty" and practical design that enhances comfort during meals and relaxation.
• Shoreline Fishing Potential: With its close proximity to the lake, Veterans' Point offers excellent opportunities for shoreline fishing, although anglers might find themselves catching more trees than fish (as one review playfully noted!). El Dorado Lake itself is a prime fishing destination in Kansas for various species.
• Rocky Shoreline: While requiring water shoes, the rocky shoreline adds a unique natural character to the area and offers a different type of lakeside experience.
• Primitive Camping Charm: For those who prefer a more rugged and less developed camping experience, the primitive sites at Veterans' Point provide an authentic connection with nature.
• Access to El Dorado State Park Amenities: Being part of El Dorado State Park, campers at Veterans' Point also have access to the park's wider range of facilities, including extensive hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, other swimming beaches, and various wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: The general tone of reviews suggests a peaceful and enjoyable camping experience, ideal for unwinding.

Veterans' Point, being a campground within El Dorado State Park, follows the fee structure set by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). While specific "promotions" for individual campsites are uncommon, visitors can leverage several options to manage costs and enhance their overall experience:

• Annual Kansas State Park Vehicle Permit: For frequent visitors to any Kansas State Park, an annual vehicle permit ($25 for standard, $13.75 for senior/disabled Kansas residents) can save money compared to daily entrance fees.
• Kansas State Park Passport: For $15.50, this option can be purchased during vehicle registration at your county treasurer's office and covers unlimited vehicle entry to all Kansas State Parks until your vehicle registration expires.
• Annual Kansas State Park Camping Permit: For those planning multiple camping trips, an annual camping permit (varying in price, e.g., $202.50 off-peak) covers all daily camping fees, though utility and prime site fees may still apply at other campgrounds.
• Veterans' Events: As its name suggests, Veterans' Point may occasionally host or be a hub for events honoring veterans, such as the Kansas Veterans Reunion, which can include special activities. While not a direct discount on camping, these events add value to the area.

For the most accurate and current information on fees, availability, and any specific events, it is always recommended to consult the official Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website or contact the El Dorado State Park office directly.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Veterans' Point and El Dorado State Park:

• Address: El Dorado, KS 67042, USA (within El Dorado State Park, Shady Creek Area)
• Phone: (316) 321-7180
• Mobile Phone: +1 316-321-7180

General information and online reservation tools are also available through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website and platforms like ReserveAmerica.

For Kansans seeking a refreshing and accessible outdoor experience, Veterans' Point at El Dorado Lake presents an exceptional choice. Its suitability for locals is rooted in its unique blend of convenience, specific recreational advantages, and the tranquil atmosphere it provides.

Firstly, its prime location within El Dorado State Park, easily reachable from across Kansas, means that a rejuvenating camping trip is never an arduous journey. This accessibility makes it ideal for weekend escapes, allowing more precious time to be spent enjoying the lake rather than commuting.

For those who enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking, Veterans' Point is a standout, offering "easy places to launch" and a notably "less windy" environment compared to other regional lakes. This creates a superior experience for water sports enthusiasts. The unique "sailboat-like picnic tables" are a thoughtful touch that adds to the comfort, allowing campers to optimize their outdoor relaxation.

While known for its primitive camping, the availability of nearby modern shower facilities ensures that comfort is not entirely sacrificed. The excellent fishing opportunities at El Dorado Lake, even if it means snagging a few trees along the way, are a consistent draw for local anglers. Moreover, as a part of a well-maintained state park, visitors benefit from the broader range of activities and facilities available throughout El Dorado State Park.

In essence, Veterans' Point is a local gem for those who appreciate a quieter, more nature-focused camping experience with direct water access. It offers Kansans a perfect spot to unwind, engage in beloved outdoor activities, and create lasting memories in the beautiful setting of El Dorado Lake.