Banner Creek Reservoir South Entrance (check-in at North Entrance)

For those of us in Kansas who cherish the peace and beauty of the great outdoors, finding that perfect camping spot can make all the difference. Nestled in the scenic landscape of Northeast Kansas, the Banner Creek Reservoir South Entrance campground, near Holton, offers just such an ideal retreat. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a tranquil oasis where you can truly unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a wide array of outdoor activities right here in our home state.

Banner Creek Reservoir is known for its serene atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, making it a popular choice for both seasoned campers and families looking to create new memories. As some visitors have shared, it's a place they "try to camp here a few times per year," a testament to its consistent appeal. Whether you're drawn by the promise of good fishing, the quiet calm of a lakeside sunset, or the opportunity to explore scenic trails, the South Entrance campground at Banner Creek Reservoir provides a comfortable and engaging base for your Kansas adventures. It's a testament to the beautiful natural spaces available within our own borders, offering an escape that feels both distant from the everyday and wonderfully close to home.

The Banner Creek Reservoir South Entrance campground is located at 222 Rd, Holton, KS 66436, USA. While this is the address for the South Entrance, it's an important detail for first-time visitors to note that check-in for all campers typically occurs at the North Entrance. The North Entrance for Banner Creek Reservoir is located at 10975 Hwy 16, Holton, KS 66436. This might require a quick drive between the two points, so planning your arrival accordingly will ensure a smooth check-in process.

Holton, Kansas, provides a welcoming small-town atmosphere, and the reservoir itself is easily accessible from local highways, making it a convenient destination for residents across Northeast Kansas. The location offers a peaceful escape from urban environments without being overly remote. This balance is ideal for Kansas families and individuals seeking outdoor recreation without extensive travel.

The reservoir's layout, with both North and South camping areas, provides options for different preferences, from more developed RV sites to more primitive tent camping. The well-maintained roads leading into and within the park ensure easy navigation for all types of vehicles, including larger RVs. For Kansans, the relatively short and straightforward drive to Banner Creek Reservoir means less time on the road and more time enjoying the water and surrounding natural beauty. It's a local gem that provides the feeling of getting away without truly having to go too far from home.

• RV Sites with Full Hookups: Banner Creek Reservoir offers "High-end RV spots" with water and electrical hookups (30amp and/or 50amp options). Some information suggests full hookups might be available on some sites, while others confirm water and electric only. Call to confirm full hookup availability.

• Primitive & Basic Camping: For those who prefer a more rustic experience, primitive camping sites without electrical hookups are available.

• Water Hydrants: All primitive and RV camping sites have easy access to water hydrants.

• Fire Rings & Picnic Tables: Each camping area is thoughtfully designed with fire rings and picnic tables, perfect for outdoor cooking and gatherings.

• Restroom & Shower Facilities: Campers have access to well-maintained restroom and shower facilities nearby their camping areas, providing comfort and convenience.

• Online Reservations: The reservoir now takes online reservations for various camping areas, with specific minimum stay requirements for weekends and holidays for some loops (e.g., Cedar Point and South Side).

• First-Come, First-Serve Options: Some camping areas, like Deer Run, are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

• Long-Term Camping: For extended stays, Buffalo Run loop can be reserved by calling the office.

• Peaceful & Serene Environment: Visitors consistently describe Banner Creek Reservoir as a "very nice and peaceful place," ideal for relaxation and escaping the everyday hustle.

• Low Mosquito Activity: A significant highlight noted by campers is "not a lot of mosquitoes," especially appreciated during peak camping seasons, enhancing outdoor enjoyment.

• Variety of Camping Options: With high-end RV spots with hookups, basic camping, and primitive sites, the reservoir caters to a wide range of camping preferences and equipment.

• Access to Water Activities: Banner Creek Reservoir is an excellent spot for boating (including water skiing and jet skiing), fishing (stocked annually with striper, bass, catfish, and walleye), kayaking, paddleboarding, and paddle boating (rentals available).

• Hiking and Biking Trails: The reservoir area offers scenic trails for exploration, perfect for hiking and potentially mountain biking, allowing campers to engage with the natural landscape.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: Playgrounds are located nearby camping areas, making it a great destination for families with children. Shelter houses are also available for group gatherings.

• Well-Managed & Maintained: The availability of camp hosts (including Randy Rowell for the South side) and clear rules and regulations indicate a well-managed and cared-for park, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors.

Address (South Entrance): 222 Rd, Holton, KS 66436, USA

Address (North Entrance / Check-in): 10975 Hwy 16, Holton, KS 66436, USA

Phone: (785) 364-4236

Mobile Phone: +1 785-364-4236

For us Kansans, Banner Creek Reservoir's South Entrance campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an accessible and cherished part of our state's recreational landscape. We appreciate places that offer both convenience and quality outdoor experiences right in our own backyard, and Banner Creek delivers on all fronts. The fact that many locals "try to camp here a few times per year" speaks volumes about its consistent appeal and the positive experiences it provides.

The "very nice and peaceful place" atmosphere is a huge draw for us. We know that a true escape often means leaving the noise behind, and the reported "not a lot of mosquitoes" is a bonus that any seasoned Kansas camper will truly value, making evenings around the campfire even more enjoyable. The variety of camping options – from "High-end RV spots with water and electrical hookups" to more "primitive camping" – ensures that Banner Creek caters to every type of outdoor enthusiast, whether you're bringing the full RV setup or simply a tent and a desire to rough it a little.

Beyond the campsites themselves, the reservoir offers a wealth of activities that resonate with the Kansas lifestyle. We love our fishing, and a lake "stocked annually with striper, bass, cat fish, and walleye" is always a promising sign. The opportunity for boating, water skiing, and exploring "nearby hikes" means there's always something to do, keeping families and individuals engaged throughout their stay. With well-maintained facilities, friendly camp hosts, and a commitment to providing a quality outdoor experience, Banner Creek Reservoir truly serves as an ideal local getaway. It’s a place where the simplicity of nature meets the comforts we appreciate, making it a perfect spot for Kansans to relax, recreate, and reconnect with our beautiful state.

Banner Creek Reservoir South Entrance (check-in at North Entrance)

222 Rd, Holton, KS 66436, USA