Blackjack Campground

Welcome to Blackjack Campground, a serene and well-loved camping destination nestled within the beautiful Cross Timbers State Park, right here in Toronto, Kansas. For Oklahomans seeking a peaceful retreat, a family-friendly outdoor adventure, or a quiet spot to enjoy the natural beauty of the region, Blackjack Campground offers an ideal setting. This article is designed to be your comprehensive guide, providing clear, engaging, and factual information about what makes this campground a fantastic choice for local residents looking to explore their own backyard. Our tone is friendly and professional, offering genuine insights into the experience you can expect.

Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, surrounded by mature trees, and knowing that a beautiful lake is just steps away. This is the everyday reality at Blackjack Campground. We understand that Kansans appreciate accessible and well-maintained outdoor spaces that allow for true relaxation and recreation. While some popular spots can be bustling, Blackjack Campground consistently receives praise for its calm atmosphere, making it a true gem for those seeking tranquility.

Throughout this guide, we will delve into the specifics of Blackjack Campground, including its exact location and ease of access within Kansas. We'll detail the various services and amenities available, ensuring you're well-informed about what to expect during your stay. Furthermore, we will highlight the unique features and activities that draw visitors to this peaceful haven, drawing on insights from real customer reviews to provide an authentic perspective. Essential contact information will be provided to assist with your trip planning, and we will conclude by summarizing why Blackjack Campground is particularly well-suited for Kansans looking for a convenient, quiet, and deeply satisfying outdoor experience.

Location and Accessibility

Blackjack Campground is conveniently located in Toronto, KS 66777, USA, as part of Cross Timbers State Park. This prime location places it on the "quiet side of the lake" (Toronto Lake/Reservoir), offering a more secluded and peaceful experience compared to other areas. While visitors note it might be "a little more of a drive" compared to the busier "point" area of the lake, this slight increase in travel time is widely considered worth it for the enhanced tranquility and natural ambiance. Toronto Lake is formed from the Verdigris River, providing a picturesque setting within Kansas's Verdigris River Valley.

Cross Timbers State Park, where Blackjack Campground is situated, is located approximately 12 miles west of Yates Center, south of US-54 on K-105 highway. This makes it a reasonably accessible drive for many residents across Kansas. The campground itself features "shaded campsites within easy access of the lake," ensuring that your outdoor adventure begins almost immediately upon arrival. As a state park campground, Blackjack is typically well-signposted, making navigation straightforward for those familiar with Kansas's state park system.

It's important to note that while the campground offers a more secluded feel, it is still part of a larger state park that provides a wide range of recreational activities. The slightly longer drive to this quieter side of the lake is a small trade-off for the increased peace and natural immersion, a value proposition that resonates strongly with Kansans seeking an escape from more crowded areas. Always check the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) website for the most current information regarding park hours, fees, and any seasonal advisories.

Services Offered

• Designated Campsites: Blackjack Campground offers 16 standard sites, designed for both RVs and tents. These sites typically come with essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
• Electric and Water Hookups: Many of the campsites at Blackjack Campground are equipped with electric (30 amp) and water hookups, making them suitable for RVs up to 70 feet in length. Some sites also offer full utility hookups (water, electric, and sewer) within Cross Timbers State Park, providing modern conveniences.
• Modern Bathroom and Shower Facilities: The campground is served by modern bathroom and shower facilities, ensuring visitors have access to clean and comfortable amenities during their stay. The Blackjack shower house is noted to be open during the season.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is readily available within the campground, a crucial amenity for all campers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring or cooking grill, allowing for outdoor dining and traditional campfire activities.
• Friendly Camp Hosts: Visitors consistently highlight the presence of "friendly and helpful" camphosts who contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere and assist with any needs.
• Playground: A playground is available within the Blackjack Campground area, providing entertainment for younger visitors.
• Boat Ramp Access: Blackjack Campground is located near the banks of Toronto Lake and offers convenient access to a boat ramp, facilitating boating, kayaking, and other water sports.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available within Cross Timbers State Park for proper disposal of grey and black water from RVs.
• Pets Allowed: Pets are welcome at Blackjack Campground, provided they are restrained by a leash no longer than 10 feet and adhere to park rules regarding pet access in certain areas.
• Quiet Hours Enforcement: The park enforces quiet hours from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., contributing to the peaceful atmosphere that campers appreciate.

Features / Highlights

• Clean and Quiet Environment: A standout feature consistently praised by visitors is the campground's "nice clean and quiet area for camping!" This makes it ideal for those seeking relaxation and respite from noise.
• Friendly and Helpful Camp Hosts: The presence of attentive and amiable camphosts is a significant highlight, contributing to a welcoming and well-managed environment.
• Lakeside Proximity to Toronto Lake: Blackjack Campground offers easy access to Toronto Lake, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic waterfront.
• Shaded Campsites: The campground is surrounded by "enough trees," providing welcome shade, although this can sometimes limit breeze and make it warmer during hotter periods. This natural tree cover enhances the camping experience.
• Less Crowded Side of the Lake: Located on a quieter side of Toronto Lake compared to "the point," it offers a more secluded and peaceful experience for campers.
• Access to Hiking Trails: Blackjack Campground is located within Cross Timbers State Park, which boasts a network of scenic trails, including the Blackjack Trail (1 mile, moderate difficulty) directly accessible from the campground, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The park's diverse habitats (forests, grasslands, oak savannah) offer excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and a rich variety of songbirds.
• Excellent Fishing: Toronto Lake and its associated rivers are known for excellent fishing, particularly for white crappie, white bass, channel catfish, and flathead catfish.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With playgrounds and a focus on a quiet atmosphere, the campground is well-suited for families.
• Year-Round Operation: While some amenities may be seasonal, Cross Timbers State Park and its campgrounds are generally open year-round, allowing for off-season enjoyment.

Contact Information

Address: Toronto, KS 66777, USA (Within Cross Timbers State Park)

Phone: (620) 637-2213 (Cross Timbers State Park Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 620-637-2213

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Blackjack Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Kansans seeking a refreshing and accessible outdoor experience within their home state. Its appeal for local residents is multi-faceted, aligning perfectly with the desires for convenience, tranquility, and genuine connection with nature that many seek.

Firstly, the campground's defining characteristic of being "nice clean and quiet" is a significant draw. For Kansans looking to escape the daily grind, the promise of a peaceful environment, free from excessive noise, is invaluable. The active role of the "friendly and helpful" camphosts in maintaining order and cleanliness further enhances this appeal, ensuring a consistently pleasant experience that encourages return visits. This level of management means locals can count on a respectful atmosphere, even during busier times, which is a major factor in choosing a camping spot.

Secondly, while the location might be "a little more of a drive" compared to other areas of Toronto Lake, this slight added travel time is a small price to pay for the increased quietude and less crowded atmosphere. This discerning choice makes Blackjack Campground particularly attractive to Kansans who prioritize a more serene outdoor adventure over mere proximity. The presence of ample trees provides valuable shade, a welcome feature during warmer Kansas months, contributing to overall comfort.

Furthermore, being nestled within Cross Timbers State Park, Blackjack Campground offers a rich array of recreational opportunities that cater to various interests. From easy access to Toronto Lake for fishing and boating to a network of hiking and mountain biking trails like the Blackjack Trail, there's no shortage of activities to engage in. The park's focus on wildlife viewing and its generally well-maintained facilities, including modern restrooms and showers, enhance the overall visitor experience. For families, the playground and the sense of security provided by active camp hosts make it a safe and enjoyable environment for children.

In essence, Blackjack Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a testament to the quiet beauty and recreational richness available right here in Kansas. It offers a perfect blend of natural tranquility, convenient amenities, and engaging activities, making it an ideal choice for any Kansan looking for a reliable, enjoyable, and peaceful outdoor escape close to home.

Blackjack Campground

Toronto, KS 66777, USA