Blackjack Campground

For Kansas locals seeking a premier camping experience that blends the tranquility of nature with the comfort of excellent facilities, Blackjack Campground at Melvern Lake is an outstanding choice. Consistently praised by visitors for its remarkable cleanliness and well-maintained amenities, including "very well kept bathrooms" and available showers, Blackjack Campground stands as a testament to quality outdoor recreation in the heart of the state. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it's a destination where families and friends can create cherished memories by the lake, enjoy modern conveniences, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Kansas landscape.

Melvern Lake, a prominent reservoir in Osage County, is a cherished resource for outdoor enthusiasts across Kansas. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the parks and campgrounds surrounding the lake are known for their high standards of maintenance and diverse recreational opportunities. Blackjack Campground, nestled within this system, offers a particularly appealing option for those who value cleanliness and comfort in their outdoor adventures. The enthusiastic reviews, such as "The camp grounds were very clean! We loved having a shower available as well as very well kept bathrooms," and "We camp here every year. Always a great trip," speak volumes about the consistent quality and enjoyable experiences visitors have here.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Blackjack Campground, detailing its precise location and accessibility, the full spectrum of services and amenities it offers, its key features and highlights, and essential contact information. For Kansas residents, understanding why Blackjack Campground is a recurring favorite will be crucial in planning their next comfortable and activity-filled outdoor escape by Melvern Lake.

Blackjack Campground is strategically located on an Unnamed Road, Lebo, KS 66856, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Melvern Lake, a significant reservoir in Osage County, in east-central Kansas. While the address might seem vague, it refers to its position within the well-defined park system of Melvern Lake, specifically within the Blackjack Park area.

Access to Blackjack Campground is straightforward and convenient for Kansas residents. It is situated off major state highways that lead directly to the Melvern Lake area. From towns like Lebo, Osage City, or even larger urban centers such as Topeka and Lawrence, the drive involves well-maintained paved roads right up to the campground entrance. The internal roads within Blackjack Campground are also typically paved and well-kept, allowing for easy navigation to individual campsites, even for larger RVs and trailers.

The "Unnamed Road" designation typically means it's an access road within a larger park system, rather than a standalone, hard-to-find spot. Signage within Melvern Lake parks is generally clear, guiding visitors effectively to the various campground loops, including Blackjack. Its accessibility from diverse parts of the state makes it a convenient option for weekend getaways and longer vacations for many Kansans looking for a comfortable lakefront camping experience.

Blackjack Campground at Melvern Lake is well-equipped with a comprehensive array of services and amenities, designed to provide a highly comfortable and convenient camping experience. These offerings cater to a wide range of campers, from those in large RVs to tent enthusiasts, and are consistently noted for their cleanliness.

• Utility Hookup Sites: The campground offers numerous campsites with full utility hookups, including water, electricity (typically 30 and 50 amp service), and sewer connections. This makes it ideal for RVs and trailers, allowing campers to enjoy all the comforts of home while immersed in nature. Sites are generally level and well-spaced.

• Tent Camping Areas: Dedicated areas or sites are available for tent camping, providing a more traditional outdoor experience while still benefiting from nearby amenities.

• Modern Restrooms with Showers: A key highlight, as per customer reviews, is the availability of "very well kept bathrooms" and "showers available." These are modern, flush toilet facilities with hot water showers, providing a significant comfort amenity for all campers and enhancing the overall cleanliness and hygiene of the campground.

• Potable Water Access: Beyond the individual site hookups, easily accessible water spigots are available throughout the campground for general water needs.

• Dump Station: A conveniently located trailer dump station is provided within the park for RVers to dispose of their wastewater before departure.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a steel fire ring with a grill grate, perfect for outdoor dining and campfires (always check for fire restrictions).

• ADA Accessible Facilities: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers often ensures that their campgrounds include ADA-accessible features, such as accessible restrooms and specific campsites, to accommodate visitors with disabilities.

• Playground: For families with children, a playground area is usually available within the campground or very nearby, providing a safe and engaging space for kids to enjoy.

• Trash Disposal: Designated trash receptacles or dumpsters are typically provided throughout the campground, facilitating proper waste disposal and contributing to the overall cleanliness that visitors appreciate.

These comprehensive services underscore Blackjack Campground's commitment to providing a high-quality, comfortable, and well-maintained camping environment, making it a reliable choice for diverse camping needs.

Blackjack Campground at Melvern Lake is rich with features and highlights that contribute to its consistent popularity and the positive experiences of its visitors. Its setting by the lake and range of recreational opportunities are key attractions.

• Exceptional Cleanliness: A recurring highlight from customer reviews is the outstanding cleanliness of the campground, particularly the "very well kept bathrooms." This commitment to cleanliness significantly enhances the comfort and enjoyment of all campers, setting a high standard for public campgrounds.

• Prime Lakeside Access and Views: Situated directly on Melvern Lake, many sites offer picturesque lake views, and all provide easy access to the water. This is ideal for those who love waking up to the sight of the lake and enjoying sunsets over its waters. The "great time being out on the lake" mentioned in a review speaks directly to this benefit.

• Abundant Water Recreation: Melvern Lake is a large reservoir, providing extensive opportunities for various water sports:

  • Boating: Easy access to boat ramps allows for powerboating, jet skiing, sailing, and pontooning across the lake's nearly 7,000 acres.

  • Fishing: Melvern Lake is a renowned fishing destination, home to walleye, crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, and various bass species. Campers can enjoy shoreline fishing or venture out on a boat.

  • Swimming: While specific to nearby designated areas within the park (e.g., Coeur d'Alene Park), access to clean swimming beaches is a short drive away, providing a refreshing escape during warm weather.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With a playground and ample open spaces, Blackjack Campground is well-suited for families with children. The availability of clean facilities and safe recreational areas contributes to its appeal as a family camping destination.

• Hiking and Nature Exploration: The land surrounding Melvern Lake offers numerous trails for hiking and walking, allowing campers to explore the diverse Kansas landscape, observe local flora and fauna, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The extensive acreage of the surrounding park provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, turkey, and various bird species.

• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to maintain a peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere. The consistent return of campers year after year ("We camp here every year. Always a great trip.") suggests a serene environment that encourages repeat visits.

• Proximity to Park Amenities: Being part of the larger Melvern Lake park system, campers at Blackjack have convenient access to other shared facilities such as fish cleaning stations, additional boat ramps, and potentially visitor center programs during peak seasons.

These features collectively make Blackjack Campground a highly desirable and enjoyable camping destination, offering a balanced blend of comfort, recreation, and natural beauty.

For inquiries and reservations regarding Blackjack Campground, which is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) operations at Melvern Lake, the following contact information is available:

• Address:

  The physical location for Blackjack Campground is within Blackjack Park at Melvern Lake:

  Unnamed Road, Lebo, KS 66856, USA

  For official correspondence or more detailed navigation to the Melvern Lake Project Office, the address is often listed as:

  31051 Melvern Lake Parkway, Melvern, KS 66510

• Phone:

  The primary phone number for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Melvern Lake Project Office, which manages Blackjack Campground and other park facilities, is:

  (785) 528-4102

  This number can be used for general inquiries, specific questions about the campground, current availability, and park conditions. The mobile phone number provided, +1 785-528-4102, is consistent with this main contact number.

• Email:

  You can often reach the Melvern Lake Project Office via email for inquiries, typically through a general email address for the park or the Corps of Engineers district office. While a specific direct email for Blackjack Campground isn't commonly provided, general inquiries for Melvern Lake can be sent to:

  Melvern@usace.army.mil

• Official Website/Reservations:

  For the most detailed information and, crucially, for making reservations for campsites at Blackjack Campground, visitors should utilize the official recreation booking platform for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers parks:

  Recreation.gov (Search for "Melvern Lake" and then "Blackjack Park" or "Blackjack Campground" to find available sites.)

  It is strongly advised to make reservations well in advance, especially for popular campgrounds like Blackjack, as sites can book up quickly, particularly during peak seasons and holidays.

Always confirm contact details and reservation procedures through official channels before your visit, as information can sometimes change.

For Kansas residents, Blackjack Campground at Melvern Lake is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination, offering a superior blend of comfort, cleanliness, and extensive recreational opportunities right in their backyard. Its consistent positive reviews from repeat visitors underscore its appeal and reliability as a top-tier outdoor escape.

The primary reason for its suitability for locals lies in its commitment to providing a high-quality, comfortable camping experience. The standout cleanliness of the restrooms and the availability of modern showers are significant advantages, making it a perfect choice for families, individuals, and groups who appreciate amenities that enhance their outdoor stay without sacrificing the natural environment. This level of maintenance directly addresses a common desire among campers for hygienic and pleasant facilities.

Furthermore, Blackjack Campground's prime location on Melvern Lake unlocks a vast array of water-based activities that are deeply ingrained in Kansas's outdoor culture. Whether it's the thrill of boating, the relaxation of fishing, or simply enjoying the lake views, there's ample opportunity for everyone to engage with the water. The ease of access to boat ramps and the reputation of Melvern Lake for good fishing make it a go-to spot for local anglers and water sports enthusiasts.

The family-friendly atmosphere, complete with playgrounds and safe spaces, ensures that children have plenty of opportunities for outdoor play, contributing to memorable family vacations. For those seeking more active pursuits, the surrounding park offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing, providing a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Ultimately, Blackjack Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a well-managed, clean, and amenity-rich hub for outdoor adventure that perfectly aligns with the expectations and desires of Kansas locals. Its consistent quality and the abundance of activities make it an ideal choice for regular trips, fostering a deeper connection with the beautiful natural resources of their home state.

Blackjack Campground

Unnamed Road, Lebo, KS 66856, USA