Campground

For us Kansans who love exploring our state's hidden gems and enjoying the simple pleasures of the outdoors, the campground at Riverside Park in Blue Rapids offers a delightful and truly local experience. Nestled in a quaint setting, this city-sponsored campground provides a convenient and welcoming spot for both RVers and tent campers looking for an affordable and functional base. It's a place where community spirit shines, and the focus is on providing essential amenities for a comfortable stay, rather than overwhelming with unnecessary frills. Whether you're passing through Marshall County, planning a fishing trip, or simply seeking a quiet weekend escape close to home, this charming campground in Blue Rapids is a testament to the friendly, no-nonsense approach that many of us appreciate in Kansas.

The Campground in Blue Rapids is specifically located within Riverside Park, at West 5th Street (which is also Hwy 9/77), Blue Rapids, KS 66411, USA. This central location within the small town of Blue Rapids makes it exceptionally accessible. Being directly on a state highway means that finding the campground is straightforward, whether you're arriving from across the state or just a neighboring county. The park's position within the town also grants campers easy access to local conveniences such as gas stations, the quaint Blue Rapids town square, and potentially local eateries, reducing the need for extensive travel once you've set up camp. While direct proximity to a highway might mean some ambient road noise, the trade-off is unparalleled convenience and the ability to seamlessly integrate your camping trip with exploration of Blue Rapids' unique character and nearby historical sites. For Kansas locals, the drive is manageable, leading directly to a welcoming spot that serves as an excellent base for experiencing this part of the Flint Hills region.

The Campground at Riverside Park in Blue Rapids, KS, offers a range of practical services designed to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for its guests, whether they are in an RV or a tent. The focus is on providing essential amenities in a community-oriented setting.

• RV Electrical Hookups: The campground provides six electrical hookups for RV overnight camping. This is a crucial amenity for RVers, allowing them to power their vehicles and appliances.

• Shared Water Source: A shared water hookup is available, ensuring access to potable water for all campers.

• On-Site Dump Station: For RVers, an on-site dump station is available, making waste disposal hassle-free and convenient during their stay.

• Tent Camping Spots: While known for RV camping, there are also sites without power by the creek, suitable for tent campers who prefer a more traditional setup without hookups. Shady spots are available on asphalt or grass.

• Clean Bath House: The bath house is noted for its cleanliness, with hot water and spacious shower stalls, indicating a commitment to guest comfort and hygiene.

• Donation Basis: The campground operates on a donation basis, with a suggested contribution of $15 per day, making it a highly affordable option for campers. This unique system is sponsored by the Blue Rapids Chamber of Commerce.

• Security Patrolled: The park is security patrolled, providing an added layer of safety and peace of mind for campers.

• Paved Parking: Many sites offer paved parking, which is beneficial for RVs and ensures a stable surface.

The Campground at Riverside Park in Blue Rapids offers several charming features and highlights that enhance the camping experience, blending practical amenities with local character and recreational opportunities.

• Charming and Quaint Atmosphere: Reviewers often describe the campground as "charming," noting its inclusion of "quaint relics of the past" and the overall character of the town itself. This gives it a unique local feel distinct from larger, more commercial parks.

• Proximity to Town Amenities: Its location within Riverside Park means campers are steps away from a public swimming pool, ball diamonds, a playground for kids, basketball and pickleball courts, and picnic areas. This offers convenient recreational opportunities right outside your RV or tent.

• Easy Access to Local Attractions: Beyond the park, campers can explore the Blue Rapids Museum, the Round Town Square, and the oldest Public Library in Kansas. Nearby attractions like the Pony Express Barn & Museum in Marysville also add historical depth to the visit.

• Flat and Fairly Spacious Sites: Campsites are generally flat and described as "fairly spacious," providing comfortable areas for setup. While some sites might be in pairs, there are diverse options available.

• Good Cell Service and Digital TV Signal: For those who need to stay connected, Verizon cell service and digital TV signals are reported to be strong, providing modern conveniences in a rustic setting.

• Local Community Feel: The campground’s operation by the City and Chamber of Commerce fosters a strong sense of local community, offering a more authentic Kansas experience compared to private chain campgrounds.

• Nearby Water Access for Fishing: While not directly specified for the campground itself, Blue Rapids is located at the junction of the Big Blue and Little Blue Rivers, and close to Tuttle Creek Lake, Kansas's second-largest lake. This suggests ample opportunities for fishing and water recreation nearby.

• Train Sightings: For some, the occasional passing trains during the night can be a unique highlight, adding to the character of the small town experience, though it's noted it might not be "quiet" at those times.

For inquiries regarding the Campground at Riverside Park in Blue Rapids, KS, please use the following contact information. Given that it's a city-managed park and operates on a donation basis, direct contact is often the best way to get the most up-to-date information.

Address: West 5th Street (Hwy 9/77), Blue Rapids, KS 66411, USA

Phone (City Office): (785) 363-7736

Alternative Phone (Kansas Tourism listing): (785) 268-0577

It is highly recommended to contact the City office, especially for large groups, to check availability, as reservations are generally not required (first-come, first-served). This ensures you have the most current details regarding park conditions, amenities, and any potential updates before your visit to this community-focused campground.

For us Kansans, the Campground at Riverside Park in Blue Rapids truly embodies the spirit of practical, community-oriented outdoor enjoyment that we cherish. This isn't a flashy resort; it's a genuine, no-frills camping experience that offers immense value and convenient access to local charm. Imagine setting up your RV or tent with easy access to electricity and water, then stepping out to enjoy a refreshing dip in the public pool, a friendly game on the basketball court, or watching the kids play at the playground, all within walking distance. The suggested donation basis makes it incredibly affordable, reflecting the welcoming nature of Blue Rapids.

While the occasional train might break the silence, it adds to the quaint, small-town atmosphere that many of us seek. For those who appreciate clean facilities, helpful community amenities, and a base from which to explore historic sites like the Pony Express Barn or simply enjoy the Big Blue and Little Blue Rivers, this campground is ideal. It’s perfect for a spontaneous weekend getaway, a stop on a longer Kansas road trip, or a seasonal base for local fishing expeditions. The Campground at Riverside Park offers an authentic slice of Kansas life, proving that sometimes, the best experiences are found in the simple, well-maintained, and genuinely welcoming places right in our own backyard.

Campground

Blue Rapids, KS 66411, USA