Cottonwood Campground

For Kansans seeking a fantastic outdoor escape with a wide array of amenities and activities, look no further than Cottonwood Campground. Situated within the beautiful Lovewell State Park in Webber, KS, Cottonwood Campground offers a comprehensive camping experience designed to cater to various preferences, from those with large RVs seeking full hookups to traditional tent campers looking for a more rustic feel. This campground isn't just a place to pitch your tent or park your rig; it's a gateway to the expansive recreational opportunities that Lovewell State Park provides, making it an ideal destination for families, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone eager to soak in the natural beauty of North Central Kansas.

Lovewell State Park, home to Cottonwood Campground, is a gem in the Kansas State Parks system. It revolves around the stunning Lovewell Reservoir, a substantial body of water that draws visitors for boating, fishing, and a variety of water sports. The park is renowned for its well-maintained facilities and diverse landscapes, offering both shaded camping areas and wide-open spaces for various activities. Unlike some more primitive sites, Cottonwood Campground at Lovewell State Park strikes a balance between providing essential comforts and maintaining a strong connection to the natural environment.

The positive feedback from visitors, highlighting its spacious sites capable of accommodating "big campers," underscores Cottonwood Campground's commitment to providing a comfortable experience for a wide range of camping setups. This thoughtful design ensures that whether you're traveling in a large recreational vehicle or a smaller tent, you'll find a spot that suits your needs. This article aims to detail the offerings of Cottonwood Campground, providing Kansas residents with all the information they need to plan an enjoyable and unforgettable camping trip.

Cottonwood Campground is conveniently located at 2446 250 Rd, Webber, KS 66970, USA, placing it within Lovewell State Park. This location is in North Central Kansas, near the Nebraska border, making it an accessible destination for many residents across the northern part of the state. It's situated a short distance northeast of Mankato, providing a relatively easy drive from various Kansas cities and towns.

Access to Lovewell State Park, and subsequently Cottonwood Campground, is generally straightforward. The park is typically accessed via well-maintained paved roads leading directly into the park entrance. Once inside the park, clear signage guides visitors to the various campground loops, including Cottonwood. The internal roads within Cottonwood Campground are designed to accommodate a range of vehicles, including larger RVs, as noted by customer reviews. The layout is user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation to your designated campsite.

For those traveling from metropolitan areas like Salina or Wichita, the journey involves scenic drives through rural Kansas. The park's position also makes it a convenient stop for travelers heading further north into Nebraska or those exploring the natural beauty of the Republican River basin. The excellent accessibility ensures that campers can spend less time on complex travel logistics and more time enjoying the numerous amenities and the serene environment that Cottonwood Campground and Lovewell State Park offer.

Cottonwood Campground at Lovewell State Park provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to enhance the camping experience for all visitors. The park management prioritizes comfort and convenience while ensuring that the natural integrity of the area is maintained.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Cottonwood Campground offers a variety of camping sites to suit different preferences and equipment. This includes:

  • Utility Hookup Sites: These sites provide freeze-proof water and sewer hookups at designated spots, making them ideal for RVs and campers who desire full amenities. Reviews specifically mention that "big campers fit in almost all spots," indicating ample space.

  • Water and Electric Hookups: Many sites offer water and electrical connections, catering to RVs and tents requiring power for lights, charging devices, and other comforts.

  • Electric-Only Hookups: Sites with electrical connections only are also available, providing power for those who have onboard water tanks.

  • Improved Primitive Sites: These sites offer a more rustic experience but may include a designated fire ring and picnic table, providing basic amenities without utility hookups.

  • Primitive Camping Area: For those seeking a truly immersive natural experience, dedicated primitive camping areas are available, often without direct access to modern conveniences.

• Shower-Toilet Buildings: Cottonwood Campground, like other areas within Lovewell State Park, provides access to modern shower and toilet facilities. These are centrally located within the park, ensuring convenient access for campers. There are also vault toilets available for more remote or less-trafficked areas.

• Trailer Dump Stations: For RV campers, multiple trailer dump stations are centrally located within the park, allowing for convenient waste disposal.

• Potable Water: Potable water sources are available throughout the campground and park, ensuring campers have access to clean drinking water.

• Picnic Facilities: Picnic tables are available at most campsites and throughout the day-use areas, along with fire rings for campfires and outdoor cooking (subject to fire restrictions).

• Accessibility: Lovewell State Park aims to be accessible, with some ADA-accessible campsites and facilities available.

• Park Office/Information Center: A full-service area office at the park entrance provides informational brochures, regulations, and the latest hunting and fishing reports. It also sells required park permits, licenses, and souvenirs, and offers free Wi-Fi.

• Marina Services: Lovewell Marina, located within the park, offers a full range of services including a double-lane boat ramp, daily or seasonal boat slip rentals, bait and tackle, and concessions with food options from April to September.

• Fish Cleaning Stations: Two lighted fish cleaning stations with outlets for electric fillet knives are available, catering to the numerous anglers who visit the lake.

These comprehensive services ensure that Cottonwood Campground can accommodate a wide range of camping styles and preferences, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for many.

Cottonwood Campground, nestled within Lovewell State Park, boasts a variety of features and highlights that elevate the camping experience beyond just a place to stay. These aspects contribute to its popularity among Kansas locals and visitors alike.

• Shade and Spacious Sites: A key highlight, particularly important during Kansas's warm summers, is the excellent shade provided by the mature trees within Cottonwood Campground. This natural canopy creates a cooler and more comfortable environment. Coupled with the ample space at almost all sites, as noted by customer reviews, it ensures privacy and room to spread out, even for large RVs.

• Lovewell Reservoir Access: The campground's proximity to the 2,900-acre Lovewell Reservoir is a major draw. The reservoir is a hub for water-based activities, including:

  • Boating: With a full-service marina, double-lane boat ramps, and boat slip rentals, it's a boater's paradise. The south shore's high bluffs help calm the waters, creating ideal conditions.

  • Fishing: Lovewell Reservoir is renowned for its fishing, with abundant populations of walleye, crappie, white bass, channel catfish, and wipers. Lighted fish cleaning stations with outlets make it convenient for anglers.

  • Swimming: The Southwinds swimming beach offers both sun and shade, providing a designated and safe area for a refreshing dip.

• Extensive Day-Use Activities: Lovewell State Park offers a wide range of day-use facilities and activities accessible from Cottonwood Campground, including:

  • A large playground for children.

  • Sand volleyball and basketball courts.

  • A disc golf course, offering a fun challenge for all skill levels.

  • Horseshoe pits for classic camp entertainment.

  • Picnic facilities and two large group shelters, available for reservation, ideal for family reunions or larger gatherings.

• Archery Range: For archery enthusiasts, a seven-station, 14-target archery range is conveniently located north of the Cottonwood shower building, providing an excellent facility for practice and recreation.

• Wildlife Viewing and Hunting Opportunities: The park's diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watching and wildlife photography. Portions of the park are also open to hunting during designated seasons, offering opportunities for deer, turkey, pheasant, quail, and waterfowl.

• Historic Limestone Schoolhouse: A unique feature within the park is a historic limestone schoolhouse, which hosts summer church services every Sunday, adding a touch of local history and community spirit.

• Special Events: Lovewell State Park often hosts various annual special events, such as fishing clinics, fireworks displays, and themed camping events, adding extra entertainment options for visitors.

These features combine to make Cottonwood Campground at Lovewell State Park a versatile and engaging destination, offering something for almost every type of outdoor enthusiast.

For direct inquiries and reservations concerning Cottonwood Campground and Lovewell State Park, the primary contact methods are as follows:

• Address:

  Cottonwood Campground is located within Lovewell State Park at:

  2446 250 Rd, Webber, KS 66970, USA

• Phone:

  The main contact number for Lovewell State Park, which manages Cottonwood Campground, is:

  (785) 753-4971

  This number can be used for general inquiries, information on park conditions, specific campsite availability, and any questions regarding permits or regulations. The mobile number provided, +1 785-753-4971, is the same primary contact number for the park.

• Reservations:

  While direct phone inquiries are possible, designated electrical sites at Cottonwood Campground and other areas within Lovewell State Park can often be reserved online. It is highly recommended to check the official Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website for the most current reservation information and to book your site in advance, especially during peak season.

• Official Website:

  For comprehensive information, including detailed maps, updated regulations, facility descriptions, and online reservation portals, visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) website:

  ksoutdoors.com (Navigate to "State Parks" and then "Lovewell")

  This website is an invaluable resource for planning your trip, offering specifics on all camping areas, day-use facilities, and activities available at Lovewell State Park.

• Park Office:

  Upon arrival at Lovewell State Park, visitors can also stop at the full-service area office located at the park entrance. Staff there can provide assistance, sell permits and licenses, and offer local insights to enhance your stay.

It's always a good practice to contact the park directly or visit their official website before your trip to confirm operating hours, current conditions, any fire bans, or specific event schedules, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

For Kansans, Cottonwood Campground at Lovewell State Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts. Its comprehensive offerings, combined with its accessibility and focus on diverse recreational activities, make it a premier choice for residents across the state.

One of the most compelling reasons for locals to choose Cottonwood Campground is its versatility. Whether you're a seasoned RV traveler with a large rig, a family looking for a comfortable tent site with amenities, or a group seeking a primitive camping adventure, Cottonwood has options that cater to your needs. The assurance that "big campers fit in almost all spots" is a significant draw, eliminating the common worry of finding suitable accommodations for larger recreational vehicles. This inclusive approach ensures that more Kansans can enjoy the park regardless of their camping setup.

Furthermore, the sheer breadth of activities available at Lovewell State Park, right at your doorstep, is a major advantage. The reservoir provides fantastic opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, catering to Kansas's strong water sports culture. Beyond the water, the park offers an extensive array of land-based recreational options, including playgrounds, disc golf, an archery range, and various courts for sports. This means that every member of the family, regardless of age or interest, can find something engaging to do, making it an ideal spot for multi-generational trips or weekend getaways with friends.

The balance of modern conveniences like showers, flush toilets, and utility hookups, alongside the option for more rustic camping, provides a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience. It allows campers to enjoy nature without completely sacrificing essential comforts, which is appealing to many. The availability of a park office and marina services on-site further enhances the convenience, ensuring that supplies, information, and assistance are readily available.

Finally, Lovewell State Park is a testament to Kansas's natural beauty and its commitment to providing high-quality outdoor recreation. For locals, visiting Cottonwood Campground is not just a vacation; it's an opportunity to connect with their state's natural heritage, support local park systems, and create lasting memories in a welcoming and well-equipped environment. It offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a truly suitable and highly recommended outdoor destination for Kansans.

Cottonwood Campground

2446 250 Rd, Webber, KS 66970, USA