Doud Campground

For Kansans seeking an outdoor escape, Doud Campground, located near Lebo, KS, offers a connection to the natural beauty surrounding Melvern Lake. While the provided information indicates it is part of Eisenhower State Park, it is important to clarify that Doud Campground is specifically a loop or section within the larger Eisenhower State Park, which itself is situated on the shores of Melvern Lake. This distinction is crucial for understanding its facilities and overall experience. It aims to provide campers with a base to enjoy fishing, boating, and the tranquil environment of east-central Kansas.

Eisenhower State Park, home to Doud Campground, is known for its extensive recreational opportunities, benefiting from its location on Melvern Lake. The park and its various campgrounds serve as a popular destination for those looking to enjoy water-based activities as well as land-based recreation. Doud Campground, like other areas within the park, is designed to cater to various camping styles, from RVs to tents.

However, based on recent public feedback, it's essential for prospective visitors to arrive with informed expectations regarding the current state of maintenance and amenities at Doud Campground. While the overall setting within Eisenhower State Park on Melvern Lake offers inherent natural appeal, some campers have noted concerns regarding upkeep and facility functionality. This article will provide a factual overview of what Doud Campground typically offers, its location, and key considerations for locals planning a visit.

Doud Campground is situated near Lebo, KS 66856, USA. This places it directly on Melvern Lake, as a part of the larger Eisenhower State Park complex. Melvern Lake is located in Osage County, in the east-central region of Kansas, making it a reasonably accessible destination for many residents across the state.

Access to Doud Campground is typically via well-maintained state and county roads leading into Eisenhower State Park. The park is generally easy to navigate, with paved roads providing access to the various camping loops, including Doud. This ensures a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, from passenger cars to large RVs and travel trailers.

The campground's location on Melvern Lake is a significant advantage, providing direct access to the water for boating, fishing, and other aquatic activities. While Lebo is a smaller community, larger towns such as Emporia and Topeka are within a reasonable driving distance. These nearby cities offer more comprehensive services, including grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and medical facilities, providing convenient options for restocking supplies or addressing any needs during a stay. The balance of a natural, lakeside setting with accessible urban amenities makes Doud Campground a practical choice for a Kansas outdoor getaway.

Doud Campground, as a loop within Eisenhower State Park, typically offers services aimed at facilitating a comfortable camping experience for both RV and tent campers. However, it's crucial to consider recent public feedback regarding the current state of these services:

• Campsite Hookups: Campsites in Doud Loop are generally designated with electric hookups. Historically, these would often include 30-amp service, and possibly 50-amp at some sites. However, recent reviews suggest potential discrepancies, with one camper noting a booked 30-amp RV spot was actually a "single 20 amp, and single 10 amp breaker." This indicates that actual amperage may vary or be lower than advertised for specific spots, potentially affecting the use of multiple appliances like air conditioners and fans. Water hookups may also be available at some sites, or communal water spigots nearby.

• Restroom Facilities: The campground typically provides restroom facilities. These commonly include flush toilets and may offer showers in park-managed buildings, contributing to camper comfort.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each designated campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, ideal for outdoor dining and campfires (when no fire bans are in effect).

• Dump Station: As part of a larger state park, a sanitary dump station for RVs is usually available within Eisenhower State Park, likely accessible to Doud Campground users, for proper waste disposal.

• Access to Lake Water: Given its location on Melvern Lake, campers have direct access to the lake for various water activities, though swimming may be limited to designated areas within the broader park.

Based on reviews, concerns about general upkeep, such as "thick overgrowth on most of the gravel parking spots" requiring personal "weed eating," suggest that the consistency of grounds maintenance might fluctuate. Prospective campers should verify current conditions or be prepared for a more rustic experience than some other state park campgrounds.

Doud Campground, as part of the scenic Eisenhower State Park on Melvern Lake, offers several features and highlights that draw visitors, though recent feedback suggests some aspects may vary in their current condition:

• Access to Melvern Lake: The primary highlight is direct access to the vast Melvern Lake. This 7,000-acre lake is popular for boating, fishing, and various water sports, providing abundant recreational opportunities for campers.

• Fishing Opportunities: Melvern Lake is well-regarded for its fishing, with species such as walleye, crappie, channel catfish, and bass commonly sought after. Campers at Doud have convenient access to these fishing grounds.

• Natural Setting: The campground is set within the natural beauty of the Flint Hills region of Kansas, offering a generally peaceful and scenic environment. Despite some reports of overgrowth, the overall landscape provides a traditional camping atmosphere.

• Proximity to Eisenhower State Park Amenities: As a loop within Eisenhower State Park, Doud Campground campers have access to the broader park's features, which typically include additional hiking trails, potential playgrounds, and other day-use areas. Eisenhower State Park itself is noted for its extensive multi-use trails, including equestrian, hiking, and biking trails, offering diverse ways to explore the terrain.

• Diverse Camping Experience: While electrical issues have been noted, the campground does offer designated sites for RVs and likely areas for tent camping, catering to different preferences for an outdoor stay.

It is important for potential visitors to acknowledge the reviews indicating that the campground might not be "what it used to be" in terms of upkeep, with mentions of "thick overgrowth" and inconsistent electrical service (e.g., a 30-amp spot delivering less). While the natural setting and access to Melvern Lake remain significant draws, campers should be prepared for potential maintenance issues and possibly bring their own tools for site preparation if they desire a tidier spot. Conversely, some reviews still express high satisfaction, suggesting experiences can vary, and a "Great place to camp" for some.

For inquiries, reservations, and the most current information regarding Doud Campground, which is part of Eisenhower State Park, please use the following contact details:

• Eisenhower State Park Office:

  Phone: (785) 528-4102

  Mobile Phone: +1 785-528-4102

  These phone numbers connect directly to the park office for Eisenhower State Park, which manages all its camping loops, including Doud Campground. This is the primary point of contact for specific questions about site conditions, availability, and park regulations.

• Address:

  Lebo, KS 66856, USA

  This is the general mailing and physical location for Eisenhower State Park, and by extension, Doud Campground. Specific directions to the Doud loop within the park would be available upon entry or by contacting the park office.

• Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWP) Website:

  This is the official state resource for all Kansas State Parks. Their website provides detailed information on Eisenhower State Park, including maps of the various campgrounds (like Doud), facility details, fees, and current alerts.

  Website: ksoutdoors.com (Navigate to State Parks > Locations > Eisenhower State Park)

• Campsite Reservations:

  Reservations for campsites at Doud Campground, and other loops within Eisenhower State Park, are typically made online through the ReserveAmerica platform, which is linked from the KDWP website. It is highly recommended to reserve campsites in advance, especially during peak season and holidays, though recent reviews suggest being cautious about booking minimum stays during holidays if the quality isn't guaranteed.

  Website: reserveamerica.com (search for Eisenhower State Park or Doud Campground)

Given some of the public feedback regarding maintenance and specific site amenities, it is particularly advisable to call the park office directly before your visit to inquire about the current condition of the Doud loop and confirm specific site details, especially concerning electrical hookups and ground maintenance.

For residents of Kansas, Doud Campground, as part of Eisenhower State Park on Melvern Lake, offers an accessible and potentially rewarding outdoor experience, particularly for those who prioritize lake activities and are prepared for a more rustic camping environment. Its suitability for locals lies in its convenient location and its connection to a major recreational lake.

Firstly, the campground's proximity to various population centers in eastern Kansas makes it an easy and practical choice for a local getaway. A relatively short drive means less travel time and more time enjoying the outdoors, perfect for weekend trips or shorter excursions. For Kansans who own boats, kayaks, or enjoy fishing, the direct access to Melvern Lake is a significant draw, offering ample opportunities for their favorite water-based activities close to home. The lake is well-known for its fishing, making it a natural choice for local anglers seeking a productive day on the water.

Secondly, while recent reviews highlight concerns about maintenance, such as "thick overgrowth" and inconsistent electrical service, these aspects also point to a potentially more rugged or less manicured camping experience. For some local campers who prefer a less developed, more "back to nature" feel, and are willing to perform minor site upkeep, Doud Campground could still be a perfectly acceptable option. The review stating "Great place to cam. Highly recommend this place!!" suggests that experiences can vary, and for some, the natural setting outweighs any minor inconveniences. The ability to reserve sites within a state park also provides a structured framework for camping, which is a convenience for many.

Furthermore, as part of Eisenhower State Park, campers at Doud have access to the broader park's extensive network of trails for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Flint Hills. This provides additional recreational value beyond just the lake. For Kansans, experiencing their state parks is often a cherished activity, and Doud offers one more opportunity to do so.

In conclusion, Doud Campground is suitable for Kansans who are looking for an accessible camping spot on Melvern Lake, with a strong focus on fishing and boating. While it's advisable for locals to manage expectations regarding amenities and maintenance based on recent public feedback, it remains a viable option for those who appreciate a more rustic outdoor experience within a convenient driving distance from their homes in Kansas.

Doud Campground

Lebo, KS 66856, USA