Osage Bluff Campground

For those looking to escape to the water and woodlands of Southeast Kansas, Osage Bluff Campground is a premier choice. Tucked within the scenic and historic Crawford State Park near Farlington, this campground provides the quintessential Kansas lake experience. Unlike many smaller, purely primitive spots, Osage Bluff offers a range of camping options—from rustic tent sites to utility sites with electric and water hookups—making it versatile enough for almost any local camper, whether you’re traveling in an RV or pitching a tent with the family.

The entire area, part of a state park built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, is rich with history and framed by the tranquil 150-acre Crawford State Park Lake. Campers here base themselves in a vibrant natural environment, with easy access to fishing, boating, and miles of picturesque trails. Osage Bluff is an excellent launch point for exploring the unique landscape of the Kansas-Ozarks border, offering beautiful redbud trees in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall, ensuring a beautiful backdrop for any Kansas adventure.

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### Introduction / Overview

Osage Bluff Campground is one of the distinct camping areas located within Crawford State Park, a cherished natural retreat in Crawford County, Kansas. The campground is situated to provide campers with scenic views and excellent proximity to the lake, which is a major draw for fishermen and recreational boaters alike. The atmosphere is highly welcoming and well-maintained, representing the high standards of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP).

The variety of available sites—which includes options with electric and water access—caters to both short-term weekenders and those planning a longer, more comfortable stay. Importantly for Kansas residents, the park is known for its family-friendly environment and variety of recreational amenities, offering more than just a place to sleep. It’s a base for active outdoor fun, including four distinct trails, a swimming beach, and a marina providing convenient access to the water. Whether you’re a local Kansan looking for a quick getaway or a dedicated angler seeking excellent channel catfish, crappie, and striped bass fishing, Osage Bluff provides a reliable and enjoyable destination.

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### Location and Accessibility

Osage Bluff Campground is found in a peaceful setting in Southeast Kansas, making it an accessible retreat for residents across the region. It is centrally located within Crawford State Park, providing immediate access to the lake and park amenities.

• Address: Farlington, KS 66734, USA. The park is conveniently situated about nine miles north of the city of Girard on Highway 7.
• Park Access: As a major state park facility, the access roads are well-maintained, and on-site parking is provided near the campsites and various facilities. A daily vehicle permit or an annual Kansas State Parks permit is required for all vehicles entering the park.
• Reservations: While some areas of the park have walk-up primitive sites, the most amenity-rich areas, including those with utility hookups at Osage Bluff and other loops, often require reservations. It is highly recommended that you check the official KDWP or ReserveAmerica websites to book a specific site, especially during the peak summer camping season.

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### Services Offered

Osage Bluff Campground offers a balance of primitive escape and convenient utilities, making it a comfortable choice for a modern camping trip.

• RV Water and Electric Hookups: The campground features sites equipped with utility hookups, including RV water hookup and electric hookups (often including 30-amp and 50-amp service), catering to RVs and trailers.
• Primitive Camping: Dedicated primitive (tent-only) sites are also available for those who prefer a more rustic experience without utility services.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: The campground provides access to public restrooms, often in the form of modern bathhouses with flush toilets and showers for camper convenience, though specific access points vary by loop.
• RV Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available within the park for the disposal of grey and black water from RVs and trailers. Dumping of grey water on the ground is strictly prohibited.
• Campfire Amenities: Individual campsites typically include a picnic table and a fire ring or grill, perfect for cooking and enjoying a campfire in the evenings.
• Water-borne Services: The park features boat ramps and courtesy docks for easy lake access, with a marina concessionaire offering limited food and convenience items nearby.

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### Features / Highlights

The experience at Osage Bluff is defined by its outstanding recreational and natural features, offering something for every member of the family.

• Waterfront Activities: The campground's location on Crawford State Park Lake provides prime opportunities for fishing, pleasure boating, and swimming at the designated beach area. The lake is known for excellent angling, attracting fishing enthusiasts from all over Kansas.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is distinctly Good for kids, featuring playgrounds and a calm, safe environment for family activities. Summer months often see dedicated campground programming offered by the park staff.
• Hiking and Interpretive Trails: Four trails crisscross the park, including the historic Spiderleg Bridge Trail, the accessible Deer Run Nature Trail, and the CCC Memorial Trail. These trails offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing, connecting campers to the park’s natural beauty and rich history.
• Historical Significance: Crawford State Park was built by the CCC, and the park features an interpretive trail dedicated to the history of this important Depression-era program, including a statue of a CCC Worker at the entrance to the memorial.
• Scenic Beauty: Situated on the edge of the Ozarks, the area provides a picturesque landscape with lush foliage, redbud trees, and a variety of colorful wildflowers, birds, and butterflies, making it a delight for naturalists and photographers.

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### Contact Information

For current rates, reservations, and specific park regulations, it is best to contact the park office directly.

• Address: Farlington, KS 66734, USA (Part of Crawford State Park)
• Phone: (620) 362-3671

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### What is Worth Choosing

Osage Bluff Campground should be your top choice if you are a Kansas local seeking a well-rounded, affordable, and accessible lakeside camping experience. It masterfully combines the wild beauty of a state park with the practical amenities needed for a comfortable family trip. You get the best of both worlds: the option for full utility hookups for your RV and the unspoiled nature of a serene lake setting.

It’s the ideal basecamp for families who want to fill their days with water activities—swimming, fishing, and boating—and still have miles of trails to explore on foot or bike. The historical significance of the CCC structures adds an extra layer of interest to your stay. Ultimately, choosing Osage Bluff is choosing a hassle-free vacation in one of Southeast Kansas’s most beloved parks, providing scenic lake views and memorable outdoor fun without straying far from the familiar quality and reliability of the Kansas State Park system.

Osage Bluff Campground

Farlington, KS 66734, USA