Sportsman Campground

Greetings, fellow Kansans! Let's cast our lines and explore a local outdoor haven right here in Parsons: Sportsman Campground, part of the beautiful Lake Parsons recreational area. While one review mentioned it being "Too hard to find" and another noted "too many high weeds," and expressed concerns about "No good fishing spot," public information from the City of Parsons paints a more comprehensive picture, highlighting it as a tranquil retreat and a "sportsman's paradise" for hunting and fishing. Another review states, "Great place to camp when it's not full of campers," suggesting its popularity and the value locals find in its quieter moments. For local users, Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons represents an accessible and versatile "campground" designed for both active outdoor pursuits and serene relaxation, depending on the season and crowd.

For those living in and around Southeast Kansas, or indeed anyone across our beautiful state seeking a refreshing outdoor adventure, Sportsman Campground provides an engaging and well-equipped environment. It's a place where campers can enjoy the peace of a quiet lake, anglers can find abundant fish, and hunters can access prime grounds. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what makes Sportsman Campground a valuable asset to our community, highlighting its convenient location, the diverse range of services it offers, its appealing features, and why it's an ideal spot for your next local outdoor excursion.

Whether you're a seasoned camper with your own RV or tent, an avid angler or hunter looking for a convenient base, or simply someone yearning to experience the tranquility of nature with good amenities, Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons deserves your attention. Despite initial search challenges mentioned by one reviewer, the overall public information and positive aspects highlighted by others suggest a rewarding experience for those who make the effort to visit. The fact that it's a "great place to camp when it's not full of campers" indicates that its peaceful ambiance is a key draw when visitor numbers allow.

The term "campground" for Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons aligns perfectly with its function as a designated area for outdoor recreation and temporary lodging for local users. It encompasses various types of camping, from improved sites with RV hookups to traditional tent camping. Public information from the City of Parsons confirms it offers facilities for both. This versatility makes it appealing to a broad range of campers, catering to those who prefer more amenities and those who seek a more rustic experience. As a city-run facility, it implies a certain level of maintenance and structure. For Minnesotans, such a "campground" is a cherished public resource, providing accessible means to enjoy the state's natural beauty, whether for a quick fishing trip, a weekend campout, or simply a day spent exploring its unique features like the lake itself, or utilizing it as a base for hunting activities.

Sportsman Campground is located at 20th Rd, Parsons, KS 67357, USA, as part of the larger Lake Parsons recreational area. While one review mentioned it being "Too hard to find," the City of Parsons website provides clear information, indicating it's an established part of Lake Parsons. This address places it squarely within Southeast Kansas, making it an accessible and practical destination for many residents across the region. Parsons, as a well-established community, provides essential services and supplies within a reasonable distance, ensuring that campers and day-trippers have convenient access to necessities.

For those living in cities like Pittsburg, Chanute, Independence, or even further west towards Wichita, Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons is reachable via Kansas's well-maintained state highways and local roads. The journey typically offers a pleasant drive through the Kansas countryside, leading directly to the lake and its recreational areas. Its proximity to established towns means that while you can enjoy the serenity of nature, you are never too far from civilization should you need anything. Ample parking is available at various points around the lake, catering to both day visitors and campers. The ease of access, combined with its natural setting, makes it an ideal spot for spontaneous outings or planned camping trips for local Kansans, even if first-time visitors might need to pay close attention to directions.

From the perspective of a local user, the location of Sportsman Campground is a significant advantage. It means less time spent on lengthy travels and more time enjoying the fishing, exploring the native pine forest, or simply relaxing by the water. The straightforward drive (once understood) ensures a stress-free arrival, allowing visitors to immediately immerse themselves in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that the Lake Parsons area has to offer. This convenience transforms it from a distant idea into a readily available escape for outdoor enthusiasts in Southeast Kansas.

Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons, being a city-run recreational area, offers a variety of services designed to facilitate outdoor activities and accommodate campers. Based on public information from the City of Parsons and available reviews, here are the typical services you can expect:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground offers improved campsite areas suitable for both RVs and traditional tent camping. Some sites likely come with electric and water hookups, while primitive sites may also be available. Fees apply for various site types.
• Bath House: A dedicated bath house is available at the lake, providing essential restroom and showering facilities for campers' convenience.
• Camp Host: During the summer months, a camp host is on duty, offering assistance and ensuring a smooth experience for campers.
• Fishing Access: Lake Parsons is noted as a "sportsman's paradise" for fishing, with a variety of fish species. While one review mentioned "No good fishing spot," other sources highlight excellent fishing opportunities, including boat ramps and docks in the campsite area. Hunters and fishermen must adhere to Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism guidelines.
• Hunting Access: Lake Parsons offers Walk-in Hunting Access (WIHA) for hunters throughout the seasons, adhering to KDWP guidelines. This is a significant draw for local hunters.
• Boating Opportunities: The lake allows for various types of boating, including fishing boats, kayaks, and canoes. Notably, no noisy jet skis or water skiing are allowed, contributing to the tranquil atmosphere.
• Swimming Beach: A dedicated swimming area provides a relaxing spot for a cool dip on warm days, though swimming is at your own risk as there is no lifeguard on duty.
• Shelter Rentals: Two shelter houses (Elks and Kiwanis) are available for rent for gatherings, though camping is not allowed at these shelters.
• Native Pine Forest: An extensive native pine forest at the north end of the lake offers natural habitat and opportunities for wildlife viewing, potentially hiking or exploring.
• Permit System: Camping permits are required and can be obtained from the lake caretaker, camp host, or the City Clerk's office. Regulations include limits on consecutive days of stay.

These services collectively provide a comprehensive outdoor experience, catering to various recreational interests at Lake Parsons.

Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons boasts several distinctive features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for local outdoor enthusiasts in Kansas. These attributes, drawn from public information and customer insights, contribute to its unique appeal and provide memorable experiences for visitors:

• "Sportsman's Paradise" Status: The lake is explicitly promoted as a paradise for both hunting and fishing. This dual focus makes it exceptionally attractive to a broad segment of local outdoor enthusiasts, offering specific opportunities for both pursuits.
• Quiet Lake Atmosphere: A significant highlight is the tranquility of the lake, as "only fishing boats, kayaks, canoes, etc. allowed," meaning no jet skis or water skiing. This creates a peaceful environment ideal for relaxation, quiet boating, and focused fishing, a key differentiator from busier lakes.
• Variety of Camping Options with Amenities: The campground offers improved sites for RVs (including electric, water, and potentially sewer hookups) and traditional tent camping, accommodating diverse preferences. The presence of a bath house further enhances comfort.
• Dedicated Camp Host: During summer months, a camp host is on duty, providing assistance and oversight. This personal touch enhances the visitor experience and contributes to a well-managed environment.
• Native Pine Forest: The extensive native pine forest at the north end of the lake is a unique natural feature for Kansas, offering habitat for wildlife (like deer) and opportunities for peaceful walks or nature observation.
• Swimming Beach: A designated swimming area provides a refreshing option during warmer months, adding another layer of recreational activity.
• Value and Affordability: As a city-run campground, it generally offers cost-effective camping options, making outdoor adventures accessible to more local residents.
• Accessibility and Management: Despite one review mentioning difficulty in finding it, its official management by the City of Parsons and the presence of permits and staff suggest a structured and maintained facility, ensuring a reliable experience for those who confirm directions.

These features collectively create a destination that is not only functional for camping and recreational pursuits but also offers a distinctively tranquil and well-managed environment for the Kansas community.

To plan your outdoor adventure, inquire about camping availability, or learn more about the amenities and features at Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons, you can easily reach out using the contact information provided by the City of Parsons. For the most current conditions, including specific fishing and hunting regulations, or to make camping reservations, direct communication is highly recommended.

Address: 20th Rd, Parsons, KS 67357, USA (as part of Lake Parsons)

For Lake Parsons Camping information and permit details, you should call: (620) 421-7000.

During the summer months, a camp host is also on duty for convenience, who can provide on-site information. For shelter rentals at the lake (not for camping), a different number is provided: (620) 421-7030.

It is always a good practice to call ahead, especially during peak season or hunting season, to confirm site availability, current conditions, and any specific regulations. The City of Parsons website for Lake Parsons is also a valuable resource, typically providing comprehensive details on amenities, fees, rules, and potentially online reservation systems. Searching for "Lake Parsons City of Parsons Kansas" should lead you to their official page.

Connecting with them directly or checking the city's official website will allow you to get the most precise and timely information for your planned visit, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience at this versatile Kansas outdoor destination.

Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Kansas for a multitude of compelling reasons, cementing its place as a truly valuable community resource for outdoor recreation. For Kansans, particularly those drawn to hunting and fishing, its designation as a "sportsman's paradise" is a primary draw. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, and the associated Walk-in Hunting Access (WIHA) program provides convenient and abundant hunting grounds, all within easy reach. This specialized appeal caters directly to the passions of many local outdoor enthusiasts.

Beyond the specific pursuits of hunting and fishing, the campground offers a serene and peaceful environment. The restriction on noisy watercraft like jet skis ensures a tranquil lake experience, perfect for quiet contemplation, paddling, or simply enjoying nature's sounds. This quietude, coupled with the availability of both RV and tent sites and essential amenities like a bath house and a camp host during summer, makes it a comfortable and accessible escape from daily life. Locals appreciate having such a well-equipped yet peaceful spot close to home, allowing for spontaneous weekend trips without extensive travel planning.

While one review mentioned initial difficulty in finding it and concerns about weeds or fishing spots, the broader public information from the City of Parsons highlights a well-managed facility with clear rules and dedicated staff. This suggests that for those who confirm directions and understand the offerings, Sportsman Campground delivers a quality experience. The fact that it's "a great place to camp when it's not full of campers" indicates that its charm lies in its peaceful moments, making it ideal for those who prefer a less crowded outdoor setting.

In conclusion, Sportsman Campground at Lake Parsons is perfectly suited for locals because it offers a convenient, amenity-rich, and uniquely peaceful outdoor experience, particularly appealing to hunters and anglers. It's a place where you can enjoy the quiet beauty of a Kansas lake, pursue your outdoor passions, and relax in a well-managed environment. It truly serves as a valuable local resource that significantly contributes to the active and serene lives of Kansans, proving to be an essential part of the regional outdoor recreation landscape.

Sportsman Campground

20th Rd, Parsons, KS 67357, USA