Camping in the Wichita area is a great way to enjoy a unique, affordable getaway with a range of outdoor activities and exciting opportunities. Whether you sleep in a tent, RV, or cabin, you'll enjoy plenty of time in nature, scenic views, and plenty of activity.  

Many people want to experience the magic of unplugging and living in the wild for a day or two, but they don’t know where to start. They lack basic supplies and aren’t sure what campsites might work for them. Learning what to bring and where to go will prepare you for your next (or first) camping adventure near Wichita.  

Camping Packing Checklist 

Camping isn't your average vacation. You may be miles from the closest big box store or even your vehicle, making it essential to pack all the necessities for time spent outdoors, water play, and nights under the stars. While many campgrounds have on-site convenience stores with souvenirs and essentials, our checklist will ensure you have all the basics at your fingertips.  

The Basics 

• Flashlights (and extra batteries or charging equipment) 
• Blankets and pillows or a sleeping bag 
• Multi-tool or pocket knife 
• Lighters or matches 
• Hatchet or wood axe (for campfires) 
• Hand sanitizer 
• Towels 
• Biodegradable toilet paper 
• Insect repellent 
• Sunscreen  
• Medications 
• A first aid kit 
• Phones and chargers 
• Laundry bag 
• Trash bags 
• A cooler 
• Bottled water or water filtration system 
• An umbrella and poncho/raincoat 
• Sunglasses  
• Swim wear 
• Hiking boots 
• Portable fire extinguisher 

There are also other items you can bring, just for fun, to help you fill your time out in nature. Optional camping resources include:  

• Binoculars 
• Board games 
• A deck of cards 
• A camera 
• A hammock 
• Instruments 
• Fishing poles 
• Life jackets 
• Fishing licenses 

Tent Camping Checklist 

Camping in a tent means you won't have the "comforts of home" in your camper. Add these extra supplies to your list when tent camping:  

• A tent  or sleeping hammock with insect netting 
• Sleeping bag or air mattress 
• Sleeping pad 
• Camp chairs 
• Doormat (you'll be glad when your tent isn't filled with dirt) 
• A lantern with fuel 
• Camping Food Checklist 

Between outdoor activities and the fresh air, your crowd is guaranteed to be hungry. Whether you're packing easy-access snacks or full meals, the cooking experience on a camping vacation demands special supplies. You’ll want to bring:  

• A camp stove with fuel  
• Pots/pans 
• Mugs/cups 
• Plates 
• A cutting board 
• Oven mitts 
• A coffee pot/over-fire percolator 
• Water jugs 
• Ice 
• S'mores ingredients 
  
• Cooking and eating utensils and a can opener

 Planning your meals in advance can help ensure that you have all the ingredients you need, that everyone maintains a reasonably balanced diet, and that no one ends up with a headache caused by dehydration or low blood sugar.  

Where to Go Camping Near Wichita, KS 

Camping in Wichita is an escape from life's everyday hustle and bustle, with days spent splashing in clear waters, hiking wooded trails, fishing in sun-dappled lakes and rivers, and relaxing in verdant natural surroundings. Whether you prefer the comforts of an RV park or the simplicity of tent camping, you'll find plenty of options for camping near Wichita.  

Lake Afton Park 

Lake Afton Park offers primitive campsites, sites with electrical hookups, and a small section with water and electrical hookups. Enclosed shelters are also available with a reservation. Recreational opportunities include boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming, playgrounds, and picnic areas. An on-site bait shop and store make it easy to pick up necessities without leaving the grounds. Restroom facilities are available. 

Fees: Day passes for one vehicle are $5, and overnight campsites range from $13 for primitive campsites to $19.50 for a campsite with water and electric. Boating permits cost an additional $5 per day, and annual boating passes are available for regular visitors.  

Harvey County East Park 

Harvey County East Park is a sprawling 1,300-acre park with miles of trails, fishing, boating, and campgrounds surrounding the 314-acre lake. Campers can choose from primitive campsites, RV facilities, group shelters, and cabins.  

Recreational opportunities include hiking trails, horseback riding, playgrounds, boating, fishing, volleyball courts, and a swim beach. The park also has a Pet Swim Park where pets can play off-leash and a bait shop with camping and fishing supplies. Restroom/bathhouse facilities are available. 

Fees: Daily, multi-day, and seasonal passes can be purchased at the bait shop. You’ll pay $10 daily or $50 for 7 consecutive nights for primitive sites. Park buildings and shelters are rented on a per-day basis, with prices ranging from $15 for open shelters to $175 for the Camp Hawk Shelter, and from $65 to $85 per day for cabins. Horse passes and boating permits are available for an additional fee.  

Cheney State Park 

Cheney State Park has hundreds of primitive campsites, 4 group shelters, and 12 modern cabins, making it easy for you to choose your preferred camping experience. Recreational opportunities include boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking, parasailing, and disc golf. Restroom facilities and dump stations are available.

Fees: Daily camping permits cost $12.75 per night, with additional fees for youth camping ($4), prime sites ($2), utilities $9 to $12), and cabin rentals (prices vary). The park also collects a $10 fee per night for RV spaces and campsites. Sites with water and electrical hookups cost $11 and $13 per night, depending on the amps required. 

Fall River State Park 

Fall River State Park is a 1,107-acre park featuring riverfront access and 6 hiking trails. Campers can choose from primitive campsites, sites with water and electric hookups, and cabins. Recreational activities include canoeing, fishing, boating, swimming, biking, and wildlife viewing. Shower houses and restrooms are available. 

Fees: Daily camping permits cost $12.75 per night, with additional fees for youth camping ($4), prime sites ($2), utilities ($9 to $12), and cabin rentals (prices vary). You also need to pay a $5 daily vehicle permit fee.  

Finding Your Next Home in Wichita 

Camping in Wichita is a great way to spend the weekend or even a week away from home. However, when the comforts of home are calling, Morgan's Landing Apartments is an excellent option.  

Whether you're new to Wichita or looking for a new place to call home, you'll find a range of options in our pet-friendly studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments. Enjoy spacious floor plans, efficient heating and cooling, and electric appliances. Our top-notch community amenities include BBQ grilling stations, a swimming pool, a playground, and laundry facilities in every building. Contact our team to schedule a tour and find your new home at Morgan's Landing Apartments.