Campgrounds and RV parks near Highland, KS

Water recreation typically drives visits to the area, though conditions vary. Big Lake is popular for boating and fishing, and the shallow lake supports wetlands that create a refuge for wetland bird species and migratory waterfowl, so pack binoculars alongside the tackle box. At Lewis and Clark State Park, the 365-acre oxbow lake offers boating and fishing when water levels allow; prolonged drought has left the lake dry at times, so check park advisories before planning water activities. For a stretch-your-legs option, the Gosling Lake Trail is a level 1.3-mile path that loops around a former fish hatchery through wooded areas and open fields, providing habitat for native and migratory bird species including geese, herons, eagles, and swans. St. Joseph, Missouri, sits under an hour east and offers museums, groceries, and RV supply stops.

Northeast Kansas has four distinct seasons. Late spring through early fall is the practical RV window: campgrounds are fully staffed, water is on, and lakes are open for swimming and boating when conditions allow. Summer weekends and holiday weekends draw the heaviest demand at the nearby state parks, and electric sites go first. Shoulder-season trips in April and October trade warm swimming weather for quieter campgrounds and better wildlife viewing during waterfowl migration. At Lewis and Clark State Park, during the off-season from November through mid-April, potable water is available only from a frost-free spigot at the dump station near the campground entrance, so plan to arrive with full fresh-water tanks in the colder months. RV renters should also note flood history along the Missouri River corridor. The cabins at Big Lake closed in March 2019 due to major flood damage, and repairs to the protective levee were completed in summer 2021 before the campground reopened in phases. Check park alerts before departure in wet springs.

At the Missouri state parks, expect gravel or paved pads, fire rings or grills, and shared restrooms. Big Lake State Park offers back-in and pull-through sites with 30- and 50-amp electric hookups plus primitive lakeside sites, with level, shaded gravel pads, fire pits, and picnic tables; facilities include a shower house and restroom, a dump station, and a fresh water fill-up. Lewis and Clark State Park has basic and electric campsites, and the level, roomy pads make it easier to maneuver a large recreational vehicle. Bring proof of reservation for self-check-in, and observe park rules: camping is limited to any 15 days within a 30-consecutive-day period at any one park, no more than two dogs per campsite is recommended, and pets must be kept on leashes no longer than 10 feet at all times.