Lake Scott State Park

I messaged the campground ahead and asked where a big rig could primitive camp. They suggested Lakeside and Flatland areas. Lakeside is a large area that includes at least 5 sections, NOT all of which are big rig friendly. The two areas closest to the entrance are the only ones that would work. Flatland area was VERY wet (we sunk and had to use 4 wheel drive to get out), had some low hanging branches, the lakeside sites were too small and the grass areas were not easy to figure out how to park. SOOOO-we ended up paying for hookups. That area has some low hanging trees also, and the sites are very close together. The shores of the lake are all huge boulders and pieces of concrete, so access for dogs is not good and they are not allowed on the beach areas. We are in a 40 foot fifth wheel.

Camped at Lakeview. In this and nearby spots one can not put out awning if wanted as relatively flat area dug into hill only wide enough for camper. Other areas are more flat. However Kansas wind may be too much for awning. One major downside is the self-pay station for camping is in Circle park with no signage to indicate it. Daily permit is not clear about whether you are paying day or annual at the entrance pay station. Pay stations run by outside company and cost more than if use in-person at visitor center. Very disappointed in upkeep of El Quartelejo pueblo ruins. Did later visit Scott City Museum where volunteers state is hard to negotiate the government regulations on indigenous sites. Needs to be better preserved. One day able to visit Little Jerusalem, Monument Park, and local private fossil museum, Keystone Gallery.

Stayed 5/04–05/2022 in Circle Campground site 11 (30A & water), mostly level. $5/day/vehicle permit avoided with $25/year permit. Paid $11.50/night (50% off for America the Beautiful pass) plus taxes. Friendly staff. Lower and upper row sites (back-in) appeared a bit more inclined than inner row (pull-thru). Northside, older shower stalls, near playground, did have warm water, but it took some time to arrive. Four newer private unisex/family shower/restrooms with locks in building at southside near dumpsters. Visible cell service (Verizon platform) was good enough for internet and movies. No OTA TV reception. Pit toilets at El Cuarteleho pueblo site were unusably dirty and had no toilet paper, but ranger noted they were short staffed. Enjoyed hiking and photographing at nearby Battle Canyon (Battle of Punished Woman's Fork), Little Jerusalem State Park, and Monuments at Pyramids Ranch. (Saw herds of deer at daylight and turkeys. Owls hooted often.)

After all the flat and agriculture, this park in the trees and on the water is a lovely place to camp! Both water and electric worked fine. Our satellite connected through the trees. Able to get level. We were there for a major storm and felt safe the whole time. Site drained quickly, no standing water. Had to pay for the state park pass when we got there otherwise we could just drive straight to site. Quiet and dark at night except for the bright lights at the restroom building (so bright!) Helpful hosts, always available.

Stayed 5/04–05/2022 in Circle Campground site 11 (30A & water), mostly level. $5/day/vehicle permit avoided with $25/year permit. Friendly staff. Lower and upper row sites (backin) appeared a bit more inclined than inner row (pull-thru). Northside, older shower stalls, near playground, did have warm water, but it took some time to arrive. Four newer private unisex/family shower/restrooms with locks in building at southside near dumpsters. Visible cell service (Verizon platform) was good enough for internet and movies. No OTA TV reception. Pit toilets at El Cuarteleho pueblo site were unusably dirty and had no toilet paper, but ranger noted they were short staffed. Enjoyed hiking and photographing at nearby Battle Canyon (Battle of Punished Woman's Fork), Little Jerusalem State Park, and Monuments at Pyramids Ranch.