Camping at Riverside East Campground
Location and Access
Riverside East Campground is located within John Redmond Reservoir State Park in Kansas. The park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, can be found near the town of Burlington, providing easy access for visitors. The campground itself is situated along the eastern shores of the John Redmond Reservoir, offering picturesque views of the water and convenient access for fishing and water sports.
Facilities and Amenities
The campground facilities include:
- Campsites: Equipped with various utilities including electric hookups and possibly water access depending on the specific site. Not all sites may have full utilities, so visitors should check specifics when booking.
- Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities are typically available, some of which may include shower amenities.
- Picnic Areas: Picnic tables and grills are available at many of the campsite locations for cookouts and outdoor activities.
- Boat Ramp: A boat ramp provides easy access to the reservoir for boating activities.
- Dump Station: For RV campers, a dump station is available to manage waste.
Activities
The John Redmond Reservoir and its surrounding park areas offer various recreational opportunities:
- Fishing: The reservoir is known for fishing, with species like crappie, catfish, and bass available.
- Boating: Whether it's for fishing or recreation, boating is a popular activity at the reservoir.
- Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: Trails are available for those interested in hiking, and the area is known for bird watching and spotting local wildlife.
- Swimming: There may be designated areas for swimming along the shores of the reservoir.
Reservations and Fees
- Reservations: Campsites at Riverside East Campground can be reserved in advance, and it's recommended to do so during peak seasons or holidays.
- Fees: Campers can expect to pay a fee, which varies based on the location, utilities provided, and time of year. Information on current fees and reservation procedures are typically available on the park's official website or through a reservation system like Recreation.gov.
Rules and Regulations
Be aware of the rules and regulations of the park to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience:
- Quiet Hours: Most campgrounds enforce quiet hours during the night, commonly from 10 pm to 6 am.
- Pets: Pets are often allowed but must be kept on a leash and supervised at all times.
- Alcohol Policies: Some state parks have specific regulations regarding alcohol consumption; it's important to be aware of and adhere to these rules.
- Fire Safety: Only build fires in designated fire pits or grills, and be sure to fully extinguish them before leaving your campsite or going to sleep.
- Trash Disposal: Always practice Leave No Trace principles, which includes properly disposing of trash and maintaining a clean campsite.
Weather Considerations
Kansas weather can be variable with hot summers and cold winters. Always check the forecast ahead of your trip to pack appropriately. Be prepared for storms, especially during the tornado season in spring and early summer.
State Park Contact Information
Before heading to Riverside East Campground, it's a good idea to contact the John Redmond Reservoir State Park directly or visit their official website. They can provide the most current information about campground status, water levels, and any alerts or restrictions due to weather or other factors.