Damsite Campground

For Kansans seeking a peaceful and nature-rich getaway, **Damsite Campground** at Fall River Lake stands out as a hidden gem. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE), this campground offers a unique setting situated directly below the spillway of the Fall River Dam. Far from the hustle and bustle of city life, Damsite Campground provides an ideal environment for relaxation, outdoor recreation, and simply enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Kansas prairie and tree-dotted valleys. Visitors consistently praise the campground for its **quiet atmosphere** and **well-maintained facilities**, making it a perfect destination for both seasoned RVers and campers looking for a serene experience.

The campground is nestled in a scenic area defined by rolling prairies sheltered by limestone-capped ridges, with the Fall River Lake stretching approximately 15 miles upstream. This location puts campers right at the heart of abundant native wildlife and vegetation, offering fantastic opportunities for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Whether you’re looking to cast a line, take a leisurely stroll, or simply sit by your campsite and listen to the relaxing sound of the water running from the dam, Damsite Campground provides a memorable Kansas outdoor experience.

It is a smaller, more intimate camping area compared to some of the larger state park facilities nearby. With its limited number of rentable sites—approximately 13 to 28 sites depending on the source—it tends to maintain a secluded and uncrowded feel, as noted by visitors who appreciate the low occupancy and the large, comfortable sites. The management is known for being friendly and attentive, ensuring guests feel safe and informed during their stay.

Damsite Campground is located in the southeastern part of Kansas, near the small community of **Fall River**, approximately four miles northeast of the town itself and about 17 miles southeast of Eureka. The campground’s official address places it directly on **27th St** in Fall River, KS. Its precise positioning below the spillway of the Fall River Dam gives the location its name and its distinctive natural ambiance.

Access to the campground is straightforward, though local knowledge and attention to signage are key for a smooth arrival. The campground is divided into two sections, Damsite West and Damsite East, separated by the river. It is important for travelers, especially those with larger RVs or trailers, to be aware that there may be a river bridge with limited clearance and weight limits connecting these two sections (or that the bridge may be out), requiring them to enter from the correct side based on their assigned campsite. This crucial detail, often highlighted in camper reviews, ensures you avoid unnecessary detours down potentially unpaved or tricky access roads.

Navigating the final stretch of road can involve a gravel portion, which might cause some initial concern for newcomers, but the consensus is that the actual campground area is well-maintained and worth the minor effort. Despite its secluded feel, it is conveniently located to allow for easy day trips to other areas of the Fall River State Park and the expansive 8,000-acre public wildlife area.

Damsite Campground is well-equipped to support a comfortable stay, particularly for RV and trailer owners, focusing on essential utilities and basic comforts. The amenities are designed to provide a pleasant and hassle-free camping experience right on the riverbank.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the services available to campers:

• **Full Utility Hookups (FHU):** Many sites offer full hookups, which typically include water, electric, and sewer connections, making it an excellent value, especially for those with long-term stays or larger RVs.
• **Electric Hookups:** Sites are available with both **30-amp and 50-amp** electric service to accommodate various types of recreational vehicles.
• **Water Hookups:** Potable water hookups are available at most sites, ensuring easy access to fresh drinking water.
• **Sewer Hookups:** Full hookup sites include sewer connections for maximum convenience.
• **Restrooms and Showers:** The campground provides full bathrooms and shower facilities for guests. While a prior review noted uncertainty about hot water, the presence of clean and available facilities is a significant plus.
• **Toilets:** Both full restrooms and **vault toilets** are provided within the campground area.
• **Drinking Water:** Public drinking water access points are available for all campers.
• **Pets Allowed:** Damsite Campground is pet-friendly, though dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside the vehicle.
• **Fire Pits/Rings:** Sites are generally equipped with a fire pit or ring, often with a grill, allowing for cooking and classic campfire relaxation.

The appeal of Damsite Campground extends far beyond its basic amenities. It's the unique combination of its scenic location, the quality of the sites, and the surrounding recreational opportunities that truly makes it a standout choice for campers in Kansas.

Key features and highlights include:

• **Quiet, Peaceful Setting:** A defining characteristic, frequently mentioned by past visitors, is the campground's overall sense of tranquility and quiet, making it an ideal retreat for those looking to unplug and unwind.
• **Large, Spacious Campsites:** Campers often comment on the size of the sites, which are generally large enough to comfortably accommodate big rigs (up to 80-85 feet) and provide a welcome sense of personal space between neighbors.
• **Scenic Dam View and River Access:** The immediate location below the dam provides a unique and visually appealing backdrop, often accompanied by the relaxing sound of the running water. The site offers direct access to the Fall River for activities like fishing.
• **Proximity to Fall River Lake Recreation:** The campground is a gateway to endless outdoor activities on and around Fall River Lake, including **swimming, boating, water skiing, and jet skiing**.
• **Excellent Fishing Opportunities:** Anglers will find the area productive, with a variety of sport fish common in the river and lake, such as white bass, bluegill, crappie, green sunfish, and channel catfish.
• **Wildlife Viewing:** Situated near an 8,000-acre public wildlife area, the location is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Visitors commonly see prairie chickens, various waterfowl, rabbits, wild turkeys, and white-tail deer.
• **Affordable Value:** For holders of certain national parks passes (like the America the Beautiful Pass), the pricing for full hookup sites is often cited as being exceptionally good value, making it an economical choice for extended stays.
• **Friendly and Informative Camp Hosts:** The presence of attentive camp hosts, who are known to provide helpful information (including local weather forecasts and emergency procedures), contributes significantly to the safe and positive atmosphere.
• **Playground Access:** A playground is available on-site, providing a dedicated area for children to enjoy.

For current rates, reservations, or specific information regarding accessibility and site availability, prospective campers are encouraged to contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office managing the Damsite Campground. Reservations can typically be made through the Recreation.gov website for COE campgrounds.

**Address:** 27th St, Fall River, KS 67047, USA

**Phone (Reservations/General Inquiry):** (620) 658-4445

**Mobile Phone:** +1 620-658-4445

**Note on Cell Service:** Please be aware that cell phone service can be poor or non-existent for some carriers (like Verizon) within the campground area, though some users have reported picking up a decent connection with other services (like T-Mobile internet boxes). It is strongly recommended to make reservations before arriving due to potential cell service limitations.

Damsite Campground offers a powerful combination of natural beauty, essential modern conveniences, and a tranquil atmosphere that is hard to beat for Kansas-based outdoor enthusiasts. What makes it truly worth choosing is its ability to deliver a high-quality camping experience without the crowds or excessive noise often found at larger, more commercial facilities.

The **Full Hookup (FHU) sites** are a major draw, providing maximum comfort for RV camping at a highly competitive price, especially when utilizing federal recreation passes. The setting—right by the dam spillway—is picturesque and provides a constant, soothing soundtrack to your stay. For those who prioritize **quiet and a sense of remoteness** while still having access to clean bathrooms and utilities, Damsite Campground is the perfect fit.

Furthermore, its location is a prime base camp for exploring the surrounding Fall River State Park area, which offers excellent boating, water skiing, and some of the best fishing spots in this part of Kansas. The large, well-spaced sites contribute to a feeling of privacy, and the proven dedication of the camp hosts to visitor safety and hospitality ensures a welcoming environment. Choose Damsite Campground for a quiet, comfortable, and centrally located experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor of southeastern Kansas. It's an opportunity to truly disconnect and recharge while enjoying the reliable amenities of a well-run COE facility.