Fivestar Campground

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Introduction / Overview

For Kansas locals seeking an authentic, nature-focused camping experience with the convenience of modern facilities, Fivestar Campground in Lyndon, KS, is a highly recommended destination. Situated within the beautiful Eisenhower State Park on the shores of Melvern Lake, Fivestar offers a peaceful retreat into the tallgrass prairie and rolling hills of East Central Kansas.

Fivestar Campground is primarily known for its commitment to primitive camping, appealing to those who prefer pitching a tent and immersing themselves in the great outdoors. It is recognized for its well-maintained camping area that consistently "looks amazing," ensuring a clean and scenic backdrop for your stay. Despite its primitive classification, visitors appreciate the immediate access to clean and reliable amenities.

Campers consistently praise the atmosphere as “Nice quiet Camping by the lake.” This peaceful setting, combined with the convenience of having modern facilities like restrooms and showers close by, offers a perfect balance. Whether you are an avid angler, a dedicated hiker, or simply looking for a quiet spot to watch the sunset over the lake, Fivestar Campground serves as an excellent, restful base camp.

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Location and Accessibility

Fivestar Campground benefits from a prime location within the celebrated Eisenhower State Park, placing it squarely within one of Kansas's top recreational areas. This spot provides not just a place to stay, but a gateway to extensive outdoor activities centered around Melvern Lake.

The general area for the campground is:

• Address: Lyndon, KS 66451, USA (located within Eisenhower State Park)

Fivestar Campground is specifically located in the East Shore area of the park. Its location is ideal for quick access to the water, with the shoreline fishing potential and boat ramp activities typically being within a quarter to one mile walk. For Kansas City, Topeka, and Lawrence residents, it offers a manageable drive for a weekend getaway, positioning it as a convenient escape to nature.

Accessibility to recreational trails is a major highlight, with both hiking and bicycle trails within a short distance (within 200 feet, according to park details), allowing campers to start their day's adventure right from their campsite.

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Services Offered

While Fivestar Campground focuses on a more rustic, primitive experience, it provides key facilities to enhance comfort and cleanliness for all guests.

• Primitive Campsites: The core offering is well-maintained sites suitable for tent camping, accommodating those who prefer a traditional, no-frills setup close to nature. There are approximately 30 primitive sites available in this loop.
• Modern Restrooms: Despite the primitive nature of the sites themselves, modern toilet facilities are conveniently located nearby, ensuring a higher level of comfort than typical remote camping.
• Shower Facilities: A significant advantage is the availability of clean showers close to the camping area. This is highly appreciated by campers who need to clean up after a day of hiking, fishing, or swimming.
• Potable Water: Access to safe, potable drinking water is available within the campground area.
• Self-Pay Station: The campground uses a self-registration and self-pay system, though it is important for campers to note the on-site fee board, as prices (e.g., currently around $13 a night) may differ from external website listings.
• Pet Friendly: Pets are allowed, though state park rules generally require them to be leashed.

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Features / Highlights

Fivestar Campground is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a central point for experiencing the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Eisenhower State Park.

• Lakeside Quiet: The primary draw is the quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Being located near Melvern Lake provides a serene environment perfect for relaxing and escaping urban stress, with a proximity to water within 500 feet of some sites.
• Excellent Cleanliness: Customer reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the facilities. The restrooms and showers are well-maintained, making the primitive camping experience much more enjoyable.
• Trailhead Access: The campground offers direct access to hiking, nature, and bicycle trails. The trailhead for the park's mountain biking and archery trails is notably located in the Fivestar campground area, making it a hub for active users.
• Fishing and Water Sports: With the lake just minutes away, Fivestar is an ideal spot for shoreline fishing, as well as accessing the boat ramp for activities like boating, kayaking, and canoeing on Melvern Lake.
• Scenic Environment: Campers are surrounded by the picturesque landscape of the tallgrass prairie and rolling hills, which is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
• Family-Friendly Amenities Nearby: Although Fivestar is primitive, it is close to other park features like playgrounds and swimming beaches (within a 1/4 mile), making it convenient for families who desire peace while still having fun activities accessible.

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Contact Information

For specific information on reservations, current fee schedules, and detailed park rules, please contact the Eisenhower State Park office directly. Fivestar Campground is an unreservable loop within the State Park, often operating on a first-come, first-served basis with self-pay, but checking with the park office is always recommended.

• Address: Lyndon, KS 66451, USA (Eisenhower State Park)
• Phone (Park Office): (785) 528-4102

Note that the mobile phone number +1 785-528-4102 will also connect you to the main park line, where staff can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding fees and site availability for the Fivestar loop.

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What is worth choosing

For the Kansas camper, Fivestar Campground is worth choosing because it delivers the best of simple, natural camping without sacrificing essential comforts. It successfully strikes a unique balance: you get a secluded, quiet experience typical of primitive camping, combined with the cleanliness and convenience of modern, nearby bathhouse facilities, which is a rare and valuable feature.

The location is its greatest asset. Being set in the beautiful East Shore area of Eisenhower State Park means you are instantly connected to Kansas’s finest outdoor recreation. You can step out of your tent and immediately access the mountain bike trail, grab your gear for a morning of fishing, or take a short walk to the swimming beach. This level of integrated accessibility is crucial for maximizing your time off work and minimizing travel time within the park.

Furthermore, the campground is remarkably well-maintained—a feature that often gets overlooked but is deeply appreciated by local users. The quiet, private nature of the Fivestar loop is perfect for those who truly want to unplug, enjoy the tallgrass prairie, and see a sky full of stars over Melvern Lake. It is the perfect choice for the experienced primitive camper who still values a clean shower and restroom at the end of the day, offering a high-quality, authentic Kansas camping experience.