Lake Miola Campgrounds

**Introduction / Overview**

For Kansas residents, particularly those in the Eastern part of the state and the Greater Kansas City region, **Lake Miola Campgrounds** in Paola, Kansas, offers a convenient and affordable outdoor escape. As a city-managed park, Lake Miola, which spans approximately 560 acres with a 200-acre lake at its center, serves as a popular local hub for relaxation and recreation. It caters to a range of outdoor enthusiasts, from casual weekend campers to serious water sports lovers. While visitors should manage expectations—as some facilities are noted as "a little dated" and certain sites may be on a slant—the overall consensus is that it's a "Very nice spot" and a solid option for a quick, budget-friendly getaway from the city. The park offers the essential components of a great lake trip: camping, fishing, a designated swimming beach, and ample water space perfect for water sports.

**Location and Accessibility**

Lake Miola Campgrounds is favorably situated just north of the city of Paola, Kansas, placing it within Miami County and a very manageable driving distance (often under an hour) from the vast Kansas City metropolitan area. This proximity makes it an excellent choice for short, spontaneous weekend trips for those seeking immediate access to nature without a long commute.

The address is:

H5W3+5F, Paola, KS 66071, USA

More specific directions typically reference 299th Street and Hedge Lane Road, which lead directly to the park entrance. The campgrounds themselves are mainly situated on the west side of the lake. A significant accessibility highlight noted by customers is the close proximity of basic conveniences; as one reviewer pointed out, essential services like a Walmart are "within 10 minutes or so" of the campsite, which is a significant plus for stocking up on supplies or resolving minor camping needs.

The park's roads are generally easy to navigate, though campers are advised to note that the terrain near the lake can be gently sloping, requiring the use of leveling equipment for RVs or careful selection of tent sites for optimal comfort.

**Services Offered**

Lake Miola Campgrounds provides essential services managed by the City of Paola to ensure a practical and cost-effective camping experience. The services are designed to accommodate both basic tent camping and standard RV needs.

• **Electrical Hookups:** Available for both RV and designated tent sites, accommodating up to 50 Amp service in some areas, available for an additional daily fee over the base site rate.
• **Water Hookups:** Available at designated RV/Electric sites and via communal water spouts in the tent camping areas.
• **Sewer Hookups:** Available at premium sites for a small additional daily fee, offering the convenience of full hookup service.
• **Primitive Camping:** Available for a more rustic experience at a lower daily rate, typically $15.00 per day.
• **Restrooms and Showers:** Facilities are provided, though customer feedback suggests they are "a little dated" and limited in number (one toilet/urinal/two showers per facility), which can be a consideration during peak season.
• **Sanitary Dump Station:** Available for RV and trailer use.
• **Camp Host:** A helpful camp host is available on-site, particularly during the summer season, to assist with camping arrangements and reservations.
• **Online Reservations:** The park utilizes an online reservation system, allowing Kansas users to easily secure their site in advance.

**Features / Highlights**

Despite some of the facility limitations mentioned in reviews, Lake Miola is highly valued by locals for its compelling lake-based features and recreational offerings.

• **Affordable Pricing:** The park is known for its budget-friendly rates, with electric sites available for around $20.00 daily plus utility fees, making it one of the most cost-effective camping options near the Kansas City area.
• **Excellent Water Sports:** The 200-acre lake is specifically noted as an "ideal lake though to learn to wakeboard or ski, tube, etc..." due to its "long straight away with no fear of being run over if you fall," making it a local favorite for active water recreation.
• **Designated Swimming Area:** A clear, safe, and designated swimming beach with sand volleyball courts is a major draw for families during the summer.
• **Good Fishing Opportunities:** Fishing is popular, with a reputation for "pretty decent fishing down by the dam," and the lake is stocked with species like Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, and Crappie.
• **Lakefront Sites:** Many campsites are situated "up against the lake," offering beautiful, direct views of the water, which is a major aesthetic highlight.
• **Fire Restrictions/Policy:** Note that open fires are generally restricted to **stoves, ovens, furnaces or other places provided for that purpose** per City of Paola park ordinances. Campers should plan to bring their own small, approved cooking grills or stoves (like a charcoal BBQ grill) if they plan to cook over an open flame, as not all sites are guaranteed to have a fire pit/ring.
• **Proximity to Town:** Being just ten minutes from Walmart and other conveniences in Paola is a highly practical feature for extended stays.
• **Hiking Trails:** The park covers 560 acres and features hiking and biking trails around the lake, allowing for peaceful land-based exploration.

**Contact Information**

For the most current information on camping fees, availability, water conditions, and specific park rules, Kansas users should contact the Lake Miola office or the City of Paola Parks Department. It is advisable to call ahead, especially to secure a waterfront or flatter RV site.

Address:

H5W3+5F, Paola, KS 66071, USA (Near 299th Street and Hedge Lane Road, Paola)

Phone (Lake Caretaker/Paola Parks Department):

(913) 259-3620

Mobile Phone:

+1 913-259-3620

**What is Worth Choosing**

For the budget-conscious and water-recreation-focused Kansas local, **Lake Miola Campgrounds** is a highly worthy choice, provided you know what to expect and plan accordingly.

The primary appeal is the **combination of affordability and water access** near the Kansas City metro area. It is a fantastic spot to learn or practice **water skiing and wakeboarding**, a feature often harder to find at smaller city lakes. The long, open stretch of water and safe boating conditions are a huge draw for those with watercraft. The designated swimming beach is perfect for families looking for a safe place for kids to enjoy the water.

However, choosing Lake Miola requires a bit of planning, especially concerning comfort amenities. While the camp facilities are noted as "dated" and some sites may be slanted, the park offers electric, water, and even sewer hookups at excellent price points. The key takeaway from customer reviews is: **Be prepared to bring your own leveling equipment and an approved above-ground grill or stove** for cooking, as fire pits are not guaranteed or may be restricted to designated common areas only per city ordinance. The quick access to Paola for supplies easily mitigates these minor challenges.

Ultimately, Lake Miola is chosen for its **superb recreational value**, its **lakefront views**, and its commitment to being a **low-cost getaway**. It is a beloved local resource for getting "outside" and making the most of a sunny Kansas weekend.