Family Camping Activities for All Ages: Games, Hiking, and Campfire Fun
Explore family camping activities that bring all ages together, from outdoor games and scenic hikes to memorable campfire fun that creates lasting memories.
Mountain Shade Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the serene upper mountain region of Great Plains State Park. This family-friendly campground offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains, the campground provides a peaceful environment where visitors can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature.
Mountain Shade Campground is known for its well-maintained facilities and thoughtful amenities. The upper level RV sites feature full hookups, 30 amp service, ample space, cement picnic tables, pedestal grills, and fire pits. The lower level sites near the reservoir offer similar conveniences except for sewer access, with a convenient dump station located at the entrance of the upper level. Additionally, there is a boat launch area close to the lower RV section, perfect for water enthusiasts.
The campground also boasts a sheltered bath and shower facility at the base of the upper level, which doubles as a handy shelter during inclement weather. For tent camping enthusiasts, there’s a spacious tent area located west of the RV sites, complete with all necessary utilities and trash receptacles to ensure a convenient stay.
One of the standout features of Mountain Shade Campground is its peaceful atmosphere and friendly community vibe. Many visitors appreciate the quiet nights spent under the stars, often waving to neighboring campers who share a sense of camaraderie. The paved walking/riding trail that winds through the park adds to the charm, offering opportunities for scenic exploration.
Customer Feedback:
"We loved this state park in the upper mountain area. The staff is friendly, helpful, and works hard to keep the park clean and comfortable for their guests. This place is peaceful and quiet at night, and most of the other campers are friendly and wave to you." – Visitor Review
"The upper level RV area has full hookup 30 amp sites with each providing plenty of space, a cement picnic table, a pedestal grill, and a firepit. The lower level right next to the reservoir has all of the above excluding sewer. Dump station is located at the entrance of the upper level for convenience." – Visitor Review
Mountain Shade Campground is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that brings families and nature lovers together in harmony with the great outdoors.
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
RV camping
RV water hookup
Hiking
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Public shower
Restroom
Running water
Tent sites
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
On-site parking
Dogs allowed
We love this state park in upper mountain area. The staff is friendly, helpful, and works hard to keep the park clean and comfortable for their guests. This place is peaceful and quiet at night, and most the other campers are friendly and wave to you. This park also has a walking/riding trail that is paved.
Mountain Shade Campground in Great Plains State Park is very well-maintained and gorgeous. We have visited many State Parks, but this is definitely one we would return to. And the Rangers and Manager of the park are on call, extremely helpful, and work very hard to keep the park immaculate (we call tell...thank you!) The upper level RV area has full hookup 30 amp sites with each providing plenty of space, a cement picnic table, a pedestal grill, and a firepit. The lower level right next to the reservoir has all of the above excluding sewer. Dump station is located at the entrance of the upper level for convenience. A bath/shower facility is located at the base of the upper level and is also a shelter during inclement weather. In addition, there is a nice tent area just West of the two RV areas. Plenty of trash receptacles, too. A boat launch is just West of the lower RV area.
The campground is well kept and clean. The water was cool and enjoyable. Always great to meet up with good friends.
This is a pretty cool campground. It gives you a nice view of the grounds as well as the lake. It's kinda perched up above the rest of the camp grounds. The spot I was in gave me some good afternoon shade. I met a couple that was next to me. They were really nice and we had dinner together. They seem to be on the same journey as I. Hope to see them again! I will say the bathrooms could use some updating. Lots of good hiking trails!
Bathroom are not cleaned daily, they are suppose to be cleaned daily. Pay showers two of four broke. Picked a good time of the year, warm but not to hot.