Oakridge Campground

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**Introduction / Overview**

Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of **Cross Timbers State Park**, the **Oakridge Campground** serves as a gateway to the diverse and rugged beauty of the Verdigris River Valley in southeastern Kansas. This area, known for being the northern reach of the unique Cross Timbers ecological region, offers a captivating mix of dense forest floodplains, open prairie, and hills of oak savanna. For those in Kansas seeking a genuine outdoor experience with the convenience of modern facilities, Oakridge Campground at Toronto Lake is an essential destination.

Oakridge Campground is a specific area within the larger State Park system, renowned for providing direct access to a fantastic network of trails. It is particularly valued by hikers, mountain bikers, and nature observers who appreciate the opportunity to immerse themselves in some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the state. The campground is managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) and is known for its well-maintained sites and peaceful atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly relax and "get away from it all." The collective sentiment from guests often echoes the simple but high praise of "Amazing place!!!!", underscoring the quality of the natural setting and the park's offerings.

The park is part of the extensive recreational area surrounding the 2,800-acre **Toronto Lake**, meaning campers at Oakridge are just steps away from prime fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Whether you prefer pitching a tent or setting up a modern RV, Oakridge offers a balanced, family-friendly environment that promises both adventure and solitude in the heart of the Kansas outdoors.

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**Location and Accessibility**

Oakridge Campground is strategically located within the scenic bounds of **Cross Timbers State Park**, just a short drive from the small community of Toronto, Kansas. This prime location allows for easy travel while placing you immediately into a pristine, natural setting.

**Address:**

Toronto, KS 66777, USA

*Note: As an area within the State Park, Oakridge shares the general park address and is accessible via the main park road system.*

**Directions and Access:**

The park is easily accessed from both US Highway 54 to the north and US Highway 400 to the south, leading visitors onto Kansas Highway 105. From the town of Toronto, you follow K-105 south, then turn onto the marked park road to reach the various camping areas of Cross Timbers State Park, including the trails and access points near Oakridge.

The campground and the nearby trailhead are accessible by both paved and well-maintained gravel roads within the park. This ensures that large RVs, trailers, and standard passenger vehicles can all comfortably reach the sites and parking areas. Its integration into the State Park ensures clear signage and official State of Kansas management, providing reliability and organization for your travel plans.

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**Services Offered**

As a key component of Cross Timbers State Park, camping in the Oakridge area provides essential services designed to maximize comfort and convenience while embracing the natural setting.

• **Electric and Water Hookups:** While the Oakridge area is closely associated with a popular trailhead, the wider State Park offers a range of utility sites, including electric-only, electric and water, and even limited full RV hookups (water, sewer, electric) across its multiple campgrounds (like Toronto Point and Blackjack). Campers should check specific site designations for availability, but essential utilities are widely available across the park.
• **Modern Restrooms and Showers:** All developed campgrounds within Cross Timbers State Park are served by **modern bathroom and shower facilities**. These are crucial amenities that significantly enhance the camping experience, especially after a day of hiking or fishing.
• **Sanitary Dump Station:** A central **dump station** is available within the park (typically in the Toronto Point area), providing a convenient place for RVers to empty waste tanks.
• **Potable Water:** Access to **drinking water facilities** is provided across the main camping loops.
• **Camp Host:** Camp host services are available seasonally in some park areas, offering assistance and information to visitors.
• **Self-Pay Station/Reservation System:** Campsites and utilities can be paid for using the on-site self-pay station or reserved in advance through the State Park’s online and mobile app reservation systems, which is highly recommended for weekend and holiday travel.
• **Picnic Amenities:** Every campsite typically features a **picnic table** and a **fire ring with a grill**, allowing for comfortable outdoor dining and traditional campfires.

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**Features / Highlights**

The appeal of Oakridge Campground stems from its position as a central hub for active, nature-focused recreation within the distinguished Cross Timbers State Park.

• **Trail Hub Access:** The area is famously the trailhead for the **Oak Ridge Trail**, a 0.5-mile trail connected to the larger network, including the Blackjack and Overlook Trails. This location is a favorite starting point for hikers and **mountain bikers** of all skill levels, with over 15 miles of trails available throughout the park.
• **Cross Timbers Ecosystem:** The park itself is a biological highlight, preserving a rugged, diverse ecosystem known for its **ancient oak trees** (Post Oak and Blackjack Oak), some dating back to the early 1700s. Visitors have a unique opportunity to walk through a genuine geological and biological wonder of Kansas.
• **Toronto Lake Recreation:** Campers gain immediate access to **Toronto Lake**, a massive reservoir offering top-tier water activities. This includes **excellent fishing** for species like channel catfish, crappie, and white bass, multiple **boat ramps and docks** for motorboats, and a designated **swimming beach** in the Toronto Point area.
• **Modern Cabin Rentals:** Cross Timbers State Park also features several **modern cabins** (like Whispering Oaks and Timber Walker) which include amenities like full bathrooms, kitchenettes, and AC/Heat, offering a fantastic alternative to tent or RV camping, and are especially popular for year-round visits.
• **Wildlife Viewing:** The entire park, particularly the Oakridge area, is an excellent spot for **wildlife watching** and **birding**. The proximity to the 4,600-acre Toronto Wildlife Area means you might frequently spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of migratory and native birds.
• **Family-Friendly Facilities:** Amenities like the **Big Timbers playground** and ranger-led interpretive programs (often offered in the summer) ensure that all ages have activities to enjoy.

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**Contact Information**

As a part of the Kansas State Park system, Oakridge Campground falls under the jurisdiction of the Cross Timbers State Park office.

**Campground Name:** Oakridge Campground (Cross Timbers State Park)

**Address:**

Toronto, KS 66777, USA

**Primary Park Office Phone:**

(620) 637-2213

**Alternative Phone:**

+1 620-637-2213

*Note: The park office typically operates from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for general inquiries and permit sales.*

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**What is Worth Choosing**

Choosing **Oakridge Campground** is a decision to select one of the most well-rounded and recreation-focused camping experiences available in southeast Kansas. It is particularly worth choosing for the local user who prioritizes **access to trails and lake activities** within a professionally managed state park environment.

Unlike many simpler county or city campgrounds, Oakridge offers the full resources of **Cross Timbers State Park**: modern and clean shower/restroom facilities, reservable utility sites, and a vast, interconnected trail system for both hiking and mountain biking that is hard to find elsewhere. The ecosystem itself is a major draw—the chance to hike among ancient oaks and witness a unique part of the Kansas landscape provides an enriching experience beyond basic camping.

Ultimately, you choose Oakridge and Cross Timbers State Park for its **balance**: the rugged, beautiful scenery of the Cross Timbers, combined with the comprehensive amenities and recreational opportunities of a premier State Park on the shores of Toronto Lake. It's the ideal basecamp for an adventurous, amenity-supported Kansas vacation.

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