Sandplum

Introduction / Overview

Situated in the scenic Langley Township, KS, Sandplum Campground is a rustic and tranquil camping area forming part of the expansive Kanopolis State Park. This park, Kansas's very first state park, is famous for its unique topography of rolling hills, dramatic Dakota sandstone bluffs, and the massive recreational opportunities provided by Kanopolis Lake. Sandplum offers a distinct experience within this landscape, catering primarily to the tent camper or those in small, self-contained RVs who prioritize a quiet, natural setting over modern utilities.

Sandplum is specifically located within the Langley Point Area on the east side of Kanopolis Lake. It is one of the smaller, more intimate loops in the park, known for providing a peaceful retreat away from the larger, fully-hookup campgrounds like Eagle Point or Cottonwood. The campground’s major appeal is its serene environment, which features mature trees for excellent shade and designated sites that are often described as having a river/lake view or being within a quarter mile of the water. For Kansas users looking for a genuine, no-frills escape into nature, Sandplum provides the perfect balance of accessibility and solitude.

The camping here is generally on a first-come, first-served basis, appealing to spontaneous adventurers. While it lacks electricity and water at the individual sites, it is well-supported by nearby facilities, including an accessible vault toilet within the loop and a full shower house and dump station located in the broader Langley Point area. Sandplum is an excellent hub for accessing the park’s main draws, including its vast trail system that leads to famous sites like Horsethief Canyon and Red Rock Canyon. It embodies the rugged beauty of the Smoky Hills region, making it a favorite for hikers, anglers, and nature photographers across Kansas.

Location and Accessibility

Sandplum Campground is precisely located within the Langley Point Area of Kanopolis State Park. This places it in Ellsworth County, Central Kansas, easily reachable for residents across the state.

The general location provided is:

Langley Township, KS 67444, USA (within Kanopolis State Park)

To reach the campground, Kansas travelers typically utilize major state highways (like K-140 or K-4) and then K-141, which leads into the Kanopolis State Park region. The park office, located at 200 Horsethief Rd, Marquette, KS 67464, serves as the main point of reference. Sandplum is found on the east side of Kanopolis Lake, in the Langley Point area, which is well-marked with state park signage.

The sites are categorized as Overnight use and are accessible by vehicle. Its proximity to the lake—sites are listed as having a river/lake view and being within a quarter mile of the waterfront—means boat access and a boat ramp are conveniently located within one mile of the campground. While the nearest town with major amenities (like a large grocery or Walmart) requires a 30-to-40-minute drive, the campground's immediate surroundings within the Langley Point area offer essential park facilities, including a concessionaire with a convenience store and gas station, ensuring a manageable stay even without leaving the park grounds.

Services Offered

Sandplum is designed as a primitive loop, meaning core services are focused on supporting basic, low-impact camping.

• Primitive Campsites: This loop offers a small number of designated campsites (around 10 to 20 spots, according to various listings) that are suitable for tent camping. These sites are typically earth-surfaced and provide good natural shade.
• No Hookups: Crucially, individual campsites at Sandplum do not offer electrical, water, or sewer hookups. It is a dry camping area ideal for self-contained RVs or tent users.
• Restrooms: An ADA-accessible vault toilet is centrally located within the Sandplum campground area, providing a basic, necessary restroom facility.
• Shared Amenities: Each site includes a picnic table and a grill or fire pit, perfect for open-fire cooking and gathering.
• Non-Reservable Status: Sandplum sites are typically available on a walk-up, first-come, first-served basis, making reservations generally unavailable. A self-pay station is located nearby for permits.
• Access to Modern Facilities: Campers have access to a full Shower House with Modern Restrooms located within one mile of the campground (e.g., at the Cottonwood Campground area of Langley Point).
• Sanitary Dump Station: A Sewer Dump Station is available nearby within the Langley Point area, allowing self-contained RV users to service their tanks.

Features / Highlights

Sandplum’s value comes from its tranquil setting and its central location within the Kanopolis State Park complex.

• Lake View/Waterfront Proximity: Many sites offer desirable views of Kanopolis Lake or the nearby Smoky Hill River valley, enhancing the scenic value of the stay. It is close enough to the water for shoreline fishing potential.
• Excellent Shade:** The sites are often noted for having ample, natural shade from mature trees, a significant feature during the warm Kansas summer months.
• Direct Trail Access: The campground is a perfect entry point for exploring the park’s extensive multi-use trail system, which includes the famous trails leading through Horsethief Canyon and the surrounding areas known for limestone formations and caves.
• Boating Convenience: A boat ramp and marina are located within one mile, providing easy access for launching watercraft onto Kanopolis Lake for fishing, water skiing, and pleasure boating.
• Nature and Wildlife: The rugged landscape of the Smoky Hills offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing, birding, and photography, particularly along the nearby trails and shoreline.
• Family-Friendly Amenities Nearby: A swimming beach and playground facilities are located within one mile, making day-time recreation accessible for families.
• Tranquil Atmosphere: Due to its primitive, non-reservable nature, Sandplum often remains quieter and less crowded than the developed loops, offering a true sense of peaceful escape.