Lake Afton Park
Affordable waterfront camping, boating, fishing, and unique stargazing at Lake Afton Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Lake Afton Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Affordable waterfront camping, boating, fishing, and unique stargazing at Lake Afton Park.
"Great value for money with beautiful lake views, though bathrooms need attention."
🔭 Stargazing Hours
Check the Lake Afton Observatory's hours; it's typically open Fri/Sat evenings for incredible stargazing!
🏕️ Campsite Choice
Sites aren't assigned, so arrive early for the best waterfront spots with amazing lake views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boating & Fishing Adventures
Lake Afton
Enjoy a day on the 258-acre lake with opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Perfect for water sports enthusiasts!
Stargazing at the Observatory
Lake Afton Observatory
Experience the cosmos at the public astronomical observatory, offering clear views of the night sky on select evenings.
Scenic Camping Spots
Campgrounds
Spacious, waterfront campsites offer amazing lake views, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing outdoor getaway.
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Insider Tips
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🔭 Stargazing Hours
Check the Lake Afton Observatory's hours; it's typically open Fri/Sat evenings for incredible stargazing!
🏕️ Campsite Choice
Sites aren't assigned, so arrive early for the best waterfront spots with amazing lake views.
🧼 Bathroom Facilities
Be prepared for basic bathroom conditions; they may not be air-conditioned or consistently clean.
🎣 Fishing & Boating Fun
Perfect spot for fishing and boating! Enjoy the 258-acre lake for a day of aquatic adventures. 
Tips
from all over the internet
🔭 Stargazing Hours
Check the Lake Afton Observatory's hours; it's typically open Fri/Sat evenings for incredible stargazing!
🏕️ Campsite Choice
Sites aren't assigned, so arrive early for the best waterfront spots with amazing lake views.
🧼 Bathroom Facilities
Be prepared for basic bathroom conditions; they may not be air-conditioned or consistently clean.
🎣 Fishing & Boating Fun
Perfect spot for fishing and boating! Enjoy the 258-acre lake for a day of aquatic adventures.
🚗 Car Show Spectacle
If you're a car enthusiast, don't miss the annual car show for classic vehicles and hot rods.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Afton Park is praised for its affordability and beautiful lakefront camping spots, offering great value for money. However, visitors frequently mention that the bathroom and shower facilities are in need of significant improvement and maintenance. Despite this drawback, many enjoy the natural beauty, water activities, and the unique stargazing opportunities.
"Pretty nice out on the lake water is warm and the sun is hot but got plenty of ice in the cooler"
Lisa Boylen
"For the price, this place is great. It's 15 a night for electric hookups. The bathrooms are rough though, and sometimes you have to go to a different one to find a stall that's not awful. They're not air conditioned, and I honestly wouldn't recommend showering in them. They also don't have soap to wash your hands. But they do have enough toilet paper, which is good.
The sites aren't assigned, and there's so many different loops to camp at. They're really nice and spacious, and the views of the lake are amazing. There's some geese and stray cats, which is also great. You can pay at the bait shop after hours at the kiosk, but the printer is currently messed up. They do have security on site.
Verizon cell coverage is only okay."
Dani Drugan
"I went to the Lake Afton car show Sunday from 10:00am until 4:00pm. I enjoyed looking at all the unique hot rods and classic vehicles. The B-29 "DOC" flew over the car show around noon also."
Calvin Tart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Afton Park is located in western Kansas. The most common way to reach it is by car. From Wichita, it's a straightforward drive west. Specific directions can be found using GPS or mapping services.
Public transportation options to Lake Afton Park are very limited, if available at all. It is primarily a destination for those traveling by personal vehicle.
From Wichita, take US-54 W/US-400 W towards Kingman. You'll then typically take a turn north towards Lake Afton. Always check current road conditions before you travel.
The closest major airport is Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT), located in Wichita, Kansas. From there, you would need to arrange ground transportation to Lake Afton Park.
Driving conditions are generally good on the main highways leading to Lake Afton Park. However, be aware of potential rural road conditions, especially after inclement weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lake Afton Park is a county park and generally does not require an entrance fee for day use. However, camping and specific facilities may have associated costs.
Lake Afton Park is typically open year-round during daylight hours for general access. Specific facilities like the observatory have limited operating hours.
Camping fees are very affordable, with electric hookups costing around $15 per night according to recent reviews. It's best to confirm current rates at the park office or kiosk.
Campsites at Lake Afton Park are generally first-come, first-served and not assigned. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended for the best selection.
While day-use entry is often free, there might be a small fee for using the boat launch. It's advisable to check with park staff or the local bait shop for current pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, camping, picnicking, and playground activities. The park also features an observatory for stargazing. +1
Yes, Lake Afton Park offers playgrounds, making it a family-friendly destination for kids to enjoy outdoor play.
Reviews indicate that bathroom facilities can be basic and may require checking multiple locations for a usable stall. Showers are not always recommended due to cleanliness.
The lake water is generally warm and suitable for swimming, especially during the hotter months. Always exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Absolutely! Lake Afton Park has picnic shelters and ample space, making it a great spot for a family picnic or gathering.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a small convenience store and bait shop on-site that may offer basic snacks and supplies. For a wider selection, you'll need to travel to nearby towns.
The closest dining options will be in nearby towns like Wichita. If you're looking for specific types of food, like thin crust wood-fired pizza, you'll likely find more variety in Wichita.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks, especially for picnics and camping. Coolers are common for keeping items fresh.
Yes, there is a bait shop located at the park that sells bait for fishing, which is convenient for anglers.
The nearest full-service grocery stores are likely to be found in Wichita or other larger surrounding towns. It's recommended to stock up before heading to the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake at sunrise or sunset, the observatory against the night sky, and the diverse wildlife. Waterfront campsites also offer picturesque views.
Yes, with its dedicated observatory and relatively low light pollution compared to urban areas, Lake Afton Park is an excellent location for astrophotography on clear nights.
You might spot geese, stray cats, and various bird species. Keep an eye out for other local fauna, especially during dawn and dusk.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits or specific permissions.
Golden hours (sunrise and sunset) offer beautiful lighting for landscapes and water scenes. Nighttime is ideal for capturing the stars with the observatory as a backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Camping is also a popular family activity here, with spacious sites that often have lake views. While the park offers a lot of natural fun, parents should be aware that the bathroom facilities can be basic and may not always be in the best condition. It's a good idea to pack extra essentials and perhaps rely on your own RV facilities if available. Despite this, the overall atmosphere and the variety of activities make it a memorable trip for families on a budget.
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
The ability to camp right on the waterfront and even tie off your boat near your campsite is a significant draw for those who love to be close to the water. This makes Lake Afton an ideal spot for extended fishing or boating trips.
🌌 Stargazers
Combine your visit with camping for a full immersion into the night sky experience. The park's location away from major city lights enhances the clarity of the celestial views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Lake Afton
Some campers have noted the presence of long-term residents and occasional noise disturbances. Despite these potential drawbacks, many find the affordability, spacious sites, and beautiful lake views make Lake Afton a worthwhile camping destination. The park does have security on site, and the sheriff's department conducts patrols. Cell coverage, particularly Verizon, can be spotty.
For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are also non-electric sites available. The convenience store and park ranger are often highlighted as friendly and helpful resources for campers.
Water Activities and Fishing
Fishing is another major draw for Lake Afton. Anglers can cast their lines from the shore, their boats, or designated fishing areas. The park's bait shop provides necessary supplies for a successful fishing trip. The opportunity to launch a boat and tie it off directly in front of your campsite is a unique perk mentioned by some visitors, enhancing the overall lakefront experience.
While the lake offers ample opportunities for fun, it's always wise to be aware of local fishing regulations and any potential advisories regarding water quality. The park's natural setting provides a beautiful backdrop for a day spent enjoying the water.
Stargazing at Lake Afton Observatory
Visitors can expect clear views of celestial objects, especially on nights with minimal cloud cover and away from significant light pollution. The park's location outside of major urban centers contributes to its suitability for stargazing. It's recommended to check the official observatory website or contact the park for the most up-to-date operating hours and any special events.
This unique feature sets Lake Afton Park apart, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience for those interested in astronomy. It's a perfect opportunity to combine a camping trip with a night of celestial observation.
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