The sound of water lapping against shoreline campsites sets the tone at this state-managed fishing lake in south-central Kansas. Cowley County Fishing Lake operates as a primitive camping area within the wildlife management area, offering both lakeside spots and elevated sites on bluffs overlooking the water. Campers access the grounds via gravel roads that lead to scattered camping areas around the lake's perimeter.
Several campsites sit directly beside the water, with some positioned on small peninsulas surrounded by water on three sides. Higher elevation sites provide views across the lake from bluff locations. The campground sees light use during weekdays, with Mike V. noting "throughout the day, there was about three people fishing" during his March visit. A seasonal waterfall adds interest when water levels support it, with accessible trails leading to the base during dry periods.
Basic amenities include drinking water, restrooms, picnic tables, and designated fire rings. Firewood is available on-site, and both pets and alcohol are permitted. Cell service reaches the area, though the remote location keeps visitor numbers manageable. The lake supports fishing activities, and the surrounding wildlife area provides habitat for various species. Weekend use can increase, with some evidence of parties based on occasional litter reports.
This spot works well for anglers seeking water access and campers comfortable with primitive facilities who want lakeside camping without developed campground crowds.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCowely county fishing lake is located in Kansas
Coordinates
37.10340085 N
96.79700097 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileLTESome Coverage- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/3/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/3/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Wichita, KS
- 1 hr 35 min from Enid, OK
- 1 hr 51 min from Tulsa, OK
- 1 hr 59 min from Oklahoma City, OK
