Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area, near Junction City, Kansas, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. This campground offers free camping with designated sites that come equipped with picnic tables and fire pits, making it easy to kick back and enjoy a campfire under the stars.
The area is known for its beautiful lake views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for fishing, boating, and exploring. Visitors have highlighted the serene environment, with one camper noting, “Quiet lake, we were the only campers there.” While the nearby highway can be a bit noisy at times, most find it manageable, especially after dark when the traffic quiets down.
For those who love a good sunset, the views here are stunning, and the nearby waterfall adds a nice touch to the scenery. Just remember, this spot is all about simplicity—there’s no drinking water or electric hookups, so come prepared. If you’re traveling with pets, they’re welcome here, which is a bonus for many campers. Whether you're tent camping or bringing an RV, Geary State Fishing Lake is a great choice for a laid-back outdoor experience.
Description
Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
The designated primitive camping area is free of charge and no reservations are needed. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days on the property. There are several picnic shelters, fire rings and yard lights, one 2-stall vault toilet, and one boat ramp. There is no running water and no electrical outlets are available. There is a SAFETY ZONE posted from the east bluff above the campgrounds down to the lake edge. The remaining area is open to public hunting, fishing and trapping.
Waterfall Information: This is the spillway of the lake and is located on the west side of the dam. Heavy flows are dependent on run off caused by rainfall events. This area is open to viewing only, a well worn path can be followed on foot across the dam to the waterfall. No swimming or climbing on rocks is allowed. Please help us keep everyone safe by staying out of the water and off the slippery rocks.
Campground update: Several new fire rings and picnic tables were installed in the fall of 2018. A few large trees were taken out of the campground due to being too close to the power lines and some elms that were already dead. New trees may be planted to help provide more shade in the coming years.
Fishing regulations are posted on the kiosks by the main entrance, the upper east road and next to the boat ramp. Lake maps and fishing regulation pamphlets are available at the kiosks at the main entrance, west side and east side.
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is 10 miles south of Junction City. The 99-acre lake is surrounded by 180 acres of public hunting land which harbors good numbers of quail, pheasant, doves, squirrels, rabbits, white-tailed deer, beaver, muskrats, raccoons, coyotes, bobcats and numerous nongame birds and animals. The lake also serves as a stopover area for migrating waterfowl in the fall and spring. Several food plots are maintained each year to provide winter food for birds and other wildlife. The lake is an excellent clear lake. The lake has been stocked with largemouth bass, walleye, saugeye, channel catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill and crappie. The lake and public hunting area are open year round. Picnic tables, fireplace grills and camping areas are available for public use.
Location
Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located in Kansas
Coordinates
38.89400075 N
96.8540004 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonPoor
- AT&TFair
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area needs a permit.