Fishing draws most visitors to Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, a roughly 160-acre lake stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill. The lake sits within campsites near Leavenworth State Fishing Lake, and kayaking is possible alongside shore fishing. The lake is not swimmable, so water-based activity stays focused on the fishing and paddling side of things.
The campground itself is dispersed, with around four designated spots featuring fire rings and picnic tables, plus a couple of pull-in areas without those amenities. Sites are level and grassy, well-suited to tent camping and car camping alike. A county road runs through the area and crosses the dam, and reviewers note the road and gravel pull-offs are not well-suited to larger vehicles. Daytime traffic picks up when anglers arrive, but it quiets down at night. There is no water or electrical hookup on site.
Insects are a recurring concern, with multiple reviewers flagging heavy tick presence, particularly for those bringing pets. The pit toilet exists but has drawn consistent complaints about cleanliness. Trash cans are absent, so pack-out is necessary. Cell service is available. Suncatcher Lake Campground and Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA are alternatives in the broader region for those wanting more developed facilities.
As Stella R. puts it, "lovely fishing spot from what the locals said." This campground makes the most sense for anglers and paddlers who can travel self-sufficiently and are prepared for a rustic setup.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsLeavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake is located in Kansas near Tonganoxie
Coordinates
39.125687227827896 N
95.15483481854088 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 8/28/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 8/28/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 8/28/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 8/28/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
Drive Time
- 19 min from Lawrence, KS
- 34 min from Kansas City, MO
- 41 min from Topeka, KS
- 1 hr from St. Joseph, MO












