Southeastern Kansas offers several primitive camping options around state fishing lakes near Big Hill Lake. These rustic camping sites provide basic accommodations with varying levels of amenities. Summer temperatures in this region typically range from 75-95°F, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms. Winter camping is possible but facilities may be limited during colder months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Wilson State Fishing Lake provides access to multiple fishing spots along the shoreline. A camper reported, "Had between 5-10 cars drive by each day so barely any traffic. Most of the spots on this lake are good in size and some have a nice open view of the sky for solar and Starlink which was great."
Wildlife viewing: Montgomery State Fishing Lake offers chances to observe local wildlife during dawn and dusk hours. According to one visitor, "Saw several deer across the lake at dusk, eating grass. Beautiful spot not far off Highway 75."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution at Woodson State Fishing Lake creates ideal conditions for night sky observation. A camper noted, "Was easy to find a quiet little spot along the water to set up my tent for the night. Went on a Wednesday and it was v quiet other than a couple other folks a ways away."
What campers like
Accessibility to town: Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed provides convenient access to nearby services while maintaining a natural setting. One camper appreciated this balance, noting "I loved it! It's so quiet and peaceful. Very close to town so you never have to miss anything you may have forgotten. And heck its free!"
Spacious camping areas: The camping areas around Wilson State Fishing Lake accommodate larger recreational vehicles with sufficient room. A camper mentioned, "Nice area plenty of room with our 5th wheel."
Clean surroundings: Despite the lack of formal facilities at some locations, campers report generally clean conditions. At Montgomery State Fishing Lake, a visitor observed, "The area was actually very clean."
What you should know
Camping permits: Some state fishing lakes require permits for overnight stays. While Montgomery State Fishing Lake offers free camping, Wilson State Fishing Lake requires permits for overnight camping.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas near Big Hill Lake provide minimal amenities. At Montgomery State fishing lake, a camper reported, "Free spot on a State fishing lake. Nice view well kept. Spots all around lake. Pit toilet, 1 trash can if you can find it."
Variable camping spots: The quality and size of camping spots vary around each lake. At Montgomery State Fishing Lake, a visitor described, "The spots are pull offs, circles and small lots of gravel."
Tips for camping with families
Basic amenities: Moline North Lake offers some amenities that make it more suitable for families. A visitor documented, "There are fishing access piers and a well-maintained road to them, as well as shelters, picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet."
Water planning: No running water is available at most sites, so families should bring sufficient water supplies. At Moline North Lake, campers noted "There are few services, and no running water."
Policy verification: Contact local authorities before camping with children to confirm current regulations. For Moline North Lake, a camper suggested, "We suggest calling the city office to determine current policy and status of the area, but we had no problems."
Tips from RVers
Solar access: Some spots at Montgomery State fishing lake offer good exposure for solar panels. Campers can find spots with fewer trees for better solar charging capabilities.
Wind protection: Consider wind patterns when selecting a site. At Wilson State Fishing Lake, a camper advised, "When I got here it was very windy and the spot directly across the lake from here ended up being better and a little more out of the wind since there were more trees."
Ground conditions: Most parking areas consist of gravel surfaces. RVers should check ground firmness after rainfall as some areas may become soft.
