Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake offers rustic camping near Blue Rapids, Kansas on public land managed by Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. Located in the Flint Hills region, this area experiences temperature extremes with summer highs often exceeding 90°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. The fishing lake covers approximately 52 acres and sits at an elevation of 1,230 feet, providing habitat for several fish species including channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Anglers visit Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake primarily for its fishing. One camper noted, "Not many insects, nice and secluded. Beautiful scenery, nice lake. Everything is perfect here."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing times. Visitors commonly spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species around the lake's perimeter.
Stargazing: The remote location with minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. The area's elevation and open sight lines allow for unobstructed celestial observation during clear nights.
What campers like
Natural solitude: Most visitors appreciate the quiet atmosphere at this primitive camping destination near Blue Rapids. The lack of developed amenities contributes to a more secluded outdoor experience.
Easy water access: The multiple access points allow campers flexibility in choosing sites with convenient lake access. Boat-in camping options provide additional isolation for those seeking more remote experiences.
Spacious camping areas: The dispersed nature of the sites means campers can often find adequate separation between neighboring parties, especially during weekdays and non-holiday periods.
What you should know
Water planning required: No drinking water facilities exist on site, so visitors must bring all water needed for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. A minimum of one gallon per person per day is recommended.
Waste management: With no trash receptacles or sanitary facilities, campers must adhere to leave-no-trace principles and pack out all waste. Bringing extra bags for trash collection is advisable.
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping may encounter muddy conditions after rainfall, potentially limiting access to some camping areas. Summer months typically feature higher humidity and insect activity.
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: The unfenced water access points require close supervision of children. Consider bringing life jackets for all family members if planning water activities.
Entertainment planning: With no developed recreation facilities, families should bring their own entertainment options. Simple games, fishing equipment, and nature exploration activities work well.
Shelter considerations: The exposed nature of many camping spots means limited natural shade. Bringing additional shade structures is recommended for summer camping with children to prevent heat-related issues.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should scout potential sites before committing, as the primitive nature means varying ground conditions. Look for level areas with stable ground, particularly after rainfall.
Self-containment essential: With no hookups or dump stations, RVers must be fully self-contained. Plan for limited water usage and proper waste storage throughout your stay.
Access limitations: While described as big-rig friendly, larger RVs may find some access roads challenging, especially those leading to more remote camping areas. Consider vehicle size when planning which access point to use.
