Dispersed camping near Chanute, Kansas offers quiet fishing lake locations with minimal facilities on public land. The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks manages several fishing lakes within a 30-40 mile radius of Chanute that permit overnight camping. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of restrictions and regulations, typically situated along gravel lake perimeters.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Montgomery State Fishing Lake features several species including bass, catfish, and crappie. "Stopped for an overnight on the way home. The spots are pull offs, circles and small lots of gravel," notes James B. about Montgomery State Fishing Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Many campers report deer sightings, particularly at dusk around the lake shores. According to Kevin C., who stayed at Woodson State Fishing Lake, "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."
Stargazing: The open skies at some lake locations provide excellent night sky viewing. Jake S. mentioned about Wilson State Fishing Lake, "some have a nice open view of the sky for solar and Starlink which was great."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The low visitation rates, especially midweek, appeal to those seeking peaceful camping. "I loved it! It's so quiet and peaceful," shares Mela R. about Montgomery State Fishing Lake.
Proximity to town: Several camping areas maintain a balance between rural setting and access to supplies. Moline North Lake offers this convenience while still providing a natural setting. Eben O. notes about Moline North Lake, "It was peaceful and very pretty. There are few services, and no running water."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the ample room at pull-offs around the lakes. John G. commented on Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed, "Nice area plenty of room with our 5th wheel."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Wilson and Woodson State Fishing Lakes require camping permits, while Montgomery and Moline offer free camping near Chanute, Kansas without permits.
Facility limitations: Most sites lack drinking water, electricity, and permanent restrooms. James B. notes about Montgomery State Fishing Lake, "No toilets or trash pickup. The area was actually very clean."
Fire regulations: Fire rules vary significantly between locations. Fires are prohibited at Wilson and Woodson lakes but allowed at Montgomery State Fishing Lake and Moline North Lake. Check current regulations before your visit.
Weather considerations: Kansas experiences strong winds, especially in open areas around lakes. Jake S. mentioned about one location, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet access: Only Moline North Lake provides vault toilets among the dispersed camping options. As Eben O. described, "There are fishing access piers and a well-maintained road to them, as well as shelters, picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet."
Safety precautions: Check weather forecasts before camping, as Kansas can experience severe storms and high winds with limited shelter options at these primitive sites.
Local verification: Contact local authorities to confirm current camping policies. Eben O. advises, "We suggest calling the city office to determine current policy and status of the area, but we had no problems."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for the gravel pull-offs that offer adequate space for larger rigs. John G. confirmed Wilson State Fishing Lake accommodated his fifth wheel comfortably.
Solar power: Several sites offer good solar exposure for those with panels. Jake S. noted that at Wilson State Fishing Lake, some spots "have a nice open view of the sky for solar and Starlink."
Traffic patterns: Expect minimal vehicle traffic around the lakes. Jake S. reported, "Had between 5-10 cars drive by each day so barely any traffic," making these locations suitable for those seeking quiet no-cost camping options near Chanute.
