Montgomery State Fishing Lake provides free dispersed camping opportunities 6 miles east of Cherryvale, Kansas. The camping area features several gravel pull-offs and small lots along the lake shore. This dispersed camping zone sits at approximately 900 feet elevation and remains open year-round. Wildlife viewing is common, particularly at dawn and dusk.
What to do
Fishing for multiple species: Big Hill Lake has established itself as a fishing destination with several species available. "Big Hill Lake is known as a trophy lake for fishing. Principal species of sport fish include largemouth bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and smallmouth bass. The lake is also popular for fishing tournaments," according to a review from Timber Hill.
Horseback riding on scenic trails: The 17-mile Big Hill Lake Horse Trail provides diverse terrain options and circles approximately three-quarters of the lake. "The trail provides amazing views and riders will enjoy tethering areas and three parking areas along the trail. The parking areas are equipped with limited facilities that can be used for overnight camping by the trail riders," notes a visitor to Comfort Cove Campground.
Enjoy lake activities: The reservoir offers water recreation beyond fishing. "We loved being so close to a little pond and lake. My toddler loved watching the fish," writes a camper at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area.
What campers like
Peaceful weekday camping: The campgrounds experience predictable usage patterns throughout the week. "This place is pretty busy with locals on the weekends between June and August. Completely clears out Sunday evening and it is mostly dead empty until around Thursday," reports a long-term camper at Mound Valley.
Shaded campsites: Many campsites feature generous tree coverage, providing relief during hot Kansas summers. "There are trees at every campsite. Most campsites are nestled into the trees from the road making a beautiful Escape!" notes a reviewer from Cherryvale Park.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Saw several deer across the lake at dusk, eating grass. Beautiful spot not far off Highway 75," writes a visitor to Montgomery State Fishing Lake Dispersed.
What you should know
Variable water conditions: Lake levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting access to some areas. "We visited this campground in October of 2018. The campground itself is beautiful, but recently part of it had been submerged in water which was problematic for us tent campers," reports a visitor to Sunset Point Campground.
Limited cellular connectivity: Cell service varies widely across campgrounds. "My AT&T signal didn't work here at all until I set up my WeBoost," notes a camper who stayed at Mound Valley for 22 days.
Site maintenance considerations: Some campgrounds receive more consistent maintenance than others. "According to a guy I talked to, the whole loop was closed last year and it shows. Almost every site had a lot of debris (just leaves and rotted wood) which I think led to there being a lot of ticks," reports a visitor to Timber Hill.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for families. "Families with kids will enjoy visiting the sand-covered beach nearby for cooling off from the summer heat and enjoying a picnic," mentions a review from Cherryvale Park.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "Plenty to do with a great playground for the kids, kids fishing pond, basketball and volleyball courts, and even an archery range," notes a visitor to Prairie Meadow Campground.
Family gathering spaces: The campgrounds accommodate family get-togethers with appropriate facilities. "My family camps here throughout the year. Love getting together and enjoying nature and the scenery at big hill," writes a camper at Big Hill Lake Mound Valley Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability varies: Electricity options differ between campgrounds. "Sites are paved with water and electric hook ups. Most are pretty level," mentions a camper at Timber Road Campground.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant adjustments. "Camping spot was very unlevel from to back but level side to side. Had to set the tongue of the camper on the ground and back was up almost 3 ft. Most of the other spots looked fairly level," reports an RVer at Comfort Cove Campground.
Water pressure fluctuations: Utility reliability can vary during your stay. "Lost water pressure for a couple days and lost all water for 1/2 a day. With low pressure I just filled my tank and ran off the pump so wasn't an issue," notes a visitor to Comfort Cove.
