Dispersed camping near Clearview City, Kansas offers primitive outdoor accommodations across several state fishing lakes within driving distance. The region features prairie and woodland terrain with elevation changes that create distinctive camping environments around each lake. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F while spring and fall bring milder conditions with occasional rainfall that can affect campsite accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Osage State Fishing Lake provides waterfront sites for anglers seeking direct water access. "It seems that every spots are waterfront, it's a very nice and clean place," notes visitor Ray L., highlighting the lake's appeal for fishing enthusiasts.
Sunrise viewing: Osage State Fishing Lake offers excellent morning vistas for early risers. One camper shared, "Woke up to a beautiful sunrise," making this location ideal for photography or peaceful morning reflection.
Night sky observation: The secluded nature of these camping areas creates ideal conditions for stargazing. At Atchison State Fishing Lake, a visitor noted, "We're the only ones camping here. Some people come to fish during the day but it's dead at night," providing optimal conditions for viewing celestial objects without light pollution.
What campers like
Peaceful environment: Many campers value the quiet atmosphere at these lakes. "I only stayed here a night but wish I could've stayed longer. Highly recommend for a peaceful camping trip," writes Tyler D. about his experience at Osage State Fishing Lake.
Lake views: The natural setting around these fishing lakes draws positive reviews. A camper at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake shared, "This site was easy to find and had a beautiful view of the lake! There is a brochure available online to help find the designated camping areas!"
Privacy between sites: The layout of these camping areas provides good separation between visitors. "We found a great spot for our van that was right on the water and mostly secluded," notes Lucy P., describing the spacing at Osage that allows for more private experiences.
What you should know
Stay limits enforced: Camping duration restrictions are actively monitored at these lakes. One RVer at Atchison reported, "The management guy here is pretty cool and he let me know that it's a 7 day stay not 14."
Facility maintenance varies: Bathroom conditions can deteriorate over busy periods. "Pit toilets in good shape when we arrived Thursday afternoon but kind of rough by the end of the weekend," observed one Osage camper, suggesting weekday arrival might provide better facility conditions.
Pack out all trash: No waste disposal services exist at these sites. "No trash cans or water, but it's free," states Rick M. about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, reminding campers to prepare for complete waste removal.
Tips for camping with families
Weekday timing: Consider non-weekend visits for a more tranquil experience. Kevin C. notes about Leavenworth: "Camped here several days in late June. There were very few campers, even on the weekends."
Site selection strategy: Choose camping spots based on facility proximity or privacy needs. "Camp in main area to be near toilets, otherwise there's lots of loops near the water where you can find sites with more privacy," advises an experienced visitor to Osage State Fishing Lake.
Pet policies: Verify pet regulations before arrival as they differ between locations. At Osage State Fishing Lake, pets are permitted, with one ranger describing an interaction: "He hung out and pet my dog and talked to me for a little bit. That was pretty nice."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly between lakes. Brenda Y. shares about Osage State Fishing Lake: "Beautiful area, campfire rings in several locations, and our 43' RV navigated smoothly (well, husband navigated smoothly!) Easy to drive through, well-maintained roads."
Size restrictions: Larger vehicles face limitations at certain lakes. John G. warns about Leavenworth: "This is a small remote lake of about 160 acres water area. A county road takes you through the area and across the dam. There are gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road. Not suitable for larger vehicles."
Terrain navigation: Some lakes feature challenging topography for larger rigs. "I took my skoolie there... We drove down 322nd Rd. to get to our site near the bathrooms across from the maintenance building. That road is gradual enough that I was able to get my short bus down it safely without tipping over," explains Rick M. about accessing Atchison State Fishing Lake.
