Primitive tent camping options near Clearwater City, Kansas extend beyond the main developed areas. The region features a mix of state-managed fishing lakes and county park areas where campers can find both established and dispersed camping opportunities. Several locations offer free camping with varying levels of amenities and accessibility depending on seasonal conditions and recent precipitation.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Adam's Grove, campers have access to 30 tent sites near Pomona Lake with convenient boat ramp access. As JC C. notes, "Adam's Grove does provide the closet boat ramp if you plan on picking up passengers off the beach near the dam."
Lake activities: Clinton Lake provides water recreation options from several camping areas. Alexandra J. from Woodridge Park recommends specific sites with lake views: "Site 4 is right on the lake and had a beautiful view of the sunrise."
Trail exploration: The area offers multiple hiking options ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Harmony H. shares, "We also love hiking the trail through the woods and by the lake even when we aren't camping—best trail I've been on in Lawrence."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many tent campers appreciate the ability to find isolated spots even during busier periods. Nikki S. from Woodridge Park reports, "We very rarely run into anyone else while camping on the trail. We have myself, husband, son, and dog."
Free camping areas: Cost-conscious campers value the no-fee options in the region. Alexandra J. describes her experience: "Beautiful free camping. There's a gravel loop with some picnic tables and a couple hike-in sites dispersed along a trail. I was here over Labor Day weekend and didn't see a single other person."
Established fire rings: Shawnee State Fishing Lake offers primitive camping marked by existing fire rings. Sue V. describes it as "Very pretty. Very quiet. Very primitive camping" with "camping spots on the east side of lake…identified by firerings scattered here and there."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Insect activity varies throughout the camping season. Harmony H. warns about mid-June conditions: "They were small but quite aggressive (who knew!?), constantly swarming us. At one point there were seven perched on my husband's back, and one landed in a pancake cooking on the grill."
Trail conditions: Trails can become problematic after rainfall. Carly H. advises: "Keep in mind though that the trail gets very muddy if it has just rained!"
Availability issues: Some previously available camping areas have closed. Regarding 110 Mile Park, Nikki S. reports: "We stayed here several years ago and it was a quiet little camp site that nobody really went to. They closed this campground in 2018 however."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for kids: When camping with children, look for established sites closer to facilities. James H. notes that Woodridge Park is "Well maintained in the main camping area, as well as on the trail."
Bring adequate water: Family groups require additional water planning for primitive sites. Josh M. describes Woodridge as having "potable water, nice toilets, tons of trails" in the main area, but walk-in sites require carrying in your own supplies.
Clean-up practices: Teaching proper camping etiquette is important in these areas. Nikki S. mentions: "Only downside is I wish people would clean up better after themselves."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Clearview City don't accommodate larger RVs or provide hookups. Whitney L. from Agency Conservation Area suggests: "I'd recommend this site for someone passing through just looking for a free, quiet spot to boondock for the night safely because the gravel parking lot is all you get."
Road access considerations: Access roads to primitive camping areas vary in quality. Whitney notes, "Getting here was easy (Jeep Wrangler + square back pull behind) and the roads leading to the CA were well maintained and not muddy even after a ton of rain earlier in the week."
Parking limitations: Many tent camping areas have restricted parking. Zachary S. warns about Agency Conservation Area: "Super small gravel parking lot. Moving to different site."
