Dispersed camping near De Soto, Kansas offers primitive overnight options situated across several state fishing lakes within an hour's drive. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing conditions. Most camping locations provide basic amenities and are situated on relatively flat terrain with prairie and oak forest surroundings.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Osage State Fishing Lake offers waterfront camping with easy lake access. "I only stayed here a night but wish I could've stayed longer. Highly recommend for a peaceful camping trip," notes Tyler D. about the Osage State Fishing Lake.
Sunrise viewing: Morning light across the lakes creates unique photography opportunities. According to Joseph J., "It was beautiful and quiet. Woke up to a beautiful sunrise" at Osage State Fishing Lake.
Wildlife observation: The lakes attract various bird species and small mammals. At Atchison State Fishing Lake, William M. reports, "We're the only ones camping here. Some people come to fish during the day but it's dead at night."
What campers like
Spacious lakefront sites: Waterfront camping spots provide excellent views and privacy. "It seems that every spots are waterfront, it's a very nice and clean place, I love it," notes Ray L. about Osage State Fishing Lake.
Well-maintained roads: Some areas feature better accessibility than others. Brenda Y. shares about Osage, "Beautiful area, campfire rings in several locations, and our 43' RV navigated smoothly. Easy to drive through, well-maintained roads."
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week visits offer significantly more solitude. At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, Kevin C. observed, "Camped here several days in late June. There were very few campers, even on the weekends."
What you should know
Bathroom conditions vary: Pit toilets are available but maintenance is inconsistent. "Bathroom was a little rough but manageable," notes Kevin C. about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake.
Strict 7-day camping limit: Kansas fishing lakes enforce shorter stays than many other states. Rick M. confirmed at Atchison State Fishing Lake, "The management guy here is pretty cool and he let me know that it's a 7 day stay not 14."
No water or trash service: Self-sufficiency is required for all essential services. Reagan G. notes about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, "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!"
Tips for camping with families
Research site locations: Some areas provide better family accommodations than others. "It seems that every spots are waterfront, it's a very nice and clean place," mentions Ray L. about camping at Osage State Fishing Lake.
Prepare for weekend crowds: Plan family trips during weekdays when possible. Lucy P. warns about Osage State Fishing Lake, "Got pretty busy on the weekend and people had loose dogs that were causing some problems."
Pack completely out: No trash facilities means bringing everything back with you. Loren L. reminds visitors to Osage, "Quiet, only a few other campers around. Some trash from other campers... remember to pack it in and pack it out!"
Tips from RVers
Road quality considerations: Access roads vary significantly between locations. John G. cautions 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."
Hill navigation: Some areas require careful driving for larger vehicles. Rick M. advises about Atchison State Fishing Lake, "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."
Identify lake access points: Understanding exactly where camping is permitted prevents issues. Rick continues, "I thought we were supposed to park near the cabin, however, it's the part to the left of the cabin that we are supposed to camp at."
