Primitive camping near Edgerton, Kansas centers around state-owned fishing lakes situated in the eastern Kansas prairie region. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers reaching into the 90s and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Most camping sites are situated at elevations between 800-1,100 feet above sea level with terrain that's relatively flat but occasionally rolling, providing easy access for most vehicles.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Osage State Fishing Lake offers multiple waterfront camping spots with excellent angling prospects. "It seems that every spots are waterfront, it's a very nice and clean place, I love it," notes camper Ray L. about the lake's accessibility.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers at primitive campsites near Edgerton can enjoy dawn wildlife activity. At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, visitor Kevin C. observed that "Many slept in their cars and left at first light. I assume they went fishing at the lake."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution at these rural camping areas creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "Quiet, only a few other campers around... lovely nighttime sounds," reports Loren L. about Osage State Fishing Lake, highlighting the peaceful evening environment.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise the privacy options at these lakes. Lucy P. shares about Osage State Fishing Lake: "We found a great spot for our van that was right on the water and mostly secluded. 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."
Easy navigation: Many sites offer straightforward access despite their primitive status. "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!" explains Reagan G. about her experience at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake.
Sunrise views: The lakefront positioning of campsites creates spectacular morning vistas. Joseph J. recounts his Osage Lake experience: "Woke up to a beautiful sunrise" after finding that "Spots were nice and spaced out so had no issues with disturbing anyone as I set up."
What you should know
Time limits: Kansas state fishing lakes enforce camping duration restrictions. Rick M. advises at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "I'm starting to think that Kansas has a 7-day limit instead of a 14 because this is the second time that a Kansas park official came to the door and said we need to leave."
Facility maintenance: Bathrooms at these primitive sites receive limited servicing. "Pit toilet is not well maintained," notes John G. about Leavenworth Lake, while Lucy P. observed at Osage Lake that "Pit toilets in good shape when we arrived Thursday afternoon but kind of rough by the end of the weekend."
Weekend crowds: Visitation patterns show clear differences between weekdays and weekends. "Got pretty busy on the weekend and people had loose dogs that were causing some problems, but otherwise very chill," reports Lucy P. about the changing dynamics at Osage Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: Since drinking water isn't available at these primitive sites, families need to bring sufficient supplies. Rick M. mentions this limitation at Leavenworth: "Everything is as great as it can be, aside from missing trash cans, and ideally water and grey dump."
Consider weekday visits: For a more peaceful family experience with fewer neighboring campers, plan mid-week trips. Tyler D. appreciated the tranquility at Osage State Fishing Lake, noting: "I only stayed here a night but wish I could've stayed longer. Highly recommend for a peaceful camping trip."
Bring trash bags: With no garbage facilities, families must pack out all waste. Loren L. reminds campers: "Some trash from other campers... remember to pack it in and pack it out!" This is particularly important with children who may generate more waste.
Tips from RVers
Road condition awareness: Access roads to these primitive sites vary in quality. John G. cautions about Leavenworth Lake: "Not suitable for larger vehicles," providing crucial information for RV owners considering this location.
Larger rigs at Osage Lake: RVers with substantial vehicles should consider Osage Lake for its better access. Brenda Y. confirms this at Osage State Fishing Lake: "Our 43' RV navigated smoothly (well, husband navigated smoothly!) Easy to drive through, well-maintained roads."
Cell connectivity: Despite the rural setting, some digital connection remains possible. Lucy P. reports that Osage Lake has "decent cell service with Verizon," which is valuable information for RVers who need to stay connected while enjoying primitive camping near Edgerton.
