Best Tent Camping near Hanover, KS
Tent camping options near Hanover, Kansas include several rural campgrounds within a short drive. Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 provides free tent camping with lakeside sites and basic amenities. Bruning Dam Recreation Area in Nebraska offers primitive tent camping with hiking, boating, and walk-in access options approximately 35 miles northwest of Hanover.
Most tent sites at Pottawatomie County State Lake feature fire rings and picnic tables, though the facilities are minimal. The access roads can be challenging after rain, with some areas becoming muddy and difficult to navigate in wet conditions. Vault toilets are available but no shower facilities exist at most locations. Campers should plan to pack out all trash as some locations have discontinued trash collection services. Permit requirements vary by location, with Pottawatomie requiring permits while offering free camping.
Tent campers at these rural sites often experience peaceful surroundings with opportunities for fishing and kayaking. A recent review noted, "Nice spot to pull in for the night with lots of spots available on weeknights. Lots of shade and level areas." The sites around Pottawatomie County State Lake offer good tree cover, providing shade during summer months. Morning wildlife viewing can be rewarding, with some campers reporting beaver activity along the shoreline and owls in the surrounding trees. Weekend camping may encounter more local visitors during fishing season. Walk-in tent sites at Bruning Dam Recreation Area provide more seclusion for primitive camping experiences, while still offering access to basic toilet facilities.
