The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Hiawatha, KS

3 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Hiawatha, Kansas include Atchison State Fishing Lake, located approximately 30 miles east in Kansas, and two Missouri sites within reasonable driving distance. Atchison State Fishing Lake offers primitive camping with picnic tables and pit toilets but limits stays to 7 days. The area permits campfires and accommodates both drive-in and walk-in access, though alcohol is prohibited.

Hoot Owl Bend in Missouri, about 45 miles northwest of Hiawatha, provides primitive sites for tents and RVs with boat-in access options. The area allows pets but prohibits fires and offers no amenities. Visitors should note conflicting information about overnight stays. According to feedback on The Dyrt, "It seems like a bad place to park for the night; sign says area closed 10pm-4am, so camping of any kind seems unallowed." Another option, Elrod Mill Access in Missouri, offers truly remote dispersed camping with no facilities. This location suits self-sufficient campers seeking solitude in a natural setting.

Map showing campgrounds near Hiawatha, KansasExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hiawatha, Kansas (3)

    1. Atchison State Fishing Lake

    2 Reviews
    Atchison, KS
    25 miles

    "Clean pit toilets. Will definitely be back."

    "I took my skoolie there, and 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."

    2. Hoot Owl Bend

    4 Reviews
    Nemaha, NE
    32 miles

    "Was confused at first because there was a private road sign near the turn off, but after some looking it does look like it’s a legit spot to camp. Good enough for a place to lay your head at least."

    "There seems to be some private RV camping nearby which I was unsure about but they never came and bothered me."

    3. Elrod Mill Access

    1 Review
    Amazonia, MO
    46 miles
Show More
Showing results 1-3 of 3 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Hiawatha Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Hiawatha, KS

4 Photos of 3 Hiawatha Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hiawatha, KS

3 Reviews of 3 Hiawatha Campgrounds

  • Carter G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 12, 2025

    Hoot Owl Bend

    Good enough for a place to sleep

    Was confused at first because there was a private road sign near the turn off, but after some looking it does look like it’s a legit spot to camp. Good enough for a place to lay your head at least. I used a pickup truck with a tent and nobody bothered me. I did hear animals huffing and saw some shadows run next to the truck at like 2am haha.

  • Donner N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2023

    Hoot Owl Bend

    Simple clearing

    A nice little clearing easy to set up a tent in. There seems to be some private RV camping nearby which I was unsure about but they never came and bothered me. One of those trees in a mulberry, don’t put your tent under it you will have mulberries dropping on you in July. There is a nice walk towards the water, just wear pants and closed shoes to avoid the stinging nettle. There also is no fire pit or amenities at this site

    This spot would be great for bird watchers

  • Gordy Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Hoot Owl Bend

    Not recommended for cars

    It seems like a bad place to park for the night; sign says area closed 10pm-4am, so camping of any kind seems unallowed.

Guide to Hiawatha

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hiawatha, Kansas, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy serene landscapes and a sense of adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience the tranquility of Atchison State Fishing Lake, where you can enjoy picturesque views and the freedom to set up camp in a natural setting.

Outdoor Activities While Free Camping Near Hiawatha

  • Engage in birdwatching and nature walks at Hoot Owl Bend, where the surrounding environment offers a peaceful retreat and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Rockchester Falls Conservation Area

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hiawatha, KS?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hiawatha, KS is Atchison State Fishing Lake with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Hiawatha, KS?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 dispersed camping locations near Hiawatha, KS, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring