Best Dispersed Camping near Iola, KS

Dispersed camping in the Iola, Kansas area includes two primitive state fishing lake locations where overnight stays are permitted with proper permits. Wilson State Fishing Lake Dispersed and Woodson State Fishing Lake provide drive-in access for self-contained campers seeking basic overnight accommodations. Both locations operate as state-managed fishing areas that allow camping as a secondary use, with minimal development and no designated campground facilities.

Access to these fishing lake campsites requires standard vehicles, as both locations feature drive-in access suitable for passenger cars. Neither location provides drinking water, restroom facilities, or trash service, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. Permits are required for both locations, though specific camping duration limits are not posted. Fire restrictions apply at both sites, as fires are not permitted. Campers should note that Wilson State Fishing Lake accommodates both tent and RV camping, while Woodson's accommodation types are not specified in available information.

These fishing lake camping areas provide quiet, uncrowded alternatives to developed campgrounds. Wilson State Fishing Lake features picnic tables, making it slightly more accommodating for day use that extends into overnight stays. Recent visitors note the practicality of the sites for various camping setups. "Nice area plenty of room with our 5th wheel," according to one camper at Wilson State Fishing Lake. Another visitor to Woodson mentioned, "Was easy to find a quiet little spot along the water to set up my tent for the night." Both locations receive minimal traffic, with one camper noting "between 5-10 cars drive by each day" at Wilson, indicating the generally secluded nature of these primitive camping options.