Tent camping near Norway, Kansas centers around several wildlife management areas and fishing lakes located across the north-central Kansas region. Most campsites in this rural prairie area sit at elevations between 1,400-1,600 feet with seasonal temperature swings from below freezing in winter to hot, humid summers. Summer campers should prepare for temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F with limited natural shade at most primitive sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ottawa SFL offers multiple fishing spots along the shoreline with access to several camping loops. One camper reports, "Camped and fished here many times and enjoyed it every time I went, primitive camping no electric or water. Have camped there from spring to fall." Ottawa SFL
Wildlife observation: Jamestown Wildlife Area serves primarily as a hunting location but provides opportunities for bird watching and wildlife photography during non-hunting seasons. The area features wetlands that attract migratory birds, though a visitor notes potential drawbacks: "It is VERY primitive and used for hunting according to the website. Our issue was that there were a million mosquitos because the water flowing right beside it." Jamestown Wildlife Area
Water recreation: Bruning Dam Recreation Area accommodates various water activities beyond standard camping. The location offers multiple access types including boat-in camping options alongside standard drive-in sites. According to a reviewer, this area is "Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing," with limited camping infrastructure. Bruning Dam Recreation Area
What campers like
Natural soundscape: Tent camping areas around Norway offer notable acoustic isolation from highway noise. At Ottawa SFL, one camper describes the setting as a "Beautiful wooded area with no traffic sounds. Just the peaceful calls from the birds and bullfrogs." This natural soundscape is particularly pronounced in the Willow Loop section.
Solitude: Many camping areas near Norway remain uncrowded except during peak seasons. A visitor to Ottawa SFL noted, "I was the only camper on the loop as the fishing folks came and went," highlighting the opportunity for isolated camping experiences even at established sites.
Budget-friendly options: Most primitive camping options around Norway require minimal or no fees. Jamestown Wildlife Area provides free camping with basic facilities, making it accessible for overnight travelers. One camper mentioned it "fit the bill because it was along our route" when needing an economical overnight stop while driving through Kansas.
What you should know
Water access limitations: Almost all tent camping sites near Norway lack drinking water facilities. Campers must bring all necessary water supplies, especially during summer months. One Ottawa SFL visitor advises, "primitive camping no electric or water. Has pit toilets and you have to take your trash when you leave." Courtland City Park
Insect preparation: Proximity to water bodies creates significant mosquito populations, particularly at Jamestown Wildlife Area. A camper reports, "We couldn't even walk from the car to our teardrop camper without getting swarmed" due to standing water near the camping area. Insect repellent should be considered essential equipment, especially during warmer months.
Limited facilities: Most camping locations offer only vault toilets with no shower facilities. At Bruning Dam, "Only two small sites and one appears to have sewage. There's a bathroom available." The primitive nature of these sites requires self-sufficiency and proper planning.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Choose locations with some natural shade when camping with children, particularly during summer. Ottawa SFL provides wooded camping areas that offer protection from direct sun during peak heat hours. A reviewer noted the "Beautiful wooded area" provides natural cooling compared to more exposed sites.
Activity planning: Schedule fishing activities for early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower and fish more active. A regular visitor to Ottawa SFL mentioned they "Camped and fished here many times and enjoyed it every time," suggesting consistent fishing opportunities across seasons. NV Farms Outfitters
Seasonal timing: Visit during spring or fall for more moderate temperatures. Summer camping requires additional heat precautions, while winter camping near Norway can experience below-freezing temperatures and requires cold-weather gear.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most camping areas near Norway cannot accommodate larger RVs. Bruning Dam Recreation Area offers only "two small sites" according to a visitor, making it unsuitable for larger recreational vehicles. Small teardrop-style campers can access most areas where standard RVs cannot.
Self-contained requirements: Bring all necessary supplies including drinking water and waste disposal containers. No dump stations exist at most sites, and as one camper at Ottawa SFL notes, "you have to take your trash when you leave."
Site accessibility: Check road conditions before attempting access with any trailer or RV, especially after rain. Most access roads to primitive camping areas are unpaved and may become difficult to navigate in wet conditions.
