Tent camping opportunities near Ozawkie, Kansas center around Clinton Lake and Perry Lake, both federal reservoirs offering varied terrain for overnight stays. The area features rolling hills with oak and hickory forests typical of northeastern Kansas, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and frequent afternoon thunderstorms between May and September. Many primitive camping areas around Ozawkie remain open year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: Shawnee State Fishing Lake provides numerous fishing spots with primitive camping nearby. "Far from the maddening crowd...although there were quite a few folks here Sunday evening…fishing and just relaxing..almost everyone left after sundown," notes camper Sue V., highlighting the lake's popularity for day visitors but tranquility for overnight campers.
Trail exploration: Woodridge Park offers a 4.5-mile trail system with numerous off-trail exploration opportunities. "We also love hiking the trail through the woods and by the lake even when we aren't camping—best trail I've been on in Lawrence," states one reviewer who frequently visits the area with family.
Sunrise viewing: The eastern shores of Clinton Lake provide unobstructed views for early risers. "Site 4 is right on the lake and had a beautiful view of the sunrise," reports Alexandra J. about her experience at a primitive lakeside site during a holiday weekend.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The dispersed nature of primitive camping around Ozawkie creates natural separation between groups. "Camping spots along trail are really spread out and even if every spot is full you still feel secluded," mentions Zach C. about his experience at Woodridge Park.
Easy lake access: Most tent camping areas provide straightforward routes to water for swimming or fishing. "The campground is very well groomed, lots of amenities and it is really close to the lake via a short hike in the woods," describes Clay W., highlighting the convenient proximity to water recreation.
Fire ring availability: Established fire rings at most sites allow for safe cooking and evening campfires. "Awesome spot for weekend camping. Lots of fire rings available. Well maintained in the main camping area, as well as on the trail," reports James H. about his weekend stay.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Spring rain can significantly impact trail conditions and accessibility. "Keep in mind though that the trail gets very muddy if it has just rained!" warns Carly H. from her experience at Woodridge Park, suggesting waterproof footwear during wet seasons.
Limited water access: While some campgrounds provide drinking water, others require campers to bring their own supply. At Adam's Grove, campers should note there are "30 tent sites with no hookups" and a "$6 fee per site" according to JC C., who also mentions the boat ramp availability but lack of other amenities.
Seasonal insect activity: Mid-summer brings increased insect presence that affects camping comfort. One camper reported: "We went mid-June, and there had apparently been some type of butterfly hatching. They were small but quite aggressive (who knew!?), constantly swarming us."
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: For families new to tent camping Ozawkie, Kansas, start with the car camping areas before attempting walk-in sites. "This is my little families favorite camp ground. We very rarely run into anyone else while camping on the trail. We have myself, husband, son, and dog," shares Nikki S. about Woodridge Park, indicating its family-friendly environment.
Pack-in preparation: Walk-in sites require appropriate gear planning for children. "It our first time hiking in to a site (lots of work with our regular gear for a family of four, but worth it!)," describes Harmony H., suggesting families should consolidate equipment when using primitive sites.
Weekday visits: School-year weekdays offer the quietest family camping experience with fewer visitors. "Woodridge is never over crowded unless it's a holiday, so more often than not you could camp the whole weekend and potentially not see another person," notes Ashley F., highlighting the seclusion possible during non-peak times.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most camping near Ozawkie focuses on tent camping with minimal RV amenities. "Dry camping. Camping spots on the east side of lake …identified by firerings scattered here and there. Very pretty. Very quiet. Very primitive camping," explains Sue V. about her experience at Shawnee State Fishing Lake, indicating the rustic nature of available sites.
Boondocking considerations: Self-contained RVs have limited free overnight options near Ozawkie. "We scoped out this spot as a potential site to post up for Memorial Day Weekend 2022 in our square-drop camper," reports Whitney L. about Agency Conservation Area, noting the small gravel area limits larger rigs.
