Perry Lake serves as the primary campsite near Ozawkie, Kansas, located at approximately 900 feet elevation in northeastern Kansas. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow. Camping options range from lakeside sites to more secluded wooded spots, with most campgrounds open seasonally from spring through early fall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rock Creek Campground offers excellent access to Perry Lake with multiple fishing spots. "Perfect for weekend trip, with kids or/and dogs for swimming and hanging out," notes one camper at Rock Creek.
Hiking trails: Clinton State Park features extensive trail systems accessible from camping areas. "Visiting in non peak is as easy as driving in, finding a spot and paying your fees. Full bath houses, disc golf, archery range, and an abundance of hiking all around the camps," reports a visitor at Prairie Clover Campground.
Boating access: Many campsites provide direct water access for boats and kayaks. "We just had a family get together where we rented 6 sites. It accommodated us all!" mentions a reviewer at Perry State Park Campground, where the marina offers boat rentals for day use.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Slough Creek Park offers well-separated camping spots with mature trees. "Slough creek at Lake Perry is an Army Corps of Engineers campsite that has spread out sites with lots of mature trees. Some sites very near the water. Great access to boat ramps as well," notes a regular visitor to COE Perry Lake Slough Creek Park.
Waterfront access: Several loops at Bloomington East provide direct lake views and water access. "Our camping spot offered significant shade and a large grassy area for setting up chairs, cooking equipment, and outdoor games," reports a camper at Bloomington East.
Quiet atmosphere: Weekday visits typically offer a more peaceful experience. "Stayed here one night and wished we had booked a longer trip. The park is awesome, spacious sites and level. The park is well taken care of and very easy to get to from I70," mentions a visitor to Prairie Clover Campground.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer storms can impact water levels and access. "We camped in the Hobie Cove campground and the site itself was OK. Not a lot of choices for sites that are flat or offer a lot of shade," reports a visitor to Perry State Park Campground.
Seasonal limitations: Many facilities close during off-season. "Perry State Park is well maintained and manicured park. The primitive sites and RV sites are extremely close (especially the RV sites) other than that they have dedicated hammock sites!"
Varying privacy levels: Some campground loops offer more seclusion than others. "The entrance to the RV park was marked private property no trespassing owner authorization required and a phone number so I didn't go any further," cautions a visitor about one privately owned camping area near Ozawkie.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Shawnee County Campground includes child-friendly facilities. "Topeka KS Lake Shawnee Co. Park Campground This campground is a gem nestled in a beautiful county park. The park offers so many things- golf, disc golf, fishing with a heated dock, swim beach, boating, several playgrounds," notes a visitor to Lake Shawnee County Campground.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing is abundant, particularly bird watching. "We had a wonderful stay! Wonderful pull through spots, great views, and closer to the boat ramp!" mentions a camper at Rock Creek.
Safety considerations: Check water conditions before swimming. "This campground is beautiful. You can view the lake from just about every spot. The facilities are well cared for and the volunteer staff is amazing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully for level ground and shade. "Site 93, nice spot on end with extra privacy. Only complaint, cold shower in facility near marina. I would recommend a spot closer to marina if you're not in an RV," advises a visitor to Perry State Park Campground.
Hookup availability: Not all sites offer full connections. "Utility camping is a little close together for my liking. Still decent overall," notes a camper at Perry State Park Campground.
Dump stations: Plan accordingly for sanitation needs. "Nice state park on the lake can be crowded and a little crazy on weekends. Like most state parks no sewer hookups but easy access to dump station," reports a visitor to Perry State Park Campground.
Scout
