Rustic camping near Lansing, Kansas centers around three fishing lakes and conservation areas within 30 miles. Temperatures in this region typically range from summer highs of 85-95°F to winter lows below freezing, with the camping season generally running April through October. The terrain varies from gently rolling hills around Leavenworth to steeper landscapes near Atchison, with elevations between 800-1100 feet above sea level.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake offers 160 acres of water for anglers. The lake sees regular morning activity, as noted by one camper who observed that many visitors "slept in their cars and left at first light. I assume they went fishing at the lake."
Wildlife watching: The conservation areas provide habitat for diverse wildlife. At Crooked River Conservation Area, campers can enjoy "hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities inside the area," according to visitor Gary S.
Water activities: Seasonal water recreation options exist at several lakes. When camping at Atchison State Fishing Lake, visitors often spend time at multiple piers. One camper reports that "some people come to fish during the day" while the evenings remain quiet.
What campers like
Privacy and solitude: Atchison State Fishing Lake receives high marks for its peaceful atmosphere. William M. notes, "We're the only ones camping here. Some people come to fish during the day but it's dead at night."
Accessible campsites: Designated camping areas are available at each location. At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, Reagan G. found their site "was easy to find and had a beautiful view of the lake! There is a brochure available online to help find the designated camping areas!"
Natural setting: The undeveloped nature of these sites appeals to those seeking rustic camping experiences. Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake features both "sun by the bathrooms, and shade in the forested campground," giving campers options for their preferred setting.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Be prepared for minimal amenities. Rick M. observed that at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, there are "no trash cans or water, but it's free." He added that "everything is as great as it can be, aside from missing trash cans, and ideally water."
Stay limits: Kansas state fishing lakes enforce camping duration restrictions. Rick M. advises, "I'm starting to treat all Kansas places as a 7-day limit" after park officials notified him it was time to leave at multiple locations.
Bathroom conditions: Expect basic pit toilets with varying maintenance. Kevin C. noted that at Leavenworth, the "bathroom was a little rough but manageable," while William M. found "clean pit toilets" at Atchison State Fishing Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Best campsites: Look for designated areas with lake views. Reagan G. shared their experience at Leavenworth: "We were the only people in the area we parked at! It even had a privy to use for the bathroom!"
Safety considerations: Some locations have steep terrain. At Atchison State Fishing Lake, be aware of the topography as one camper described "a massive hill," though noted that "322nd Rd. is gradual enough" for careful vehicle access.
Park rules: Familiarize yourself with specific regulations for each location. At Crooked River Conservation Area, camping is permitted only "in designated camping area per MO Dept of Conservation rules," with different regulations applying across state lines.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle access: Road conditions limit suitable RV sizes. John G. cautions that Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake is "not suitable for larger vehicles," despite having "gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road."
RV positioning: Smaller RVs can navigate with care. Rick M. successfully brought "a short bus down [322nd Rd.] safely without tipping over" at Atchison State Fishing Lake, but advises staying in designated areas "to the west, where there's a bunch of piers, sites, and bathrooms."
Camp layout: Understand where camping is permitted. One RVer initially thought "we were supposed to park near the cabin" at Atchison State Fishing Lake but learned "the website actually forbids anybody camping around the cabin," directing campers to use only the designated sites.
