Dispersed camping near Leavenworth, Kansas provides outdoor enthusiasts with access to several fishing lakes and conservation areas. The region experiences humid continental climate with hot summers reaching 90°F and cold winters that can drop below freezing. Spring and fall offer more moderate temperatures, making them ideal seasons for primitive camping. Terrain around these areas consists primarily of rolling hills and open grasslands with some wooded sections near water bodies.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Atchison State Fishing Lake offers peaceful angling with minimal crowds. "We're the only ones camping here. Some people come to fish during the day but it's dead at night," notes William M. in his review of the Atchison State Fishing Lake.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide the best chance to spot local wildlife. Reagan G. mentions about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, "This 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!"
Conservation activities: Crooked River Conservation Area supports various outdoor pursuits beyond camping. Gary S. describes it as having "Free camping in designated camping area per MO Dept of Conservation rules. Pit toilets and mowed area for camping. Hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities inside the area."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Campers consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere. Kevin C. writes about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "Camped here several days in late June. The were very few campers, even on the weekends. Many slept in their cars and left at first light. I assume they went fishing at the lake."
Natural settings: The undeveloped nature of these areas appeals to those seeking primitive camping. Sayler O. describes Elrod Mill Access as "a quiet, hidden gem for anyone who enjoys dispersed camping. There's no developed campground here, but you can camp, and that's part of what makes it special. It's very much off the beaten path."
No reservation requirements: Most dispersed camping locations near Leavenworth don't require advance bookings. Reagan G. notes about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "We were the only people in the area we parked at! It even had a privy to use for the bathroom!"
What you should know
Seven-day stay limits: Kansas state fishing lakes enforce shorter stays than many other states. Rick M. comments: "I'm starting to think that Kansas has a 7-day limit instead of 14 because this is the second time that a Kansas park official came to the door and said we need to leave. So I'm going to treat all Kansas places as a 7-day limit."
Minimal facilities: Prepare for primitive conditions. John G. notes about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "This is a small remote lake of about 160 acres water area. A county road takes you through the area and across the dam. There are gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road. The pit toilet is not well maintained."
Self-sufficiency required: Bring all necessary supplies. At Elrod Mill Access, Sayler O. points out: "There aren't any amenities—no bathrooms, no picnic tables, no hookups—so you'll need to come prepared and be self-sufficient. But if you like the idea of just pulling in, setting up camp, and enjoying nature, this is a great place to do it."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with facilities: For camping with children, select locations with at least basic amenities. Crooked River Conservation Area offers designated camping areas with pit toilets, making it more suitable for families than completely undeveloped sites.
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 85°F while spring brings significant rainfall. Pack accordingly with sun protection, extra water, and rain gear for unpredictable conditions.
Security considerations: Some dispersed camping areas have minimal oversight. Kevin C. mentions about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "The were very few campers, even on the weekends. Many slept in their cars and left at first light."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many roads to dispersed camping areas have challenging terrain. Rick M. advises about Atchison State Fishing Lake: "I took my skoolie there, and I thought we were supposed to park near the cabin, however, it's the part to the left of the cabin that we are supposed to camp at... We drove down 322nd Rd. to get to our site near the bathrooms across from the maintenance building. That road is gradual enough that I was able to get my short bus down it safely without tipping over."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limited options. John G. cautions about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "Not suitable for larger vehicles."
Boondocking essentials: With no hookups available, come prepared for full self-containment. Rick M. notes about Leavenworth: "Everything is as great as it can be, aside from missing trash cans, and ideally water and grey dump, but that's usually rare to find water and a grey dump at a free site."
