Ottawa State Fishing Lake offers campsites near Minneapolis, Kansas with basic amenities and minimal facilities. The lake sits within rolling prairie at an elevation of approximately 1,300 feet, characterized by open grasslands and small wooded areas around the water's edge. During summer months, temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with minimal shade at most camping areas, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for extended stays.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ottawa State Fishing Lake provides good bank fishing access with multiple small inlets ideal for anglers. As one camper noted at Ottawa SFL, "A 2 night stay on the Willow Loop. I was the only camper on the loop as the fishing folks came and went. Beautiful wooded area with no traffic sounds. Just the peaceful calls from the birds and bullfrogs."
Kayaking: The lake supports non-motorized boating with several access points. "Camped and fished here many times and enjoyed it every time I went, primitive camping no electric or water. Has pit toilets and you have to take your trash when you leave," reports a visitor at Ottawa SFL.
Mountain biking: The Wilson State Park area provides trail networks approximately 65 miles west of Minneapolis. A visitor at Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground shared, "The trails at this campground are super fun for mountain biking! Quick and flowy! Not really set campsites, more dispersed camping."
What campers like
Lake access: Campers value the ability to position campsites directly along the shoreline. A visitor at Big Bluestem noted, "Perfect spot with large shade tree to block western sun. 20' from water's edge with path to drop kayaks in, swim or even sit lawn chairs into the water to cool off. Noted as largest saltwater and clearest lake in Kansas."
Privacy: The spread-out nature of shoreline camping creates semi-private spots at many campgrounds in the region. A camper at Ottawa State Fishing Lake observed, "This place was all dried up theres barely enough to water to fish. I wouldn't go here. They do have a beautiful patch of sunflowers though."
Wildlife viewing: The quiet environment supports wildlife observation opportunities. According to a visitor, "Don't ruin this wonderful campground," reflecting the natural setting many campers appreciate.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Lake levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year, affecting campsite quality. One camper at Ottawa State Fishing Lake commented, "It's a nice place to camp kayak and fIsh during cooler weather."
Bathroom facilities: Most primitive sites feature basic pit toilets without running water. A camper at Salina Campground shared, "Restrooms were clean but not private. Pool needed to be cleaned from all the cottonwood."
Road conditions: Access roads may become difficult after rain. Many campgrounds near Minneapolis require driving on gravel roads that can deteriorate in wet conditions.
Storm preparation: The open prairie landscape offers little protection from severe weather. During storm season (April-June), monitoring weather forecasts is essential when staying at exposed lakeside sites.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative facilities: For families seeking more amenities, Salina KOA provides additional comfort. One visitor noted, "Nice location for a one-night stopover. Kids enjoyed the basketball court, playground, and swimming pool. Clean bathroom/showers."
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, particularly during summer evenings. A camper reported, "Mosquitos were bad at dusk and dawn. My kids loved the ping pong, basketball, inflatable jump pad, old metal playground and outdoor pool."
Recreation options: Airport Park Campground provides alternative recreation approximately 40 miles north of Minneapolis. According to one visitor, "It has a fenced in dog park electric hook up and Bolin asphalt and concrete in good condition and the pay is by donation. It does have Wi-Fi. Restrooms are nice and clean. There is a park and a disk golf course also."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most sites immediately around Ottawa State Fishing Lake lack hookups. For RVs requiring electricity, Walt's Four Seasons Campground offers alternatives. As one RVer noted, "The Wifi works great, especially after this is the first time I had wifi since leaving home. The pool, fishpond, kids playground, nature trail, and dog park are just some of the amenities."
Level sites: Many primitive camping areas require significant leveling for RVs. Look for developed campgrounds with prepared pads when traveling with larger rigs.
Supply planning: Limited services near primitive camping areas require bringing all supplies. A camper advised, "We drove all the way around the lake to find our perfect private spot and we basically had the whole road to ourself. There's pit toilets but no running water."
