Best Dispersed Camping near Olathe, KS
The outskirts of Olathe, Kansas feature several state fishing lakes that provide dispersed camping opportunities within an hour's drive. Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake and Osage State Fishing Lake stand out as popular destinations for campers seeking waterfront sites. Both locations accommodate tent and RV camping with basic amenities such as pit toilets and picnic tables. Osage State Fishing Lake, approximately 45 miles southwest of Olathe, receives particularly high ratings from visitors who appreciate its waterfront camping spots and peaceful atmosphere. Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, situated about 35 miles northeast of Olathe, offers a smaller, more remote experience with its 160-acre water area and gravel pull-off camping areas.
Stay limits and amenities vary across these fishing lake campgrounds. A 7-day camping limit appears to be enforced at Kansas state fishing lakes, with rangers actively monitoring compliance. Campers should prepare for primitive conditions, as neither location provides drinking water, electric hookups, or trash collection facilities. According to visitor John G., "This is a small remote lake... There are gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road. The pit toilet is not well maintained." While Osage State Fishing Lake is free to use, Leavenworth requires payment for overnight stays. Road conditions are generally good, with one camper noting, "Easy to drive through, well-maintained roads," though larger RVs may face challenges at Leavenworth.
Waterfront access represents the primary draw for campers at these locations. Visitors consistently mention the lake views and relative privacy between sites as highlights. One camper at Osage State Fishing Lake reported, "We found a great spot for our van that was right on the water and mostly secluded." Weekend crowding can occur, particularly at Osage, where another visitor noted it "got pretty busy on the weekend." Cell service is generally available, with Verizon reported to work well at Osage. Facilities receive mixed reviews, with toilets described as "in good shape" early in the week but "kind of rough by the end of the weekend." Campers should follow leave-no-trace principles, as one visitor reminded: "No trash so pack it out."
