Rustic camping near Ozawkie, Kansas centers around several state fishing lakes offering primitive sites with minimal facilities. Located in the glaciated region of northeast Kansas, these areas feature rolling hills and oak-hickory woodlands surrounding man-made lakes. Elevation ranges from 900-1100 feet, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Osage State Fishing Lake, the lake provides multiple fishing piers and shoreline access points. "Woke up to a beautiful sunrise," notes Joseph J., who appreciated the lakefront location.
Night sky viewing: Clear Kansas skies offer excellent stargazing conditions. "Lovely nighttime sounds," reports Loren L. at Osage State Fishing Lake, who stopped while road-tripping off Interstate 70.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake bring active wildlife. "Many slept in their cars and left at first light. I assume they went fishing at the lake," writes Kevin C., who camped there for several days in late June.
What campers like
Peace and solitude: Weekdays provide the quietest experience at these lakes. "We're the only ones camping here. Some people come to fish during the day but it's dead at night," reports William M. about Atchison State Fishing Lake.
Waterfront access: Most sites at these lakes offer water views or direct access. "It seems that every spots are waterfront, it's a very nice and clean place, I love it," writes Ray L. about his experience at Osage State Fishing Lake.
Scenic settings: The natural landscape provides a peaceful backdrop. "This site was easy to find and had a beautiful view of the lake," shares Reagan G. about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, adding "We were the only people in the area we parked at!"
What you should know
Stay limits enforced: Kansas state fishing lakes have specific duration restrictions. "I'm starting to think that Kansas has a 7-day limit instead of a 14 because this is the second time that a Kansas park official came to the door and said we need to leave," explains Rick M. about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake.
Toilet conditions vary: Facilities receive minimal maintenance. "Pit toilets in good shape when we arrived Thursday afternoon but kind of rough by the end of the weekend," notes Lucy P. about her stay at Osage State Fishing Lake.
No amenities: These primitive sites lack standard facilities. "No trash cans or water, but it's free," summarizes Rick M. about Leavenworth, adding "that's usually rare to find water and a grey dump at a free site."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Find spots with adequate space for children. "We found a great spot for our van that was right on the water and mostly secluded," explains Lucy P. from Osage State Fishing Lake, who recommends: "Camp in main area to be near toilets, otherwise there's lots of loops near the water where you can find sites with more privacy."
Pet considerations: Policies vary by location. At Leavenworth, Reagan G. notes that the site "even had a privy to use for the bathroom," making it more convenient for families, while pets are allowed.
Weekend preparations: Expect more visitors during weekends. "Got pretty busy on the weekend and people had loose dogs that were causing some problems," reports Lucy P. about her otherwise "mostly peaceful" experience at Osage.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Not all areas accommodate large vehicles. John G. writes that Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake is "not suitable for larger vehicles" with only "gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road."
Road conditions: Road quality affects accessibility for larger rigs. "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," shares Rick M. about accessing Atchison State Fishing Lake.
Site spacing: Some locations offer adequate room between campers. Tyler D., who stayed at Osage State Fishing Lake, notes, "I only stayed here a night but wish I could've stayed longer," appreciating the peaceful atmosphere that comes with good site separation.
