Perry Lake features 160 miles of shoreline with tent camping options situated among oak and hickory forests. The area averages 40 inches of annual rainfall with heaviest precipitation in late spring, creating seasonal challenges for primitive campers. Temperatures typically range from the mid-20s in winter to upper 80s during summer months.
What to do
Fishing from campsites: Primitive sites at Shawnee State Fishing Lake offer direct lake access. "Far from the maddening crowd... fishing and just relaxing... Very pretty. Very quiet. Very primitive camping," notes reviewer Sue V., who enjoyed the solitude after day visitors departed.
Sunrise photography: Lakeside sites provide exceptional photography opportunities, especially during early morning. At Woodridge Park, Alexandra J. recommends "Primitive Site 4, where I spent the night. Site 4 is right on the lake and had a beautiful view of the sunrise."
Trail exploration: Beyond designated camping areas, numerous unmarked trails offer additional exploration. "It's highly suggested that you explore off the trail though so that you can see all the creative campsites that campers have built and established," suggests Ashley F. about the terrain around Perry Lake.
What campers like
Seclusion among sites: Tent sites positioned along trails provide privacy not found at main camping areas. At Adam's Grove, campers appreciate the 30 tent sites with no hookups for $6 per site, making it an affordable option for basic tent camping near Perry Lake.
Accessible primitive camping: Many sites balance wilderness feel with reasonable access. James H. describes Woodridge Park as an "Awesome spot for weekend camping. Lots of fire rings available. Well maintained in the main camping area, as well as on the trail."
Natural setting: The wooded areas around Perry Lake create a true wilderness camping environment. Josh M. calls Woodridge "one of my favorite campgrounds. First come / first serve, plenty of space, potable water, nice toilets, tons of trails..."
What you should know
Seasonal insect activity: Early summer brings specific challenges with insects. At Woodridge Park, Harmony H. warns: "We went mid-June, and there had apparently been some type of butterfly hatching. They were small but quite aggressive, constantly swarming us... We still had fun, but we'll go earlier or later next time."
Park closures: Always verify current status before planning trips. Nikki S. reports about 110 Mile Park: "We stayed here several years ago and it was a quiet little camp site that nobody really went to. They closed this campground in 2018 however."
Security considerations: Remote areas occasionally attract problematic visitors. Carly H. recounts: "We had a great experience here right up until the last morning when a hobo... knocked on our tent at 6 am... We got up and started packing to leave as we were talking to him because we felt we were in danger."
Tips for camping with families
Gear transport planning: Families should consider equipment weight when selecting primitive sites. Harmony H. from Hillsdale State Park notes: "It was our first time hiking in to a site (lots of work with our regular gear for a family of four, but worth it!)."
Quieter weekday visits: Families seeking peaceful camping should avoid holiday weekends. Nikki S. reports: "This is my little families favorite camp ground. We very rarely run into anyone else while camping on the trail. We have myself, husband, son, and dog."
Cleanup awareness: Teaching leave-no-trace principles remains important at Perry Lake sites. One reviewer observed: "Only downside is I wish people would clean up better after themselves" - a reminder for families to pack out all trash.
Tips from RVers
Limited services: RV campers near Perry Lake should prepare for minimal hookups. Most campgrounds like Riverfront Camping Club offer basic electric and water connections but limited sewage options.
Seasonal access: Unpaved access roads to primitive areas become challenging after rain. JC C. notes that certain areas provide closer boat ramp access: "Adam's Grove does provide the closet boat ramp if you plan on picking up passengers off the beach near the dam."
Generator guidelines: Many Perry Lake camping areas restrict generator use. Self-contained power systems are recommended for tent camping near Perry Lake when electrical needs exist beyond basic requirements.
