Tent camping near Perry, Kansas offers primitive camping experiences on wooded lakeshores and open fields. Most campsites maintain substantial distance between sites, supporting privacy even during peak seasons. Weather conditions can significantly impact trail accessibility during spring and fall months, with trails becoming muddy and difficult to navigate after rain events.
What to do
Lakeside fishing: Multiple camping areas provide direct lake access for bank fishing. At Shawnee State Fishing Lake, campers can utilize scattered sites around the water. "Camping spots on the east side of lake identified by firerings scattered here and there. Very pretty. Very quiet," notes Sue V.
Hiking the trails: The 4.5-mile trail system at Woodridge Park connects dispersed primitive sites. Campers report "We love hiking the trail through the woods and by the lake even when we aren't camping—best trail I've been on in Lawrence," according to Harmony H.
Sunrise viewing: Certain lakeside tent sites provide excellent morning views. Alexandra J. describes her experience: "Site 4 is right on the lake and had a beautiful view of the sunrise. The main loop/parking area had some pit toilets that are very basic but honestly no worse than what I've seen at some paid campsites."
What campers like
Genuine seclusion: Most primitive sites offer substantial privacy from other campers. Josh M. describes Woodridge Park as "one of my favorite campgrounds. First come / first serve, plenty of space, potable water, nice toilets, tons of trails."
Off-trail exploration: Many campers recommend venturing beyond established sites. "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 and you can create your own living space," advises Ashley F.
Low traffic weekdays: Tent camping near Perry sees fewer visitors on non-holiday weekends. Nikki S. shares, "We very rarely run into anyone else while camping on the trail. We have myself, husband, son, and dog. Every now and then there will be a rowdy group of guys out there to party but for the most part it's pretty quiet."
What you should know
Season considerations: Late spring brings insect challenges at some locations. At Adam's Grove, camping costs $6 per site with boat access. One camper noted at Woodridge, "We went mid-June, and there had apparently been some type of butterfly hatching. They were small but quite aggressive, constantly swarming us."
Pack-in requirements: Tent sites along trails require carrying all equipment, sometimes for significant distances. James H. describes camping at Woodridge: "Awesome spot for weekend camping. Lots of fire rings available. Well maintained in the main camping area, as well as on the trail."
Limited facilities: Most sites provide only basic amenities. Sue V. describes Shawnee State Fishing Lake as "very primitive camping" and notes it's "far from the maddening crowd..although there were quite a few folks here Sunday evening…fishing and just relaxing..almost everyone left after sundown."
Tips for camping with families
Trail difficulty assessment: Before attempting hike-in camping with children, consider gear weight and trail conditions. One family shares at Woodridge Park: "It our first time hiking in to a site (lots of work with our regular gear for a family of four, but worth it!)."
Holiday crowd management: Major holidays bring increased visitor numbers. Clay W. recommends Woodridge Park noting "The campground is very well groomed, lots of amenities and it is really close to the lake via a short hike in the woods."
Site selection strategy: Families can find more privacy by hiking farther from parking areas. Carly H. advises, "There are so many spots you can set up at on the trail that nobody went to. Keep in mind though that the trail gets very muddy if it has just rained!"
Tips from RVers
Tent-only considerations: Most primitive camping areas near Perry cater exclusively to tent campers with limited vehicle access. At 110 Mile Park, campers should note the campground has limited facilities. "We stayed here several years ago and it was a quiet little camp site that nobody really went to," reports Nikki S.
Water access planning: Potable water is only available at select camping areas. JC C. explains at Adam's Grove: "30 tent sites with no hookups, $6 fee per site, Boat ramp. Adam's Grove does provide the closet boat ramp if you plan on picking up passengers off the beach near the dam."
Security awareness: Remote camping locations may occasionally attract unauthorized visitors. Prepare accordingly for security. Zach C. confirms the privacy of camping at Woodridge: "Camping spots along trail are really spread out."
