Tent camping options around Hanover, Kansas include dispersed sites within a 40-mile radius of town. The area averages 32 inches of rainfall annually, creating seasonal variations in road conditions and site accessibility. Sites typically sit at elevations between 1,200-1,500 feet with moderate temperature fluctuations between seasons, making spring and fall popular camping periods.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 offers shoreline fishing with multiple species available. A visitor noted, "Great fishing. Was the only one camping but had some beaver neighbors catching fish all night."
Kayaking access: The lakes near Hanover provide calm waters ideal for paddling. At Pottawatomie County State Lake #2, one camper mentioned, "Great for kayaking. Couple geocaches as well. I live near by and have gone every month of the year."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer prime viewing opportunities. A reviewer at Bruning Dam Recreation Area stated, "Best suited for an outdoorsman that's hunting or fishing."
Trail exploration: Several sites feature walking paths around water bodies. A camper at Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 shared, "There's also a few trails around the lake that were nice to run on with the pups!"
What campers like
Peace and solitude: Weekday visits typically offer quieter experiences. A camper mentioned, "We ended up being the only people there by sunset."
Lake views: Bruning Dam Recreation Area provides scenic water vistas and basic facilities. A visitor described, "Only two small sites and one appears to have sewage. There's a bathroom available."
Convenient highway access: Several sites work well for travelers needing overnight stops. A reviewer stated, "Making a trip out west needed an easy stop for a night of sleep. Close enough off the highway, close enough to shopping."
Natural ambiance: Camping beneath tree canopies creates pleasant settings. A visitor to Pottawatomie described, "Dirt road access. Locals enjoy this space year round for shore fishing and hammocking. Lots of shade."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access can be challenging during wet seasons. A visitor to Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 noted, "Pretty rough access road. Gravel + washout + steep hill down to lake level."
Waste management: Pack-out requirements have increased at some locations. One camper warned, "No longer picking up trash."
Facility limitations: Bathroom maintenance varies by location and season. A camper reported, "The toilets weren't the cleanest but it was nice to have them."
Site availability patterns: Weekends see more local visitors than weekdays. A camper observed, "A few fisherman and kayakers out. Lots of shade and level spots for rvs."
Tips for camping with families
Pet considerations: While dogs are welcome at some sites, swimming may be limited. A visitor to Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 mentioned, "Can't swim but dog had fun in lake. Water smelled fishy."
Activity planning: Some locations offer geocaching opportunities alongside traditional camping activities. A local camper shared, "Couple geocaches as well. I live near by and have gone every month of the year."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule early morning walks for best animal sightings. One camper recalled, "We saw a beautiful owl that flew between the trees."
Water safety: Lake conditions can change seasonally, requiring supervision. A visitor noted, "Water smelled fishy. Lots of trash laying around."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as many sites have slight inclines. A camper at Feits Memorial Park warned, "Tried to find this park using the 'Get Directions'. The place it took us there is no park of any kind."
Seasonal planning: Spring visits offer moderate temperatures but potential mud issues. One RVer mentioned, "Easy to pull in and find a spot, not very level but good enough."
Site selection: Arrive early on weekdays for best placement. A visitor advised, "Plenty of camping on the lake. All camping sites on side of lake with entrance. Nice level sites."
Overnight considerations: Some locations work well for single-night stays during cross-country travel. A camper recommended, "This little lake worked perfectly for me. Not a huge detour from I-70 (maybe 20-30 minutes total)."
