Pottawatomie County State Lake #2 provides free dispersed camping near Westmoreland, Kansas, located about 20 minutes from Interstate 70. This primitive camping area sits at approximately 1,200 feet elevation in the rolling Flint Hills region. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing while summer months typically reach 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for camping.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing opportunities: At Pottawatomie County State Lake #2, the calm waters make for excellent paddling. "Great for kayaking. Couple geocaches as well," notes Hanna W. The lake supports various fish species that keep anglers busy. "Had some beaver neighbors catching fish all night," reports Joe L.
Off-road vehicle adventures: The nearby River Pond Campground features dedicated ORV areas. "The orv area was amazing to take the jeeps out to! There's trails, mudding areas, and areas called ledges for climbing," shares Shaeli E. These areas are typically less crowded on weekdays.
Antique shopping: Mill Creek Campground provides easy access to Paxico's antique district. "The town is within walking distance of the campground, and it is worth walking (or driving) to it. The buildings are interesting architecturally, and the town is known for antiques," explains Myron C.
What campers like
Secluded spots with lakeside views: Rocky Ford Campground offers waterfront sites with more privacy. "This area is just what we like, lots of trees, secluded, quite, good for the dogs," writes Steve S. Spots along the water tend to fill quickly during summer weekends.
Spacious sites with mature trees: The campgrounds at Tuttle Creek provide ample room between sites. "Very Nice spacious sites with plenty of trees on Rocky Ford Side of Tuttle Creek River Pond State Park," mentions Dary R. The established trees provide natural barriers between campsites.
Winter camping options: Some pet-friendly campgrounds near Westmoreland remain open year-round. "I live near by and have gone every month of the year," shares Hanna W. about Pottawatomie County State Lake #2. "This is a great place to stay it's about 30 minutes 20 minutes off of I 70 of very clean well-maintained no one bug me at all," reports Chuck Y. about a December camping trip.
What you should know
Campground navigation challenges: The size of Tuttle Creek State Park can make finding specific sites difficult. "Stayed here on a night in transit and were really impressed. If you're arriving late, be forewarned that the campground is huge so a map is essential to find your spot," advises JL. First-time visitors should arrive during daylight hours.
Seasonal weather considerations: Summer heat and humidity can be intense. "Water smelled fishy," notes Tara I., which typically occurs during warmer months. Mosquitoes and chiggers become prevalent in summer, as Jessica C. warns: "Bring bug spray, as the mosquitoes and chiggers were biting!"
Wildlife encounters: Campers regularly report wildlife activity around sites. "We saw a beautiful owl that flew between the trees," shares Cori R. Beaver activity is common near the lake, with Joe L. noting "beaver neighbors catching fish all night." Secure food properly, especially at lakeside sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach access for children: River Pond State Park Campground offers swimming areas suitable for families. "There is a nice beach area to swim, we rented kayaks and canoes for a leisurely paddle around the lake," shares David H. The gradual shoreline makes it appropriate for younger children.
Playground availability: River Pond area includes play equipment for children. "This is a nice clean Kansas State Park. Lots of shady spots. Easy access to walking trails and water activities," notes Jeff H. Most family-friendly sites are located near these facilities.
Morning wildlife viewing: Early risers have the best chance to spot local wildlife. "Beautiful sunrise on the lake. Wildlife heard all around," Joe L. reports from Pottawatomie County State Lake #2. The quiet hours between 6-8am offer optimal viewing conditions for deer and waterfowl.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: Some sites at Randolph — Tuttle Creek State Park have utilities positioned inconveniently. "Pull throughs are not too level and services are on the wrong side so make sure your hose and electric cable are long enough," advises Leslie B. RVers should bring extension cords and water hoses.
Site leveling requirements: Many RV sites require adjustment. "Easy to pull in and find a spot, not very level but good enough," notes mark about Pottawatomie County State Lake #2. Bring leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs at the free camping areas.
Dump station availability: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Westmoreland provide dump stations for RVs. "Dump station also provided attached hose to allow black tank flush," reports Rick G. about Stockdale campground. Most dump stations are positioned near campground exits for convenient departure-day use.
Traveler
