Dispersed camping near Edgerton, Missouri offers primitive outdoor experiences in an area characterized by rolling hills, oak-hickory forests, and proximity to the Missouri River watershed. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with summer highs reaching into the 90s, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Most sites in this region require campers to be entirely self-sufficient with no amenities provided.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Atchison State Fishing Lake, visitors can access multiple fishing piers and lakeside spots throughout the 160-acre water area. "Some people come to fish during the day but it's dead at night," notes William M., highlighting the lake's popularity for daytime anglers.
Hunting seasons: Seasonal hunting is permitted in conservation areas following Missouri Department of Conservation regulations. The varied terrain supports different game species depending on the season, with special rules applying during peak hunting periods.
Wildlife observation: Elrod Mill Access provides undeveloped natural areas ideal for wildlife spotting. "It's very much off the beaten path, so what you get is peace, quiet, and a chance to camp out in the woods without the noise and crowds of more popular spots," reports Sayler O., emphasizing its seclusion.
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many camping areas remain uncrowded even during peak seasons. At Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, Reagan G. shares, "We were the only people in the area we parked at! It even had a privy to use for the bathroom!" This privacy extends across multiple sites in the region.
Lakeside views: Several camping locations offer direct views of water bodies. "This site was easy to find and had a beautiful view of the lake! There is a brochure available online to help find the designated camping areas," notes Reagan G. about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake.
Night quiet: Sites typically become very peaceful after sunset. Kevin C. reports about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "Camped here several days in late June. The were very few campers, even on the weekends. Many slept in their cars and left at first light."
What you should know
Strict stay limits: Kansas state fishing lakes enforce a 7-day maximum stay rather than the 14-day limit common elsewhere. "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," advises Rick M. about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake.
Facility maintenance issues: Toilet facilities at most sites receive minimal maintenance. John G. notes about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake: "The pit toilet is not well maintained," while Kevin C. adds they are "a little rough but manageable."
No waste disposal: Crooked River Conservation Area and other sites lack trash collection services. Rick M. points out: "There's sun by the bathrooms, and there's shade in the forested campground. Everything is as great as it can be, aside from missing trash cans, and ideally water and grey dump."
Tips for camping with families
Access considerations: Conservation areas have varying access road quality. For Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake, John G. warns: "A county road takes you through the area and across the dam. There are gravel pull off areas and a lakeside gravel road... Not suitable for larger vehicles."
Weather preparations: The region experiences significant seasonal temperature fluctuations, requiring appropriate gear for comfort and safety. Summer humidity can be intense while winter temperatures routinely drop below freezing.
Self-sufficiency requirements: Free camping near Edgerton, Missouri requires bringing all necessities. At Elrod Mill Access, "There aren't any amenities—no bathrooms, no picnic tables, no hookups—so you'll need to come prepared and be self-sufficient," explains Sayler O.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many dispersed camping areas have limited space and access for larger vehicles. John G. specifically notes about Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake that it's "Not suitable for larger vehicles."
Hill considerations: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. Rick M. shares about Atchison State Fishing Lake: "I took my skoolie there... 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."
Campsite selection strategies: Different areas within the same location offer varying conditions. "There's sun by the bathrooms, and there's shade in the forested campground," notes Rick M. about camping options at Leavenworth Kansas State Fishing Lake.
