Chase State Fishing Lake operates as a free campground within the 383-acre Chase State Fishing Lake Wildlife Area, managed by Kansas State Parks & Recreation in the Flint Hills region. The 109-acre lake was created in 1954 and now provides lakeside camping spots scattered along the north shore, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables.
Cottonwood trees provide shade across most sites, while campers can set up within feet of the water's edge. Many sites include small fishing jetties that extend into the lake, giving anglers direct access and creating spots to sit in the evening. The single vault toilet facility serves the entire campground, which reviewers consistently describe as clean and well-maintained. Ralph M. notes the area works well for "watching the geese" and mentions "others looked like they were having some success" with fishing.
The lake supports bass, catfish, and bluegill, with a boat ramp and dock available for those bringing watercraft. A seasonal swimming beach operates during warmer months, and a reservable group shelter accommodates larger gatherings. Campers report minimal light pollution, making the area suitable for stargazing. A short trail leads to waterfalls at the dam's east end, while the nearby Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve offers additional hiking opportunities.
Sites operate on a first-come, first-serve basis and can accommodate both tent camping and RVs, though some spots work better for smaller rigs. The access road can be rough but remains passable for most vehicles when driven slowly. Weekend availability can be limited during peak season, with Cameron arriving on a Friday night in September to find "the last available campsite."
The campground sits less than three miles from Cottonwood Falls, where campers can find supplies and a dump station. For those exploring the broader region, campgrounds near Cottonwood Falls provide additional options in the Flint Hills area.
Description
The lake has a steep to shallow rocky shoreline and shallow mudflats on the upper end. Water clarity is usually very good. Eight fishing piers and many rock and brush fish attractors enhance angling opportunities at the lake. Fair to excellent populations of channel catfish, black bass, saugeye, crappie, white bass, and bluegill are found in the lake. Adjacent uplands primarily consist of native grass prairie. A diversity of wildflowers exists on the property and can provide outstanding viewing opportunities. Several small woody draws also exist on the property, primarily below the dam. Hunting is allowed but game populations are limited. The area does provide opportunities to hunt species such as quail, rabbit, white-tailed deer, turkey, squirrels, waterfowl, and prairie chicken. Camping is allowed (first come, first served) in designated areas along the north shore of the lake.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsChase State Fishing Lake is located in Kansas near Cottonwood Falls
Address
1130 Lake Road
Cottonwood Falls, KS 66846
Coordinates
38.36712607 N
96.5898704 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/20/26
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/20/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/20/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/20/26
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/20/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/20/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Chase State Fishing Lake needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 7 min from Topeka, KS
- 1 hr 7 min from Manhattan, KS
- 1 hr 13 min from Wichita, KS
- 1 hr 25 min from Lawrence, KS




























