Antelope Lake is a community lake located about two miles northwest of Morland, Kansas. It is an 80-acre lake built on on Antelope Creek, a tributary of the South Fork of the Solomon River. It was built in the 1930s as a WPA project.

Antelope Lake provides free primitive tent camping, with two shelter houses, 3 outhouses, and picnic tables, but no water or other amenities are available.

Contact: 785-421-3453.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Atchison County Lake provides camping facilities near Horton, Kansas. The structure, also known as "Clear Creek Lake", is located approximately 5 miles east and 2 miles south of town.

Atchison County Lake offers ample space for camping, with numerous grassy areas and share trees. icnic tables, shelters, pit toilets, and trash service are provided. There is a 5-day camping limit. There is no cost or permit required. See camping rules.

Contact: 785-548-7727.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Atchison State Fishing Lake is located near Atchison, Kansas, and consists of 248 surface acres of water surrounded by 182 acres of public wildlife area.

Atchison State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping on the south and east sides of the lake. There are picnic facilities and restrooms available on-site, and potable water is provided at the southeast entrance to the lake.

Contact: Kirk Thompson, 913-367-7811. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Barber State Fishing Lake is located near Medicine Lodge, Kansas, and features 77 water acres, along with 113 acres of land -- 100 acres of grassland and 13 acres of timber.

Barber State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere on the property. Picnic shelters and pit toilets are provided, but there is no potable water.

Contact: Todd Gatton, 620-895-6446. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Bates Grove Park is a community park located in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, just west of Highway 177, adjacent to the Cottonwood Falls waterfall, and a historic bridge over the Cottonwood River that is open to bicycle and pedestrian traffic only. Cottonwood Falls is also situated along the Flint Hills Scenic Byway, which winds through the heart of the Flint Hills, the nation's largest remaining tallgrass prairie.

The city of Cottonwood Falls allows cyclists to tent camp in Bates Grove Park, at no charge. There is a port-a-potty and picnic tables available, but no other amenities (though downtown Cottonwood Falls is only a block away).

Other nearby camping opportunities include Swope Park and the Chase State Fishing Lake.

Contact: City Clerk, city-cwf@sbcglobal.net, 620-273-6666.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Big Hill Wildlife Area is located near Parsons, Kansas, and provides about 1,280 acres of public land that is managed for hunting, fishing, trapping, wildlife photography, hiking, and backpack camping.

Big Hill Wildlife Area provides free primitive camping anywhere within the property, but there are no services of any kind available within the wildlife area.

There is nearby pay camping at Cherryvale Park, Mound Valley North, and Mound Valley South, and Timber Hill Park, all managed by the Corps of Engineers.

Contact: 620-331-6820. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Blue Mound, Kansas provides free tent camping at Blue Mound City Lake. The lake is located approximately 1 mile northwest of town, via Cassida Road (gravel road). The lake is small, at only 19 acres, and also serves as the city park.

Blue Mound City Lake allows tent camping at the lake, at no charge. There are no designated camping areas, but there are open areas along the southwestern shore suitable for tents. There are no services at the lake: no water, no electricity, no toilets, no trash cans, no picnic tables, no fire rings.

Contact: City Clerk, 913-756-2447.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Bourbon State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Elsmore, Kansas, and is "a picturesque 103-acre lake located five miles east of Elsmore. It lies in a deep valley surrounded by oak-hickory timber on Wolfpen Creek, a small tributary of the Marmaton River." There is an adjacent 277-acre Wildlife Area, with habitats that include native prairie, woodland, and a savannah.

Bourbon State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas along the southern and western shoreline. Picnic tables, barbecue grills, drinking water, and vault toilets are provided.

Contact: Monte Manbeck, 620-449-2539. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Brown State Fishing Lake is located near Robinson, Kansas, and consists of 60 surface acres of water surrounded by 188 acres of public wildlife area.

Brown State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere around the lake. There are picnic facilities and restrooms available on-site, but no potable water is provided.

Contact: Kirk Thompson, 913-367-7811.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Berentz-Dick Wildlife Area is located near Independence, Kansas, and is more commonly known as the "Buffalo Ranch", with 1360 acres of native grass, oak timber and ponds. "Hikers are not restricted to any trails and are encouraged to explore the rolling hills, woodlands and ponds."

Primitive camping is allowed, but is restricted to two parking areas, and no open fires are allowed, due to the large expanses of grassland, though contained gas grills and stoves may be used. Please take all trash with you.

Contact: 620-331-6820. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Butler State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Latham, Kansas, and features a 124-acre lake surrounded by a 196-acre wildlife area. The wildlife area is made up of scenic Flint Hills prairie that becomes a spectacle of color when numerous species of wildflowers are in bloom.

Butler State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere on the lake property. Picnic tables, picnic shades, pit toilets, and potable water are provided.

Contact: Kurt Grimm, 620-876-5730. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Camp Hunter is a community park located in Humboldt, Kansas. It is situated at 1st and Ohio Streets, on the bluffs above the Neosho River. After Missouri Cavalry burned Humboldt on October 14, 1861, Camp Hunter was built to protect against further Confederate attack, and the 7th Kansas Cavalry was stationed here. The First Indian Home Guard regiment, consisting of 1000 Indians and freed black slaves, served here as well.

The park provides facilities for both RV parking and tent camping. Amenities include electricity, restrooms, showers, water, shelters, picnic tables, trash bins, and free Wi-Fi Internet. Tent camping is free, but campers need to check in with the Humboldt Police Station, located at City Hall, 725 Bridge Street in downtown Humboldt.

The Prairie Spirit Trail State Park ends at Iola, about 6.5 miles north of Humboldt, and the Southwind Rail Trail connects Iola and Humboldt.

Contact: City Clerk, 620-473-3232.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Cave Park is located in Oxford, Kansas, on the eastern edge of the city, along the banks of the Arkansas River. It was named for a local resident, Dr. F.E. Cave.

Primitive overnight camping is allowed in designated areas of the park, at no charge, for one night only. There are 5 shelters in this park that can be used on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms in the park are available from April 15th to October 15th.

Contact: cityofoxford@sutv.com, 620-455-2223.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area is located near Ellis, Kansas, and provides 9,300-acres of public land surrounding a 4,500-acre reservoir. The Smoky Hill River, which originates in Eastern Colorado, intermittently flows into the reservoir. The area lies in the mixed grass prairie and chalk bluff region, from which the Wildlife Area gets its name.

Cedar Bluff Wildlife Area provides free primitive camping in four designated areas. Vault toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Land Refuge Areas are closed from September 1st through January 1st.

The adjacent Cedar Bluff State Park provides additional year-round camping opportunities, with more amenities (for a fee).

Contact: Kent Hensley, 785-726-3212. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Chase State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, and features a 109-acre lake surrounded by a 383-acre wildlife area. The Wildlife Area consists of primarily of native grass prairie, and a variety of wildflowers are abundant throughout the area.

Chase State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas along the north shore. Picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets are provided.

Other nearby camping opportunities include Bates Grove Park and Swope Park, both inCottonwood Falls.

Contact: Brent Konen, 620-767-5900. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

This roadside park is located along US-56 highway, about three miles east of Chase, Kansas, and five miles west of Lyons, Kansas.

The park features abundant shade trees and grassy areas for pitching a tent. There is also a shelter, picnic tables, and trash barrels. No water, restrooms, or electricity.

Note: This is (apparently) an unofficial campsite, with no signage that explicitly allows or prohibits camping at this roadside park.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Chautauqua Park is a community park located in Beloit, Kansas. The park is situated in a horseshoe bend of the Solomon River along the southern edge of town, just west of K-14 highway. It "is one of the prettiest parks in Kansas, and offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities", including swimming, fishing, tennis, picnicking, disc golf, and camping.

Chautauqua Park offers "free camping with electric and water hook-ups", and supports both RV and tent campers. Amenities include shade trees, restrooms, water, picnic tables.

Contact: info@beloitks.org, 785-738-3551.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Cheney Wildlife Area is located near Cheney, Kansas, along the northern shores of Cheney Reservoir. The Reservoir covers 9,537 surface acres with 67 miles of shoreline. The Wildlife Area consists of 5,439 land acres, with a mixture of prairie grasslands, riparian woodlands, an cropland.

It offers free primitive camping at two designated areas. Pit toilets are available, but no other facilities are provided.

In addition to the campsites available at Cheney Wildlife Area, the nearby Cheney State Park provides both improved and primitive camping facilities, for a fee.

Also nearby are the Cheney State Park Trails, which offer three biking trails totaling about 6 miles in length.

Manager: Stuart Schrag, 620-459-6922. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area is located near Great Bend, Kansas, and consists of nearly 20,000 acres of marshy lowland area populated by a great variety of birds and wildlife. "Cheyenne Bottoms attracts 45 percent of the shorebirds in North America and has been designated a wetlands of international importance."

Tent camping is allowed, but is restricted to a single primitive campground, located a half mile west of the area office. There are restrooms at the office, but no other services are available.

Contact: 620-793-3066. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Cimarron National Grasslands is huge expanse of protected land in the southwest corner of the state, located north of Elkhart, Kansas. The Grasslands are managed by the US Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Forest Service manages public lands in national forests and grasslands, and the Cimarron National Grasslands is the largest area of public land in the state, and the only national forest or grassland within Kansas.

The Grasslands contains the Cimarron National Grasslands Trails, which include the the 19-mile Santa Fe Companion Trail and the 10.5-mile Turkey Trail. Dispersed primitive camping is allowed anywhere along these trails.

There is no water and no services available along these trails, so be sure to carry everything you need. There is no fee for camping along these trails.

In addition to dispersed camping, the Cimarron Campground provides RV and tent camping, with amenities that include toilets, water, and picnic tables. The cost to camp within the Cimarron Campground is $7 per night.

For detailed maps and directions to the trailheads, stop by the Cimarron National Grasslands Ranger Station at 242 East Highway 56 in Elkhart (620-697-4621).

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Clark State Fishing Lake is located near Kingsdown, Kansas, and features a 300-acre lake surrounded by 900 acres of public land. It is located in "an extremely scenic setting of canyon country".

Clark State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere within the property. Pit toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. No ground fires are allowed, but fires are permitted in the metal fire rings and grills provided.

Contact: 620-227-8609. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Clay Center, Kansas, known as the "Best Kept Secret in the Midwest", provides camping facilities at several locations:

• Otto Unruh Stadium -- Two campsites with access to electricity and water. Donations accepted. [location]
• Huntress Park -- Six campsites with access to electricity and water. Donations accepted. [location]
• Clay County Fairgrounds -- Four campsites with access to electricity and/or water. $12-15 [location]
• East Highway 24 -- Six campsites with access to electricity and water. $12 [location]

Each of the locations may be used by either RV or tent campers. Fees are paid on the honor system, at a self-pay box at each site.

Contact: Parks Department: 785-632-3797.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Concannon State Fishing Lake is located near Garden City, Kansas, and features a 50-acre lake (often dry) and about 750 acres of grassland and marsh. "The large marshy area, in conjunction with the lake, provides a wonderful place to observe ducks, geese, herons and shore-birds."

Concannon State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping throughout the area. Pit toilets are provided, but no potable water is available.

Contact: Justin Hamilton, 620-276-8886. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Copan Wildlife Area is located near Caney, Kansas, and provides 2,360 acres for fish and wildlife management, situated along the Little Caney River, just upstream from the 5000-acre Copan Reservoir, located in Oklahoma.

Primitive camping is permitted anywhere within the Wildlife Area, but no other services are available. Please take your trash with you.

Contact: 620-331-6820. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Cowley State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Dexter, Kansas, and features an 84-acre lake surrounded by a 113-acre wildlife area. Fishing, hunting, bird watching, and photography are popular activities at the lake.

Cowley State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping along the north shore of the lake. Picnic tables and pit toilets are provided, but no potable water is available.

Contact: Kurt Grimm, 620-876-5730. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Douglas State Fishing Lake is located near Baldwin City, Kansas. The lake is 180 surface acres, surrounded by a 538-acre wildlife area.

Douglas State Fishing Lake offers free primitive camping in designated areas on the west side of the lake. Vault restrooms and picnic tables are provided. Fires are allowed only in provided metal fire rings.

Be sure to check out the nearby Ivan Boyd Nature Trail, as well as the Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park.

Contact: Kelly Rockers 913-845-2665. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Drake Park is a community park located in Burlington, Kansas, along the western banks of the Neosho River. "Drake Park provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy fishing, picnicking, sightseeing, and camping." The park is located just downstream from Burlington City Dam, which is a favorite spot for fishing and for watching the lovely waterfall.

Drake Park offers both RV and tent camping, and amenities include restrooms, showers, water, and picnic tables.

Tent camping is allowed in the grassy area next to the drive just south of the RV Camping along the driveway down to the river, at no charge.

Contact: sburlington@mchsi.com, 620-364-2996.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Ford State Fishing Lake is located near Dodge City, Kansas, and features a 45-acre lake, along with 260 acres of uplands and 10 acres of wetlands. The lake dam was originally built in 1936. The uplands and wetlands are made up of heavily timbered riparian areas along the creek, native grass on the side slopes, and old crop fields on the flatter upland terrain.

Ford State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in a designated area on the western shore of the lake. Pit toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Fire pits and picnic tables are provided.

Ford State Fishing Lake is also home to the Ford County Lake Trail, which offers "about 10 miles of twisty singletrack that carry riders through trees, brush, and gyp rock formations along the lakeshore."

Contact: Todd Gatton, 620-895-6446. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Franklin County Visitor Information Center provides free RV parking and tent camping in Ottawa, Kansas. The Visitor Information Center is located on the eastern edge of Ottawa, along K-68 Highway. The Visitor Information Center is open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm, Saturday from 9am-4pm, and Sunday from 12-4pm. The center provides a wealth of information about attractions and points of interest in Ottawa, Franklin County, and throughout Kansas. Donations are appreciated.

The rules for parking and camping at the Visitor Information Center are:

1. Reservations must be made by calling (785) 242-1411, those who have not made reservations will be asked to leave.
2. Dry camping only, no restroom facilities (restrooms and other services are available at a nearby convenience store).
3. Camping is at your own risk.
4. Absolutely no camp fires are allowed.

Tents may be pitched in the grassy area behind the Visitor Information Center. A picnic table is provided, but there are no other amenities available. Please clean up your own trash.

Ottawa is located at the crossroads of the Flint Hills Nature Trail and the Prairie Spirit Trail.

Contact: Franklin County Visitor Information Center, 2011 East Logan, Ottawa, KS 66067, 785-242-1411.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Ulysses, Kansas provides free tent camping at Frazier Park. The park is located on the southeastern side of Ulysses, one mile south of Highway 160 on Stubbs Road, then east on Frazier Road.

According to city code: "Persons are allowed to tent camp only in Frazier Park. Persons do not need a permit or to pay a fee to tent camp without electrical hookup for R.V. in this park." Amenities include restrooms and picnic areas.

The park also contains the Frazier Park Trail, with four miles of hard-packed dirt mountain bike trail with plenty of short hills, big drops, and fast grassy stretches.

Contact: cityofulysses@yahoo.com, 620-356-4400.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Geary State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Junction City, Kansas, and features a 99-acre lake surrounded by 180 acres of public land. The lake serves as a stopover area for migrating waterfowl in the fall and spring.

Geary State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. Picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets are provided.

Contact: Kristin Kloft, 785-461-5402. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Girard, Kansas offers free tent camping opportunities at Girard City Park (Winston Park). The park is located in the southwest quarter of the city, at Magnolia and Carbon Streets.

Facilities in the park include a shelter house, picnic tables, grills, and trash containers. Water is available seasonally. There are restrooms and shower facilities in the nearby city pool.

Girard is located along the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, and provides an overnight opportunity for thousands of touring bicyclists each year.

Contact: City Clerk, 620-724-8918.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Glen Elder Wildlife Area is located near Glen Elder, Kansas, along the shores of Glen Elder Reservoir (Waconda Lake). The Wildlife Area includes nearly 13,200 land acres around the 12,500-acre reservoir. The area features a large diversity of wildlife species, as well as being an important stop for migratory birds, and a winter local for bald and golden eagles.

Glen Elder Wildlife Area provides free primitive camping in six designated around the lake. Vault toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Campfires are allowed in provided metal rings only.

The nearby Glen Elder State Park provides additional camping opportunities, with more amenities (for a fee).

Contact: Chris Lecuyer, 785-545-3345. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Goodman State Fishing Lake is located near Ness City, Kansas, and features a 40-acre lake and a 225-acre upland wildlife area.

Goodman State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas on the west side of the lake. Pit toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Picnic tables and shelters are available.

Contact: Justin Hamilton, 620-276-8886. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Grass Park is a community park located in La Crosse, Kansas, between 1st and 2nd Streets, just west of US-183 highway. The park provides year-round recreation opportunities for citizens and visitors, and also houses the famous Kansas Barbed Wire Museum, devoted solely to the history and legend of this part of American history often referred to as the "Devils Rope".

The city of La Crosse allows cyclists to tent camp in Grass Park, at no charge. There are restrooms, picnic tables, and coin-operated electric hookups.

Contact: lacrosse@gbta.net, 785-222-2511.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Hain State Fishing Lake is located near Spearville, Kansas, and features a 35-acre lake (sometimes dry), along with 20 acres of uplands. Due to its shallow depth, the lake supplies excellent wetland habitat; waterfowl hunting is the primary use of the area.

Hain State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere on the property. Picnic shelters are provided, but there are no restrooms, and no potable water.

Contact: Todd Gatton, 620-895-6446. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Hamilton State Fishing Lake is located near Syracuse, Kansas, and features a 90-acre lake (often dry) and about 338 acres of upland short grass prairie surrounding the lake bed, 12 acres of riparian timber, and 226 acres of grassland.

Hamilton State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere within the property. A pit toilet is provided, but no potable water is available. Open fires are not permitted.

Contact: Tom Norman, 620-227-8609. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Hodgeman State Fishing Lake is located near Jetmore, Kansas, and features 254 acres of public land, with an intermittent lake that covers approximately 87 acres when full. "Approximately 167 acres of the area is native grass with timber along the drainage and lake edge."

Hodgeman State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere on the property. There is one vault toilet near the park entrance, but there is no potable water and no other services are provided.

Contact: Justin Hamilton, 620-276-8886. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Hollister Wildlife Area is located about 8 miles southwest of Fort Scott, Kansas, and provides 2,432 acres of "rolling range and pastureland, interspersed with native woodlands." The wildlife area is named for the ghost town of Hollister, which was located along the railroad, near the center of the property.

Primitive camping is permitted anywhere within the Wildlife Area, but no other services are available. Please take your trash with you.

If you're looking for a slightly less rustic camping experience, Elm Creek Lake is located just west of Hollister Wildlife Area, and offers primitive campsites, with some amenities, for a very modest fee.

Contact: 620-449-2539. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Idle Hour Lakes are located near Altamont, Kansas, and offers 20 campsites near two small lakes. The campsites may be used by either RVs or tent campers. "Make Idle Hour Lake your next stop to camp, fish, bicycle, hike and picnic."

Amenities include restrooms, showers, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, fire rings, and picnic tables. Two shelters are available for rent of $10 per day. A laundry facility is available for $2 donation per load.

If you're planning to bring a big group to the lake, please call ahead.

Cost: Free!

Contact: cityoffice@altamontks.com, 620-784-5612 Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm, or 620-784-5582 after hours.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Jamestown Wildlife Area is located near Jamestown, Kansas, and includes 4,796 acres "around the shallow marshes of Marsh Creek. Approximately 2,000 acres are wetlands and the remaining 2,700 upland acres are grasslands, cropland, scattered woodlands and tree windbreaks."

Free primitive camping is permitted in the designated Campground area on Gamekeeper Marsh, west of the dam. There is a pit toilet, but no other services are available. Camping is only allowed from September 1st through May 1st.

Contact: 785-753-4971. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Kelley Park is a community park located in Burlington, Kansas, along the western banks of the Neosho River. Kelley Park "is a popular park for Burlington and Coffey County activities of all kinds, and is the site for the oldest consecutively held annual fair in the State of Kansas."

Kelley Park offers both RV and tent camping, and amenities include restrooms, water, barbecue grills, and picnic tables.

Tent camping is allowed in the grassy area along the river at no charge.

Contact: sburlington@mchsi.com, 620-364-2996.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Kingman State Fishing Lake and Byron Walker Wildlife Area is located near Kingman, Kansas, and features a 144-acre lake, along with nearly 4,500 acres of wildlife area, which includes diverse habitat such as riparian woodlands, native prairie, wetlands and marshes, and cropland. The lake and surrounding wildlife area are ranked among the top areas for wildlife viewing in Kansas.

Kingman State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. Picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets are provided.

Contact: Troy Smith, 620-532-3242. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Kiowa State Fishing Lake is located near Greensburg, Kansas, and features a 21-acre lake surrounded by 43 acres of public land. It is located just northwest of the town, and the lake's water level is maintained by pumping ground water from a well. The lake offers outdoor recreation opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and camping.

Kiowa State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere on the property. There is one vault toilet, and several picnic tables and picnic shelters, but there are no other services available.

Contact: Todd Gatton, 620-895-6446. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The La Cygne Wildlife Area is located near La Cygne, Kansas, at the north end of La Cygne Reservoir. The area is mostly wooded uplands, with some grass meadows and crop fields.

It offers free primitive camping at two sites. Pit toilets are available, but no other facilities are provided. The nearest services are La Cygne or Linn County Park.

Manager: Phil Buser, 913-352-8941. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Lake Parsons provides camping facilities near Parsons, Kansas. The 980-acre lake is located about 4 miles north, and 3.5 miles west of the city, and provides "a peaceful retreat for campers, a fun-filled beach for summer swimmers and a sportsman's paradise for hunting and fishing. This year-round recreational area draws visitors from across the region."

Lake Parsons offers both RV and tent camping. You must get a permit from the City Clerk's Office or from the Lake Supervisor. The tent camping fee is $5 daily for campsites without electricity; There is "no charge for camping in areas where no improved pad is available".

Contact: 620-421-7031.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Leavenworth State Fishing Lake is located near Tonganoxie, Kansas, and consists of 160 surface acres of water surrounded by 341 acres of public wildlife area.

Leavenworth State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping areas on both sides of the lake. Campfires are allowed but must be contained in provided metal fire rings in designated areas. Pit toilets are provided, but no electricity or running water is available.

Contact: Kelly Rockers, 913-845-2665. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Lincoln Park is a community park located in Pittsburg, Kansas. The park provides year-round recreation opportunities for citizens and visitors, including swimming, basketball, disk golf, baseball, fishing, horseshoes, mini golf, tennis, and much more. Pittsburg is the eastern-most community in Kansas along the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail.

The city of Pittsburg allows cross country cyclists to tent camp in Lincoln Park at Shelter #1. Cyclists should notify the Parks and Recreation Department at 620-231-8310 when they are coming so that the restrooms will be open. There is no fee but donations are welcomed, and can be made in the Parks and Recreation office in Lincoln Park at 710 W. 9th Street.

Address: 813 Memorial Drive, Pittsburg, KS 66762. Contact: 620-231-8310.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Linn City Park is an RV/tent campground provided by the city of Linn, Kansas. It is located on Park View Drive, in the northeast part of town.

Primitive camping is permitted in Linn City Park, at no charge. Drinking water, picnic tables, shelters, restrooms, and showers are provided.

Contact: 785-348-5839

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Logan, Kansas provides free tent camping at Logan City Lake. The lake is located approximately 2-1/2 miles south of town, and is a 25-acre structure surrounded by a public use area. "Nestled between the hills, it offers a quiet getaway for fishing, boating, camping, or picnics. A playground area is available along with a covered picnic area and electrical outlets for campers or RVs."

Logan City Lake allows tent camping at the lake, at no charge. There are also RV sites, with utilities, for a fee. The lake offers vault toilets and picnic shelters, but additional services or amenities at the lake are limited.

Contact: City Clerk, 785-689-4865.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Logan Wildlife Area is located near Russell Springs, Kansas, and provides 271 acres of public land, along with an (intermittent) 25-acre lake. The majority of the area is rangeland with a mixture of short-grass and mid-grass prairie, though trees such as cottonwood, elm, and willow can be found along the lake shoreline.

Logan Wildlife Area provides free primitive camping in three designated areas along the east and west shores. A vault toilet is provided, but no potable water is available.

Contact: Kent Hensley, 785-726-3212. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Louisburg Middle Creek State Fishing Lake is located near Louisburg, Kansas.

It offers free primitive camping on the north side of the lake only. Facilities include a vault toilet, gravel pullouts for camping, picnic tables, and fire rings. Electricity and drinking water are not available. Fires are authorized only in the provided metal fire rings and grills.

The nearby Rutlader Outpost offers tent campsites with modern amenities, for a fee.

Manager: Tim Schaid, 913-783-4507. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Lyon State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Reading, Kansas, and features a 140-acre lake surrounded by a 442-acre wildlife area. The property is situated on the eastern fringe of the scenic Flint Hills of Kansas, and Native tallgrass prairie comprises most of the habitat.

The lake was built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). "Their work is most visible today in the native limestone guard posts on the dam and the inlaid riprap on the face of the dam and spillway. A native stone shelterhouse was constructed in 1951."

Lyon State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. Picnic tables, grills, and pit toilets are provided. Potable water is not available.

Contact: Don Patton, 620-699-3372. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

This RV/tent campground is provided by the city of Lyons, Kansas. It is located about 1/2 mile south of US-56 Highway, in the southwest corner of the city, near the 4-H Grounds.

The campground is primarily designed to serve RV travelers, but tents are allowed as well. Amenities include restrooms, showers, water hydrants, picnic tables, shade trees, and plenty of grassy areas. There is no cost, although donations are accepted.

The address is 600 West Taylor, Lyons, KS 67554.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Area is located near Boicourt, Kansas. The area "lies in the floodplain of the Marais des Cygnes River and is unique for its quantity of managed wetlands and bottomland hardwood forest. The primary focus of the area is wetland and waterfowl management."

It offers free primitive camping at two sites. No facilities are provided. The nearest services are La Cygne or Pleasanton.

Manager: Karl Karrow, 913-352-8941. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Marion Reservoir is located near Marion, Kansas, on the Cottonwood River, and "encompasses 6,200 acres of water surrounded by another 6,000 acres of public lands. The lake is located just north of U.S. Highway 56 between the communities of Marion and Hillsboro, Kansas." Camping, boating, fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching are popular at the lake.

Marion Reservoir offers camping in the following locations:

• Cottonwood Point -- 94 campsites, located along the north-eastern shores of the lake. Restrooms, showers. Open all year. $17-$20 per night. [location]
• French Creek Cove -- 20 campsites, located along the western shores of the lake. Restrooms. Open all year. $12 per night. [location]
• Hillsboro Cove -- 52 campsites, located along the western shores of the lake. Restrooms, showers. Open all year. $17-$19 per night. [location]
• Marion Cove -- 6 campsites, located at the northeast corner of the dam. Restrooms. Open all year. $8 per night. [location]

In general, campsites can accommodate an RV or a vehicle, but may be used by bicycle tent campers as well. 4 of the sites at Marion Cove are for tent campers only. Campsites contain picnic tables, grills and/or fire-rings, utility tables, sun-shelters and gravel parking pads. The "fee season" runs from March 15 until November 15; sites are presumably non-fee (free) the remainder of the year.

Contact: 620-382-2101. Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Marquette, Kansas offers free tent camping at Marquette City Park. The park is located between 4th and 5th, and between Lincoln and Washington Streets. Marquette is located in central Kansas, in the valley of the Smoky Hill River, and was settled by Swedish immigrants in the 1860s.

Free overnight camping is provided in the park, and guests have access to public restrooms and a swimming pool with shower facilities. The park also features a picnic shelter, as well as electrical and gas outlets.

Nearby attractions include the Kansas Motorcycle Museum, the Marquette museum, the Railroad Depot Museum, the Range School Museum, and the historic Opera House Block.

Contact: City Clerk, marquette@ks-usa.net, 785-546-2205.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Mary Frame Park is a community park located in Liberal, Kansas, just south of US-54 highway, between Pennsylvania Avenue and New York Avenue.

Mary Frame Park offers both RV and tent camping, at no cost. Overnight camping is limited to one night only. No open fires are permitted except in provided fire rings or grills. No alcoholic beverages are permitted.

Contact: City Hall, 620-626-2206.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Marysville, Kansas provides free tent camping at Marysville City Park. "The City Park in southern Marysville is on a block that has a sod house, a little red school house, a 1901 Union Pacific Depot, a steam engine, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a kids park featuring a castle theme. There are two shelter houses with picnic tables."

According to city code: "A designated area has been set aside in the city park to accommodate those individuals who desire to camp overnight in a tent or similar structure. A map, designating the area, will be maintained by the city clerk. No fee will be charged for camping overnight in a tent or similar structure."

Contact: City Clerk, cityclk@bluevalley.net, 785-562-5331.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

McPherson State Fishing Lake and Maxwell Wildlife Refuge are located near Canton, Kansas, and features a 46-acre lake, 260 acres of public-use area, and 2,254 acres of rolling native prairie. The lake is "set in a very scenic location in the southeastern tip of the Smoky Hills on the upper end of the Gypsum creek drainage and has a nice wooded campground on the west shore".

McPherson State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. Picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets are provided. No camping is allowed on the fishing piers.

A self-guided nature trail is open year-round on the southwestern corner of the lake, but bicycles are prohibited from the trail. Maxwell Wildlife Refuge is home to one of the largest remaining wild buffalo herds, with about 200 bison, as well as a herd of about 50 elk on the refuge.

Contact: Cliff Peterson, 620-628-4592. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Meade, Kansas offers free tent camping at Meade City Park. The park is located on the eastern edge of town along US-54 / US-160 highway. The park offers "the constant rustle of the big cottonwoods that produce a welcome shade" along with a 125-foot-deep artesian well that "forms one of the most perfect drinking fountains" with water that is clear and cold". The historic shelter house and stone walls were built in the 1930s by WPA crews, from native rock.

Free overnight camping is provided in the park. Restrooms, picnic areas, and drinking water are available.

Contact: 620-873-2091.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Sun Dance Park is located at the southwest corner of Melvern Lake, near Reading, Kansas. It is managed by the Corps of Engineers.

Camping at Sun Dance Park is free, and includes a campground with 30 gravel camp pads, plus a picnic area with a shelter available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Three pit toilets are available, and potable water is available.

Other campgrounds at Melvern Lake include Arrow Rock Park, Coeur d' Alene Park, Outlet Park, Turkey Point Park, and Eisenhower State Park, all pay sites.

Melvern Lake is also home to the Melvern Lake Trails, which features several mountain bike trails, covering a total of over 30 miles of trail wandering through the prairie and into rocky ravines and woodlands.

Contact: Melvern Lake Project Office, Melvern@usace.army.mil, 785-549-3318. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Miami State Fishing Lake is located near Fontana, Kansas. The facility is a 118-acre lake surrounded by 149 acres of timbered hillsides, and bordering the Marais des Cygnes River.

The lake offers free primitive camping on fourteen earthen piers that extend into the lake. Pit toilets are available, but no other facilities are provided. Fires are allowed in fire-rings where provided. The nearest services are in La Cygne. Access to the lake is via gravel roads.

Manager: Lucas Kramer, 913-783-4507. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

West Rolling Hills Park provides campsites on the southern shores of Milford Lake, near Junction City, Kansas. "With rolling terrain and great views of the lake and dam, West Rolling Hills is a wonderful place to bring the famity for a campout! A playground and swimming beach for the kids; hot showers and flush restrooms for the grownups."

West Rolling Hills Park offers both RV and tent campsites. Each full campsite can accommodate an RV or a vehicle, but may be used by tent campers as well. The campground includes restrooms, showers, picnic shelters, and drinking water. The fee campground is only open from April 15 through October 31. Sites start at $12 per night.

West Rolling Hills Park also offers three free camping loops, which are open throughout the year, for primitive tent camping only.

Other campgrounds at Milford Lake include Curtis Creek Park, Farnum Creek Park, School Creek Park, Timber Creek Park, and Milford State Park. Some of these sites offer only pay camping, while others offer a mixture of pay and free tent camping opportunities.

Also be sure to check out the nearby Milford Lake Trails, which offer over 35 miles of trails open for hiking, backpacking and biking.

Contact: Milford@usace.army.mil, 785-238-5714. West Roliing Hilis Campground: 785-784-4447. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Mined Land Wildlife Area is located near Pittsburg, Kansas, and includes 14,500 acres, with 1,500 acres of water and 13,000 acres of land. This area tells the story of "environmental devastation and successful habitat restoration", and is made up of "rugged country dotted with over 1,000 strip-mine lakes, steep-sided hills and dense vegetation".

Free primitive camping is permitted anywhere on the property except within designated refuge areas. There is a pit toilet, but no other services are available.

Contact: 620-431-0380. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Montgomery State Fishing Lake is located near Independence, Kansas, and is a 105-acre lake surrounded by 303 acres of public land, located approximately four miles south and one mile east of Independence. The lake is built on Coal Creek, which is a small tributary of the Verdigris River, and "many scenic bluffs are found along the creek, and the stream and lake shores are covered with oak-hickory woodlands and stands of blackjack oak interspersed with a mixture of native rangelands."

Montgomery State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. There are pit toilets, but no electric, water, or sewage hookups, showers, or drinkable water is available.

Contact: Darin Porter, 620-331-6820. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Nebo State Fishing Lake is located near Holton, Kansas, and consists of 32 surface acres of water and 43 acres of public wildlife area. The land is characterized by native grass, riparian habitat, and border areas with woody vegetation with a mix of warm and cool season grasses.

Nebo State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping anywhere around the lake. A pit toilet is provided, but no potable water is available.

Contact: Kirk Thompson, 913-367-7811. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Nemaha Wildlife Area is located near Seneca, Kansas, and includes 705 acres. The area was originally known as "Nemaha County State Park", and included a lake, but the state took over the property, drained the lake, and established a wetland.

Free primitive camping is permitted in two designated areas. There is a vault toilet, but no other services are available.

Contact: 785-363-7316. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Neosho State Fishing Lake is located approximately 6 miles south and one mile west of St. Paul, Kansas, and is a 92-acre lake built in 1927. It "has been well developed over the years and has become an attraction for the vacationing or weekend camper/angler". It is also known as "Lake McKinley".

Neosho State Fishing Lake has three sites designated for primitive camping, and amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, barbecue grills, a water hydrant, and a shelter house.

Contact: 620-449-2539.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Neosho Wildlife Area is located near St. Paul, Kansas, and is a man-made marsh "designed and managed to furnish a resting and feeding place for migratory waterfowl, and covers 3,246 acres, of which 1,748 acres are water contained in fifteen man-made pools.".

Free primitive camping is permitted in designated areas. There are no services available.

Contact: 620-449-2539. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Athletic Park is a community park that provides free tent camping in Newton, Kansas.

Camping is allowed in Athletic Park for a maximum of two nights. For RVs, there are electrical hookups and a washout station. For tent campers, there are numerous trees and grassy areas, as well as shelters, picnic tables, grills, and trash barrels. There are restrooms open seasonally, scattered throughout the park.

In addition to Athletic Park in Newton, Harvey County provides nearby camping opportunities at Camp Hawk, East Park, and West Park.

Contact: Newton Park Department, 316-284-6083

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Old Route 66 Park is a roadside park located between Baxter Springs, Kansas and Riverton, Kansas along historic Route 66 in southeast Kansas. The park is maintained by the National Park Service, and is supported by the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which "helps states and communities provide outdoor recreation and open space for all".

There is also a historical marker at the park, which commemorates the Baxter Springs Massacre of 1863, in which nearly a hundred men died in a Civil War battle.

Old Route 66 Park provides shelters, picnic tables, grills, trash cans, and ample grass and shade trees. There is no water, restrooms, or electricity.

Old Route 66 Park is located near both the Frontier Military Historic Byway and the Route 66 Historic Byway

Note: This is (apparently) an unofficial campsite, with no signage that explicitly allows or prohibits camping at this roadside park.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Osage State Fishing Lake is located near Carbondale, Kansas, and consists of 140 surface acres of water and 366 acres of "tall grass prairie with numerous wooded draws and slopes". The lake is managed as a combination wildlife and fishing area, and "lies in a small, pleasant valley of the Osage Cuestas".

Osage State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. There are two public toilets on the west side of the lake.

Contact: 620-699-3372.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Ottawa State Fishing Lake is located near Minneapolis, Kansas, and consists of 111 surface acres of water surrounded by 617 acres of public land, including a wildlife area.

Ottawa State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas around the lake. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. Campfires are allowed only in established fire rings. No potable water is available.

Contact: 785-658-2465. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Old Military Trail Campground is located at the northeastern part of Perry Lake, near Ozawkie, Kansas.

The Old Military Trail Campground is described as a "walk-in hiker's campground" that is free to use for primitive camping, and is located along the Perry Lake Trail (designated for hiking only, no bikes allowed on the trail). The campground is accessed via an old park service road, up a steep hill beyond a gate to keep motor vehicles out.

The campground provides a water hydrant, picnic shelter, fire rings, and pit toilet facilities. Carry out any trash.

Other campgrounds at Perry Lake include Rock Creek Park, Longview Park, Old Town Park, Slough Creek Park, and Perry State Park.

Also be sure to check out the nearby Perry Lake Bike Trail, which offers nearly 24 miles of singletrack designed and built specifically for serious mountain biking.

Contact: perry.lake@usace.army.mil, 785-597-5144. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Old Town Park provides campsites along the eastern shores of Perry Lake, near Ozawkie, Kansas.

Old Town Park offers both RV and tent campsites. Each full campsite can accommodate an RV or a vehicle, but may be used by tent campers as well. The campground includes restrooms, showers, picnic shelters, and drinking water.

Sites start at $12 per night from May 1 through September 30; from $10 per night the rest of the year.

Other campgrounds at Perry Lake include Rock Creek Park, Slough Creek Park, Longview Park, and Perry State Park.

Also be sure to check out the nearby Perry Lake Bike Trail, which offers nearly 24 miles of singletrack designed and built specifically for serious mountain biking.

Contact: perry.lake@usace.army.mil, 785-597-5144. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Pleasanton, Kansas provides free tent camping at East City Lake. The lake is located approximately one mile northeast of town, and is a 127-acre structure surrounded by a public use area. The lake offers public fishing, picnicking, and camping for both residents and visitors.

Camping areas are provided on both the north and south shores of the lake. There is no charge to camp at East City Lake. Picnic tables, trash cans, and porta-potties are provided, but there is no potable water or electricity available.

Pleasanton also offers free tent camping at Pleasanton West City Lake.

Contact: City Clerk, 913-352-8257.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Pleasanton, Kansas provides free tent camping at West City Lake. The lake (actually two small adjacent lakes) is located just west of town, along East 1050th Road (Lakes Lane), and offers public fishing, picnicking, and camping for both residents and visitors. There is also a walking trail from which bicycles are prohibited.

A designated camping area is provided, and camping is prohibited near shelter houses. The camping area is just an open grassy field. There are nearby toilets, but no potable water is available. There is electricity in the shelter houses.

Pleasanton also offers free tent camping at Pleasanton East City Lake.

Contact: City Clerk, 913-352-8257.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

110-Mile Park is located along the northern shore of Pomona Lake, near Vassar, Kansas. It is managed by the Corps of Engineers.

Camping at 110-Mile Park is free, and is open all year. It includes 25 campsites, plus pit toilets and potable water is available.

Other campgrounds at Pomona Lake include Carbolyn Park, Cedar Park, Michigan Valley Park, Outlet Park, Wolf Creek Park, and Pomona State Park. Cedar Park is free; the others are pay sites.

Pomona Lake is also home to the Black Hawk Trail, located on the north side of the lake at 110-Mile Park, which is a 32-mile equestrian and mountain biking trail through a variety of wooded, riparian and grassland areas. Also nearby is the Flint Hills Nature Trail, a rail-to-trail that runs east-west for about 117 miles, connecting Osawatomie in the east and Herington in the west.

Contact: Pomona Project Office, Pomona@usace.army.mil, 785-453-2201. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Cedar Park is located along the northern shore of Pomona Lake, near Vassar, Kansas. It is managed by the Corps of Engineers.

Camping at Cedar Park is free, and is open all year. It offers 8 primitive campsites, plus pit toilets; no potable water is available.

Other campgrounds at Pomona Lake include 110-Mile Park, Carbolyn Park, Michigan Valley Park, Outlet Park, Wolf Creek Park, and Pomona State Park. 110-Mile Park is free; the others are pay sites.

Pomona Lake is also home to the Black Hawk Trail, located on the north side of the lake at 110-Mile Park, which is a 32-mile equestrian and mountain biking trail through a variety of wooded, riparian and grassland areas. Also nearby is the Flint Hills Nature Trail, a rail-to-trail that runs east-west for about 117 miles, connecting Osawatomie in the east and Herington in the west.

Contact: Pomona Project Office, Pomona@usace.army.mil, 785-453-2201. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 1 is located near Westmoreland, Kansas, and the property features 190 acres, of which 24 is the lake itself. The lake was built in the 1930s by the Kansas Forestry Fish and Game Commission, the W.P.A. (Works Progress Administration), and the Kansas Highway Commission.

The lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas around the lake. One restroom is provided, but no potable water is available. Campfires are allowed in provided metal rings only. There is a short hiking trail that takes you on a scenic hike around the west side of the lake.

Contact: Blake Klema, 785-539-9999. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 2 is located near Manhattan, Kansas, and the property features 247 acres, of which 75 is the lake itself. The area surrounding the lake is a wildlife refuge, predominately riparian timber with some native grass on the upland area.

The lake provides free primitive camping in designated on the west side of the lake. Vault toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Campfires are allowed in provided metal rings only.

Contact: Blake Klema, 785-539-9999. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Pratt Sandhills Wildlife Area is located about 13 miles west and 6 miles north of Pratt, Kansas, and consists of 5,715 acres of sandhill prairie with "moderate to steep dune topography".

Camping is permitted in the parking areas only, and there are no services available. Refer to the map (in the brochure) for parking lot locations. " Township roads in the area are loose sand, so good judgement must be used to avoid getting stuck." There are also several miles of trails available within the wildlife area.

Contact: 620-895-6446. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Prescott, Kansas provides free tent camping at Prescott City Lake. The lake is located approximately 1 mile east and 1/2 mile south of town, off of Vernon Road. The lake features 25 acres of surface water, and public access along the east and south sides of the lake.

Tent camping is available anywhere along the south side of the lake, at no charge. There is a picnic shelter, picnic tables, fire rings, a stone hearth, trash cans, and vault toilets. There is no potable water or electricity available.

Contact: City Clerk, 913-471-4521.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Rock Creek Lake is located about one mile south and 2-1/2 miles west of Fort Scott, Kansas, and offers approximately 50 surface acres of water, surrounded by public land that serves as a wildlife habitat, "as well as a quiet haven for fishermen, canoers, and campers."

Tent camping is permitted, at no cost, in designated areas on the northeast shores of the lake. There are shade trees, grassy areas for tents, and trash cans, but no potable water or electricity is available. There is a 4-day camping limit at Rock Creek Lake.

Contact: City Clerk, 620-223-0550.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Rocky Pond Recreation Area is located in Belleville, Kansas. "Originally used as a water supply for steam engines on the Rock Island Railroad, Rocky Pond was later deeded to the City of Belleville for recreational use. Rocky Pond and the surrounding land covers 48 acres."

Rocky Pond Recreation Area offers both RV and tent camping. "Camping in tents and use of the shelters and picnic areas are free, on a first-come first-serve basis." Facilities include restrooms and showers. Open fires are not allowed.

Contact: City Office, 785-527-2288.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Rooks State Fishing Lake is located near Stockton, Kansas, and offers 67 acres of surface water and 246 acres of land. The lake was built in 1934 by the Works Progress Administration and the State Forestry, Fish, and Game Commission.

The lake provides free primitive camping in four designated camping areas along the east shoreline of the lake. A vault toilet is provided, but no potable water is available. Picnic tables are also provided in the campgrounds.

Contact: Michael Zajic, 785-425-6775.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The Santa Fe Safari Campground is located at Santa Fe Park in Chanute, Kansas. Although the campground is primarily intended for RVs, tenters may camp there as well.

Amenities include restrooms and shower facilities. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.

"Tents may be put up to the south of the restrooms and shower facility, in the grassy area, at no charge but with a limited stay of one night only."

Contact: 620-431-5250.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Oberlin, Kansas offers free primitive camping at Sappa Park, which is located two miles east of Oberlin, and provides a Frisbee golf course, over five miles of walking trails, a shelter house built by the Works Progress Administration in the 1930s, playground equipment, and primitive camping areas. There is no drinking water available at the park.

Sappa Park was originally called Sappa Creek State Park. In about 1969, the city of Oberlin acquired the approximately 400 acre park. There was originally a lake, but over the years silt filled up the lake and it was drained. Only recently has part of the lake been restored as a wetlands.

Contact: Decatur County Chamber of Commerce, 785-475-3441 or 785-475-2217.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Shawnee State Fishing Lake is located near Silver Lake, Kansas, and consists of 135 surface acres of water and 400 acres of public wildlife area, which is dominated by native warm season grasses, forbs, and scattered brushy areas.

Shawnee State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas on the east side of the lake. Pit toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Campfires are allowed in provided metal rings only.

Contact: Kelly Rockers, 913-845-2665. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Sheridan State Fishing Lake is located near Hoxie, Kansas, and offers 60 acres of surface water and 188 acres of timber and native grass public wildlife area.

The lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas along the shoreline of the lake. Vault toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided at many of the sites.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Spring River Wildlife Area is located near Galena, Kansas, and "comprises 424 acres on the western edge of the Ozark Plateau, along the Spring River. The area is highly regarded for its Ozarkian characteristics and wildlife diversity."

Free primitive camping is permitted in the area. There are no services available.

Contact: 620-231-3173. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of St. Francis, Kansas offers free primitive camping at Roadside Park, which is located south of US Highway 36, behind the Emergency Building.

Roadside Park features restrooms, showers, electricity, water, picnic tables and shelters.

Contact: 785-332-2961.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Sterling Lake Campground is located in Sterling, Kansas, next to beautiful Sterling Lake. The campground features both RV and tent camping facilities. Sterling is located along the TransAmerica Bicycle Trail route.

The city of Sterling allows cyclists to tent camp at the lake, at no charge. Amenities include restrooms, showers, picnic tables, water, electricity, and ample trees and grass. No reservations; first come, first serve.

Contact: 620-278-3423 or 620-278-3411.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

The city of Stockton, Kansas provides free tent camping at Stockton City Park. The park is located on the west edge of town, along US-24 highway.

Stockton City Park allows tents to be placed on any grassy area, at no charge. There are also RV sites, with utilities, at $13/night. The park also contains restrooms, showers, walking trails, and a playground.

Contact: City Clerk, 785-425-6703.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Swope Park is a community park located in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, just east of Highway 177 on East Pearl Street. It offers swimming and shelter house facilities, and is home to the county fair grounds and the Veterans Memorial Park. Cottonwood Falls is situated along the Flint Hills Scenic Byway, which winds through the heart of the Flint Hills, the nation's largest remaining tallgrass prairie.

Swope Park provides both RV and tent camping facilities. The city of Cottonwood Falls allows cyclists to tent camp in Swope Park, at no charge; RV'ers pay $15/night. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.

Other nearby camping opportunities include Bates Grove Park and the Chase State Fishing Lake.

Contact: City Clerk, city-cwf@sbcglobal.net, 620-273-6666.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Texas Lake Wildlife Area is located about 13 miles west of Pratt, Kansas, and consists of approximately 1200 acres of natural wetland, with 186 acres of marshlands, 963 acres of grassland, 11 acres of timber, and 40 acres of cropland. "Water conditions may vary greatly depending on weather, season, and management objectives."

Camping is permitted in the parking areas only, and there are no services or facilities available. Refer to the map (in the brochure) for parking lot locations.

Contact: 620-895-6446. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Carnahan Creek Park is located along the eastern shores of Tuttle Creek Reservoir, near Olsburg, Kansas. Tuttle Creek is the second-largest lake in Kansas, with 12,500 acres of water and about 100 miles of rugged, wooded shoreline to explore. Carnahan Creek Park is owned by the US Army Corps of Engineers, but operated by Pottawatomie County.

Carnahan Creek Park provides free dispersed tent camping. There are vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills available, but no other services. The park contains several miles of trails, but they are restricted to horses and pedestrians.

Other campgrounds at Tuttle Creek Reservoir include

• Cedar Ridge Park -- 50 primitive sites
• Fancy Creek Park -- 200 primitive sites, plus 26 RV sites
• Randolph Park -- 50 primitive sites, plus 20 RV sites
• River Pond Park -- 200 primitive sites, plus 312 RV sites and 4 cabins
• Stockdale Park -- 12 campsites, for either RV or tent camping
• Tuttle Creek Cove Park -- 57 campsites, for either RV or tent camping

Contact: Tuttle.Creek@usace.army.mil, 785-539-8511. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Stockdale Park is located along the western shores of Tuttle Creek Reservoir, near Manhattan, Kansas. Tuttle Creek is the second-largest lake in Kansas, with 12,500 acres of water and about 100 miles of rugged, wooded shoreline to explore. Stockdale Park is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Stockdale Park provides 12 campsites that may be used for either RV or tent camping. There are toilets, showers, and drinking water available. Cost is $18 per night.

Other campgrounds at Tuttle Creek Reservoir include

• Carnahan Creek Park -- Free dispersed camping
• Cedar Ridge Park -- 50 primitive sites
• Fancy Creek Park -- 200 primitive sites, plus 26 RV sites
• Randolph Park -- 50 primitive sites, plus 20 RV sites
• River Pond Park -- 200 primitive sites, plus 312 RV sites and 4 cabins
• Tuttle Creek Cove Park -- 57 campsites, for either RV or tent camping

Contact: Tuttle.Creek@usace.army.mil, 785-539-8511. Brochure, Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

This roadside park is located along US-24 highway, on the western edge of Hill City, Kansas. According to the Graham County web site:

There is a very fine roadside park at the west edge of town on Highway 24 that offers free overnight camping to tourists or visitors to the area.

There roadside park contains two picnic shelters, picnic tables, an information kiosk, and plenty of grassy space for camping or picnicking, as well as a few shade trees.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

This roadside park is located along US-54 highway, on the northeast corner of US-54 and Satchel Creek Road, about two miles east of Rosalia, Kansas.

Amenities at the roadside park include picnic tables, grills, and shade trees. There are no restrooms or water available. There are nice, level, shaded grassy areas for camping or picnicking.

Note: This is an unofficial campsite. There is no signage that explicitly allows or prohibits camping at this roadside park.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

This roadside park is located along US-54 highway, on the south side of the highway at the intersection of US-54 and County Road FF50, about four miles northwest of Toronto, Kansas, and about 1-1/2 miles west of the Verdigris River.

Amenities at the roadside park include picnic tables, a covered picnic shelter, modern restrooms with water and electricity. There is plenty of grassy space for camping or picnicking, with lots of trees and shade.

Note: This is an unofficial campsite. There is no signage that explicitly allows or prohibits camping at this roadside park.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

This roadside park is located along US-56 highway, on the southeast corner of US-56 and E 2200 Road, about three miles southeast of Baldwin City, Kansas. It contains historical markers as well as a replica log cabin that is used as a community meeting place.

There are no amenities at the roadside park, but there is plenty of grassy space for camping or picnicking, with lots of trees and shade.

Note: This is an unofficial campsite. There is no signage that explicitly allows or prohibits camping at this roadside park.

The Ivan Boyd Prairie Preserve is located just south of the roadside park, and includes original Santa Fe Trail ruts. The Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park is located about 1/4 mile further south along E 2200 Road, and commemorates the Battle of Black Jack, considered by many to have been the first battle of the American Civil War. The park has picnic tables, but no other amenities, and does not allow camping.

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Washington State Fishing Lake is located near Washington, Kansas, just south of the Nebraska state line. The 65-acre lake is surrounded by 352 acres of public land, and the lake serves as a stopover area for migrating waterfowl in the fall and spring.

The lake provides free primitive camping in designated on the east side of the lake. A vault toilet is provided, but no potable water is available. Campfires are allowed in provided metal rings only.

Contact: Kristin Kloft, 785-461-5402. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Webster Wildlife Area is located near Stockton, Kansas, and offers over 1600 surface acres of water, surrounded by over 7600 acres of public wildlife area. Located in the central flyway, Webster Reservoir is a stopping place for many species of waterfowl and shorebirds and offers excellent opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts for hunting, viewing and photography.

Webster Wildlife Area provides free primitive camping in five designated camping areas, and walk-in camping is allowed everywhere except where posted otherwise. Vault toilets are provided, but no potable water is available. Picnic tables are also provided in the campgrounds.

The adjacent Webster State Park provides additional camping opportunities, with more amenities (for a fee).

Contact: Michael Zajic, 785-425-6775. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Wilson State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Buffalo, Kansas, and consists of a 119-acre lake surrounded by 172 acres of public land, located approximately one mile southeast of town. The lake is built on Woodruff Creek, and situated near the intersection of US-75 and K-39 highways.

Wilson State Fishing Lake provides free primitive camping in designated areas. There are vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills, but no potable water or other amenities are available.

Contact: Scott Barlow, 620-637-2748. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Woodridge Park is located near Lawrence, Kansas, on the western shores of Clinton Lake. It is managed by the Corps of Engineers, and here is their description of the facilities:

Woodridge Park is a primitive camping area for tents only. The park is free of charge and is open year-round; however, during the winter months (November 1 through March 15), the gate to Woodridge Park is closed. Tent camping and hiking are still allowed, but vehicles must be parked outside the gate and visitors must hike in. Drinking water and a vault toilet are still provided year-round.

Visitors can camp in the large mowed area near the entrance to the park or along the 4.5-mile trail. There are numerous small clearings along the trail that make excellent camping spots, but the Corps of Engineers asks that people use only pre-existing campfire rings. The trail is quite scenic as it travels through woods, meadows and hay fields, and meets up with the lakeshore intermittently.

The Corps of Engineers manages five additional campgrounds at Clinton Lake. All of these are pay sites, and intended primarily for RVs. Prices range from $12 to $18 per night.

In addition, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism manages Clinton State Park, which provides over 400 campsites. There are some primitive sites, but most are for RVs. All are pay sites.

Contact: Operations Manager, Clinton@usace.army.mil, 785-843-7665. Lake Map

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com

Woodson State Fishing Lake and Wildlife Area is located near Toronto, Kansas, and consists of a 180-acre lake surrounded by 2,705 acres of public land, located approximately 5-1/2 miles east of town. "Nestled in the northern edge of the spectacular Chautauqua Hills of southeast Kansas, Woodson is an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts, from bird watchers and hunters to fishermen and campers."

Woodson State Fishing Lake provides both RV and free primitive camping in 30 sites around the lake. Amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills, and potable water.

Contact: Scott Barlow, 620-637-2748. Brochure

[ Learn More ]

Visit Kansas Cyclist to learn more about bicycling in Kansas and neighboring states. © KansasCyclist.com