Perry State Park
00 review5441 West Lake Road, Ozawkie, Kansas, 66070, United States
Perry State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees include daily access fees charged in addition to camping fees. Primitive and utility sites available; additional charges for cabins.
About this campground
Nestled along the sweeping southwestern shores of Perry Reservoir, Perry State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern amenities and natural splendor. Here, 110 well-appointed sites await with electric and water hookups, while those seeking a more rustic experience can choose from primitive campsites tucked into quiet corners of the park. Cozy rental cabins offer a comfortable retreat after days filled with adventure—whether you're launching your boat at dawn, traversing winding hiking trails, exploring the park on horseback, or testing your skills on challenging mountain bike routes. As the sun sets over the water, settle in at one of the scenic picnic areas and keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that calls this lakeside paradise home.
Perry State Park offers multiple camping options, including modern, primitive, RV, and equestrian camping. Cabins are also available for rent.
Historical SignificanceThe story of Perry State Park remains woven into the fabric of the surrounding Kansas landscape, waiting to be discovered by curious visitors exploring its trails and shorelines.
Weather and SeasonsPerry State Park transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Winter brings crisp, cold days perfect for peaceful solitude and dramatic lake views, while summer bursts with life—though savvy visitors come prepared for the occasional mosquito. Spring and fall showcase Kansas at its finest, with mild temperatures ideal for all outdoor activities. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, from the fresh greens of spring to autumn's golden tapestry reflected in the reservoir's waters.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Perry State Park offers varied perspectives of the stunning reservoir views, with natural rises and falls that add interest to every trail and vista point.
Natural Features and SceneryPerry Reservoir serves as the crown jewel of this outdoor haven, its expansive waters creating a stunning backdrop for every adventure. Wildlife enthusiasts find themselves in paradise here, where patient observers are rewarded with sightings of diverse bird species, deer, and other native creatures. The park's extensive trail system winds through varied terrain—from lakeside paths perfect for sunset strolls to challenging mountain bike trails that test your mettle, and peaceful horse trails that meander through shaded groves. Visitors consistently rave about the spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant oranges and purples, reflecting off the calm reservoir waters in a daily natural light show.
Geological RegionSituated in Kansas's captivating Kaw Region, Perry State Park showcases the diverse beauty of the Central Plains. The southwestern shores of Perry Reservoir create a unique ecosystem where prairie meets water, resulting in remarkably varied landscapes. From wooded trails that provide cool shade to open meadows bursting with wildflowers, and from rocky outcroppings to gentle beaches, the park's geology tells the ancient story of Kansas while providing modern-day adventurers with endless terrain to explore. This rich tapestry of habitats supports an impressive array of wildlife, making every visit a potential nature documentary in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features are mentioned in the provided materials.
Sites SizeUser reviews suggest campsites vary in size, with some being spacious (e.g., "Really nice spacious camp spots" by Dan Piel) and others being small (e.g., "Somewhat small camp spots" by Kent Karlsson).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some areas are described as secluded, while others lack privacy. For instance, Steven Rightnar noted "big secluded sites," while other reviews mentioned sites being close together.
Total Campsites110 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest prioritizing lakefront sites and avoiding primitive sites near bugs.
Best CampsitesSpecific site recommendations not provided but cabins overlooking the lake are praised.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
9:00 AM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days although a 14-day extension may be obtained with written permission from the park manager. A five-day absence is required before returning to the park to camp again.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One camping unit per camp pad. One additional tent allowed for dependent children.
Groups
No specific details about group camping are provided in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCamping loops are described as well-maintained; sites are somewhat small according to user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNot mentioned explicitly but park office listed as contact point.
Walk-in AvailabilitySelf-serve stations for after-hours reservations; no explicit mention of walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy not explicitly detailed in the source.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Perry State Park offers diverse recreational opportunities. Activities include hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and swimming. The park also caters to horseback riders and mountain bikers with designated trails.
Hiking
The park features an extensive trail system with over 40 miles of trails, including "15 miles of mountain bike trails, 25 miles of horse trails, and a one-mile nature trail." LaMar Ware noted, "I went and hiked one of the many trails at this location...the scenery is amazing."Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity. The park includes a fish cleaning station and opportunities for both river and reservoir fishing. As Brian Abbott shared, the park offers "fishing and fish cleaning station. Relaxing, great summer fun."Swimming
Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Some reviews highlight issues with swimming conditions: "Water was a little iffy for swimming" (Joe "Zumkeller") and "The beach was dirty-ish" (Jordyn Johnson).Biking
The park includes 15 miles of mountain biking trails, which vary in difficulty.Boating
Boating is a significant draw, supported by two boat ramps with courtesy docks. Mike Brumley noted a drawback: "Some forgot to adjust boat ramp dock height to current water levels."Wildlife viewing
The park offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a popular spot for birders. For instance, "Perry provides an abundant wildlife watching opportunities. Many birders make the area a routine stop."Beach activities
Beach-related activities like sunbathing are available, though the quality of the beach may be inconsistent, as mentioned in user reviews.Winter Activities
Information about winter recreation is not specified in the source materials.Water Sports
Opportunities for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are noted. Ashley Devlin shared, "Great place for kayaking, canoeing."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills. Fires must be extinguished upon departure.
- Quiet hours are 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention bugs, geese droppings as a nuisance in certain areas, and snake sightings near trails.
Active alertsFlood damage noted in prior seasons; some primitive sites were unavailable due to repairs.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 0.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 7852463449. Emergency services for hospitals and police are not specified but presumed accessible through local cities like Topeka.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly defined in the source material.
Trash and recyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not detailed in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on the southwestern shores of Perry Reservoir, the campground provides ample access to water for recreational activities.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about outdated and dirty bathrooms, low water pressure, and bugs in certain seasons.
HostNot explicitly detailed in the source.
Campground Map
5441 West Lake Road, Ozawkie, Kansas, 66070, United States
Driving directionsFrom the East: Take I-70 W toward Topeka (Portions Toll). Take Exit 204 toward US-24/US-59/East Lawrence. At the stoplight, turn North (left) onto US-40 E/US-59 N/US-24 W for about 8 miles. US-59 N and US-24 W will split; Stay on US-24 W. Follow US-24 W for 10 miles (5 miles W of Perry). Turn North (right) onto HWY KS-237 and take this road for 4 miles. The State Park Office will be on the left side of the road. Detailed directions for other approaches available in the source.
The park is accessible via paved roads. Directions from multiple major routes are provided. Seasonal conditions may affect travel.Nearby places
Ozawkie (10 miles), Topeka (approximately 20 miles), Lawrence (approximately 14 miles).
Nearby supplies
Less than 1 mile: Fuel (boats and vehicles), retail stores (bait & tackle, firewood, drinks, snacks, seasonal concessions), marina, and lodging cabins. Within 10 miles: Dining, grocery stores, laundry facilities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Perry State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight diverse opinions, ranging from appreciation for the park's natural beauty and recreational facilities to criticism of restroom cleanliness and shower privacy. Positive aspects include spacious campsites and great lake views, while complaints often focus on bugs and outdated facilities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive highlights include clean campsites, scenic lake views, and a variety of recreational opportunities. For example, "Great place to camp and fish" (Mike Brumley) and "Beautiful lake, boat ramp,...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include dirty and bug-infested restrooms, the lack of privacy in shower facilities, and the outdated condition of some cabins and facilities. Karen Wiesner noted, "The bathrooms are...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing shower curtains for privacy and being prepared for bugs when using the restrooms.
Seasonal Insights
Summer visits often highlight issues with bugs and crowded areas, while off-season visits are noted for being quieter and more peaceful.
Camper Quotes
"The park itself is clean, pretty, and the campsites are pretty nice." (Kevin W); "Wonderful place to camp with your horse. Very nice facilities." (Ada Eldridge); "Great lake gotta check out...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Some reviews highlight specific campsite issues, such as Cougar Pass No. 37 being described as "the worst campsite, no rock, nothing but mud" (Allen Ladman).
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews addressing accessibility were provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be restrained. A user noted that the park is "very dog friendly" (Joyce Cooke).
Last updated August 10, 2025