Old Town
3.8966 reviews10419 PERRY PARK DRIVE, PERRY, KS 66073
Old Town
$12.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$22.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary by season and amenities. Peak season rates range from $16-$22 for campsites and $30 for group shelters. Non-peak season rates range from $12-$19. Additional reservation fees apply depending on booking method.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil northern shores of Perry Lake, Old Town Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its serene waterfront setting and legendary fishing waters. This peaceful retreat offers campers the perfect blend of relaxation and recreation, where mornings begin with mist dancing across the lake and evenings end with lines cast into waters teeming with bass, crappie, and catfish.
Old Town Campground accommodates various camping preferences, including primitive sites, tent camping, and RV spots with electric hookups. Group camping is also supported with a reserveable picnic shelter.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of living history at Perry Lake, where the massive dam completed in 1969 stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. This engineering marvel wasn't just built to create a recreational paradise—it serves as a crucial guardian against flooding for the mighty Missouri and Mississippi Rivers downstream. As you explore the area, you're camping on grounds that play a vital role in protecting communities across the heartland.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Kansas seasons at Old Town, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. While the region has weathered nature's extremes in recent years—from dramatic floods that showcase the lake's vital role to periods of drought that reveal hidden coves—these natural cycles have only enhanced the area's rugged character and resilience. Visitors should come prepared for the prairie's characteristic dry conditions and occasional weather surprises that make each camping trip an adventure.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates an accessible camping experience perfect for all skill levels and ages.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up to panoramic water views from nearly every angle—Old Town Campground enjoys an enviable position embraced by Perry Lake on two sides, creating a peninsula paradise for water lovers. The shimmering waters stretch as far as the eye can see, while native hardwoods provide dappled shade and frame stunning sunset vistas. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn or simply relaxing by the shore, the natural amphitheater of water and woodland creates an ever-changing canvas of beauty.
Geological RegionSet within the magnificent Perry Lake recreation area, campers discover one of the Midwest's premier water destinations. This impressive flood control reservoir, born in 1969, spans an incredible 12,000 surface acres with 159 miles of intricate shoreline that weaves through valleys and creates countless hidden bays perfect for exploration. The lake's vast expanse and varied depths have created diverse ecosystems that support abundant wildlife and offer endless opportunities for discovery, from secluded fishing spots to scenic paddling routes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details on accessibility options. Mixed reviews indicate potential challenges with site access due to maintenance issues.
Sites SizeMixed sizes. Some users noted sufficient space to spread out, while others described sites as close together.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies. Some sites are described as spacious and quiet, while others are noted to be tightly packed and noisy.
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in Loop E offer proximity to the water, while Loop A has more shade but issues with flooding damage.
Best CampsitesE13 and E15 are noted for scenic views and peaceful environments.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 4 PM
Check-out
Check-out by 4 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum of 14 days per visit
- campers must vacate for 24 hours before returning.
Guests Allowed Per Site
10 guests maximum per site.
Groups
The group picnic shelter can accommodate large parties or family functions, though specific guest and vehicle limits are not detailed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes 37 sites split into Loops A and E. Non-electric sites are lakeside; electric sites are in shaded areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 through November 30 for reservable camping. Water facilities are unavailable during the non-peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, via phone, or through associated apps.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable online only; first-come-first-served availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fee. Self-service modifications allowed after arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Old Town Campground offers a variety of activities centered around Perry Lake, including boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Hiking trails nearby provide options for different skill levels. Sailors and canoeists particularly enjoy Perry Lake for its reputation as a top sailing destination.
Hiking
The nearby 29-mile Perry Lake Loop Trail offers diverse terrain, ranging from gentle slopes to rugged elevation changes. Hiking is a popular activity for visitors.Fishing
Perry Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities. Common catches include white crappie, flathead catfish, walleye, white bass, channel catfish, and sauger.Biking
The area includes biking trails, but conflicts in information regarding e-bike usage were noted in reviews.Boating
Boaters of all types—sailboats, powerboats, and canoes—frequent Perry Lake due to its reputation as a top sailing lake in the region.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding 27,000 acres of public land dedicated to wildlife management offer opportunities to observe turkey, deer, quail, pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, duck, geese, and even migrating white pelicans.Winter Activities
No specific winter recreation options mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular, leveraging Perry Lake's expansive shoreline.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Use fire rings provided; dead and downed wood may be used for firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFlood damage has left dead trees and reduced shade. High winds could be hazardous due to dead trees.
Active alertsPartial closure due to flooding damage. Vault restrooms available during non-peak season; water facilities turned off.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.6 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
Nearest emergency services, including hospitals, are located in nearby towns such as Lawrence or Topeka.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Users are required to dispose of waste properly to maintain the site's cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is surrounded by Perry Lake on two sides, providing easy access to water activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include flooding damage, lack of shade, unclean restrooms, and poor site maintenance.
HostHosts on-site are generally helpful and friendly, though specific negative interactions have been reported.
Campground Map
10419 PERRY PARK DRIVE, PERRY, KS 66073
Driving directionsFrom Ozawkie, Kansas, travel 1.5 miles east on KS-92 and follow signs to the campground.
Park is accessible from KS-92. Seasonal road closures are in effect; gates are closed from 10 PM to 6 AM on Fridays, Saturdays, and holiday Sundays.Nearby places
Lawrence (approximately 20 miles), Topeka (approximately 25 miles), Kansas City (approximately 40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Casey's convenience store and gas station with diesel supply located about a mile away in Ozawkie. Additional supplies and groceries available in nearby towns.
Camper Reviews
3.9
66 reviews
Old Town has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a mix of positive and negative sentiments. While some campers appreciated the campground's cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and friendly staff, others reported maintenance issues, unkempt facilities, and noisy neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms during peak season, helpful and friendly camp hosts, scenic views of Perry Lake, and a quiet atmosphere.
Based on 66 reviewsCommon Concerns
Dirty and poorly maintained bathrooms, noise from long-term campers, tall grass and unclean sites, lack of shade due to flood-damaged trees, and maintenance issues such as mud holes and...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cleaning supplies for bathrooms (especially during off-season), avoid sites during rainy periods due to poor drainage, and select sites in shaded areas for comfort during hot weather.
Based on 66 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season reviews are generally more positive, highlighting accessible amenities and clean facilities. Non-peak season reviews note water shut-offs and maintenance issues, with vault toilets being...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The camping area was very clean, had a nice fire pit, and picnic table.' - Starchy Moto
2. 'New shower house.' - Lynn Heinen
3. 'The camp area has lost most of the camp sites along the shore,...
Based on 66 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific complaints include issues with mud holes in site A18, tall grass in site A16, and poor drainage in site E13. Positive reviews highlight scenic views from sites E15 and A09.
Based on 66 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for disabilities, though maintenance issues may pose challenges.
Based on 66 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed experiences. Some users appreciated pet-friendly policies, while others were frustrated by unleashed dogs disrupting their campsites.
Based on 66 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025