Slough Creek
4.01188 reviews10419 PERRY PARK DRIVE
Slough Creek
$16.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$26.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on the type of site and season. Standard Electric sites range from $20 to $26 per night, Standard Nonelectric sites are $16 per night, and Group Standard sites are $50 per night. Additional fees for cancellations, modifications, and late arrivals apply.
About this campground
Welcome to Slough Creek, the crown jewel of Perry Lake Recreation Area where adventure meets comfort. As the area's largest and most sought-after campground, Slough Creek caters to every camping style imaginable. Whether you're a minimalist backpacker seeking one of our secluded walk-in tent sites, an RV enthusiast looking for convenient electric and water hookups, or planning a memorable gathering at our spacious group camp, you'll find your perfect basecamp here.
Slough Creek Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV setups with hookups, and group campsites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape transformed by human ingenuity and nature's resilience. When the Perry Lake Dam rose from the prairie in 1969, it didn't just create a flood control system – it birthed what locals lovingly call 'paradise on the plains.' This engineering marvel turned rolling Kansas farmland into a recreational wonderland, where the marriage of conservation and recreation has created a legacy that continues to draw families, anglers, and nature lovers from across the heartland.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-April through mid-October, Slough Creek comes alive as campers flock to enjoy the moderate Kansas temperatures that make outdoor adventures so inviting. Spring arrives with occasional refreshing rains that paint the landscape in vibrant greens, while summer settles in with warm days perfect for lake activities. Seasoned visitors know to pack rain gear for those spontaneous spring and early summer showers that roll through, leaving behind crystal-clear skies and that distinctive fresh-earth scent that makes camping so memorable.
ElevationNestled in the gently rolling terrain of northeastern Kansas, the campground rests at a comfortable prairie elevation that offers easy access and pleasant camping conditions throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle lapping of Perry Lake's waters on one side of your campsite while songbirds greet the dawn from the dense forest canopy on the other. Slough Creek offers the best of both worlds – the expansive blue waters of Perry Lake stretching to the horizon and the intimate embrace of mature Kansas hardwood forest. This unique positioning creates a natural amphitheater of serenity where deer wander through campsites at dusk, great blue herons fish in the shallows, and the evening chorus of wildlife provides nature's own soundtrack to your camping experience.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of northeastern Kansas's unexpected forest oasis, Slough Creek showcases the region's surprising ecological diversity. The lush woodlands surrounding Perry Lake stand in beautiful contrast to the stereotypical Kansas prairie, offering visitors a chance to explore the state's hidden forested treasures. Born from the 1969 damming project that created Perry Lake, this geological transformation turned ancient creek valleys into a water wonderland, where layers of limestone and shale tell the story of prehistoric seas while supporting today's thriving ecosystem of oak, hickory, and cottonwood trees.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not provide specific details about accessibility features; however, some reviews praised the cleanliness and accessibility of certain facilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating various setups, including RVs and tents.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy, with some group campsites offering secluded areas. However, individual campsite privacy may depend on location within the campground.
Total Campsites174 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites like S089 and S088 if privacy is a concern, as they are combined and close together. S017 is ideal for lake views and leveling.
Best CampsitesS017 and S021 are highly recommended for water views, though S021 lacks shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
4:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days on a site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 10 people per site, along with either one wheeled unit and one tent or two tents total.
Groups
The group campsite is designed for large parties or family functions and provides privacy from the main campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into several loops, including Wort, Southpoint, and Bur Oak.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season is from April 15 to October 15. Out-of-season reservations are not accepted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned, though multiple reviews suggest that walk-in reservations are less common than they used to be.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made before arrival to avoid penalties. A $10 cancellation fee applies to all reservations, and late cancellations may forfeit the first night's fee.
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
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Slough Creek Campground offers a variety of activities, catering to both water enthusiasts and land-based recreation seekers. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, and boating.
Hiking
The campground features access to the 29-mile Perry Lake loop trail, offering diverse terrain and difficulty levels. "For hikers, the 29-mile Perry Lake loop trail offers a range of terrain and difficulty." Additionally, the 2.5-mile Thunder Ridge Trail provides a shorter hiking option with scenic views. "The Thunder Ridge Trail is approximately 2.5 miles and offers a diverse array of terrain and scenery."Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Perry Lake, with abundant species including white crappie, flathead catfish, walleye, white bass, channel catfish, and sauger. "Perry Lake offers excellent fishing: White crappie, flathead catfish, walleye, white bass, channel catfish and sauger are in abundance throughout the lake."Boating
Boating activities are popular at Perry Lake, with opportunities for sailing, power boating, and canoeing. "Perry Lake has a reputation for being one of the best sailing lakes in the region; however, boaters of all types will enjoy the many opportunities offered here."Wildlife viewing
The area offers ample wildlife viewing opportunities with 27,000 acres of public lands home to turkey, deer, quail, pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, duck, and geese. "Turkey, deer, quail, pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, duck and geese are all found on these federal lands."Winter Activities
Winter activities such as ice fishing or other cold-season opportunities are not mentioned.Water Sports
The campground supports water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, and potentially paddleboarding, although specific mentions are limited to general boating activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be confined to rings provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Dead and downed wood may be used for firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention tall grass leading to insect issues (e.g., chiggers) and potholes in the Wort Area. Wildlife such as skunks and snakes have been observed around brush piles.
Active alertsSeasonal closures for maintenance or due to flooding are possible; users should check Recreation.gov for updates.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.6 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
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned. The nearest city, Perry, may have basic emergency services, and Lawrence or Topeka would likely have hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - October 15, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available via dumpsters located in the park. However, some reviews mentioned the removal of trash dumpsters, adding inconvenience.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Perry Lake, offering opportunities for sailing, canoeing, and fishing.
Common complaintsBathrooms and shower houses are frequently cited as dirty and poorly maintained, with issues including cold water, peeling paint, and cobwebs.
HostMultiple reviews describe hosts as friendly, though some negative feedback suggests inadequate maintenance and oversight.
Campground Map
10419 PERRY PARK DRIVE
Driving directionsFrom Highway 24 in Perry, Kansas, take Ferguson Road north for 7 miles, then turn onto Slough Creek Road and follow signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is located close to Highway 24. However, some user reviews mention potholes in certain areas, particularly in the Wort Area.Nearby places
Lawrence (approximately 20 miles, 30 minutes), Topeka (approximately 25 miles, 35 minutes), Kansas City (approximately 50 miles, 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Perry provides basic supplies, while larger cities like Lawrence and Topeka offer more extensive shopping and dining options.
Camper Reviews
4.0
188 reviews
Slough Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Slough Creek Campground are mixed, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Positive feedback highlights spacious sites and scenic views, while negative reviews focus on poor maintenance of shower facilities and bathrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 188 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the campground for its spacious sites, scenic lake views, and friendly staff. "We love Slough Creek! Jerry & Susana are the best!" Other positives include clean grounds, proximity to...
Based on 188 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most frequent complaints relate to the poor condition of bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms/showers were HORRID. Very dirty and ice cold water." Other issues include limited shade, unkempt...
Based on 188 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers advised bringing long hoses for water hookups due to shared connections, avoiding sites with past maintenance issues, and booking early for electric/water sites. "Just an fyi sites S088 and...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest high activity and noise levels during holidays and weekends, while weekdays are quieter and more relaxed. Maintenance issues seem more prevalent during the peak summer season.
Based on 188 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Had a magical camping trip. Woke up to bald eagles, blue herons, and pelicans every morning." - Vanessa P. "Shower House up by Boat Ramp was nasty again." - Nacol V.
Based on 188 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight issues such as poor maintenance in Site W002 and Site S089, while Site S017 was praised for its scenic lake view. "We stayed in S017 for one night... it was right on...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited, but some users appreciated the cleanliness and accessibility of certain facilities.
Based on 188 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some reviews express frustration with pets disrupting the campground experience, while others appreciate the pet-friendly policies. "Slough creek used to have a no dog loop at locust loop and that...
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Last updated August 10, 2025