Catfish Alley Campground

For Kansans seeking a genuine escape into the tranquility of nature, Catfish Alley Campground in Ozawkie, KS, offers a uniquely peaceful and authentic camping experience. Located within the scenic environs of Perry Lake, this campground is celebrated for its quiet charm and abundant natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the outdoors. If you're a local resident eager to find a serene haven where you can wake up to chirping birds by the lake, Catfish Alley Campground is a destination worth exploring.

One satisfied camper eloquently described their experience: "The ranger at the gate is awesome! She directed us to a quiet spot, and the few people that were there were my kind of people. We socialized chattered a little and then retired to our own private spaces. When I woke up, I was next to a lake surrounded by chirping birds. What a way to travel." While another review noted "Bathrooms are a hike, expect early morning traffic during fishing contests despite neighbors up all night. Otherwise, quiet and pretty," this feedback reinforces the generally peaceful atmosphere and highlights its popularity among fishing enthusiasts. Catfish Alley Campground truly offers a chance to experience the serene side of Kansas's renowned lake country.

Catfish Alley Campground is situated in Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA, making it an integral part of the larger recreational opportunities surrounding Perry Lake. Perry Lake, often referred to as "paradise on the plains," is a prominent reservoir in northeast Kansas, easily accessible from major population centers across the state.

From Topeka, Kansas's state capital, the drive to Catfish Alley Campground is a pleasant journey of less than 30 minutes to the northeast. For those coming from the Kansas City metropolitan area, the campground is approximately an hour to an hour and a half drive to the west. The location offers convenient access via well-maintained state highways, ensuring a smooth and easy trip even for those with camping gear. As part of Perry State Park, Catfish Alley benefits from the park's overall infrastructure, though it is often considered one of the more primitive camping areas within the park. This means while it's accessible by road, the focus is on a natural, less developed camping experience. Visitors should be aware of state park gate hours (typically closed from 10 PM to 6 AM on Friday/Saturday nights and holiday weekends), and plan their arrival accordingly. Its position within Perry State Park also means campers have convenient access to the broader amenities and activities offered throughout the park, enhancing the overall outdoor adventure.

Catfish Alley Campground, as a more primitive area within Perry State Park, focuses on providing essential amenities for an authentic outdoor experience while maintaining the natural beauty of the surroundings. While it may not offer the full range of hookups found in more developed campgrounds, it ensures a comfortable and accessible stay for primitive campers.

• Primitive Campsites: Catfish Alley is known for offering primitive campsites, meaning they generally do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups at each site. These sites are ideal for tent campers or self-sufficient RVs.
• Outdoor Privies/Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities in the form of vault toilets or outdoor privies are typically available within the campground loops.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a designated area for meals and relaxation.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are available at each site, allowing campers to enjoy campfires, cook meals, and stay warm.
• Access to Potable Water: While not at every site, access to potable water spigots is usually available within a reasonable distance in primitive camping areas of state parks.
• Ranger Assistance: As highlighted by a customer review, park rangers are often on-site and are helpful in directing campers and providing local information.

It's important for campers to be prepared for a more self-reliant experience, bringing their own water containers, power sources (if needed for devices), and embracing the rustic charm of primitive camping. For more comprehensive facilities like modern shower houses and dump stations, these are typically available elsewhere within Perry State Park and can be accessed by campers staying in primitive areas.

Catfish Alley Campground, despite its primitive nature, boasts several features and highlights that make it a highly appealing destination for a specific type of camper, especially those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature:

• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Customer reviews consistently emphasize the quiet and pretty nature of the campground, noting minimal crowds and a serene environment. This makes it ideal for those truly looking to escape noise and bustle.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: As the name "Catfish Alley" suggests, the campground is likely situated near prime fishing spots on Perry Lake, which is renowned for its channel catfish, crappie, walleye, white bass, and sauger populations. Early morning traffic during fishing contests indicates its popularity among anglers.
• Abundant Birdlife: Waking up surrounded by "chirping birds" speaks to the rich avian diversity in the area, offering fantastic bird-watching opportunities for enthusiasts.
• Secluded "Private Spaces": Campers appreciate the ability to socialize while also having their "own private spaces," indicating well-spaced sites that offer a sense of privacy and seclusion.
• Proximity to Perry Lake: The campground's location near the lake allows for easy access to water-based activities such as fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the lakeside views.
• Helpful Park Rangers: The positive mention of the gate ranger highlights a friendly and supportive park staff who contribute to a welcoming experience.
• Wooded Surroundings: Perry State Park is known for its extensively forested rolling hills, providing natural shade and a scenic backdrop for campsites.
• Authentic Camping Experience: For those who prefer a less commercialized and more rustic approach to camping, Catfish Alley offers an authentic primitive camping adventure.

For reservations and inquiries regarding Catfish Alley Campground, which falls under the management of Perry State Park, the following contact details are provided:

Address: Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA (This address is for the general area of Perry Lake / Perry State Park, within which Catfish Alley Campground is located.)

Phone: (785) 246-3449 (This is the main phone number for Perry State Park, which oversees Catfish Alley Campground and other camping areas within the park.)

Mobile Phone: +1 785-246-3449 (This is the same contact number.)

It is important to note that campsites within Perry State Park, including Catfish Alley, are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis and may not be reservable through online systems like Recreation.gov or ReserveAmerica for individual primitive sites. However, general information about the park, including rules, fees, and current conditions, can be found on the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWP) website or by calling the Perry State Park office directly. For specific questions about Catfish Alley's availability or features, it's advisable to contact the park office using the provided phone number.

For Kansans, Catfish Alley Campground offers an authentic and accessible slice of the state's natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a truly immersive outdoor experience. Its location in Ozawkie, nestled within the expansive Perry Lake area, provides a convenient escape for residents from Topeka, Kansas City, and surrounding communities. This campground is particularly suited for locals who appreciate the simplicity and tranquility of primitive camping, valuing quiet nights under the stars over extensive modern amenities.

The allure of waking up by the lake, surrounded by chirping birds, speaks directly to the heart of what many Kansans seek in a natural retreat. The renowned fishing opportunities at Perry Lake mean that anglers will find themselves in their element, with ample chance to catch catfish and other popular species. While the bathrooms might require a "hike," and early morning fishing contest traffic is noted, these minor considerations are often outweighed by the campground's overall peacefulness and the sense of community among fellow nature lovers. Catfish Alley provides a cherished space where locals can truly unwind, enjoy the simple pleasures of outdoor life, and connect with the rich natural heritage that Kansas offers, making it a perfect spot for memorable and refreshing getaways.

Catfish Alley Campground

Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA