Cougar Pass Campground

Are you a Kansas resident dreaming of a refreshing escape to the great outdoors, where the beauty of a vast lake meets the tranquility of shaded woodlands? Look no further than Cougar Pass Campground, a beloved section of Perry State Park located near Ozawkie, Kansas. For many Kansans, Perry Lake is synonymous with outdoor recreation, and Cougar Pass offers a welcoming and scenic base from which to explore all that this popular area has to offer. It’s a place where families have created cherished memories for years, drawn by the serene environment and the abundant opportunities for lakeside fun.

Cougar Pass Campground is well-regarded for its inviting atmosphere and proximity to Perry Lake. While some campers have noted a desire for 50-amp electrical service at certain sites or concerns about biting insects in exposed areas, the overall sentiment is one of appreciation for its peaceful setting and the natural beauty it provides. Many visitors specifically highlight the presence of "trees and covered in that oh-so-appreciated shade," making it a comfortable retreat even on warm Kansas days. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen hiker, or simply seeking a quiet spot to unwind with loved ones, Cougar Pass aims to provide a quintessential Kansas camping experience.

Location and Accessibility

Cougar Pass Campground is located within Perry State Park, near Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA. This places it strategically on the western side of Perry Lake, a large reservoir in Jefferson County, Kansas. Its location makes it highly accessible for residents across the state, particularly those in the Topeka, Lawrence, and Kansas City metropolitan areas, often just a short drive away. The approximate driving times are around 27 minutes from Topeka, 29 minutes from Lawrence, and under an hour from Kansas City, making it a convenient option for weekend getaways.

Access to Cougar Pass is straightforward via well-maintained state highways leading to Perry State Park. Once within the park, signage guides visitors to the specific campground loop. The internal park roads are generally suitable for RVs and trailers, ensuring a smooth arrival. While the address lists "Ozawkie, KS 66070," it's important to remember that Cougar Pass is an integral part of Perry State Park, and specific directions or entrance information should be sought from the park office or their website for the most accurate navigation. Its blend of peaceful rural setting with reasonable proximity to urban centers makes it an ideal and accessible outdoor destination for Kansas locals.

Services Offered

As a developed campground within a Kansas State Park, Cougar Pass offers a range of services designed to make your camping experience comfortable and convenient:

• Campsite Variety: Cougar Pass features a number of campsites, with sources indicating around 18 to 20 total sites. All are suitable for RVs, and most (if not all) offer electric service. Some sites may also include water hookups. There are also designated tent spaces.
• Restrooms and Showers: Clean flush toilets and shower facilities are available to campers. While some reviews suggest these may not be within "walkable distance for much of the campgrounds" from all sites, they are provided for guest use.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available, either at individual sites with water hookups or at central points within the campground.
• RV Dump Facilities: A convenient RV dump station is located near the park entrance, essential for RV campers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying campfires (always check current fire restrictions).
• Reservation System: Campsites at Cougar Pass can often be reserved in advance through the Kansas State Park website or via recreation.gov, which is highly recommended during peak seasons.
• Park Office Assistance: The Perry State Park office is available for inquiries, check-ins, and to provide information on park regulations and activities.

Features / Highlights

Cougar Pass Campground's appeal lies in its combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and recreational opportunities:

• Shaded Campsites: A significant highlight, many sites at Cougar Pass are surrounded by trees, offering valuable "oh-so-appreciated shade," as noted by campers. This provides a more comfortable experience, especially during warmer months.
• Lakeside Proximity: Campers are "near enough to the water," providing easy access to Perry Lake for various water activities.
• Tranquil Atmosphere: The campground offers a peaceful setting, "far enough away from the crowds and boat noise," making it an ideal spot for relaxation and quiet enjoyment of nature.
• Excellent Fishing: Perry Lake is well-known for its excellent fishing, with a variety of species including crappie, channel catfish, walleye, and bass. A fish cleaning station is available nearby within the state park.
• Boating Opportunities: The lake is perfect for all kinds of boating, with several boat ramps and courtesy docks available within Perry State Park for easy lake access.
• Extensive Trails: Perry State Park boasts over 40 miles of trails, including 15 miles of mountain bike trails, 25 miles of horse trails (equestrian campground available), and a 1.5-mile nature trail. The "Old Military Trail" nearby offers rugged backcountry hiking.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse habitats provide ample opportunities for wildlife watching, including numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, making it a routine stop for many birders.
• Playground: A modern playground is located within Perry State Park, providing a fun area for children.
• Proximity to Park Amenities: Campers at Cougar Pass have easy access to other Perry State Park facilities, including a swimming beach, additional shower houses, and dump stations.

Contact Information

Address: Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA (Cougar Pass Campground is part of Perry State Park)

Phone: (785) 246-3449 (Perry State Park Office)

Mobile Phone: +1 785-246-3449

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding campsite availability, specific hookup details (e.g., 50-amp service), current park regulations, or to make a reservation, it is highly recommended to contact the Perry State Park office directly at the provided phone number or visit the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website (KDWPT) or Recreation.gov.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Kansas, Cougar Pass Campground within Perry State Park stands out as an exceptional local destination, offering a fantastic blend of convenience, natural beauty, and diverse outdoor activities. Its prime location near Ozawkie makes it incredibly accessible from major metropolitan areas like Topeka, Lawrence, and Kansas City, allowing Kansans to enjoy a refreshing outdoor escape without the hassle of long-distance travel. This accessibility is key for weekend getaways or even spontaneous day trips to reconnect with nature.

The campground’s most celebrated feature for locals is its abundant shade, providing a welcome respite from the Kansas sun and creating a more comfortable camping experience. While a desire for more 50-amp electrical service is noted by some, the availability of electric hookups caters to many RV campers, while tenters will appreciate the natural setting. The proximity to Perry Lake is a significant draw, offering endless opportunities for "fabulous fishing," exhilarating boating, and simply enjoying the scenic lakeside views that Kansas is known for.

Beyond the lake, the extensive trail system within Perry State Park provides diverse options for hikers, mountain bikers, and even equestrians, ensuring that there's an activity for every type of outdoor enthusiast. The peaceful atmosphere of Cougar Pass, combined with its family-friendly amenities and the overall well-maintained nature of Perry State Park, makes it an ideal spot for creating lasting memories with loved ones. For any Kansan seeking a convenient, activity-rich, and serene lakeside camping experience that truly celebrates the outdoors of our home state, Cougar Pass Campground is a highly recommended and suitable choice.

Cougar Pass Campground

Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA