Rock creek recreation area

Are you a Kansas resident craving a refreshing escape into nature, where vast open skies meet sparkling waters and abundant recreational opportunities await? Look no further than Rock Creek Recreation Area, a truly beloved destination nestled on the south end of Perry Lake in Ozawkie, Kansas. Often called "paradise on the plains," Perry Lake and its surrounding recreation areas, including Rock Creek, offer an idyllic setting for camping, boating, fishing, and simply unwinding in the great outdoors. This isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts, cherished by locals for its beauty and the endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation.

Rock Creek Recreation Area stands out for its well-maintained grounds, spacious campsites, and breathtaking views of Perry Lake, as consistently highlighted by visitors. Whether you're planning a serene solo trip, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, this area provides an ideal backdrop. It's a place where you can launch your boat for a day on the water, cast a line into some of Kansas's best fishing spots, or simply enjoy a quiet evening under the stars. While some operational aspects like the distance to restrooms from certain areas are noted, the overwhelming sentiment from those who visit is one of appreciation for its natural beauty and the quality of the camping experience it provides right here in the heart of Kansas.

Location and Accessibility

Rock Creek Recreation Area is prominently situated on the south end of Perry Lake, near Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA. This location places it strategically within easy reach for many Kansans, being a short and convenient drive from major cities like Lawrence, Topeka, and even Kansas City. The exact address, listed as "Unnamed Road, Ozawkie, KS 66070," indicates that it's an integral part of the larger Perry Lake recreational complex managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Access to Rock Creek Recreation Area is generally straightforward, typically involving well-maintained state highways leading to the Perry Lake area, and then clear signage guiding you to the campground itself. The roads within the recreation area are designed to accommodate various vehicle sizes, including RVs and those towing boats or trailers, ensuring a smooth arrival. While the specific "Unnamed Road" might seem vague, it simply means it's an internal park road, easily found once you're in the vicinity of Perry Lake and Ozawkie. Its proximity to major population centers, combined with its natural, peaceful setting, makes it an ideal and accessible outdoor retreat for residents across Kansas.

Services Offered

Rock Creek Recreation Area at Perry Lake offers a comprehensive range of facilities and services designed to enhance the camping and recreational experience for all visitors:

• Diverse Campsites: The campground boasts 141 spacious campsites, including a mix of primitive, electric, and electric/water hookup sites. Primitive camping is offered at walk-up campsites along the peninsula, and there are designated "standard electric" and "standard non-electric" sites across various loops (e.g., PENB, PENC, WHIP, RAND). Some sources indicate 80 or 79 designated sites, with variations in electric vs. primitive counts, so checking Recreation.gov for the most current specifics and availability is advisable.
• Restrooms & Showers: Clean restrooms and shower facilities are available to campers, though their accessibility may vary depending on the specific campsite location, as noted in reviews.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is provided, essential for both tent and RV campers.
• Dump Stations: At least one, and potentially two, dump stations are available for RVs, ensuring convenient waste disposal.
• Group Picnic Shelter: A large, reservable group picnic shelter with electric hookups is on-site, making the area ideal for family functions, reunions, or larger gatherings.
• Playground: A modern playground is located within the Peninsula Loop, providing a dedicated space for children to play and enjoy.
• Boat Ramp & Courtesy Dock: An easily accessible boat ramp with a courtesy dock allows for convenient launching and docking of boats onto Perry Lake.
• Fish Cleaning Stations: Facilities are available for anglers to clean their catch after a successful day on the lake.
• Firewood & Supplies: Firewood bundles may be available for purchase on-site (check with park staff), and the nearby Rock Creek Marina also offers a country store with various supplies.

Features / Highlights

Rock Creek Recreation Area's appeal is significantly bolstered by its natural features and the array of activities it supports:

• Beautiful Lake Views: The campground offers stunning, panoramic views of Perry Lake from just about anywhere, creating a picturesque backdrop for your stay. Two mini peninsulas brimming with campsites enhance these lakeside experiences.
• Spacious Campsites: Visitors consistently praise the generously sized camping lots, which provide a sense of privacy and comfort even during busier periods.
• Excellent Boating & Sailing: Perry Lake has a reputation as one of the best sailing lakes in the region, and it welcomes all types of boaters—powerboating, canoeing, kayaking, and more. Boat and Sea Doo rentals are available nearby at Rock Creek Marina.
• "Fabulous" Fishing: The lake is renowned for excellent fishing, with an abundance of white crappie, flathead catfish, walleye, white bass, channel catfish, and sauger, offering great opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
• Extensive Hiking & Biking Trails: The nearby 29-mile Perry Lake loop trail (also known as the Perry Lake National Recreational Hiking Trail) offers a range of terrain and difficulty, from easy, gentle slopes to rugged, varying elevation changes, perfect for hikers and mountain bikers.
• Wildlife Viewing & Hunting: Approximately 27,000 acres of public land surrounding the lake are dedicated to wildlife management, offering opportunities to spot turkey, deer, quail, pheasant, rabbit, squirrel, duck, and geese.
• Well-Maintained Grounds: Despite some areas potentially needing more frequent mowing (as mentioned in a review), the lake and recreation area are generally described as beautiful and well-maintained.
• Proximity to Major Cities: The short drive from Lawrence, Topeka, and Kansas City means campers can easily access additional shopping, dining, and attractions while enjoying a nature escape.

Contact Information

Address: Unnamed Road, Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA (This refers to the general area of Rock Creek Recreation Area within Perry Lake)

For campground inquiries and reservations, particularly as Rock Creek is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facilities at Perry Lake, the most reliable methods are:

Phone for general park inquiries: (785) 597-5144 (for Perry Lake U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Office)

For reservations: www.Recreation.gov or call 1-877-444-6777

It is always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website for specific site availability, current fees, park alerts, gate policies (gates close 10 PM - 6 AM on Friday/Saturday nights and holiday weekends), and detailed information on the various loops and amenities within Rock Creek Recreation Area.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Kansas, Rock Creek Recreation Area at Perry Lake is not just a campground; it’s an easily accessible and deeply rewarding outdoor destination that truly encapsulates the beauty and recreational spirit of our state. Its prime location near Ozawkie means it’s a convenient drive from Topeka, Lawrence, and Kansas City, making it perfect for a quick weekend escape or a more extended family vacation without the need for long-distance travel. This accessibility is a huge plus for Kansans looking to maximize their leisure time and minimize driving.

The beauty of Perry Lake itself, with its expansive waters and forested shoreline, provides a stunning backdrop for any outdoor activity. Locals rave about the "spacious lots" and "beautiful views from just about anywhere," which contribute significantly to a relaxing and enjoyable camping experience. Whether your passion is sailing, power boating, canoeing, or simply taking a refreshing swim, the lake offers endless opportunities. Anglers will particularly appreciate the reputation for "fabulous fishing," providing a rewarding pastime right on their doorstep.

Beyond the water, the extensive hiking trails, including the 29-mile Perry Lake loop, offer Kansans a chance to explore the diverse landscapes of their home state on foot or bike. The presence of a playground, group picnic shelters, and well-maintained facilities (despite the noted distance of some restrooms from certain sites) makes it highly suitable for families and larger gatherings. Rock Creek Recreation Area ultimately provides a balanced blend of natural tranquility and active recreation, allowing Kansas locals to easily connect with nature, pursue their outdoor passions, and create lasting memories right here in the heart of the Sunflower State.

Rock creek recreation area

Unnamed Road, Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA