Site #7 - Centralia Lake

Centralia Lake Campground: Your Peaceful Gateway to Water and Woods in Northeast Kansas

For Kansas residents seeking a no-fuss, traditional outdoor experience focused on excellent fishing and quiet lakeside relaxation, Centralia Lake Campground is a highly recommended destination. Managed by the City of Centralia, this site offers a true escape from the bustle of city life, providing the essential amenities you need without the crowded atmosphere often found at larger, state-run parks. It stands as a reliable and affordable spot for families, weekend anglers, and travelers passing through the scenic northeast corner of the Sunflower State.

The core appeal of Centralia Lake revolves around its 400-acre body of water, which is widely noted for its superb fishing. The commitment of the city to maintaining the lake as a viable recreational resource—evident in its inclusion in the City Fishing Access Program (CFAP)—assures campers that their primary purpose for visiting is well-supported. Furthermore, the campground operates on a simple, first-come, first-served basis, appealing to the spontaneous spirit of the outdoors community in Kansas. This provides an opportunity to easily pack up the RV or tent and head out for a last-minute weekend adventure.

Centralia Lake Campground is more than just a cluster of campsites; it is a community-supported hub for local outdoor activity, providing accessible boating, camping utilities, and even unique amenities like a disc golf course, all set against a beautiful rural Kansas backdrop.

Location and Accessibility

Centralia Lake Campground is situated approximately three miles southwest of the small, welcoming town of Centralia, Kansas, placing it within Nemaha County. This location makes it conveniently reachable for residents throughout Northeast Kansas, including the nearby cities of Seneca and Marysville, and a manageable drive from the Topeka metropolitan area.

The site’s access is straightforward, located off county roads that are suitable for towing all types of campers and RVs. Upon arrival, all visitors must pull to the designated Lake Shack to pay for required permits (vehicle, boat, and camping). If the Lake Shack is closed—hours are typically limited, especially on weekdays outside of peak season—campers can utilize the self-pay envelopes located there or seek assistance from the Camp Host, who is located near the swim beach/lake shack area.

It is important to note the specific address for GPS navigation, though travelers should look for clear signage directing them from Centralia city limits to the lake property.

For navigation:

Address: Centralia, KS 66415, USA

Services Offered

Centralia Lake Campground offers a range of services designed for both short-term visits and extended stays, with specific fees catering to different needs and camping styles.

• Camping Options and Fees: The park provides several fee tiers, including Daily Utility Camping ($20.00/day), Daily Primitive Camping ($10.00/day) (likely referring to electric-only or limited service), and Daily Tent Camping ($5.00/day).
• Utility Hookups: Multiple sites are equipped with electric hookups to accommodate RVs and campers. Information for Annual Utility Camping rates is available by calling Centralia City Hall directly.
• Sanitation Facilities: Public facilities are available, including toilets and showers, ensuring campers have access to basic hygiene amenities during their stay.
• Water Access: While not explicitly detailed as individual hookups, drinking water sources are generally available within the campground area.
• Recreational Permits: Visitors must purchase separate permits for various activities, including Daily Vehicle Permit ($5.00), Daily Boating Permit ($10.00), and Daily Jet-Ski Permit ($15.00). Annual permits for all categories are also available.
• On-Site Assistance: A Camp Host is stationed near the Lake Shack area to help campers with questions, self-pay envelope use, and local information.

Features and Highlights

Centralia Lake’s features are tailored to enhance the fishing and casual recreation experience in a relaxed, non-commercial setting.

• Exceptional Fishing: The 400-acre Centralia Lake is recognized as a prime Northeast Kansas fishing spot, especially for Channel Catfish, Saugeye, and Crappie.
• Boating and Lake Access: The facilities include multiple boat ramps to ensure easy launching for fishing and other watercraft. Permits are available for both standard boats and jet skis.
• Recreational Features: Campers can enjoy the on-site, public 9-hole disc golf course, offering a unique and free activity right within the lake area.
• Group Accommodations: Three distinct shelter houses are available for rental ($50/day or $100/day options), providing excellent spots for family reunions, group picnics, or events near the lake. Rentals include daily parking passes for event guests.
• Simple Camping System: The park utilizes a first-come, first-served system with no reservations, simplifying the planning process for spontaneous travel. Note that on holiday weekends, the park does not take reservations, so early arrival is advised.
• Site Amenities: Campsites are equipped with basic comforts, including a picnic table and grill for outdoor cooking and dining.

Contact Information

For official rates, shelter house reservations, and annual camping questions, contacting Centralia City Hall is recommended. The Lake Shack phone is best for inquiring about seasonal hours and immediate on-site issues.

Address: Centralia, KS 66415, USA

Centralia City Hall Phone: (785) 857-3764

Centralia City Hall Mobile Phone: +1 785-857-3764

Lake Shack Phone (Seasonal): 785-857-3371

What is Worth Choosing Centralia Lake

Choosing Centralia Lake Campground is an excellent decision for Kansas locals who prioritize a high-quality fishing and boating experience in a quiet, affordable, and easily accessible setting.

The most significant draw is the lake’s reputation for producing excellent catches. As a designated CFAP lake, it focuses on angler access and healthy fish populations, ensuring your time spent fishing is productive. The convenience of having multiple boat ramps and dedicated utility camping sites makes it highly functional for boat-owning campers.

Unlike many highly-trafficked tourist campgrounds, Centralia Lake offers a peaceful, community-run feel. The presence of both an on-site Camp Host and the use of the Lake Shack for permitting ensures that the local management is hands-on and attentive. The flexible fee structure—offering daily, weekly, and monthly rates for utility camping—caters to all types of stays, from a quick overnight to a season-long retreat. For Kansas locals looking to escape the reservations rush and enjoy genuine small-town hospitality alongside a productive lake, Centralia Lake Campground provides unparalleled value and tranquility.