
Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No 1
A serene, clean lake offering peaceful primitive camping and potential for bass fishing, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for fishing and wildlife

Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No 1
Best Time
Best for fishing and wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, clean lake offering peaceful primitive camping and potential for bass fishing, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
"A beautiful little lake, very clean and very quiet, perfect for fishing and camping."

Pack Your Essentials
Bring your own water and trash bags, as these are not available on-site. :water_wave: :trashcan:
Small Boats are Best
Kayaks or small boats are ideal for navigating the lake and maximizing fishing opportunities. :kayak:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Largemouth Bass Haven
Throughout the lake
A prime spot for catching largemouth bass, with clear waters perfect for sight fishing.

Tranquil Camping
Adjacent to the lake
Enjoy primitive camping with secluded sites and beautiful sunrise views. A peaceful retreat.

Abundant Wildlife
Lake surroundings
Keep an eye out for butterflies, raccoons, and even a resident rooster.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quiet
Fishing Paradise or Weedy Woes?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Your Essentials
Bring your own water and trash bags, as these are not available on-site. :water_wave: :trashcan:
Small Boats are Best
Kayaks or small boats are ideal for navigating the lake and maximizing fishing opportunities. :kayak:
Check Fishing Conditions
Some visitors report weeds making fishing difficult; conditions can vary. :fishing_pole:
Respect Primitive Camping
Enjoy the quiet, secluded sites. Remember it's a primitive experience. :tent:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Your Essentials
Bring your own water and trash bags, as these are not available on-site. :water_wave: :trashcan:
Small Boats are Best
Kayaks or small boats are ideal for navigating the lake and maximizing fishing opportunities. :kayak:
Check Fishing Conditions
Some visitors report weeds making fishing difficult; conditions can vary. :fishing_pole:
Respect Primitive Camping
Enjoy the quiet, secluded sites. Remember it's a primitive experience. :tent:
Wildlife Encounters
Be prepared for butterflies, raccoons, and other local fauna. :butterfly: :raccoon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No. 1 is praised for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and natural beauty, making it a lovely spot for picnics and primitive camping. Anglers often highlight its potential for catching largemouth bass in clear waters. However, some visitors have experienced difficulties with excessive weeds impacting fishing success.
"This is a beautiful little lake. Very clean and very quiet. You do have a road nearby but at night you can't hear anything from it. The grass is well mowed and the pit toilet is clean. Limited parking for larger rvs but are 20 ft fit very well on the top of the hill. With a little toe behind trailer. P. S. Lots of butterflies. Also some ticks. And 5 baby raccoons"
Tim Howk
"I believe that I reviewed this lake many moons ago but I'm going to try it again. This one lake in Kansas has been my all time favorite lake for catching Largemouth Bass. Don't get me wrong, I love to fish the Sabine River in Texas and the surrounding brackish water below I-10 but Pottawatomie County Lake #1 is the small piece of fishing paradise that I brag about the most. It's easy to get to and well maintained. People camp out but not many boat fishermen. There is a dock and several points of land dotted around the lake to bank fish. The lake has a boat ramp but I personally have only seen three boats on the water at one time and one is mine. I have a small two person boat or a kayak but I have seen full size bass boats and larger. A small boat is the best. It's a small lake but it's full of Bass and Bluegill. People also fish for catfish. The grass is cut, the area is kept clean and the water is so clear most of the time you are sight fishing."
Charles McDonald Holt
"Nice primitive camping adjacent to a lovely little lake. Some of the sites are more secluded. Beautiful sunrises. No water or trash available. Enjoyed the company of a resident rooster during our stay."
Vickie Houser
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lake is conveniently located right off the highway, making it easy to access. Specific directions can be found using GPS navigation to 'Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No 1'.
Yes, there is limited parking for larger RVs at the top of the hill. Smaller trailers can also fit with a little maneuvering.
While a road is nearby, reviews suggest that at night, the noise is not noticeable, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee in the provided reviews, suggesting it is likely free to access.
The lake appears to be open for public access, with no specific operating hours mentioned. It's suitable for day visits and overnight camping.
As with most state fishing lakes, a valid Kansas fishing license is likely required for all anglers. It's always best to check with the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks for current regulations.
🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience
Largemouth bass and bluegill are frequently mentioned as popular catches. Catfish are also present. Some visitors have had great success, while others report challenges with weeds.
Yes, there is a boat ramp for launching small boats and kayaks. Several points of land around the lake also offer opportunities for bank fishing.
Camping is described as primitive, with some secluded sites available. There are no water or trash facilities provided at the campsites.
Reviews generally describe the lake and surrounding areas as very clean and well-mowed, with a clean pit toilet available.
Visitors have reported seeing numerous butterflies, baby raccoons, and even a resident rooster. It's a good spot for nature observation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services or restaurants directly at Pottawatomie State Fishing Lake No 1. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks.
Yes, the lake is described as a nice spot for a picnic, with clean grounds and a pleasant atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake offers beautiful sunrise views, clear waters for potential fishing action shots, and opportunities to photograph the abundant local wildlife like butterflies and raccoons.
Absolutely. The presence of various wildlife and the serene natural setting make it an excellent location for nature photography enthusiasts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers Seeking Peace
🏕️ Primitive Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Fishing at Pottawatomie Lake #1
Beyond bass, bluegill and catfish are also present in the lake. The clarity of the water is often highlighted, contributing to the enjoyable fishing experience for those who find success. While larger bass boats can navigate the lake, smaller vessels like kayaks or two-person boats are often recommended for better maneuverability and a more intimate fishing experience. The tranquil environment, with minimal boat traffic, adds to the appeal for anglers looking for a peaceful outing.
For those planning a fishing trip, consider the time of day and potential weed growth. Early mornings are often best for both fishing and observing wildlife. While some have had exceptional fishing days, others have found it less productive. This variability is common in natural fishing spots, and success can depend on factors like weather, season, and specific fishing techniques employed.
Camping and Nature
Visitors should be aware that this is a primitive camping area, meaning amenities are limited. There is no running water or trash disposal available on-site, so it's essential to pack accordingly, bringing all necessary supplies and planning to pack out everything you bring in. The presence of a clean pit toilet is a basic convenience provided. Despite the lack of facilities, the natural beauty and tranquility make it an attractive option for those seeking a simple outdoor experience.
The area is also a haven for wildlife. Many visitors have reported sightings of butterflies, raccoons (including young ones), and even a resident rooster. This makes it an engaging spot for nature lovers and photographers. The beautiful sunrises are another highlight, offering a picturesque start to the day for campers and early visitors.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit