Cougar Pass Campground

For Kansans who yearn for a tranquil escape into nature without straying too far from home, Cougar Pass Campground at Perry State Park in Ozawkie, KS, offers a compelling option. This beloved campground provides a peaceful haven, particularly appreciated for its shaded sites—a valuable commodity during those warm Kansas summers. As part of the sprawling Perry State Park, Cougar Pass allows campers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty surrounding Perry Lake, offering a quieter alternative to some of the busier areas while still providing convenient access to all the park's recreational opportunities.

Imagine unwinding under a canopy of trees, the sounds of nature replacing the urban hum, and being just a short distance from the inviting waters of Perry Lake. While one past visitor noted a desire for 50 amp electrical service and another encountered biting moths, the overall appeal of Cougar Pass lies in its serene, treed environment and its position as a perfect base for exploring the lake and its extensive trail systems. It’s a place where you can truly connect with the outdoors, enjoy campfires, and create lasting memories, all within the beautiful setting of a Kansas State Park.

Cougar Pass Campground is located in Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA, as an integral part of the expansive Perry State Park. Perry State Park is strategically situated on the southwestern shores of the 12,500-acre Perry Lake, approximately 18 miles northeast of Topeka via Highway 237 off US-24. This makes it a highly accessible destination for campers traveling from various parts of eastern Kansas, including the Topeka, Lawrence, and Kansas City metropolitan areas.

Access to Cougar Pass Campground itself involves navigating within the well-established road system of Perry State Park. The park boasts that 85% of its roads are paved, contributing to generally smooth access. Upon entering the state park, visitors are required to purchase a daily vehicle permit in addition to their camping permit, which can be obtained at the park office or through self-pay stations located throughout the park. Cougar Pass is noted for being a "nice little loop of camping spots, surrounded by trees," indicating that while it's within the larger park, it offers a more contained and potentially secluded feel. Its proximity to the lake, trails, and other park amenities makes it convenient for a wide range of outdoor activities.

• RV and Tent Campsites: Cougar Pass Campground offers sites suitable for both RVs and tents. Specifically, it has 20 sites available, all of which are suitable for RVs.
• Electric and Water Hookups: All 20 sites at Cougar Pass are equipped with electric service (20/30 amp, and potentially 50 amp on some sites, though one reviewer wished for more 50 amp service) and water hookups. It's important to note that water hookups in Kansas State Parks are typically turned off during the winter season (October 15 - April 1).
• Shower Houses and Restrooms: Campers at Cougar Pass have access to modern restroom facilities and shower houses located within Perry State Park. The water for these facilities is typically turned on during the warmer months.
• Dump Stations: Two dump stations are conveniently available within Perry State Park for RV campers to dispose of wastewater.
• Potable Water: Even when individual site water hookups might be off-season, potable drinking water is generally available at various points within the state park.
• Pet-Friendly: Like all Kansas State Parks, Cougar Pass Campground welcomes pets. Dogs must be kept on a leash (6 feet or shorter) or confined within your camping unit, and owners are responsible for picking up after their pets.

• Extensively Shaded Campsites: A significant highlight of Cougar Pass Campground is its location "surrounded by trees and covered in that oh-so-appreciated shade." This provides a much-desired cooler environment during hot Kansas days, making it ideal for comfortable camping.
• Proximity to Perry Lake: The campground is "near enough to the water," offering convenient access for various lake activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. Perry Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly for crappie, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and sauger.
• Quieter Atmosphere: Being "far enough away from the crowds and boat noise," Cougar Pass is described as an "ideal spot for your weekend campout!" for those seeking a more peaceful and less congested camping experience.
• Extensive Trail System: Perry State Park boasts over 40 miles of trails. This includes 15 miles of bike trails, 25 miles of horse trails, and a 1.5-mile nature trail. This provides abundant opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding directly from or near the campground.
• Wildlife Viewing: The adjacent 11,000-acre wildlife area surrounding Perry Reservoir offers incredible opportunities for observing diverse wildlife, including migratory waterfowl, various bird species (making it a routine stop for birders), and numerous mammals.
• Established Park Amenities: Beyond the campground, the broader Perry State Park offers additional features such as boat ramps, courtesy docks, swimming beaches, picnic areas, and potentially group shelter houses, enhancing the overall recreational experience.
• Year-Round Operation (with seasonal variations): While some amenities like water at sites and bathhouses may be seasonal, the campground itself is generally open year-round, allowing for different camping experiences across seasons.

As a campground operating within the Kansas State Parks system, Cougar Pass Campground adheres to the standard fee structure set by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT). This typically includes a daily vehicle permit fee in addition to the campsite fee. Specific, ongoing promotions or discounts directly related to Cougar Pass are not commonly advertised separately from the general state park fees. However, Kansas residents who frequently visit state parks may find value in purchasing an annual park pass, which can offer cost savings on vehicle permits over the course of a year. Any rare special offers or seasonal packages would likely be announced through the official KDWPT website or directly by the Perry State Park office. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and any potential promotions, it is always recommended to check the KDWPT website or call the Perry State Park office directly.

For inquiries and to obtain the most current information regarding Cougar Pass Campground and Perry State Park, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: Ozawkie, KS 66070, USA (within Perry State Park)
• Phone: (785) 246-3449
• Mobile Phone: +1 785-246-3449

It is always advisable to call the park office ahead of your visit, especially to confirm site availability (as campsites are typically first-come, first-served and may not be reservable), current conditions, seasonal amenity availability (like water hookups), and any specific regulations.

Cougar Pass Campground offers an exceptional and convenient outdoor escape for residents of Kansas. Its prime location within Perry State Park in Ozawkie means it's easily accessible from many parts of the state, minimizing travel time and maximizing relaxation. For locals, this campground presents a perfect blend of natural serenity and recreational opportunity right in our backyard.

The significant advantage of the "oh-so-appreciated shade" at Cougar Pass cannot be overstated, providing a comfortable camping experience even during warmer months. While a past visitor wished for more 50 amp service, the presence of electric and water hookups on all sites still provides a good level of convenience for most RVs and tent campers. The natural surroundings, with abundant trees and proximity to Perry Lake, offer a true retreat from daily life.

Whether you're looking to spend a weekend fishing, boating, exploring the extensive trail system, or simply unwinding by a campfire in a peaceful setting, Cougar Pass Campground serves as an ideal base. It allows Kansans to reconnect with the beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife that define our state. It's a testament to the fact that you don't need to travel far to find a truly immersive and relaxing outdoor adventure.