Wilson Lake serves as the primary camping destination near Dorrance, Kansas, located about 30 miles from town. The area features surprising geological formations, with limestone outcroppings and prairie hills creating terrain that contrasts with typical Kansas flatland expectations. Summer temperatures average 85-95°F with high winds common across the exposed lakeside camping areas.
What to do
Mountain biking on Switchgrass Trail: Wilson State Park offers 25+ miles of biking trails with varying difficulty levels. The trails are maintained year-round and receive high ratings from visitors. As one camper at Switchgrass Hell Creek Area Campground noted, "We rigged up a shower curtain with treking poles and our towels. Gonna go back to ride more mtb trails."
Kayaking the clear waters: Wilson Lake is known for its visibility and accessibility for paddlers. Multiple camping areas have direct water access for launching small watercraft. A visitor to Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground reported, "Big Bluestem Campground Site 78! Prime spot with large shade tree to block western sun. 20' from water's edge with path to drop kayaks in, swim or even sit lawn chairs into the water to cool off."
Hiking to rock formations: Trails lead to distinctive limestone formations throughout the park. These geological features create unusual scenery not typical of central Kansas. A camper at Lucas Park mentioned, "Scenic hiking trails. Just a good place all around."
What campers like
Waterfront sites with direct access: Many sites along the lake offer immediate water access for swimming or launching small craft. A visitor to Wheatgrass Hell Creek Area Campground shared, "We camped at site 45 and 46 and had a small beach area that we could put our kayaks in. We had a beautiful view of the water and rolling hills."
Spacious camping spots: Sites are generally well-spaced with adequate room for multiple tents or large RVs. One camper at Minooka Park remarked, "Second, the sites are really beautiful and big with great views. We were right on the lake and it was stunning for sunrise."
Proximity to Lucas art attractions: The nearby town of Lucas features unique art installations worth visiting. A reviewer noted, "Drive into town and check out the 'US Largest Toilet Bowl' art installation, 'Garden of Eden' and the downtown district where you can find a few unique pieces."
What you should know
High winds are common: The exposed lakeside locations experience significant wind, particularly problematic for tent campers. One visitor to Minooka Park warned, "WINDY, WINDY, WINDY!!!!! This campsite is NOT for tents! We arrived hoping to cook and hang out on the lake but the 18mph winds had us huddled near the car as a winds shield."
Water levels affect accessibility: Seasonal rain can impact campsite availability and water access. During heavy rain periods, some sites near the water may be unusable. Check conditions before booking waterfront sites.
Bathroom quality varies by loop: Facility conditions differ significantly between camping areas and loops. A visitor at Foxtail Hell Creek Area Campground noted, "Bathroom wasn't close- quite a hike away. We drove due to handicap member. Shower house was even further away in the opposite direction, which meant another drive."
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas for swimming: Several designated swimming areas provide safer water access for children. A Minooka Park visitor mentioned, "There's a beach, fishing and boating. Great for groups and families. Bathrooms are well kept."
Playground access: Multiple campground loops feature playground equipment. When selecting a site, check proximity to these areas if traveling with children. As one camper observed, "It was a bit noisy by the playground, but hey, what do you expect. Kids will be kids."
Evening storm preparation: Summer thunderstorms move through quickly, requiring secure tent setups. A camper at Buffalo Grass — Wilson State Park shared, "The first night we got hit with a beautiful thunderstorm for about an hour. It may have rained, but it was worth it to see the storm."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads at select sites: Several camping areas feature level concrete pads ideal for larger rigs. These provide stability during high winds and storms common to the area. A Big Bluestem camper noted, "Concrete pad. Clean showers a few hundred yards away. Trash bin in middle of loop."
Cell service information: Most campgrounds maintain reliable service for remote work needs. Signal strength varies by location and provider. According to one Big Bluestem camper, "T-Mobile service 1-4 bars. Streamed HotSpot for ROKU without issues."
Electric availability by loop: Different camping areas offer varied electric options from primitive to 50-amp service. When booking, verify the specific amperage available at your chosen site if traveling with an RV requiring higher electrical needs.
