Wilson State Park provides cabin accommodations with waterfront access at Waconda Lake near Dorrance, Kansas. The lake covers 9,000 acres with limestone outcroppings and clear water that sets it apart from other Kansas lakes. Cabins are distributed between the Hell Creek and Otoe areas, with additional options available at privately-owned Set in Stone Cabins.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The trail network at Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground offers excellent riding opportunities. "The trails at this campground are super fun for mountain biking! Quick and flowy! Not really set campsites, more dispersed camping," notes Sondra M.
Kayaking to limestone formations: Paddle from your cabin site to explore distinctive rock formations. "Kayaking over to the rocky cliffs is beautiful! Highly recommended! We tend to camp on the marina side of the lake, but the other side has a playground and swim beach - possibly more family friendly," explains Kate W.
Fishing from shore or boat: Wilson Lake supports various fish species for anglers staying in cabins. "We like to fish and kayak - sometimes fishing from the kayaks, and we always have good luck at Wilson," shares a visitor from Big Bluestem campground.
What campers like
Waterfront cabin locations: Many cabins offer direct water access, perfect for water activities. "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," describes Darren from Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground.
Cleanliness and maintenance: The park staff keeps facilities in good condition despite budget constraints. "The state park staff do an excellent job even with the budget restraints of the state government," mentions Jere B. about his experience.
Year-round cabin availability: Cabins at Yarrow Otoe Area Campground remain open throughout seasons. "As you drive into Wilson lake Otoe you'll pass by a few cabins on the way to the campgrounds. There is a fork- one leads Goldenrod and the other takes you to Yarrow, Yucca, and Sunflower," explains Shannon G.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Kansas winds can impact cabin camping experiences. "Very windy but worth it for water front," notes Betsy T. about her stay, highlighting the tradeoff between views and weather conditions.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for prime cabin locations. "Try and get the waterfront sites they are large with great views," advises Ronald C., who stayed at Grama Hell Creek Area Campground.
GPS accuracy issues: Navigation systems sometimes provide incorrect directions. "The GPS location on Dyrt was wrong and brought us to a privately owned farm. Just look the place up online to get correct directions," warns Desirae B. about her experience reaching Hell Creek Area.
Site leveling requirements: Some cabins and adjacent RV sites require leveling equipment. "Our particular site was not level and took every leveler we had to get it level. Anything larger than 20ft should not use Grama site 028," cautions Kaylyn B.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and playground access: Set in Stone Cabins and RV Park provides cabin options with nearby recreational areas. "This property is small and comfortable. The cabins are SO sweet! Kay & Richard have clearly put a lot of love into this spot," observes Ashley F.
Site selection for water activities: When booking cabins for families, choose locations near swim areas. "We stayed overnight while traveling, but it is one of 12 places on our trip I would like to have stayed another day," mentioned one visitor about their cabin experience.
Morning wildlife viewing: Dawn offers opportunities to hear and see local wildlife near cabins. "Pheasant can be heard in morning and evening," reports a visitor to the nearby Kaw Campground at Glen Elder State Park, which also offers cabin accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Cabins and RV sites at Wilson State Park provide various hookup options. "30/50A/120V and water hookups. Concrete pad. Clean showers a few hundred yards away," details a camper from Big Bluestem campground.
Internet access: Connectivity varies between cabin locations. "T-Mobile service 1-4 bars. Streamed HotSpot for ROKU without issues," reports a visitor about their experience with cellular and internet service while staying in a waterfront cabin.
Shower facilities: Bathroom buildings with showers serve multiple cabin areas. "Bathrooms were a bit of a walk but again, worth it! Thought I had seen a mirage once we pulled into the park after miles of Kansas greens and browns," explains Betsy T. about her camping experience at Wilson Lake.
