Wilson State Park features multiple cabin areas located around Wilson Lake, a 9,000-acre reservoir often referred to as the clearest lake in Kansas. Cabins near Ellinwood, Kansas provide access to rocky limestone formations, mountain biking trails, and water activities. Most cabin sites include concrete pads with electric and water hookups, positioned strategically near the shoreline.
What to do
Mountain biking: The Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground offers excellent trail access for biking enthusiasts. As one visitor noted, "The trails at this campground are super fun for mountain biking! Quick and flowy!" Trails range from beginner-friendly loops to more challenging terrain.
Kayaking: Launch directly from cabin sites at Wilson Lake for paddling adventures. A camper at Big Bluestem mentioned: "Perfect spot for camping, Kayaking, swimming, fishing, hiking, biking… or chillaxing!" Many waterfront cabins provide direct water access for easy kayak launching.
Rock formation exploration: Visit unique limestone formations around the lake area. The Sandyshore Campground at Kanopolis State Park offers access to interesting geological features. A reviewer shared: "We loved the hiking through limestone. We found couple caves and climbed some rock. Would be good for mntn biking."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Cabin guests appreciate direct shoreline access at many locations. A visitor reported: "We got a perfect camp spot all to ourselves. It was not necessarily private or in the woods. But we were right up against the lake. There was sand like a beach the water was alright."
Clean facilities: Yarrow Otoe Area Campground maintains high standards for comfort. A guest mentioned: "Within 100 yards of one another you could access flushing toilets and showers or fun in the sun. This was the best overall campground for accessing both of these amenities."
Spacious sites: Cabin areas typically provide generous spacing between accommodations. At Grama Hell Creek Area Campground, visitors find "a variety of bike trails that were great for beginning up to seasoned rider." The campground layout allows for privacy while maintaining access to shared amenities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabins fill quickly during peak season. At Little Bluestem Cabin Area, a camper advised: "Do yourself a favor and stay at Blue Stem primitive site 5. Beautiful view of the reservoir, and it's on the end so you have a huge open area all to yourself."
Site leveling challenges: Some cabin and RV sites require equipment for proper leveling. A reviewer at Grama Hell Creek Area noted: "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."
Water level variations: Lake conditions change seasonally, affecting shore access and water activities. One camper observed that "Water levels effect access to some formations" when exploring the area around Wilson Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin areas include playgrounds within walking distance. At Lighthouse Landing RV Park and Cabins, a visitor shared: "There was a nice playground for our children and the sites were plenty big enough for us to get our truck and rig into. The bathrooms and showers were very clean and our kids enjoyed playing with a few other families."
Kid-friendly fishing: Special fishing areas are designated for younger anglers. A parent mentioned: "The kids fishing pond is stocked with catfish, my kids loved catching something other than our usual blue Gill!"
Beach swimming: Sandy beach areas provide safe swimming options for children. "There is a fork- one leads Goldenrod and the other takes you to Yarrow,Yucca, and Sunflower. The main camp is Yarrow which has electric, picnic benches and fire rings. There also is a boat ramp and swim beach."
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: For the best cabin and RV site selection, plan accordingly. One RVer advised: "I would definitely recommend arriving early if visiting on a weekend or making reservations online to ensure a site at this campground in particular."
GPS accuracy issues: Some navigation systems provide incorrect directions to cabin areas. A visitor warned: "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."
Supply preparation: Limited shopping options exist near the cabin areas. A camper suggested stopping "at the rental shop just outside of the park where you can find anything from a paddle board to a canoe. Also this is a great place to check in if you are needing a few last minute supplies."
