Hillsdale State Park anchors the camping landscape around Hillsdale, Kansas, with multiple campground areas including Russell Crites Primitive, Crappie Cove, Sunflower, Saddle Ridge, Scott Creek, and Quail Run. Located approximately 40 minutes southwest of Kansas City, these campgrounds offer a mix of primitive sites and developed areas with electric hookups, water access, and full RV facilities. Nearby options include Lake Miola City Park in Paola and Rutlader Outpost RV Park in Louisburg, providing additional camping styles from basic tent sites to full-service RV accommodations. Most campgrounds in the region feature lakeside access, though waterfront sites are limited and often fill quickly.
Kansas state park regulations require both entrance permits and camping fees, with day-use and annual options available. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend stays during summer months when waterfront sites become scarce. Weather considerations include hot, humid summers and the potential for severe storms, with some private campgrounds like Rutlader Outpost offering storm shelters. As one camper noted, "There are limited sites for camping at Hillsdale Lake, but they are all nice and many offer waterfront access." Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with most campers reporting good coverage for major carriers. The 7-day stay limit common in Kansas parks applies to most public campgrounds in the region.
Fishing opportunities rank highly among visitor experiences, with Hillsdale Lake known for good catches. "Great fishing on Hillsdale and they have a really nice Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Recreation operated firearms outdoor range facility too," reports one regular visitor. Facility maintenance varies between campground loops, with some campers noting inconsistent bathroom cleanliness. Shaded sites are valued amenities, particularly during hot summer months. The proximity to Kansas City makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for urban residents seeking quick getaways. Most campgrounds provide standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to shower facilities, though primitive areas may only offer vault toilets. Families appreciate the playgrounds available at several campgrounds, though some note they lack shade.
$10 / night
"Hillsdale is a close stop for us. We'll often go when we only have one night to camp. Unfortunately, the waterside sites are minimal and most seem to be RV sites."
"Hillsdale is a nice place to camp that isn’t too far out of the city. Decent accommodations and nice camp sites near the water front."
"The lake itself is small compared to most Kansas area lakes but sufficient for skiing."
"A walking path & a park and a huge dog park!!!! Love love love this place!!"
$21 / night
"There are limited sites for camping at Hillsdale Lake. But they are all nice and many offer waterfront access. "
"This was our first trip to Crappie Cove at Hillsdale Lake. Overall, it's a very nice, clean and well layed out campground with several areas available with different names."
$22 / night
"This is one thing that should be mandatory given its proximity and being further away from potential shelter. Excellent camping on the lake. Lots of water activities available."
$10 - $21 / night
"Lots of riding trail miles and lake."
$10 - $21 / night
"Cool weekend at a great lake right before things turned green. Closed last year to redo the electric, enjoyed Site 181 at Scott Creek, west side of Hillsdale Lake."
$10 - $21 / night
"The nearby vault toilet was just OK, it was about as clean as a vault toilet could be but there was no way to use hand sanitizer or wash your hands nearby."
"Plenty of space for tents and other activities and very close to water"
$23 - $33 / night
"Close to a small convenient store and fuel station. (1/4 mile to the east) Close to Hillsdale Lake for swimming and boating. Horseshoe pits."
"Camp spots are lakeside and adjacent to the launch ramp."
"The road through the lake is gravel, and even though it rained almost 24 hours continuously the first night and all next day, it was starting to dry out the following day."
"We’re from Kansas City and there are very few options when it comes to Campgrounds. This is by far our favorite and their rates are very reasonable."
"Great place, near Kansas City."
ScoutFor a free spot not too far of a drive it wasn't bad. Sites right along water with a fire pit and picnic table. There is no running water or lights so bring both. Restrooms are vaulted so if you're not used to that just be aware. Overall for a free location it's a beginner friendly site.
ScoutHave stayed here twice. It's convenient to I10. No frills, but it's safe and free
TravelerWe just purchased a 2016 Winnebago View 24G Class C RV in November 2025, and this was our first dispersed camping trip. We stayed two full days. Site was fairly level both front to back and side to side. Our 26’ rig had another 6’ - 8’ in front of it before it would have extended into the road.
The road through the lake is gravel, and even though it rained almost 24 hours continuously the first night and all next day, it was starting to dry out the following day. There were 3-4 other tent campers, a few people fishing and a couple of and families walking around, but aside from that we had the place to ourselves. For as small as this place is, there was a lot of vehicular traffic - numerous trucks and vans driving through over the days we were there but never stopping.
There is a boat ramp and we saw 3-4 power boats, a couple of canoes and kayaks. It looks like a nice little place to throw in a line. We will be back, as this place is only 35 minutes from where we live and makes for a nice little weekend getaway.
ScoutI am writing to share a very disappointing experience my wife and I had while staying at Scott's Creek Campground at Hillsdale Lake. This was our first time camping, and we were excited for the experience. Unfortunately, our interaction with the camp host, Tom, made the stay very unpleasant. He was impatient, short, and disrespectful toward me when I had simple questions as first-time campers. When I was in the process of paying for the site, he asked for my Social Security number. This was new to me, as I was unaware that Kansas State Parks required this information. I calmly asked why it was needed, just trying to understand the process. In response, he told me that I could leave if I didn’t like it, rather than explaining my concern with patience. In addition to this, he made several other comments throughout the interaction that left me baffled that a camp host would speak to guests in such a manner. As someone new to camping, I was simply seeking clarification, not being difficult. His attitude made us feel uncomfortable and unwelcome, and it negatively impacted what should have been an enjoyable first camping experience. Because of this experience, I would not recommend staying at this campground while he is the camp host, and my wife and I will not be returning as long as he remains in that role. I wanted to bring this to your attention in hopes that future guests are treated with more patience and respect.
ScoutThey are very nice sites. But they are not free.
GuideOvery priced not safe they put no money into the park it's a dump read the reviews.
GuideThis campground is about 35-40 mins outside Kansas City City. The town that it is located in has a lot to do as well! Campgrounds is clean and well kept! We visited in November so not many people.
GuideWe loved this campground. The sites are so pretty and spaced well. The bathroom/showers were clean. The laundry worked well. The camp host was friendly and welcoming. This was the best campground we stayed at on our cross country trip. All the sites were nice.
GuidePulled in late and left early. Lots of level grassy space available, and the lake looked really nice. A few other overnighters were there. Not too much time is added if you’re traveling i70. Poop on the toilet seat in the pit toilet so we waited until we got to a gas station in the morning. People are animals.
Hillsdale State Park spans multiple camping areas within a 40-minute drive southwest of Kansas City. The reservoir covers 4,580 acres with campgrounds positioned around its shoreline at varying elevations between 850-900 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with higher humidity from June through September, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional thunderstorms.
Boating and water access: Crappie Cove Campground offers direct lake access with a boat ramp nearby for easy launching. "I had a great time kayaking the coves to this gorgeous lake," notes one visitor who found the quieter areas perfect for paddling.
Biking trails: The park maintains several miles of biking paths with varying difficulty levels. "It is a great place to bike and fish. It also has excellent public hunting areas," according to a regular visitor at the wooded campsites.
Archery practice: The park features specialized facilities beyond typical campground amenities. "It has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations," explains a camper who appreciates these additional recreational options.
Tree-covered sites: Sunflower Campground features newer plantings that will eventually provide more coverage. "The trees in the sites are small saplings, give them a few more years, and they will be nice," notes a visitor who found the hosts friendly and knowledgeable about the area.
Lake views: Many campers value waterfront positioning when selecting sites. "Sites are plentiful. Lots of riding trail miles and lake," reports a camper who found Saddle Ridge Campground both clean and quiet.
Accessibility features: Some areas offer specific accommodations for visitors with mobility needs. "It has some concrete pads which would be nice wheelchair access," mentions a camper about the newer sections of the campground, which balance modern amenities with natural settings.
Campsite leveling challenges: Lake Miola City Park offers water access but requires preparation. "The only downside is that the sites are not very level," reports a camper who otherwise found the facilities clean and enjoyable.
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility upkeep differs between camping loops and seasons. "Showers are either dirty or out of service, no bathroom in some campgrounds aside from a portapotty," notes one camper who otherwise enjoyed the water access opportunities.
Storm shelter availability: Weather safety considerations affect campground selection for many visitors. Rutlader Outpost RV Park includes tornado shelters, while state park campgrounds may lack these facilities. "This is by far our favorite and their rates are very reasonable... this location has a tornado shelter."
Playground access: Scott Creek Campground serves as a convenient base for family activities. "Quiet and a quick drive from KC. Lots to do here. Great even for a last minute adventure," mentions a camper who visited with friends.
Swimming areas: The lake includes designated swimming zones with additional recreational facilities. "The lake offers hiking/biking trails around it, a campground, fishing, a swimming beach with a picnic area and volleyball courts," explains a camper who found the area well-maintained and clean.
Affordable options: Budget-conscious families have multiple pricing tiers to consider. "Lake Miola park in Paola is a small, well kept, easy to access recreational area. The rates are EXTREMELY affordable. First come, first served," notes a regular visitor who appreciates the value.
Full hookup selection: Quail Run Campground provides specific amenities for RV campers. "Great campsite. Plenty of space for tents and other activities and very close to water," reports a visitor who found the site configurations accommodating.
Site width considerations: When selecting the best places to camp near Hillsdale, Kansas, RV size matters for comfortable setup. "72 Sites: 30' wide, 60' long and level, 24 Sites are pull thru, All have 30 & 50 amp service," explains a camper describing the spacious options at one of the private campgrounds.
Reservation timing: Holiday weekends fill quickly at the most popular campgrounds. "Holidays will find the campground FULL. If you want to be there for a holiday, know that you are allowed to stay 14 consecutive days before you must take 5 day break," advises a visitor familiar with the reservation policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Hillsdale, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, Hillsdale, KS offers a wide range of camping options, with 101 campgrounds and RV parks near Hillsdale, KS and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Hillsdale, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Hillsdale, KS is Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park with a 4-star rating from 8 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Hillsdale, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Hillsdale, KS.
What parks are near Hillsdale, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Hillsdale, KS that allow camping, notably Clinton Lake and Pomona Lake.
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