Tent camping near Hillsdale, Kansas features several wooded areas along Clinton Lake and Hillsdale Lake, with elevations ranging between 850-950 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 80s to mid-90s with high humidity, making shaded sites particularly valuable during peak camping season. The region receives approximately 40 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush vegetation but occasionally challenging trail conditions.
What to do
Lakeside exploration: Woodridge Park offers a 4.5-mile trail system with access to Clinton Lake. One frequent camper notes, "We love hiking the trail through the woods and by the lake even when we aren't camping—best trail I've been on in Lawrence."
Sunrise watching: At Woodridge Park, primitive sites along the lakeshore provide excellent sunrise viewing opportunities. A camper shares, "Site 4 is right on the lake and had a beautiful view of the sunrise."
Boat launching: For water recreation access, Adam's Grove provides convenient boat ramp facilities. According to a visitor, "Adam's Grove does provide the closest boat ramp if you plan on picking up passengers off the beach near the dam."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacing between primitive campsites at Woodridge Park creates natural seclusion. A camper mentions, "Camping spots along trail are really spread out."
Uncrowded weekday camping: Weekday visits often provide a more solitary experience at 110 Mile Park, though availability may be limited. A reviewer notes, "It was a quiet little camp site that nobody really went to."
Well-maintained facilities: The upkeep of both main camping areas and trail systems receives positive feedback. One camper states, "Awesome spot for weekend camping. Lots of fire rings available. Well maintained in the main camping area, as well as on the trail."
What you should know
Weather impacts: Heavy rain can significantly affect accessibility at some locations. One visitor warns, "Keep in mind though that the trail gets very muddy if it has just rained!"
Insect activity: Seasonal insect hatches can affect camping comfort. A Tent Sites at Milo Farm visitor reports, "They were small but quite aggressive, constantly swarming us. At one point there were seven perched on my husband's back."
Site selection strategy: Arriving early provides the best site options for walk-in camping. A camper advises, "It's highly suggested that you explore off the trail though so that you can see all the creative campsites that campers have built and established."
Tips for camping with families
Packing considerations: Hiking gear into primitive sites requires additional planning for families. One parent shares, "It was our first time hiking in to a site (lots of work with our regular gear for a family of four, but worth it!)."
Site exploration: Some campsites offer family-friendly features away from the main camping areas. A camper notes, "This place is definitely a weekend destination for my little family and I. The trail is probably easy to moderate and there are an endless number of areas to explore."
Weekday advantages: Rabbit Ridge Primitive Campground offers quieter family camping during non-holiday periods. One reviewer mentions, "We very rarely run into anyone else while camping on the trail. We have myself, husband, son, and dog."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Tent campers seeking electric access should consider Overlook Park, where electric hookups complement the primitive camping experience.
Reservation planning: For sites that allow advanced booking, weekend dates often fill weeks ahead during summer months, particularly at campgrounds with amenities like water and electricity.
Site size limitations: Some tent-focused areas have restricted space unsuitable for larger camping setups. Review parking area dimensions when planning equipment needs, especially for group camping situations.
