Best Campgrounds near Lucas, KS

Campgrounds around Lucas, Kansas cluster primarily near Wilson Lake, with developed options including Lucas Park, Minooka Park, and COE Wilson Lake Sylvan Park. These established campgrounds provide a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and even cabin accommodations at Set in Stone Cabins and RV Park. Wilson State Park offers several camping areas including Big Bluestem, Buffalo Grass, Coneflower, and Foxtail campgrounds, all managed with dedicated amenities and water proximity. Most campgrounds feature electrical hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, with many offering waterfront views across the lake's rolling terrain.

Many campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, with most facilities fully functional from spring through autumn, though some like COE Wilson Lake Sylvan Park remain open year-round. Primitive campsites at Lucas Park are free Monday through Wednesday evenings, while developed sites with hookups typically range from $19-24 per night. The area experiences significant wind conditions that tent campers should particularly note when planning their stay. Bathroom facilities vary from vault toilets to shower houses with sometimes unpredictable water temperature. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty in certain areas. A visitor commented, "This campground is along the Wilson Lake. The scenic is awesome. Most campsite is around $19-24 and there're a few FREE campsite. We went there early June and it's super windy."

The landscape surrounding Wilson Lake provides remarkable views and water recreation opportunities that campers consistently praise. Sites positioned along the lakeshore offer direct water access for swimming, fishing, and boating, with several campgrounds featuring designated swimming beaches. The clear water quality receives particular mention from visitors, with one describing it as "crystal clear" with opportunities to "swim fish boat etc." Campgrounds are typically spacious with good separation between sites, especially in the primitive camping areas. Travelers note the surprising beauty of the terrain compared to typical Kansas landscapes, with one camper describing how "as I drove along the land began to open up to large rolling hills and beautiful landscaping." Weekends tend to be busier, and reservations are recommended during peak summer months when waterfront sites fill quickly.

Best Camping Sites Near Lucas, Kansas (71)

    1. Minooka Park

    21 Reviews
    Dorrance, KS
    9 miles
    Website

    $8 - $200 / night

    "I think this campground is located on the only lake In Kansas. Very windy. Nights are Gorgeous. Showers and bathrooms on site. Located 10 mins from I-70"

    "We had a tent spot on the D loop next to the water. Not much shade available but temps definitely cooled down at night!"

    2. Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground — Wilson State Park

    23 Reviews
    Wilson, KS
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 658-2465

    $21 / night

    "Ranger Review: Camp Zero 10 liter cooler at Wilson Lake in Kansas Campground review-driving up to Wilson Lake you would never know you were in the middle of Kansas."

    "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."

    3. Lucas Park

    8 Reviews
    Lucas, KS
    7 miles
    Website

    $225 / night

    "I took a detour off the flat highway land in search of the town of Lucas where I had heard great things about their art installations."

    "We were traveling back to Oklahoma from South Dakota and needed a place to break up the drive. On the way up we just stopped in a Cracker Barrel parking lot."

    4. COE Wilson Lake Sylvan Park

    6 Reviews
    Sylvan Grove, KS
    7 miles
    Website

    $10 - $125 / night

    "Great location in Kansas, 9 miles off I70, at exit 206. US Army Corps of Engineers campground, with water, electric and a dump station available."

    "It is a well kept Corp campground and we will stay there again as we travel through Kansas."

    5. Buffalo Grass — Wilson State Park

    5 Reviews
    John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 658-2465

    "We found a space tucked nicely into the trees to afford privacy. The lake was only about a minute walk, and if you don't mind a little climb down some rocks, swimming is allowed."

    "Are you traveling i-70 in the middle of Kansas and just wanted a place to take a break and enjoy nature and a lake? Perhaps an overnight stay?"

    6. Coneflower Otoe Area Campground — Wilson State Park

    4 Reviews
    John Day Lock and Dam, Lake Umatilla, OR
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (785) 658-2465

    $10 / night

    "After staying at Wilson Lake numerous times passing through, I opted to check out the Coneflower loop on this trip."

    "When traveling to Kansas there are 26 state parks to visit.    "

    7. Foxtail Hell Creek Area Campground — Wilson State Park

    4 Reviews
    Dorrance, KS
    10 miles
    +1 (785) 658-2465

    $22 / night

    "While I read up quite a bit on traveling thru Kansas, this state park is truly better than I could imagine. Very scenic, peaceful, and plenty to do( or do nothing& enjoy the solitude)."

    "It is surrounded by miles of rolling farmland, so it is like an oasis when you see this beautiful lake as you enter the park. We stayed in Foxtail Loop in Site 61. It couldn't have been more perfect."