Wilson Lake provides camping sites near Wilson, Kansas, throughout multiple interconnected areas within Wilson State Park. Located 9 miles off Interstate 70, the lake features rock formations similar to those found in Utah amid rolling Kansas hills. The region experiences high winds throughout camping season, with limited natural shade in many campground areas.
What to do
Mountain biking on dedicated trails: The Switchgrass Hell Creek Area Campground offers direct access to mountain biking trails. "The trails at this campground are super fun for mountain biking! Quick and flowy!" notes a visitor. The trail network extends through multiple camping areas, connecting visitors to various parts of the park.
Kayaking along rock formations: At Minooka Park, campers can launch kayaks from sites close to the water. "We had a tent spot on the D loop next to the water. Not much shade available but temps definitely cooled down at night! There was a swimming beach just a few steps away from our tent spot which was why we chose it," writes a camper who enjoyed water access.
Missile silo tours: For an unconventional activity, the Missile Silo Adventure Campground offers unique historical experiences. "Beautiful site, cool and informed tour, open placement for tent sites," mentions a visitor. The campground continues to develop additional features for guests.
What campers like
Waterfront camping with easy lake access: At Buffalo Grass — Wilson State Park, campers appreciate the proximity to water. "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," reports a visitor who enjoyed the lake access.
Concrete pads for level setup: Many campsites throughout Wilson State Park feature concrete pads that simplify camping setup. "Big Bluestem Campground Site 78! 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. Noted as largest saltwater and clearest lake in Kansas. 30/50A/120V and water hookups. Concrete pad," notes a visitor.
Staggered site arrangement: Campers frequently mention the thoughtful site arrangement at Wilson Lake. "Nice campsite on lake's edge, level, concrete pad and spacious, staggered sites," reports a visitor to one of the lakeside areas, noting how the design maintains views while providing some privacy between sites.
What you should know
Wind conditions require preparation: The open landscape around Wilson Lake creates significant wind exposure. "CHECK THE WEATHER. I've never been in storms like the 2 nights we stayed here. I thought we were going to Oz," warns a visitor at Switchgrass campground. Securing tents and equipment is essential, particularly for sites without natural windbreaks.
Varying bathroom quality between loops: Bathroom and shower facilities vary significantly between camping areas. At Wheatgrass Hell Creek Area Campground, a visitor noted inconsistencies: "One toilet was clogged and the other did not stop flushing. The showers were ok, just be prepared for only cold water." However, they later updated: "Went to another shower facility and water was great, not too hot, not too cold."
Self-registration procedures: Multiple campers mention self-registration systems in place. "Self reg station (electronic) at the park as well as reserve early online," notes a camper. During peak times, rangers may be available to assist, but weekday arrivals often handle registration independently.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beach locations: Coneflower Otoe Area Campground provides close access to swimming areas. "Lake was really beautiful and our campsite was in a great location. We stayed in a tent in one of the Coneflower primitive spots. We had a great view, a little shade and a trail down to the lake," reports a family who stayed at the campground.
Playground access: Several campground loops feature playground equipment. "There is a swimming beach and a small fishing hole for kids," notes a visitor to Wheatgrass campground. The main state park areas have centralized playgrounds that serve multiple camping loops.
Kids' fishing areas: Designated fishing areas specifically for children exist within the park system. "We like to fish and kayak - sometimes fishing from the kayaks, and we always have good luck at Wilson. We try to get a campsite with water access so we can easily get the kayaks in and out if the water," reports a camping family.
Tips from RVers
Best pull-through sites: For larger rigs, specific loops offer better accommodation. "The outer loop being pull thrus and the inner back in. They too have fire rings and tables," notes an RVer describing the layout at Grama campground.
Cell service considerations: Mobile connectivity varies throughout the campground system. "T-Mobile service 1-4 bars. Streamed HotSpot for ROKU without issues," reports an RVer who stayed at Big Bluestem campground, providing useful information for those needing to remain connected.
Off-season opportunities: The camping season extends beyond summer at Wilson Lake. "Stayed two nights at Wilson State Park on our way from Georgia to Alaska. We were so pleasantly surprised! Several campsites to choose from, each offering different (but equally beautiful) views & amenities. We camped in November so some of the bathrooms were closed but there was one open bathroom facility that was drivable with hot showers."
