Wilson Lake is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Wilson Lake is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Wilson Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
$23 / 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."
$21 / night
"Wilson’s Lake in Kansas is something of a departure from surrounding areas of Kansas."
"As you drive into Wilson lake Otoe you’ll pass by a few cabins on the way to the campgrounds. There is a fork- one leads Goldenrod and the other takes you to Yarrow,Yucca, and Sunflower."
$19 / night
"NOTE: 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."
"Lake is beautiful and nice to swim in. 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."
$50 - $75 / night
"The cabins are SO sweet! Kay & Richard have clearly put a lot of love into this spot. Check them out and leave your review here!"
$95 / night
$24 / night
$85 - $120 / night
$10 / night
"There were no RV’s taking up space. There were good separate spots that included a fire pit and a table."
"Then realized we had found one of the nest places in Kansas! 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."
$46 - $65 / night
"This is a nice campground with pull-through spots, playground, nice washroom/showers. Some spots even have concrete patios with fire pits and grills. A few tiny cabins and a “glamping” tent."
"This location has it all. Cabins, tent sites. Great RV sites, even a yurt! Some highway noise. Clean, great kid play area (with ping pong) and a nice playground."
$35 / night
"Campground just outside of fun, nice Hays, Kansas.
Nearly no trees, but extra long sites - probably 90 feet long. Almost all are pull-thru."
"Our site was extra long and the wifi and cellular (att) service worked great. The laundry area was perfect to work in with newer machines. We extended our stay for an extra night."
TravelerThis is a nice campground with pull-through spots, playground, nice washroom/showers. Some spots even have concrete patios with fire pits and grills. A few tiny cabins and a “glamping” tent. The only negative is that the sites are very close together and it is right off I-70 which is very noisy all night long.
LegendWilson’s Lake in Kansas is something of a departure from surrounding areas of Kansas. If you take a moment to pull just a slight distance off the major highways and toward the Wilson’s Lake area you will be pleasantly surprised as the world begins to roll and open up into vibrant hillsides winding their way though the area.
I honestly stopped myself for a moment and checked the map thinking to myself in such a cliche way,“ We are not in Kansas anymore.”
But just as the map proved, I was in fact still in the same state, I noticed more and more signs for Wilson’s Lake State Park and found it was a must see while visiting the area.
The road winds you down to the park and down to what seems like a dead end just at the Yarrow Campground. This campground is one of the most coveted in the park because of its location, its convenience and its size.
When visiting Wilson Lake you might want to consider this loop for improved camping. When I visited I noticed that the roadways in and out of the campsite were well structured to provide ample movement for larger units with back up capabilities. While this loop also offers tent camping, it really is designed for the small to mid-size RVs.
Each campsite was equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, although I must say that some of the tables in this area were lacking a bit and needed some updating. The sites also included water and electric hook ups with reasonable spacing between sites. Pull- in/ back-in sites were graveled and semi level while the area between the spaces were grassy and lush. During summer months this would be a perfect retreat for families looking to have a little fun together but still have convenience.
What I liked most about this particular site was the proximity it had to the swimming beach and also the restrooms. 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 and therefore I believe would bring about the most fun for the family overall. Additionally, a playground was located nearby.
I would definitely recommend arriving early if visiting on a weekend or making reservations online to ensure a site at this campground in particular. The most popular of this lake region, Yarrow, stays booked well into the later portion of summer on weekends and is hit or miss on weekdays.
TIPS:
* Check out 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.
* Make sure to check out park rules at the kiosk before entering, this can be very valuable information especially when crowds are flocking to the area.
LegendRanger 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. There are rolling hills surrounding the lake. There is not clearly marked signs which made the area kind of confusing for us. There are so many loops with camping and 2 other parks in this same area. The lake itself is very large and lengthy. It’s beautiful-perfect for boating, fishing, or kayaking. There are not a lot of trees so the area can get pretty windy. Lots of sites face the water. Prices vary from 10-24 per night. There are also park permits and service fee you must pay. Sites range from primitive to full hook ups. Most have fire rings and picnic tables. There are plenty of trails for hiking and biking and swim beaches. The bathrooms are clean and there are showers,marinas,dump stations. Check in and out is at 2 pm. Make sure to check out the town of Lucas for all the fun art. Product Review: As a Ranger for the DRYT, I get products to test from time to time and I tested the 10 liter Camp Zero at Wilson Lake. What I love about the Camp Zero cooler is: 1: The light aluminum handle with gripping pad. Makes it easier to carry without losing grip 2: The rubber feet on the bottom makes it so it doesn’t slide around in the car or boat and get scratched or scratch up the car. 3: the molded cup holders on the top of the cooler that turns it into a much need table on the beach 4: The heavy duty rubber latches to keep the cooler latched. They are bear resistant 5: The awesome colors you can get them in I chose the bright green 10 liter cooler. The green is so fun and cheery and I know that I’ll be able to spot it where ever it is. This cooler really keeps the drinks cooler for extended periods of time. It is so heavy duty, and sturdy. The cooler is a little heavy once you put ice and drinks in it so I’ll just make my husband carry it. I’m excited to take this Camp Zero 10 liter cooler with me on all our adventures
LegendAs you drive into Wilson lake Otoe you’ll pass by a few cabins on the way to the campgrounds. 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 is water scattered through out the campground. There also is a boat ramp and swim beach. There are 3 smaller areas Yucca and Sunflower and Sagewort. These areas are primitive and spacious.
GuideBig 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. Clean showers a few hundred yards away. Trash bin in middle of loop. Marina two loops away; about 4 minute drive. Outstanding rock formations, reminds me of Utah. Water levels effect access to some formations. Great time, great weather, we’ll be back soon! T-Mobile service 1-4 bars. Streamed HotSpot for ROKU without issues.
LegendBig Bluestem is a popular campground at Wilson Lake. The outer loop is facing the water with pull thru sites. Best site is 77 right at the tip. The inner loop is mostly back in. The sites are water and electric and have a fire ring and table. They are roomy and have pretty views. The area has rolling hills and beautiful rock formations. You would never believe you are in the middle of Kansas. I was surprised to not find much algae in the lake. Bonus 😊
GuideKOA did not disappoint here. Right off the highway, there is some road noise but for someone passing through it was great because it didn’t add more miles to our trip. We have a 5th wheel so with the AC running at night we didn’t hear the road noise.
Spots are wide enough to allow space and not on top of neighbors. We got a deluxe patio site. Very convenient so we did not have to pull out are grill and outdoor furniture for just an overnight stay. Had a fire pit and gas grill (that was remarkably clean and had all clean utensils inside for grilling!)
The store has fresh pizza and ice cream available, as well as some small grocery needs, and there is a big selection for Rv accessories/parts.
The kids loved the pool. There are 2 pools one circular one 3ft on sides 6 in the center. And a smaller rectangle one that is a kiddie pool. My son is 40 inches and he could touch the entire length. They have a gator pulling train cart, pedal carts, a jumping pad, basketball hoops that are adjustable and an outdoor ping pong table. Also a playground that could use some updates. And a fenced in dog park.
Overall a great stop for one night, and if I ever find myself driving through Kansas again I will definitely stay again.
TravelerShowers very nice. Could use more trash bins and more than one shower house.
GuideWho knew Kansas was so beautiful?! We sure didn’t. Loving out lake side campsite on Wilson Lake. There are multiple different campgrounds within the park. We chose Big Bluestem bc it has water and electric (not all do) and was right on the water. Be warned that signs directing you around are not all that easy to see or follow. I used the map on my phone mainly to direct us. We originally chose site 78 but upon arrival realized it would be too difficult to get our 40ft MH into. Ended up staying in site 80.
Cabin camping near Wilson Lake, Kansas, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are included in the cabins at Wilson Lake?
The cabins at Hell Creek/Otoe Areas Cabins — Wilson State Park provide basic comforts while enjoying Wilson Lake's beautiful surroundings. As you drive into the park, you'll notice several cabins situated near the campgrounds. The cabins typically include electricity, beds, and protection from the elements. They're strategically positioned to provide lake views and convenient access to the water's edge. While the cabins themselves offer simple accommodations, visitors have access to the park's shared amenities including toilets, picnic areas, and fire rings throughout the grounds.
How much does it cost to rent a cabin at Wilson Lake in Kansas?
Cabin rentals at Wilson Lake in Kansas generally range from $45-$95 per night, depending on size, amenities, and location. Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground — Wilson State Park offers cabins near prime lakefront areas with reasonable rates compared to private accommodations in the region. Pricing varies by season, with summer weekends commanding premium rates. For comparison, cabins at nearby Salina Campground range from $65-$110 depending on amenities. Most Wilson Lake cabins require a two-night minimum stay during peak season. Reservations should be made well in advance for summer months, as these accommodations fill quickly.
When is the best time of year to stay in Wilson Lake cabins?
Late spring through early fall is ideal for staying at Wilson Lake cabins. Summer offers perfect conditions for water activities with the clearest water conditions. Yarrow Otoe Area Campground — Wilson State Park is particularly beautiful from May through September when you can fully enjoy the rolling hillsides and vibrant landscapes. Fall provides a quieter experience with pleasant temperatures and scenic views of changing colors. The area transforms as you venture off major highways, revealing surprising natural beauty regardless of when you visit. Wilson Lake's departure from typical Kansas flatlands makes it a refreshing destination throughout the warmer months.
Keep Exploring
