Wilson Lake State Park offers tent camping options across multiple distinct campgrounds within a central Kansas setting marked by limestone outcroppings and native prairie grasses. The reservoir spans approximately 9,000 acres with 100 miles of shoreline, creating numerous secluded camping opportunities. Water levels typically remain stable year-round, providing consistent lake access for campers.
What to do
Waterfront access: Side Oats Hell Creek Area Campground provides primitive camping with easy lake entry points. "Amazing primitive camping with driving access to shower in park. Beautiful lake view. We are tent campers with 2 old dogs it was perfect," notes camper Bridget K.
Fishing opportunities: Dropseed Campground places anglers near prime fishing spots and the marina. According to Shannon G., "Drop seed campground has 6 sites that are long term. It is next to a bunch of storage areas, a marina, and a boat launch." The area supports populations of walleye, white bass, and smallmouth bass.
Evening relaxation: Sunflower Otoe Area Campground offers particularly scenic sunset views over the water. One camper reports, "It was beautiful at sunset, very nice campground with good hot showers."
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Sagewort Otoe Area Campground offers sites directly adjacent to the lake. One visitor notes, "We had only one neighbor in our area of the park and were right on the water. The lake was busy during the day and quieted down in the evening."
Affordable primitive options: Indian Grass Campground provides budget-friendly primitive sites with lake views. Shannon G. explains, "There are 2 areas which have a few primitive sites and a few covered picnic areas with fire rings. The views are beautiful with rolling hills and Wilson lake. This area is nice and secluded. The sites are $10 a night."
Spacing between sites: Many tent campers at Wilson Lake appreciate the adequate separation between camping spots. Matt F. observed at Indian Grass, "This campground is very clean and the sites are nicely spaced."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: While most campgrounds offer toilet access, the condition varies by location. At Sagewort, one camper noted, "Bathrooms need a refresh but I can only imagine how much use they get each year."
Supply limitations: No firewood is available within the park. Before setting up at Sagewort, campers should "grab some firewood and last minute supplies from the local bait shop, 2nd right after getting off the main road."
Site variations: Campgrounds range from primitive to full-hookup. Dropseed offers full hookups but sites are "close together. There are no trees but has a nice view of the lake. The sites are 19.00 a night."
Tips for camping with families
Shower access planning: When tent camping with children at primitive sites, plan accordingly for shower facilities. Bridget K. notes Side Oats Hell Creek Area has "driving access to shower in park," making it convenient for families staying at primitive sites.
Activity timing: Lake usage peaks during daylight hours but quiets substantially in evenings. A Sagewort camper observed, "The lake was busy during the day and quieted down in the evening," making early mornings and evenings ideal for family lake activities.
Site selection strategy: For families wanting more privacy with tent setups, seek out secluded areas. Shannon describes Indian Grass as having "beautiful views with rolling hills and Wilson lake. This area is nice and secluded."
Tips from RVers
Limited long-term options: RVers seeking extended stays have specific designated areas. Shannon G. explains Dropseed "has 6 sites that are long term" with full hookups.
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. While some areas offer only 30-amp service, Sunflower and Sagewort Otoe Area Campgrounds provide both 30-amp and 50-amp options for tent campers wanting electricity.
Site spacing considerations: RV campers should note that certain areas offer limited separation between units. At Dropseed, the sites are described as "close together" with "no trees," though they do provide "a nice view of the lake."
