Wilson State Park's numerous campgrounds welcome pets at every site, making it a popular destination for campers traveling with dogs. Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area, Wheatgrass, Switchgrass, Coneflower, and Foxtail campgrounds all feature pet-friendly accommodations with electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Most waterfront sites allow easy access for dogs to enjoy the lake. Visitors note the park has several hiking and biking trails suitable for dogs on leashes. The campsites provide ample space between neighbors, offering privacy when camping with pets. Sites range from primitive options to those with water, electric, and sewer hookups at prices from $10-24 per night.
Missile Silo Adventure Campground offers a unique alternative for pet owners seeking an unusual camping experience. This developing site permits pets with drinking water available and toilets on-site. The campground features dispersed tent sites and areas for RVs, though without hookups. Dogs enjoy the open space and sunset views at this distinctive location. Wilson Lake itself provides excellent opportunities for pets and owners, with beautiful rocky formations and clear water. The water remains relatively clean without much algae, making it suitable for dogs that enjoy swimming. Campers should be prepared for potentially windy conditions, as the lake's exposure and limited tree cover can create strong breezes across sites.
$23 / night
"A true diamond in the rough tucked just 8 miles from I-70 near Sylvan Grove, KS. This is a great place to enjoy the breeze as it blows across the rolling plains of eastern Kansas."
"Who 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."
$18 - $250 / night
"This campsite is along the Wilson Lake. The scenic is awesome. Most campsite is around $19-24 and there’re a few FREE campsite. There’s water, fire ring, picnic table and toilet."
"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"
$18 - $350 / night
"Stayed here while traveling from Rocky Mountain NP through Kansas. This is a hidden gem right on the army corps of Engineers lake Wilson. Must stay if Traveling through the flat state of KS."
"I was impressed by the information and one of the signs detailing the trails which led from just outside of the campground all the way to a very special cliffside which is renowned in the state of Kansas"
"We've camped at Wilson State Park three times now on eastbound road trips and I can't recommend it enough! There are sheltered sites on green lawns where tent campers can spend a quiet night."
"Stayed two nights at Wilson State Park on our way from Georgia to Alaska. We were so pleasantly surprised!"
$18 - $180 / 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."
$10 / night
"When traveling to Kansas there are 26 state parks to visit. "
"After staying at Wilson Lake numerous times passing through, I opted to check out the Coneflower loop on this trip."
$23 / night
"We had a great view of the lake. Has a grill/fire pit and a picnic table. Only downside was the bathroom/shower facility. One toilet was clogged and they other did not stop flushing."
"Water and electric hookups were conveniently located and the site was mostly level side to side. And that view!"
$24 / night
"Wilson State Park is truly a hidden gem. 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."
"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)."
$10 / night
"You can drive up to these sites and there are some really nice ones next to the water. There is also an area that is shaded."
"Payment is confusing and I don’t think the app works, but after driving for many MANY hours with flat land, rolling hills, lakes, quiet was almost surreal."
$35 / night
"Showers available at nearby state park after park entrance fee. Enjoyed the chill time at the campfire on the silo. Worth the stop."
TravelerWe are slowly making our way to Montana and decided to stay for two nights. After seeing the campground we changed our plans and stayed a week. We were parked across from the dog park as requested. The laundry facilities were good and reasonably priced.
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.
GuideGreat location in Kansas, 9 miles off I70, at exit 206. US Army Corps of Engineers campground, with water, electric and a dump station available.
Restrooms are heated and showers are available as well.
Senior Passes are accepted. If you choose not to use the electric sites, there are primitive sites, which are free. Nice clean place to find an oasis (Wilson Lake) on a highway desert!
LegendStunning views in every direction. A true diamond in the rough tucked just 8 miles from I-70 near Sylvan Grove, KS. This is a great place to enjoy the breeze as it blows across the rolling plains of eastern Kansas.
Wilson State Park has multiple camping loops with a variety of hookup options from primitive sites overlooking Wilson reservoir to full hookups with 20/30/50 amp power, water and sewer for RVs. Bring your camera, some comfortable shoes and sunscreen and enjoy plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking and fishing.
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.
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.
ScoutStayed here while traveling from Rocky Mountain NP through Kansas. This is a hidden gem right on the army corps of Engineers lake Wilson.
Must stay if Traveling through the flat state of KS.
Water is crystal clear and affords people the opportunity to swim fish boat etc
TravelerCalled Sunday of July 4 weekend and the owners answered. Late check in was zero issue. Super friendly folks and their pets are sweet as can be! Walked 5 mins up to Meridy’s for dinner and had one of the best steaks of my life. For just passing through, I couldn’t ask for a better quality stop.
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
Wilson Lake offers excellent water clarity and notable rocky formations along its 9,000-acre shoreline, making it a popular destination for both humans and pets. Located in central Kansas at an elevation of 1,516 feet, this reservoir features prairie landscapes with rolling hills that provide natural windbreaks at certain campsites. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer temperatures reaching 90+ degrees and spring storms bringing heavy winds.
Mountain biking trails: Wilson State Park maintains nearly 24 miles of dedicated mountain biking paths. According to one visitor at Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground, "The trails at this campground are super fun for mountain biking! Quick and flowy!" The Switchgrass trail system receives particular praise from riders seeking technical challenges.
Kayaking: Launch your kayak directly from waterfront sites at multiple campgrounds. A camper noted, "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." The limestone rock formations around the lake create interesting paddling destinations.
Fishing: Wilson Reservoir supports multiple species including striped bass, walleye, and catfish. At COE Wilson Lake Sylvan Park, anglers appreciate the access points and quieter fishing environment. A visitor mentioned, "No boat noise, as the lake is on the other side of the dam from the campground," making it ideal for shore fishing.
Lake water quality: The clarity of Wilson Lake stands out compared to other Kansas reservoirs. A visitor to Lucas Park commented, "The lake is extremely clean. You can park with a water view nearly everywhere." The water remains relatively clear throughout summer with minimal algae growth.
Spacious campsites: Campgrounds around Wilson Lake offer generous site dimensions. One camper at Wheatgrass Hell Creek Area Campground reported, "The sites are huge! This back-in site was easily 50-60ft long. Water and electric hookups were conveniently located and the site was mostly level side to side."
Sunset views: The open prairie setting creates spectacular evening views. A visitor to Minooka Park shared, "BEAUTIFUL views!!! Very windy but worth it for water front. We stayed in a loop alone that could have had 3 other sites, next to beach access." Many lakefront sites offer unobstructed western exposure ideal for evening relaxation.
Wind conditions: The exposed location means prepare for potential strong winds. A camper at Minooka Park warned, "WINDY, WINDY, WINDY!!!!! This campsite is NOT for tents! We arrived hoping to cook and hang out on the lake but the 18mph winds had us huddled near the car as a winds shield." Consider campsites with natural windbreaks when possible.
Bathroom facilities vary: Quality and proximity of restrooms differs between campgrounds. One camper noted, "Bathrooms were a bit of a walk but again, worth it!! Thought I had seen a mirage once we pulled into the park after miles of Kansas greens and browns." Some loops have modern shower houses while others offer basic vault toilets.
Weekday advantages: For a quieter experience, schedule mid-week visits. A Buffalo Grass camper shared, "Our second visit was on Tuesday, August 25, and that time, we had literally the whole peninsula to ourselves... not a single other tent or car, and the weather was incredible."
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with gentle entry points. A visitor to Buffalo Grass — Wilson State Park reported, "There are sheltered sites on green lawns where tent campers can spend a quiet night. Trees provide shelter from wind and thunder storms. Depending on where you camp you can walk to swim in the reservoir."
Playground options: Multiple campground loops include playground equipment for children. A camper mentioned, "We tend to camp on the marina side of the lake, but the other side has a playground and swim beach - possibly more family friendly."
Dog-friendly facilities: All Wilson State Park campgrounds welcome pets with proper supervision. The park offers numerous dog friendly campgrounds near Wilson with trails suitable for leashed pets. A visitor shared, "Lots of campsites for tents and for RVs! We like to fish and kayak - sometimes fishing from the kayaks, and we always have good luck at Wilson."
Site selection considerations: RVers should check site details before booking. A camper at Coneflower Otoe Area Campground observed, "On this loop you can find sites with both primitive and non primitive access. Cost of camping in the Coneflower loop is only $13." Many loops have pull-through sites, while others require backing in.
Hookup availability: Various connection options exist across the campgrounds. One visitor noted, "The campground is divided into two separate areas. Each with their own unique appeal. I personally liked the campground closest to the pay station as it seemed to have better overall access to amenities such as community water."
Level site advantages: Many sites require minimal leveling. A camper reported, "Nice clean camp site! Excellent view of the water!" with another mentioning "Level, concrete pad and spacious, staggered sites. Would give it a 5 with full hook-up (elec. & water here)."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Wilson, KS?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Wilson, KS is Big Bluestem Hell Creek Area Campground — Wilson State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 23 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Wilson, KS?
TheDyrt.com has all 65 dog-friendly camping locations near Wilson, KS, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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