Wilson State Park offers diverse tent camping experiences on the shores of Wilson Lake in central Kansas. The park's 9,000-acre reservoir sits amid prairie hills at an elevation of 1,516 feet, creating a unique landscape where limestone outcroppings meet open water. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and August, making early morning and evening activities preferable during peak season.
What to do
Shoreline fishing access: Several camping areas provide direct lake access for shore fishing at Wilson Lake. At Sagewort Otoe Area Campground, campers appreciate being "right on the water" where "the lake was busy during the day and quieted down in the evening," according to Sandra&Dunn.
Early morning wildlife viewing: The transitional zones between prairie and lake attract diverse wildlife, particularly at dawn. A camper at Sunflower Otoe Area Campground noted it was "beautiful at sunset" making it ideal for nature photographers and bird watchers.
Boat launch accessibility: Multiple campgrounds provide convenient boat launch access. The Dropseed Campground is situated "next to a bunch of storage areas, a marina, and a boat launch," making it convenient for boaters despite sites being "close together" as mentioned by Shannon G.
What campers like
Spacing between campsites: Many tent campers appreciate the relative privacy at certain Wilson Lake campgrounds. Matt F. noted that at Indian Grass Campground, "the sites are nicely spaced" and "the view of the lake was little short of spectacular."
Hot showers after primitive camping: While primitive camping areas lack facilities, campers can access showers elsewhere in the park. Bridget K. described Side Oats Hell Creek Area Campground as "amazing primitive camping with driving access to shower in park" calling it an "oasis in Kansas."
Affordable pricing: Most primitive sites remain budget-friendly. Shannon G. reported that Indian Grass Campground offers sites for "$10 a night" while noting the area is "nice and secluded" with prairie vistas.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Several camping areas have minimal amenities. The primitive sites at Indian Grass Campground feature "a few covered picnic areas with fire rings" but lack water hookups and modern restrooms.
Variable bathroom conditions: Facility maintenance may be inconsistent during busy periods. One review mentioned bathrooms that "need a refresh" but acknowledged "I can only imagine how much use they get each year."
Supply planning: There are limited services near the campgrounds. Sandra&Dunn advises: "Before entering the park grab some firewood and last minute supplies from the local bait shop, 2nd right after getting off the main road."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate families with pets. Bridget K. found Side Oats Hell Creek Area Campground "perfect" for "tent campers with 2 old dogs" due to its lake views and driving access.
Evening cooling: The Kansas heat dissipates significantly after sunset, making evenings more comfortable. Ai-Ai T. mentioned Sunflower loop was "beautiful at sunset" with "good hot showers," providing relief after hot days.
Electricity for cooling: During summer heat waves, consider electric sites for running fans or air conditioning. Matt F. noted at Indian Grass: "We needed a camping spot with electric hookups to run the AC and that's what we got!!"
Tips from RVers
Long-term options: Some areas accommodate extended stays with full hookups. Shannon G. noted that Dropseed Campground "has 6 sites that are long term" with "full hook ups" at "$19.00 a night."
Limited shade protection: Most RV sites have minimal tree cover, requiring awnings or shade structures. One camper mentioned "there are no trees but has a nice view of the lake" at the Dropseed area.
Size restrictions: Wilson State Park campgrounds generally accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs rather than large rigs. The close spacing at some campgrounds makes maneuvering challenging for larger vehicles.
