Wilson State Park Campground sits just across from the Harrison Fairgrounds, accessible by two major roads in an in-town camping setting. The park features paved access roads with varying topography—low sites on the west edge near Old 27 and higher, sloped terrain on the south end. Most campers choose this location for convenience, with sites available even during peak summer periods when other area campgrounds fill up completely.
What to do
Kayaking on shallow lakes: Near Wilson State Park Campground, visitors can explore multiple water bodies. "The small beach can be crowded toward the afternoon, so stake out a spot early," notes Heather Q. Some campers access the less-trafficked lakes in the region for paddling.
Hiking the observation tower: The Rifle River Recreation Area offers hiking trails culminating in scenic views. "The overlook tower is definitely worth the hike and there's a hidden surprise at the same location for those who know where to look," shares Tasha T. The recreation area contains five distinct lakes each offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tubing adventures: Warm summer months draw visitors to the Rifle River for floating activities. The River View Campground & Canoe Livery provides equipment rentals for water activities. "Nothing like grabbing a tube a flowing down the river with friends," reports Megan W. The campground serves as a starting point for various river excursions.
What campers like
Multi-generational facilities: The Bay City State Park Campground offers balanced amenities for various age groups. "The campground is very well run and the facilities are very clean. The campground is located across the road from the beach with a playground, this year they have added a boardwalk," notes Bridget B. The park arranges scheduled activities throughout summer months.
Spacious campsites: Some campgrounds in the area provide larger sites with good separation. At River View Campground & Canoe Livery, "the rustic sites along the river in section 'N' were very large and spacious spots," according to Phil M. Site selection varies significantly between campground loops.
Organized activities: Campers appreciate scheduled events at certain parks. "We did a kids craft and enjoyed hot cocoa or coffee Saturday morning and then returned after dinner for Back-to-School bingo and popcorn," shares Sarah S. about Bay City State Park Campground. Activity calendars typically post monthly at park offices.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Roadside camping locations experience traffic noise throughout the day. According to Dj W. at Wilson State Park Campground, it's "bordered on 2 sides by 2 major roads, Old 27 and Townline Lake Rd, and Harrison is loaded with people who think 'no exhaust' equals 'cool car', and are happy to show you." Some sites offer more protection from road noise than others.
Campsite variations: Not all sites provide equal amenities or space. "Yes, some spots are smaller than others, so be honest about your rig length when booking. Many sites are rather large, like 97, but severely sloped, also like 97... Others are flat, small, and your camper is right near the road," explains Dj W. about Wilson State Park Campground.
Bathroom cleaning schedules: Most parks close facilities briefly for daily maintenance. "They are closed an hour a day for thorough cleaning and restocked and wiped down in the late evening," notes Sarah S. Plan accordingly around these scheduled closures.
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad access: North Higgins Lake State Park Campground and nearby parks offer water play areas for children. "The beach was great, soft sand bottom, water was clear & cold!" reports Heather M. Many families stay at sites closer to the beach areas during summer months.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds maintain multiple playground options. "The campground is beautiful and very clean with a great swim area, cute playground, and newer shower houses," notes Lydia T. about Wilson State Park Campground. Some playgrounds receive morning sun, making afternoon play more comfortable.
Biking opportunities: Paved campground roads provide safe cycling for children. "This is a great campground if you enjoy riding bicycles or going on nature walks with trails that seem endless," says Nick B. about Bay City State Park Campground. Bring bikes with proper lighting for navigating campgrounds at dusk.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require substantial leveling equipment. "Site 61 did take some time to get all leveled out almost didn't have enough blocks. But very nice once set up," shares Gary E. about Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA. Bring extra leveling blocks for sloped sites.
Utility hookup placement: Check site maps for utility locations before arrival. At some campgrounds, "our water hook up was on the opposite side of the site from the power and sewer hook up so we had to have a hose running across our site; glad we had an extra hose to use as an extension," reports Megan K. about Higgins Lake-Roscommon KOA. Extra-long water hoses and power cords often prove useful.
Extension cord requirements: Power pedestals may be positioned far from optimal parking spots. Plan ahead with appropriate power management solutions and cord lengths sufficient for your site configuration.
