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Established Camping

Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park

Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect

There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

Saddle Ridge Campground is for horse campers only. For reservations please call the Saddle Ridge Camp Host Station at 913-594-3600 (answering machine).

Additional tents may require an additional $10.00 per night fee at check-in.

Russel Crites - Hillsdale State Park, near Paola, Kansas, is a fantastic spot for campers looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With a mix of tent sites, RV accommodations, and even yurts, there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out.

This campground is known for its beautiful, tree-covered sites that provide direct access to the lake, making it perfect for fishing, kayaking, or just soaking up the sun. Visitors have praised the friendly hosts and the well-kept facilities, which include electric hookups and clean restrooms. One camper noted, “The sites and facilities are well kept and clean,” which is always a plus when you're out in nature.

For those who love to explore, there are plenty of trails for hiking and biking, along with a bow range for archery practice. The park also offers a variety of water activities, from canoeing to jet skiing, ensuring that you’ll never run out of things to do. Plus, the spacious sites allow for a bit of privacy, so you can enjoy your time without feeling cramped.

While some campers have mentioned minor issues with the showers, the overall vibe is friendly and welcoming. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this campground is a solid choice for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Kansas.

Description

KS State Parks & Recreation

Hillsdale State Park

Hillsdale is one of the newest reservoirs in Kansas. Originally authorized in 1954 and completed in 1982, the reservoir is part of a comprehensive flood control plan for the Osage and Missouri River basins. Located in the rolling hills of Miami County, Hillsdale State Park and Wildlife Area has convenient access from urban Kansas City.
Hillsdale offers outdoor recreational opportunities to campers, anglers, boaters, hunters, swimmers, horseback riders, model airplane flyers, hikers, naturalists, picnickers, photographers, sightseers and those just out to enjoy our natural environment.

You must be 18 or older to rent a cabin or campsite.

  • Subject to regulations and posted notices, any individual over 21 may possess, consume, or drink alcoholic liquor. Kegs and party balls are strictly prohibited.
  • Any motorized vehicle must purchase and display a valid state park vehicle permit. Electric and gas powered scooters and skateboards cannot be operated in the state park. ATV use is prohibited in the state park.
  • Camping is allowed only in designated areas and is subject to restrictions as posted. All campers and camping units are limited to a stay of not more than 14 consecutive days although a 14-day extension may be obtained with written permission from the park manager. A 5-day absence is required before returning to the park to camp again. Any property left unused or unoccupied for 48 hours is subject to removal. Only one camper/RV per site is allowed.
  • Fires are allowed in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills only. Fires must be completely extinguished prior to leaving the area.
  • Swimming is allowed in designated areas. For other non-alcoholic beverages, only shatterproof containers are allowed.
  • Pets must always be restrained by a camper, cage, hand-held leash, or tethered chain no longer than 10 feet. They are not allowed on swimming beaches or swimming areas that are delineated by buoys or other markers or in public buildings or structures. Dogs participating in authorized activities or assisting the visually or hearing impaired are not subject to these restrictions.
  • A special event permit is required for any event involving entrance fees, exclusive use of an area, sales, organized competition, amplified sound, or reservation of a specific site or facility. Check with the park office for details.
  • Fishing is prohibited on boat ramps, courtesy docks, swimming beaches, and in swimming areas marked with buoys. In state parks, fish may only be cleaned at designated fish cleaning stations or other locations as posted.
  • Boats may not be operated within 200 feet of any area posted specifically for swimming and delineated by markers. No-wake speeds are required within 200 feet of a boat ramp, boat dock. Vessels left unattended at courtesy docks are subject to removal.
  • Fireworks are prohibited.
  • Litter must be put in trash containers, if provided. Where containers are not provided, park users must carry their trash out with them.
  • Digging holes, removing or defacing geological formations, archeological relics or ruins, or vegetation (except for noncommercial use of edible wild plants, wild fruits, nuts, or fungi) is prohibited.
  • Quiet hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Actions which alarm, anger, or disturb others are prohibited. Generators can not be used during quiet hours. Failure to comply may result in expulsion from the park.
  • Firearms may only be discharged in areas specifically designated for hunting or target practice.
  • DUMPING OF GREY WATER IS PROHIBITED. Grey water must be disposed of at the dump station.
  • Trails are open during daylight hours only. No camping, fires, or motorized vehicles are allowed on the trails. Please use caution when crossing roadways.
  • Cabin renters may check in after 3:00pm and check out by Noon everyday, year round. Smoking is not allowed in cabins. Pets and pet carriers are not allowed inside or on the porches of cabins. Cabin renters are not allowed to grill or cook from the porch deck. The cabin must be clean prior to departure. Cabin renters shall be responsible for full payment of any damages incurred during the length of stay. Damages will be billed to the renter for payment.
  • This is not a complete list of regulations. Complete regulations can be viewed and printed at ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Park-Regulations.
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Location

Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park is located in Kansas

Detail location of campground

Directions

**From the South and West:** Take I-35N towards Kansas City. Take the KS-68 exit toward Ottawa/Louisburg. Turn right onto KS-68. Turn Left onto Osawatomie Rd. 3 miles to Hillsdale State Park. **From the North and East:** Take I-35S. Take the US-169 S, exit 215 towards Paola. Turn left onto US-169S. Take the 255th Street ramp. Turn right onto W. 255th St. 3.3 miles to Hillsdale State Park.

Address

26001 W. 255th Street
Paola, KS 66071

Coordinates

38.65846422 N
94.92778889 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Yurts
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Drive Time


Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

8 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 18, 2021

Trees, Lake Access, Biking, Hunting, Fishing, and Bow Range

This campground is close to home for us, but we love it as a quick get away.  It has beautiful, tree-covered campsites that offer direct access to the lake.  The sites and facilities are well kept and clean.  Full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy.  

It is a great place to bike and fish.  It also has excellent public hunting areas.  It also has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow.  You can even climb towers to practice shooting from "tree-stand" elevations.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park by Jason W., June 18, 2021
  • Review photo of Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park by Jason W., June 18, 2021
  • Review photo of Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park by Jason W., June 18, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 7, 2021

Such a fun time!

This was our first location as full time RVers and it was such a fun experience. There are kayaks and canoes to rent, there is a great marina, fishing, and tons of water access opportunities for private kayaks. The people are friendly and so fun! Truly a great place to come camp.

Cons: showers are either dirty or out of service, no bathroom in some campgrounds aside from a portapotty.

Reviewed Apr. 1, 2021

Easy Camping

Campgrounds are clean and aren’t too overly cramped. Trails for hiking and riding bikes and they offer canoe/kayak renting.

  • Review photo of Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park by Maria M., April 1, 2021
Reviewed Aug. 4, 2019

Hillsdale Stare Park

Hillsdale is a nice place to camp that isn’t too far out of the city. Decent accommodations and nice camp sites near the water front.

Reviewed Jul. 30, 2018

Off the beaten path

A couple miles down a secluded drive, nestled back in the woods right on the lake. Lots of trees, nice shower house. Camp host is friendly and laid back. Pet friendly, well lit. Our family felt safe.

Beautiful sunsets. Water is a little muddy but good for fishing. I would recommend for a family getaway or a fishing trip.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed May. 31, 2017

Great, but need more by the water!

Hillsdale is a close stop for us. We'll often go when we only have one night to camp. Unfortunately, the waterside sites are minimal and most seem to be RV sites. We often find ourselves in a field with port-a-potties instead of lakeside with views. Not bad for what it is, I do wish they had more options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park have RV hookups?

According to TheDyrt.com, Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park has 30 amp and 50 amp electric hookups, water hookups and sewer hookups.

Are fires allowed at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is available, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is good.

How hard is it to get a campsite at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park?

Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park, try setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park?

There are 11 campsites at Russell Crites Primitive — Hillsdale State Park and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts