Hillsdale State Park
00 review26001 W. 255th Street, Paola, Kansas, 66071, United States
Hillsdale State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
This fee range applies to various types of camping accommodations, including sites with amenities like electric and water hookups. Additional fees may apply for park entry vehicle permits and other activities.
About this campground
Nestled in the rolling hills just a scenic drive from Kansas City, Hillsdale State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore one of Kansas's premier recreational destinations. This expansive reservoir paradise invites you to cast a line into pristine waters, navigate winding trails on horseback, or simply unwind at a lakeside campsite. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, hiking through dense timber, or gathering around a picnic table with loved ones, Hillsdale offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities for your next adventure.
Hillsdale State Park supports a variety of camping styles including primitive camping, RV camping, and equestrian camping. Saddle Ridge Equestrian Campground is specifically designed for horse campers with shaded sites, pens, and hookups.
Historical SignificanceBorn from vision and necessity, Hillsdale Reservoir stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. First authorized in 1954 as part of an ambitious flood control plan for the Osage and Missouri River basins, this engineering marvel wasn't completed until 1982. Today, what began as a practical solution to protect downstream communities has evolved into a beloved recreational haven, where the legacy of conservation meets the joy of outdoor adventure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Kansas seasons at Hillsdale, where each time of year paints the landscape in new colors. Spring arrives with gentle rains and wildflower blooms, perfect for hiking and fishing. Summer brings warm days averaging 85°F, ideal for swimming and boating adventures. Fall transforms the hillsides into a canvas of amber and gold, while winter's crisp air and occasional snow dustings create a peaceful retreat for hardy campers seeking solitude beneath star-filled skies.
ElevationThe park's gently undulating terrain creates natural vantage points and secluded valleys throughout the property, offering diverse camping experiences from hilltop sites with sweeping views to sheltered spots nestled among the trees.
Natural Features and SceneryHillsdale's landscape unfolds like a carefully composed painting, where dense stands of native timber crown the rolling hills and frame spectacular views of the shimmering reservoir below. The interplay of water and land creates countless scenic vistas, from sun-dappled coves perfect for quiet contemplation to windswept bluffs overlooking the vast expanse of water. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, where deer emerge from wooded draws at dusk and waterfowl dot the shoreline at dawn.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of the Osage Region, Hillsdale showcases the area's signature rolling topography carved by ancient waterways and shaped by time. The reservoir itself, a modern addition to this timeless landscape, has transformed the natural contours into a water wonderland while preserving the region's characteristic hills and valleys that make every trail a journey of discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific details about accessibility features for disabled visitors are not provided.
Sites SizeBased on user reviews, campsites are described as having ample trailer space, but no specific dimensions are mentioned.
Sites PrivacySites are shaded and include pens for horses, offering some level of privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian sites with shaded areas, pens, and hookups are recommended for horse campers.
Best CampsitesEquestrian sites with hookups and pens are highly rated by users.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in after 3:00 PM for cabins.
Check-out
Check out by Noon for cabins.
Stay Limit
Camping is allowed for up to 14 consecutive days, with a 14-day extension available upon written permission from the park manager. A 5-day absence is required before returning to camp.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Only one camper/RV per site is allowed, with additional restrictions not explicitly mentioned.
Groups
Group camping details, such as capacity or vehicle limits, are not specified.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEquestrian campground layout includes shaded sites with pens.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Cabin renters can check in after 3:00 PM and check out by Noon every day, year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks website (ksoutdoors.com) or by contacting the park office.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information on walk-up or first-come-first-served site availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies were not explicitly detailed in the provided materials.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Hillsdale State Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities, making it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, and water skiing. The park's trails are popular among equestrian users and hikers alike, with well-maintained paths around the lake.
Hiking
User reviews consistently highlight the well-maintained trails. Vortex Elizabeth stated, 'They have miles and miles of trails going around the lake,' and Marcia Hurlow noted 'lots of well-marked trails overlooking a lake.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted in designated areas but is prohibited at boat ramps, docks, and swimming areas. The reservoir offers opportunities for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in designated areas, but pets are not permitted in these areas.Biking
Trails suitable for mountain and trail biking are available within the park.Boating
The park supports various boating activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and power boating. Specific areas are designated as no-wake zones.Winter Activities
No winter activities are specified in the authoritative content or user reviews.Water Sports
Water skiing, kayaking, and canoeing are explicitly mentioned as water sport options within the park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills only. Fires must be extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are from 11 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and bugs are prevalent during warmer months, as highlighted in user reviews. Muddy and overgrown trails may pose challenges.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available within 10 miles, including hospitals, first aid supplies, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific date ranges for peak season pricing periods were mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash containers are provided across the park. Littering is prohibited, and park users must carry out trash where containers are not available.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Hillsdale Reservoir, which is accessible for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsOvergrown and muddy trails during April, along with tick infestations, were noted by users.
HostThe campground has a host to assist visitors.
Campground Map
26001 W. 255th Street, Paola, Kansas, 66071, United States
Driving directionsFrom 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. Continue for 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. Drive 3.3 miles to Hillsdale State Park.
The campground has convenient access from urban Kansas City, and it is reachable via major highways like I-35 and US-169. Both paved and unpaved roads are present, though no seasonal closures or challenging terrain were explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Kansas City (approximately 40 miles), Ottawa (approximately 25 miles), Louisburg (approximately 10 miles), and Paola (approximately 7 miles).
Nearby supplies
Supplies like groceries, propane, firewood, ice, snacks, and bait & tackle are available within 10 miles, along with a gift shop and recycling station.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Hillsdale State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Hillsdale State Park are overwhelmingly positive, particularly highlighting the equestrian camping facilities and well-maintained trails. Common themes include clean facilities, ample space for trailers, and the suitability of the park for horse camping.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Equestrian facilities such as pens, hitching posts, and mounting blocks receive high praise. Trails are described as well-marked and offering scenic views of the lake. Campgrounds are noted for their...
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Common Concerns
Some users expressed concerns about overgrown trails during specific seasons, such as Marcia Hurlow who noted that 'the paths were overgrown and muddy' in late April. Ticks and bugs were also...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring nontoxic bug spray due to the presence of ticks, as highlighted by Marcia Hurlow. For equestrian campers, ensuring reservations at Saddle Ridge Equestrian Campground is...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall appear to be popular times for camping, but the presence of bugs in spring and muddy trails could affect usability. Summer might offer the best experience for equestrian and water...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'My family loves going out on the trails, which are all volunteer maintained.' - Vortex Elizabeth. 2. 'This is a great Kansas State Park to ride, and horse camp located with access off major...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Saddle Ridge Equestrian Campground is consistently highlighted as a preferred site for horse campers, with amenities like shaded spots, pens, and hookups.
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility-focused reviews are mentioned.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be restrained at all times and are prohibited in swimming areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025