Wilson State Park
00 review# 3 State Park Road, Sylvan Grove , Kansas, 67481, United States
Wilson State Park
$15.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees vary depending on the type of site and amenities. Vehicle, camping, and utility permits are required year-round. Additional costs for utility hookups apply.
About this campground
Discover Wilson State Park, where Kansas' rugged beauty meets endless water recreation on the stunning shores of Wilson Reservoir. This premier outdoor destination beckons adventurers to explore its two distinct areas: the dramatically named Hell Creek and the historic Otoe section. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, carving through crystal waters on skis, or hiking limestone-studded trails as the prairie wind whispers through native grasses, Wilson State Park offers an authentic Kansas outdoor experience. Choose your adventure level with accommodations ranging from full-service campsites to secluded primitive spots where the stars shine brightest.
Wilson State Park offers a variety of camping options, including improved campsites, primitive camping, and cabins. Group-specific details or glamping accommodations are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceWhile the written history of Wilson State Park may be recent, the land holds stories etched in limestone and whispered by prairie winds. The park's Otoe area hints at the Native American heritage that once defined these plains, inviting visitors to connect with the timeless spirit of the Kansas landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic sweep of Kansas seasons at Wilson State Park, where each time of year paints the landscape in new colors. Winter transforms the reservoir into a serene, frost-kissed wonderland, with crisp temperatures dipping to around 24°F—perfect for peaceful solitude and wildlife watching. Summer brings the sizzle, with temperatures soaring to 93°F, turning the reservoir into a water lover's paradise. But savvy campers know the secret: spring and fall deliver pure magic, with comfortable temperatures, wildflower blooms or autumn colors, and ideal conditions for exploring every corner of this diverse park.
ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates natural amphitheaters and scenic overlooks, with gentle rises and falls that reward hikers with panoramic views of Wilson Reservoir stretching to the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by Wilson State Park's striking landscape, where ancient limestone outcroppings rise like natural sculptures from the rolling prairie. These weathered formations frame spectacular views of Wilson Reservoir, its waters shifting from deep blue to molten gold with the changing light. The surrounding mixed-grass prairie comes alive with seasonal wildflowers, while hidden coves and rocky shorelines create intimate spaces for quiet reflection or exciting exploration.
Geological RegionSituated in Kansas' scenic Kaw Region, Wilson State Park showcases the state's surprising geological diversity. Here, millions of years of natural history are written in layers of limestone that punctuate the rolling plains. The south shore of Wilson Reservoir reveals a landscape where ancient seabeds meet prairie grasslands, creating a unique ecosystem where limestone bluffs, mixed-grass prairie, and expansive waters converge. This distinctive geology not only shapes the stunning scenery but also creates diverse habitats that make every visit a discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is not provided in the source materials.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not specified in the available information.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy provided at campsites is not detailed in the source materials.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo site-specific recommendations are available.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are mentioned as being the best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Campers are limited to 14 consecutive days, with a possible 14-day extension upon written permission from the park manager.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific number mentioned for guests allowed per campsite.
Groups
Details about group camping sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two main areas: Hell Creek and Otoe. Specific layout details are not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks official website or at park offices.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up/first-come-first-served availability is an option, but specific details about the number of sites or fill patterns are not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly stated, but campers are advised to adhere to park rules and regulations.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Wilson State Park offers activities such as hiking, swimming, and access to trails suitable for mountain biking. Boating is supported with ramps and rentals available, making it a hotspot for water recreation. Fishing is allowed in designated areas, and there are opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within the state park, including trails suitable for mountain biking. Specific details about trail lengths or difficulty levels are not included.Fishing
Fishing is supported with designated areas and fish cleaning stations. Fishing is prohibited on boat ramps, docks, beaches, and swimming areas marked with buoys.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Liquor and beer are prohibited on swimming beaches, and only shatterproof containers are allowed for other beverages.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available within the park. No additional details about terrain or difficulty are provided.Boating
Boating activities are supported with facilities like boat ramps and a marina. Boat rentals, including motorized options, are available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are available, although specific species or recommended areas are not mentioned.Winter Activities
The source materials do not mention winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not specifically mentioned, but motorized boating is supported with rentals available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings, grills, and fireplaces and must be fully extinguished before leaving.
- Quiet hours are between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife interactions and water safety concerns. Swimming is restricted to designated areas, and fishing is prohibited at boat ramps and beaches.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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 in Sylvan Grove, just 2 miles away. This includes basic medical services and a small clinic.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo explicit dates for peak seasons provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash containers are provided in some areas. Where containers are unavailable, park users must carry out their trash. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located adjacent to Wilson Reservoir, providing direct access to water-based recreational activities.
Common complaintsNo recurring complaints are mentioned in the source material.
HostCampground hosts are available on-site to assist with visitor needs.
Campground Map
# 3 State Park Road, Sylvan Grove , Kansas, 67481, United States
Driving directionsWilson is located 60 miles East of Hays and 55 miles West of Salina on I- 70. Take exit 206 North on I-70 and follow 232 North for 7 miles then West on Shoreline Rd. Cross Hell Creek Bridge, turn at the first right and follow the road to Wilson State Park Office.
The campground is easily accessible year-round via major paved roads. It is located 60 miles east of Hays and 55 miles west of Salina on Interstate 70. Exit 206 leads directly to Highway 232 and Shoreline Road, providing a well-maintained route to the park.Nearby places
Hays (60 miles, approximately 1 hour), Salina (55 miles, approximately 1 hour), Sylvan Grove (2 miles, approximately 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, can be found in Sylvan Grove, which is approximately a 5-minute drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Wilson State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are sparse but positive. One user described the park as 'beautiful and clean' and recommended it to anyone who loves camping.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praise the park's cleanliness and natural beauty.
Common Concerns
No specific complaints were mentioned in the user reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
No tips or recommendations were provided in the user reviews.
Seasonal Insights
No information about seasonal trends in user reviews is available.
Camper Quotes
Direct quote from a user: 'Beautiful and clean! Would definitely recommend this place to anyone who loves camping.'
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews specific to individual campsites or areas within the campground are provided.
Accessibility Features
Reviews addressing accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities are not available.
Pet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences are mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025