Sylvan Park
4.6492 reviews4860 OUTLET BLVD, Sylvan Grove, KS 67481, USA
Sylvan Park
$18.00 - $180.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$28.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$180.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $18 for standard non-electric sites to $180 for group sites with electric hookups. Additional fees include reservation service charges and cancellation fees.
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Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Nestled in the protective shadow of Wilson Lake Dam, Sylvan Park Campground welcomes adventurers to central Kansas with 27 thoughtfully designed campsites. Whether you're planning a family reunion at one of the spacious group camping areas or seeking a peaceful retreat with modern amenities, this hidden gem offers the perfect basecamp for exploring the region's natural wonders.
Sylvan Park offers various camping options suitable for RVs, tents, and groups. Group camping sites are spacious and accommodate up to 50 guests.
Historical SignificanceStep into the living history of the Smoky Hills, where pioneer determination meets geological ingenuity. Throughout the surrounding 'Post Rock Country,' weathered limestone fence posts stand as monuments to early settlers who transformed native stone into lasting landmarks. These honey-colored sentinels dot the landscape, telling stories of resilience and adaptation in the Kansas frontier.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Kansas weather, where summer days bring warmth perfect for lake activities, punctuated by dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that paint the sky. The true magic happens in late spring and early fall, when gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for stargazing around the campfire and exploring the surrounding trails.
ElevationThoughtfully positioned in the sheltered valley below Wilson Dam, the campground enjoys a naturally protected microclimate. This strategic location shields campers from the prairie winds while providing easy access to both the tranquil waters above and the flowing river below.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to reflections dancing across Wilson Lake, rightfully crowned as the 'clearest lake in Kansas.' The crystalline waters mirror a landscape of artistic contrasts—ancient limestone cliffs rising from mixed grass prairie, while the meandering Saline River carves fascinating geological stories into the earth. Each sunset transforms the rolling hills and distinctive buttes into a canvas of gold and crimson.
Geological RegionDiscover a landscape sculpted by time itself at Sylvan Park, where the ancient Smoky Hills reveal their secrets through dramatic buttes and peaceful valleys. This is the heart of 'Post Rock Country,' where exposed limestone formations tell a 100-million-year-old story. These same golden stones that once lay beneath prehistoric seas now stand as fence posts and foundations, creating a unique geological and cultural tapestry found nowhere else in Kansas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, which are praised in user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, many being pull-through and long enough for larger RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is variable, with some users noting limited foliage between sites.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose tent sites if floodlights near RV sites are bothersome. Look for sites closer to the Saline River for better views.
Best CampsitesSites 12, 14, and 19 are frequently mentioned as spacious and shaded.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 PM
Check-out
6:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limit of one RV and one tent or two tents per camp pad.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 50 guests and feature picnic shelters.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are large and mostly pull-through with gravel pads. The campground includes individual sites and group areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 - September 15 (reservable dates). Closed outside of this season for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis outside of the reservation window.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations incur additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Changes to reservations also incur a $10 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sylvan Park Campground offers diverse activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and boating. The Bur Oak Nature Trail provides a self-guided interpretive experience.
Hiking
Sylvan Park features the Bur Oak Nature Trail, a 3/4 mile self-guided trail with interpretive stations.Fishing
Wilson Lake is well-stocked with game fish, including Striped Bass, walleye, and catfish. Fishing is enhanced by a stocking program.Swimming
Swimming is available at Wilson Lake, but some users found swimming areas hard to locate due to poor signage.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Wilson Lake, with options for water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and sailing.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including pheasants, quail, turkey, and deer, providing excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, and the area is maintained during snowy conditions.Water Sports
Fishing, boating, and other water sports are popular in Wilson Lake, which is adjacent to the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must use local firewood to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsTicks, horseflies, and other insects are common. Some user reviews mention issues with bugs in bathroom facilities and high grass attracting pests.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Closest emergency services include Wilson Medical Center in Wilson (approximately 10 miles), Sylvan Grove Police Department (approximately 3 miles), and the nearest ranger station at Wilson Lake.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - September 15
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, and the campground is considered clean and well-maintained by users.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Wilson Lake and the Saline River, with easy access to fishing and boating.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions of bugs, limited cell phone service, and the new 6 PM check-in time policy.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful by multiple reviewers. They ensure cleanliness and assist during emergencies.
Campground Map
4860 OUTLET BLVD, Sylvan Grove, KS 67481, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 70, north of Wilson, Kansas, take exit 206 and turn north onto Highway 232. Continue for 8 miles, then turn right onto Highway 181 and follow signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads from Interstate 70. Highway 232 and Highway 181 provide straightforward routes to the campground, and signage is available to guide visitors.Nearby places
Lucas (approximately 13 miles), Wilson (approximately 10 miles), Sylvan Grove (approximately 3 miles)
travel times vary from 5 to 20 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be purchased in Sylvan Grove, which is approximately 3 miles away and includes options for groceries, general camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
92 reviews
Sylvan Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally rate Sylvan Park highly for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. However, some concerns include bugs, poor cell service, and limited privacy between sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 92 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites, friendly camp hosts, accessible hiking trails, and well-maintained amenities.
Based on 92 reviewsCommon Concerns
Bug infestations, poor cell phone service, and floodlights near RV sites are common complaints noted by users.
Based on 92 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Choose tent sites to avoid floodlights near RV areas. Bring bug spray to manage insects and plan for limited cell phone service. Some users recommend reserving kayaks from Knotheads Bait Shop.
Based on 92 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight shade and spacious sites but note high heat in bathrooms. Winter reviews praise heated showers and campground maintenance during snow.
Based on 92 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Perfectly shaded spaces that keep the hot afternoon sun off.' - Birdie Cotton
'Great campground for our trip. Quiet and relaxing.' - Chris Phillips
'Nice shady campground with level sites.' - JoAnne...
Based on 92 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 05: 'Boring, buggy, unkempt.' - Mark P
Site 18: 'The new check-in time 6 pm SUCKS!' - Jamie W
Site 14: 'Cellular coverage is very poor in this park.' - Ronald C
Based on 92 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms received praise from users for being spacious and accommodating.
Based on 92 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some users noted issues with fleas and ticks on dogs.
Based on 92 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025