Camping in Wilson Lake

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Wilson Lake adventure.

100% (3 reviews)

Discover the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Wilson Lake.

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Stories from the community

Adam

1 week ago

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Branded 5 Stable & Kennel LLC

Great communication with easy check in, the photos and description is very accurate!

Weekend Trip to Hayland Farms

Tom is a great host. Very welcoming and shows you where everything is. Secluded, clean, and quiet campsite with nice restroom that includes sink, shower, and water faucet to fill buckets or wash stuff off. Great fire pit with lots of firewood and kindling and cooking utensils. Nice and flat ground for tent camping and walking trails. Beautiful campsite. Not a lot of shade but there is some. Dogs can run around and explore. Beautiful deer in the fields in the area across the road from the house. I would highly recommend camping here. You won't be disappointed. Thanks for hosting us!

1 night at Atlas Ad Astra - Missile Silo

Outstanding experience. Highly recommend taking the missile silo tour! Owner cares for his guests and did everything to make our stay great (including a late check-in - thank you).

1 night at Atlas Ad Astra - Missile Silo

Super interesting and fun! Highly recommend! Great activity as you are passing through.

1 night at Atlas Ad Astra - Missile Silo

Matthew was wonderful! We ended walking the property and check out all tent sites as none were assigned, got to pick our own. The views were amazing all around the property. The tour was awesome as well!!

1 night at C2T Ranch on the Saline River

Nice setting and friendly hosts. Would stay there again.

Weekend Trip to C2T Ranch on the Saline River

Great location, not too close to your neighbors and lots of wildlife and ranch animals.

Weekend Trip to C2T Ranch on the Saline River

It was a nice quiet place to get away. The river was more of a creek but a cool place to wade with our granddaughter. The cliffs were interesting and will go back to explore. A definite change of scenery from the flatter areas of Kansas.

Weekend Trip to Atlas Ad Astra - Missile Silo

What an experience! Matthew is awesome and a great host! Great space, great vibes and lots of things to do around! The Silo Tour is a must!

Weekend Trip to C2T Ranch on the Saline River

This place is magical, do not miss it. We danced with the firefly’s under a blanket of stars with a crackling fire and a soft breeze. We ordered the hamburgers (with homemade pickles!), bread and jam (so good!) and cinnamon buns. Do not miss her food. It is extraordinary. The burgers were so insanely good that I asked him if I could buy some chuck from him which I could. He explained to me how they raise their cattle and it was so refreshing. They grass feed their cattle, don’t finish them off with corn and work to make every day they live a happy one. He also told me that they let the cattle live one year longer than normal because it makes the beef taste better! This place made us so happy!!

Weekend Trip to Spring Creek Campground

The campground was easy to find and we enjoyed watching the horses in the morning! The campground was quiet with new full hook-ups. Jarett was easy to communicate with.

1 night at C2T Ranch on the Saline River

Beautiful setting! Very quiet! But needs a little work on the roads to the campsites, as they are very rutted and make it difficult for motorhomes to safely get there without knocking off their automatic levelers.

1 night at Set in Stone Cabins, RV & Tent camp

It's a nice spot not too far from the highway in an interesting artsy town. There's a gas station and cafe nearby for toilet use

2 nights at C2T Ranch on the Saline River

Beautiful natural riparian landscape. Lots of privacy and shade. Level campsites.

Vicki

3 weeks ago

1 night at C2T Ranch on the Saline River

This was my 4th stay with Chad and Cynthia and it never disappoints! Such a beautiful peaceful private space. I can’t wait to go back!

1 night at Branded 5 Stable & Kennel LLC

Stephanie provided a peaceful place for camping. Watching the beautiful horses was magnificent.

1 night at C2T Ranch on the Saline River

My dad and I went on a cross country camping trip and I have to say that this site was one of the best we have stayed at so far. The family was super nice and helpful, which created a very hospitable environment. The specific site Cedar Grove was absolutely beautiful with a view of the river and bluff while still managing to feel extremely private. This is definitely a place that I recommend to others! One thing that I would like to note is that we have stayed at many different campgrounds and while they can be beautiful, sometimes you don’t sleep very hard because of being worried about your environment. But I have to say that this place combined with the amazing hosts made you feel very safe and able to get a good nights sleep. This place is great!

Weekend Trip to C2T Ranch on the Saline River

The property was beautiful. It was unfortunate that we came and went in a crazy wind gusts. Therefore we didn't have time to explore and play but we will definitely be putting this one on the return list. The oven hot fresh cinnamon rolls in the morning was another perk. Chad was such a great host and stayed up late to see us in well after checkin hours.

Weekend Trip to Branded 5 Stable & Kennel LLC

1000% would stay here again! Steph was one of the nicest human beings! We got in late, parked in the wrong spot and she was incredibly gracious and understanding!! Our kids absolutely LOVED the animals! They were all so friendly and tolerated our 4 year olds intense love. Plenty of space to have the kiddos get some energy out! If you’re nearby or driving through, I’d highly recommend staying here!!

Weekend Trip to C2T Ranch on the Saline River

Kansas wind can be very unpredictable. C2T Ranch Owners, Chad and Cindy, allowed our family to rebook to another weekend when Mother Nature blew with 20-50 mph winds all weekend. Thank you Chad and Cindy for being so understanding. Looking forward to our camping weekend with you.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Wilson Lake

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(2)

Lucas Park Campground

96 sites · RVs, Tents In Wilson Lake

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(1)

Sylvan Park Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Wilson Lake

Minooka Park Campground

146 sites · RVs, Tents In Wilson Lake

Top-rated campgrounds near Wilson Lake

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(2432)

C2T Ranch on the Saline River

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2160 acres · Plainville, KS

You won't believe you are still in Kansas! C2T Ranch is a working regenerative cattle ranch, with over 4 miles of Saline River running through it. Amazing 150' tall limestone cliffs rise above river and several spring fed creeks feed into the river. There is hiking galore in the canyons or on the cliffs, fishing in the rivers, or bird watching on the native prairie above the cliffs. Fossil hunters can find a variety of fossilized shells, as well as native septarian and calcite for the rockhounds. Our picturesque, secluded campground has primitive and powered campsites, plus several glamping tent, all dispersed along an amazing horseshoe bend of the Saline River, each with direct river access. We're only a 20 minute drive north of Hays, Kansas and I-70, come visit us today!

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(145)

Atlas Ad Astra - Missile Silo

3 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Wilson, KS

Atlas Ad Astra: Missile Silo Adventure & Space Education Step into history at our converted Atlas F Missile Base, now a unique resort and educational center for space habitat studies. Explore the legacy of America’s first InterContinental Ballistic Missile, a Cold War deterrent later repurposed to launch astronauts into orbit. Sleep underground in a rare, authentic bunker—a one-of-a-kind experience for history buffs and space enthusiasts alike! Unique Stay in an Atlas F Missile Base Educational Center Welcome to an extraordinary adventure at our converted Atlas F Missile Base, now an Educational Center and unique guest retreat! The top floor of the Launch Control Center serves as a shared space for fascinating guided tours, offered twice daily at 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM. These tours are perfect for guests camping, passing through, or staying overnight, providing a deep dive into the history of this remarkable site. A Labor of Love This one-of-a-kind property is a passion project over a decade in the making, carefully crafted by me to create an unforgettable guest experience. As a work in progress, the Missile Base blends rugged authenticity with modern comforts, reflecting years of dedication to preserving its history while welcoming adventurers like you. Shared Spaces, Shared Respect I live and work on-site with my friendly dogs, Bing & Dozer, ensuring the property is well-maintained. Please note that this is a shared experience with other guests exploring the Educational Center or camping on the grounds. We ask for courtesy and respect to make everyone’s stay enjoyable. Explore the Grounds Set on 24 sprawling acres, the property features scenic trails and a community firepit, perfect for soaking in the beauty of nature, stargazing, or connecting with fellow travelers. Whether you’re here for history, adventure, or tranquility, this Missile Base offers a stay unlik

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(150)

Branded 5 Stable & Kennel LLC

3 sites · RVs, Tents119 acres · Hays, KS

We work hard to care for the animals that live here and provide an interesting experience for our visitors. Our stable provides beautiful views of the Kansas landscape, prairie and rock bluffs surround the farm. The stable is situated on a dead end road with little traffic, close to town so you can still enjoy great eating places in Hays. We are just a few short miles to Fort Hays State University, we are both alumni of FHSU- Go Tigers! We have 6 horse pens for overnight travels- Coggins are required before unloading. We also have 3 big spacious dog kennels.

Camping in Wilson Lake guide

Overview

About

Located along the Saline River in central Kansas, Wilson Lake is without a doubt a leading candidate in the beauty pageant for lakes. It is defined by its clear blue waters and rugged shoreline of scenic cliffs and rocky outcrops.

The excellent striper and white bass fishing are a main draw for anglers, and shutterbugs will appreciate the chance to photograph deer, pheasant, waterfowl, songbirds, and furbearers. Avid hikers should for sure try the Dakota Trail for primo views of both the lake and native Kansas Prairie. The 25-mile long Switchgrass Bike Trail is a fave among mountain bikers, and Cedar Trail is a more relaxed hiking loop if you’d prefer to not be sweatin’ to the oldies.

Notable campgrounds

Minooka Park - Offers a mix of utility and primitive sites with access to open ramps and a courtesy dock.
Sylvan Park - Known for its year-round shower facilities and $20 utility sites during the off-season.
Lucas Park - Provides a serene camping experience with utility sites and vault toilets, even in the off-season.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak season stays from May 15 to September 15, to secure your preferred spot.
Consider off-season camping for better availability and reduced rates.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The best time to visit Wilson Lake is during the regular season from May 15 to September 15, when all facilities are fully operational. Off-season visitors can still enjoy the park's natural beauty, but should be prepared for fewer amenities and cooler weather.

Know before you go

Normal business hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30am to 4pm, with rangers often in the field.
Adhere to Title 36 CFR 327 for all rules and regulations during your visit.
Day-use fees apply from May 1 to September 30 at designated boat ramps.
Annual passes are available for purchase, offering discounts on boat launches and camping fees.
Always check the latest conditions for boat ramps and campgrounds before your trip.

100%

3 ratings · 1 review

Recommends

· October 2018

Lucas Park Campground

It's in the middle of nowhere, but absolutely gorgeous. Be sure to head into Lucas to see the Garden of Eden.

Kelli A.

6 years on Hipcamp