The best camping in Hillsdale State Park, KS

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75% (2)

Discover Hillsdale State Park's scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.  

The best camping in Hillsdale State Park, KS

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
75% (2)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hillsdale State Park adventure.

Camper favorites near Hillsdale State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Milo Farm Sacred Land

98%
(457)
49mi from Hillsdale State Park · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Buckner, MO
Milo Farm was established organically a few years ago. The energy at Milo so amazing we wanted to share! There's a story behind the sacredness of this land, Loni can share that with you if you ask! There are 5 different ecosystems at Milo, all which hold their own magic!🪄 The lodge was built then the camping sites, then the Hippie Trailer, which is located near the west woods near the Fairy Forest. Then the Bunkhouse was established, it's just past the barn on the north end of the property. The lodge, where the Airbnb and pool are is centrally located on the land. We rent out the lower level guest quarters for non-campers. There are 2 stocked ponds, miles of trails, pool, Zen garden, farm animals and more. For diehard campers the beauty of primitive pack-in/pack-out camping of Freedom Field is a joy! Feel the energy of the sacred land. Find the vortexes here! Bless Mother Earth and spend some time in nature at this magical place Great for the spiritually minded with several meditation spots and portals. Ask about availability of the art golf cart rental if interested. Loni can take you on a guided history, nature and meditation hike if you sign up for that. There are events happening some weekends you can participate in. We have a Call to Prayer 9:30am every day in the Art Studio/Spirit Shack, you may join us! Loni is a spiritual intuitive and can do a reading using the Milo Farm Oracle cards she created! Ask for availability of these things. Milo has a lot to offer! Located in Eastern Jackson County MO, just 30 minutes from downtown Kansas City & 20 min from the sports stadiums.
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$30
 / night

The Light Center

98%
(443)
25mi from Hillsdale State Park · 13 sites · Tents, Lodging · Baldwin City, KS
The Light Center is a 95 acre natural sanctuary nestled in a wooded creek valley amidst the farm land of Kansas. • We have a refinished community barn with two private rooms and a community kitchen, a 30ft Pacific Yurt and lots of great places to camp. • If you're just driving through or want an 'easy' camping experience with wifi, pitch your tent in the spacious yard around the barn. • We have lots of places to hike to and several wonderful remote camping spots. Choose from hiking out to camp near the large creek that winds through our land, gathering with friends in a meadow or tucking into a spot in the woods with a beautiful view of the Kansas plains. • Out here, on a clear night, you can see all of the stars. We are an organic, sustainable farm providing natural sacred spaces for hiking and camping. We welcome peaceful camping for people with reverence for the land and all beings. We have goats, free-range chickens, guinea hens, dogs and cats. For the safety of our livestock and other guests, we do require visitors to keep their dogs on a leash at all times. The Light Center is a retreat center serving as a beacon, lighting the way into a vibrant future. We are creating new paths with open hearts. We offer events, celebrations and ceremonies about harmonizing with the earth and inspiring personal, local and global connections. We provide a safe space to nurture and inspire spiritual growth and empower youth.
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$25
 / night

Inntirety Forest Healing Center

98%
(46)
31mi from Hillsdale State Park · 5 sites · Lodging · Edwardsville, KS
Transform Your Story Into A Fairytale. Reawaken Your Inner Child & Reconnect With Your Authentic Self In A 5-acre Enchanted Forest. The Inntirety Healing Center is a wilderness retreat and glamping area in Kansas City, KS. It offers a path for awakening your body, heart, and mind and restoring harmony with life through self-discovery and emergence into the senses. Inntirety is a forest restoration project powered by love, and it will forever be a work in progress! The camping areas and trails leading to them are groomed, finished, and regularly maintained. Please consider that Inntirety is not in the 'luxury' camping category, as this is not our intention. We try to integrate into the natural setting and provide an intimate and immersive experience by combining earthing, exploration, play, and discovery. We have beautiful and unique amenities, including a forest barrel sauna, a wood fire-heated clawfoot tub flower bath experience, a mini zipline, an outdoor shower, and hanging tree pods. Finally, enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, which you can self-prepare! We supply homemade waffle mix, oatmeal, coffee, and tea. This land holds so much history, and unfortunately, prior inhabitants used a small area within this beautiful forest as a dumping ground for old appliances, car parts, and other retired debris. We are carefully working on removing and restoring this space as we can. As a nod to the prior inhabitants of this land, we are carefully collecting any artifacts found and reintegrating them into our building projects or transforming them into found-object art pieces. 10 minutes from The Legends, Speedway, and American Royal(coming soon). 10 minutes from Azura Amphitheater & Renissance Festival Grounds. 20 minutes from Downtown Kansas City, Historic River Market KC, The Crossroads. 20 minutes from Overland Park Convention Center. We are a substance, alcohol-free area for many reasons. A bottle of wine or something to sip on by the fire is acceptable, but Inntirety is a place of healing and exploration. Thank you for observing this request. We live on the property in the main house. Google Maps is mildly accurate, but it is like saying we are located at our neighbor's property. The house is green and has a wrap-around deck. If you aren't sure, please feel free to text me. We want to acknowledge that Inntirety Healing Center is on the traditional, ancestral, and current home of Native Americans, Indigenous, and First Nations people. We ask you to join us in acknowledging the many tribal groups from our area, including the Jíwere, Kaw/Kansa, Otoe-Missouria, Shawnee, and Kickapoo tribes. We honor the elders, both past and present, and this calls us to continue to learn their stories and how to be better stewards of the land we occupy. Camping/Glamping Sites We have four glamping areas: two bell tents, a vintage pop-up camper, a tiny treehouse cabin, and a more primitive camping area with a tee-pee-style tent. Each site has a firepit or chiminea. If it is unsafe to burn, we will let you know. If conditions are dangerous for burning, each site has a mini BBQ grill. It is very important to keep your door zipped or shut. We try our hardest to keep bugs out so you are comfortable within. Each site has insense, and this is a magical bug detourant. Inntirety Cafe / Lounge Mini-Kitchen Area If you don't feel like cooking or preparing your morning coffee at your site, you can use the community mini-kitchen area in the Inntirety Cafe. There are cooking utensils, a 2-burner electric stovetop, a French press, an electric kettle, and pots and pans. There is also a water station within the kitchen area. There is complimentary coffee, tea, creamer, sugar, butter, cooking oil, and a few other items for cooking. Please clean up the area if you decide to use the community mini-kitchen. * We do not have running water inside the community area, but a sink is set up near the Forest Sauna for washing dishes. Inntirety Lounge Our community lounge is located within the Inntirety Cafe. Inside, you will find books, games, art supplies, and more. You are welcome to cool off, chill out, and relax during your stay. If you would like to borrow a book, game, etc., to return it to your campsite, please return it upon leaving. Solar Shower Just outside of the Forest Sauna is a solar shower with a small changing area. We have a water warming station near the outdoor sink to use for your shower. Inside the cafe, there is a laundry basket you can place your laundry in after you are done. Body wash, shampoo, and conditioner are in a basket by the shower. Solar Shower Instructions: If you want a warm shower, plug in the water heater near the sink. It takes about 1 hour to heat the water. Fill the white bucket with water. Walk over to the solar shower area and place it on the cinder blocks. Put water pump in the bucket. To turn on the pump, press the button for 3 seconds first and then once to activate. Groomed Trails The Inntirety forest has a groomed trail about a 3/4 mile loop. If you go off the trail, please be aware that you will probably get poison ivy, ticks, and other things you might not want to bring home as a souvenir. Please stay on the trails. Zip Line We have a 100ft zip line that guests are free to use. Please sign a waiver in the lounge before usage. Forest Spa Add-Ons: Wilderness Barrel Sauna Please let us know if you would like to use the sauna. It takes some time for it to heat up. Further instruction is at the sauna. We will ask that you sign a liability release if you want to use the sauna.
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$33
 / night

Lake Georgia-Sue

95%
(135)
26mi from Hillsdale State Park · 155 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ottawa, KS
Welcome to Lake Georgia-Sue — Your 85-Acre Getaway in East Central Kansas Escape to Lake Georgia-Sue, an 85-acre oasis of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Conveniently located in East Central Kansas—just a short drive from Kansas City, Topeka, Lawrence, and Wichita—our property offers the perfect blend of peace and play. At the heart of the property is our 8-acre lake, ideal for fishing, swimming, kayaking, small craft boating, and even windsurfing. Whether you’re here to unwind by the water or explore the land, there’s something for everyone. Horse enthusiasts will love the on-site pastures, private round pens, and access to hundreds of miles of scenic riding trails that intersect the property. Our campsites are spacious, private, and peaceful—no crowded neighbors here. Choose from lakefront or forest sites, perfect for both primitive camping and RVs (electric hookups available via generator; fresh water also provided). Guests enjoy access to modern comforts, including showers, toilets, an air-conditioned clubhouse, a playground, and a variety of friendly farm animals—ponies, pet pigs, goats, and chickens. We’re proudly pet-friendly, too! Lake Georgia-Sue is also ideal for group gatherings—from family reunions and birthdays to weddings and retreats—with space for up to 25 campers. We’re just a short drive from several state lakes and great local restaurants (and sometimes we even take a trail ride into town for BBQ or Mexican food!). Come experience the peace, privacy, and playfulness of Lake Georgia-Sue—your Kansas countryside escape awaits.
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$20
 / night

Liberated Grounds

92%
(6)
36mi from Hillsdale State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Kansas City, MO
Welcome to Liberated Grounds – A Sanctuary for Soul, Soil & Story Tucked away on a 100-year-old property in Kansas City, Liberated Grounds is more than just a campsite — it’s a refuge for renewal, creativity, and connection. Here, the land breathes with history, imagination, and freedom. Pitch your tent beneath tall shade trees or rest and retreat in on the ranch. Whether you’re here to unplug, meditate, garden, write, or simply listen to the birds, there’s a place for you. Expect intentional stillness. Expect community if you want it, and solitude if you need it. This is a land in transformation — and you’re invited to be part of the story. ✨ What You’ll Experience • Open space for tent camping or car camping (we can provide tents) • Fire pits, hammocks, and garden beds • A creative atmosphere — perfect for artists, healers, and daydreamers • Access to seasonal programming: sound baths, campfire poetry, nature journaling, and self-guided rituals • Amenities: Bathroom access, water, ranch home + more amenities coming soon: compost toilet & solar lights 🌿 Perfect For: • Solo travelers, couples seeking peace, or day groups • Creatives needing a nature reset • Families introducing kids to eco-living • Spiritual folks craving Earth-aligned spaces Come as you are. Leave lighter.
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$30
 / night

Fangthorn Forest

100%
(50)
41mi from Hillsdale State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV · Garden City, MO
In the 1840's there was a trading post on the property known as Lick Skillet because the owner would set the pans out at night for the dogs to lick.  Today, we call it Fanthorn Forest and it's our dream, our haven and our home.  We love sharing our farm with others and allowing them the same experience of peace and tranquility we get from the land.Learn more about this land:Located only 50 miles SE of Kansas City, MO!  We have woods and pasture with Settle's Ford Wildlife area (fishing and hiking available) 1/4 mile away. Camping is primitive with only an outhouse and no shower facilities. There are MANY thorn trees, so hikers must have proper footwear.  Fire ring, wood and a grate for cooking are provided.  Livestock encounters are also available with owners in attendance.  All proceeds are put back in the farm to care for the animals and the land.  RV's are allowed, but we do not have any hook ups available and they are not allowed in the woods.  Parking area is at the end of the driveway for both cars and RV's.  We love kids and will provide lawn darts or any other games we have available if requested.  Please visit our website at fangthornforest.com for more information.
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$32
 / night

Forest Retreat & Spa

77%
(13)
36mi from Hillsdale State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Kansas City, KS
*NEW UPDATE construction work is complete - easier access to camping/RV site #1 with level clearings at site #2 & #3. one acre fenced dog run for four legged campers - can access with a 4 wheel drive or dispersed camping to relax under the stars with your your furry friend.* 8 acres of Foraging orchard with a meandering creek - close to city attractions Learn more about this land: Forest Retreat Located 10 min from downtown and 7.5 miles from Legends ( home of Sporting KC! ), this historic farmstead boasts 8 acres of foraging orchards, a meandering creek and a bevy of sweet hens. (Free eggs :) Multiple campsites available : Forest Garden - ( 2 campsites ) Autumn Olive grove - ( 4 campsites ) Stoney Creek - ( 1 campsite ) Meadow Pass - ( 3 campsites ) One acre fenced dog run (drive in) RV site with water and electrical hook up (RV and campers 18' and under please)
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$75
 / night

Other options near Hillsdale State Park

The best camping in Hillsdale State Park, KS guide

Overview

About

Hillsdale State Park is the kind of place you head to when you need to escape city life in exchange for a killer sunset. The reservoir will draw you and your camera to the shores for an epic sunset. During the day anglers will dot the shorelines to fish for walleye, or take a boat out for waterskiing and swimming. Unique adventures like model airplane flying and a skeet shooting range are at your fingertips. You’ll want to book a cabin or camp at one of Hillsdale’s campgrounds to not only hike or horseback ride the cedar lined prairies, but to explore the area's superb wine country. Everyone knows s’mores pair best with a delicious pinot noir! With quick access to Kansas City, Hillsdale is the outdoor getaway you’ve been waiting for.

Notable campgrounds

  • Scott Creek Campground: Offers 60 water and electric sites, perfect for both RV and tent camping amid lush surroundings.
  • Russel Crites: Features a mix of 98 water and electric sites alongside 18 primitive camping spots for a true outdoor experience.
  • Saddle Ridge Campground: With 22 water and electric sites, this campground is a haven for horseback riders with miles of trails to explore.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as reservations book up quickly.
  • Utilize the CampIt KS Mobile App for convenient booking and information on the go.
  • Consider off-peak times for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Explore nearby camping options if your preferred campground is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Hillsdale State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers full access to park amenities but can be hot. Winter provides a serene, less crowded experience, though some facilities may be closed.

Know before you go

  • Check for any State Park Alerts before your visit for the latest information on closures or safety concerns.
  • All vehicles must have a daily or annual Kansas State Park vehicle permit to enter the park.
  • For safety, certain items and activities are restricted in developed beach areas—no glass containers, open fires, pets, fishing, boats, or alcohol/beer.
  • Office hours are from 8am to 4pm Monday through Friday, so plan accordingly for any in-person inquiries.
  • Remember to bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to a diverse array of avian species.
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