What comes to mind when you hear, “Kansas?” You might think of the Wizard of Oz when Dorothy tells Toto, “…I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Or maybe you think of tornados, boring, flat terrain, or BBQ. Most people don’t think about camping in Kansas. But we recently discovered a beautiful state park that will change your mind.

Sunset over Wilson Lake's rocky outcropping shore

Wilson State Park

If you love boating, swimming, fishing, hiking, or mountain biking, this state park is for you! We camped in mid-November and had the Grama Campground almost all to ourselves. The sites allow you plenty of room to spread out, their own firepits, picnic tables, and some sites also have power. And, important if your rig is like ours, a restroom with showers inside!

Man walking along a paved road at Wilson State Park towards Wilson Lake walking his dog.

This state park is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the state. Stay here and you’ll see why. Imagine watching the sunset over Wilson Lake – beautiful gold and orange sky against a crystal blue lake. Or waking up early to go hiking or walking along the Cedar Trail or riding your mountain bike along the 24.5 mile Switchgrass Mountain Bike Trail. You might see deer wandering eating the tall grasses, hear the musical sounds of birds chirping, or hear the sounds of the waves gently rolling onto the rocky shoreline. Enjoy fishing? Not only is there a great youth fishing pond, but you can fish from a boat for white or striped bass too!

Couple with their two dogs posing next to Wilson Lake at sunset in Wilson State Park, Kansas

Know Before You Go

  • Weather in Kansas can change quickly so be sure to check the forecast. Try Weather.com or another reputable site.
  • Reservations can be made here: https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Wilson. We went in the off-season so were able to have our pick of spots. Paying was easy using self registration at CampIt Kansas. During the busy season, you will need to reserve a spot ahead of time.
  • Pets are allowed but must be leashed and are not allowed on the swimming beaches.
  • If you need water and power, know that not every site has them available. Be sure to pay attention when booking your site online.
  • Some sites are larger and more private than others. We always look for larger sites so we don’t feel like people are right on top of us. Alex does research in advance using the site maps to try and pick the best spot for us.
Sprinter van parked at a campsite in Wilson State Park in Kansas
Dogs running through leaves with their toys at sunset at Wilson State Park in Kansas

Camping in Kansas

So, as you’re planning adventures in 2023, don’t leave Kansas out! There are 28 state parks in this beautiful state and many of them with access to trails and wildlife areas. Some even host festivals and concerts. There are a surprising number of recreational activities to do and the state truly is beautiful.

Outside of the beautiful state parks, you can also check out Monument Rocks (also called Chalk Pyramids), the Oz Museum, and don’t forget BBQ! The best place, in our opinion is Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. Enjoy!

Sunset on Wilson Lake as seen from a rocky shore.

More Places to See

Interested in finding other areas to explore? Check out some of our other posts about camping across the country. A couple favorites from 2022 are definitely our camping find in Arches National Park and our fun adventures on the Oregon Coast – check it out by clicking on the link below. See you out there!

Woman smiling over her shoulder as she walks to her Sprinter van as she boondocks in Utah's San Rafael Swell at Goblin Valley State Park
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