Best Kansas State Park Campground in Central U.S.

A Hidden Gem in Kansas: Wilson State Park

Wilson State Park, located in north-central Kansas, is often described as "like an oasis." This unique designation highlights its role as a serene escape amidst the expansive plains of the Midwest. The park has recently been recognized as one of the top camping destinations in the central region of the United States, according to a recent ranking by The Dyrt, a website that features crowd-sourced reviews of public and private campsites.

The Dyrt published articles on June 17, highlighting the best places to camp across six different regions of the country, including the central, mountain, Pacific, Northeast, Southeast, and Midwest. In the Midwest region, the rankings included locations stretching from Iowa to Missouri. Wilson State Park was placed at number 10 in the central region's list, showcasing its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.

Features That Make Wilson State Park Stand Out

Situated in the heart of the Smoky Hills, Wilson State Park in Sylvan Grove, Russell County, is often regarded as Kansas' most beautiful state park. According to the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the park offers stunning natural scenery and a wide range of recreational activities. Located along the rugged shoreline of Wilson Reservoir, it provides campers with picturesque lake views and opportunities for various outdoor pursuits.

Visitors can enjoy fishing in the 9,040-acre Wilson Reservoir, observe wildlife in the Wilson Wildlife Area, hike on the one-mile Cedar Trail, or bike on the 25.5-mile Switchgrass Bike Trail. Reviewers have praised the park for its "beautiful views" and "tons of hiking and biking trails."

The park’s campground includes a variety of accommodations such as tent sites, rustic cabins, and full-hookup RV sites. It also features picnic tables and fire rings, making it a convenient spot for families and groups. The Dyrt noted that the park offers abundant outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking. The Switchgrass Bike Trail, in particular, is known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views.

Pets are welcome at the campground, which has 208 sites available, with prices ranging from $10 to $140 per day. This makes it an attractive option for travelers who want to bring their furry friends along.

Nearby Attractions and Events

Wilson State Park is approximately 10 miles north of Wilson, a small town with a population of 859. The area hosts the Wilson After Harvest Czech Festival on July 25 and 26, offering visitors a taste of local culture and traditions. The park is also about six miles south of Lucas, home to the Garden of Eden, a 118-year-old folk art environment considered the oldest intact example of its kind in the United States.

Other Top-Ranked Campgrounds in the Central U.S.

In addition to Wilson State Park, The Dyrt highlighted several other exceptional campgrounds in the central region. These include:

1. The Wall – A free camping area near Wall, South Dakota, offering stunning views of The Badlands.
2. Scoria Pit – Located in the Little Missouri National Grassland at Medora, North Dakota.
3. Buffalo Gap – Found in Buffalo Gap National Grassland at Hot Springs, South Dakota.
4. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park Campground – Situated in Mandan, North Dakota.
5. Big Pine Campground – Located in the Black Hills at Custer, South Dakota.
6. Stella Mare RV Resort – Offers a beachfront experience on the Gulf of Mexico in Galveston, Texas.
7. Hackberry Hollow Campground – Part of Indian Cave State Park in Shubert, Nebraska.
8. Neches Bluff Overlook Campground – Located in Davy Crockett National Forest at Weches, Texas.
9. Territory Route 66 RV Park & Campgrounds – Found in Hinton, Oklahoma.

These destinations reflect the diverse and scenic camping options available across the central United States. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, these spots provide something for every type of camper.