Hillsdale State Park

About

Hillsdale State Park, one of the newer state parks in Kansas, opened in 1994 and encompasses the 4,500-acre Hillsdale Lake reservoir. Managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the park offers diverse camping options ranging from full-hookup RV sites to primitive tent camping and dedicated equestrian facilities. The Sunflower Campground features 61 sites with full hookups including sewer and can accommodate large RVs. Scott Creek Campground provides 60 sites with water and electric hookups and direct lake access, while Saddle Ridge Campground serves equestrian campers with 22 utility sites and 12 primitive sites. The park offers extensive amenities including modern shower houses with laundry facilities, dump stations, vault toilets, playgrounds, shelters, and ADA-accessible facilities at multiple locations. Recreational opportunities include fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye, plus boating with multiple ramps and a full-service marina. Over 40 miles of equestrian trails wind through the adjacent Hillsdale Wildlife Area. The visitor center at the northeast end of the dam features interpretive displays about the lake's history and natural resources. Hillsdale's proximity to the Kansas City metro area makes it a convenient destination for weekend getaways. The park also offers modern and primitive cabin rentals for those seeking alternatives to tent or RV camping.

Directions

Located south of the Kansas City metro area. From US-169, head west on 255th Street. The park office is at 26001 W. 255th St., Paola, KS 66071. Stop at the visitor center at the northeast end of the dam for orientation.