Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Hillsdale-Russel Crites

Hillsdale, KS · Boat Ramp · Public

Hillsdale-Russel Crites is a public boat ramp on Wade Branch - HIllsdale Lake near Hillsdale, Kansas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Not verified — check locally

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Hillsdale-Russel Crites offers lake paddling on Wade Branch - HIllsdale Lake in Kansas. Located near Hillsdale.

Lake paddlers in Kansas will appreciate Hillsdale-Russel Crites, which offers direct access to Wade Branch - HIllsdale Lake and its surrounding waters.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Hillsdale, Hillsdale-Russel Crites is a convenient option for Hillsdale-area paddlers.

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New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hillsdale-Russel Crites ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hillsdale-Russel Crites?
Hillsdale-Russel Crites is a public boat ramp in Kansas. We do not have confirmed fee information for this launch, so check locally before you go.
What activities are available at Hillsdale-Russel Crites?
Hillsdale-Russel Crites supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Hillsdale-Russel Crites?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hillsdale-Russel Crites?
The best time to paddle at Hillsdale-Russel Crites is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hillsdale-Russel Crites?
Water conditions at Hillsdale-Russel Crites include calm, sheltered.
Is Hillsdale-Russel Crites good for beginners?
Yes, Hillsdale-Russel Crites is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.6596, -94.9277

Quick Facts

State
Kansas
Region
Midwest
Getting There
~5 min from Hillsdale
Get Directions

38.6596, -94.9277

Best Paddling in Kansas

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