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.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

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.

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. There is no entrance fee.
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

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