Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Hillsdale-Russel Crites
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
38.6596, -94.9277
Best Paddling in Kansas
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
Nearby Paddling
Hillsdale-Jayhawk
Kansas · 0.8 mi
Hillsdale-Personal Watercraft
Kansas · 0.8 mi
Hillsdale-Wade Branch North
Kansas · 1.0 mi
Hillsdale-Point
Kansas · 1.5 mi
Hillsdale-Marysville
Kansas · 2.1 mi
Hillsdale-Antioch
Kansas · 2.6 mi