The park water is safe for drinking, however, be advised it has a high iron content. Campers may fill water tanks at the park office near the park entrance through the 2006 camping season.

Wilson Island, named after former Governor George Wilson, came into existence as an island sandbar around 1900. Today, Wilson Island State Recreation Area encompasses 544 acres of dense cottonwood stands. Seclusion is one of the area's greatest assets and spacious shady campsites, hiking trails and picnic spots provide a welcome retreat.

Wildlife is abundant in the park and a visitor may see deer grazing in the park's fields or be awakened by a huge flock of snow geese flying low overhead in the fall. Bald eagles are often perched in the tall cottonwoods during the winter and mushroom hunters will find no better place in the spring.

On the way to Wilson Island, visitors will see the unique wave-like loess hills which overlook the great Missouri River flood plain. These rugged hills are found along the Missouri River Valley in Iowa and Missouri.

Early history tells us that Lewis and Clark camped on this reach of the Missouri River in 1804 on their historic trip to and from the Pacific Coast.

A non-modern cabin is available year-round. The cabin has electricity, heat and A/C, a microwave oven, a bunk bed, a futon, a table and benches. No water, or sanitary facilities are furnished. The cabin is located near the campground shower and toilet building.

Camping is very popular at Wilson Island with 135 well-shaded, spacious campsites. A modern camp area offers showers, flush toilets, 63 electric camp sites, and two large youth group camping areas. Starting February 13, 2006 advance campsite reservations can be booked through the park reservation system. Half of the campsites are still available for self-registration on a first-come, first-serve basis. Firewood may be purchased at the park office. A playground is located near the campground.