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 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.

Facilities and Activities

Picnicking/Shelters
A picnic area with shelters is located along the shoreline of the Missouri river. Shelters may be reserved for a through the park reservation system.

Camping
Camping is very popular at Wilson Island with a multitude of well-shaded, spacious campsites. A modern camp area offers showers, flush toilets, electric camp sites, and two large youth group camping areas. Advance campsite reservations can be made online through the park reservation system. One fourth of the campsites are still available for self-registration on a first-come, first-serve basis. Firewood may be purchased in the campground. A playground is located in the campground.

Firewood Sales are available May 1 to September 30, 7 days a week, self-serve so there are no set hours of operation. 

Trails
Approximately five miles of trails are used for hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and mountain biking.

River Activities
A 3/4 mile trail along the shoreline of the Missouri River and boat ramp provide excellent access to the river. An Iowa fishing license is required for fishing the Missouri River. An Iowa license is required on the backwater chute.

Hunting
The entire area, except for within 200 yards of the campgrounds and other developed sites, is open for public hunting. Deer hunting and duck hunting in the backwater area are the primary sports.

Desoto Wildlife Refuge
Immediately north of Wilson Island is the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is open to the public one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset year round.

Amenities

Within park
Bicycling, Bird Watching, Boat Launch Ramp, Boating, Camping - Electric, Camping - Youth Group, Cross Country Skiing, Dock, Fishing, Dump Station, Firewood Sales, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Jogging/Running, Modern Campground, Picnic Area, Picnic Shelter, Playground, Restrooms, River, Showers, Snowmobiling, Wildflower Viewing, Wildlife Viewing