
Clinton State Park
Clinton State Park offers diverse outdoor adventures with hiking, camping, boating, and a new playground, all set against the scenic backdrop of Clint...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, vibrant foliage

Clinton State Park
Best Time
Crisp air, vibrant foliage

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Clinton State Park offers diverse outdoor adventures with hiking, camping, boating, and a new playground, all set against the scenic backdrop of Clinton Lake.
"A peaceful escape with beautiful lake views and plenty of trails for exploring."

Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable. Download maps beforehand to navigate trails and park areas easily.
Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of your surroundings; deer, snakes (including copperheads), and frogs are common.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 1,569 reviews
Type
State Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clinton Lake Trails
Various points around the lake
Explore miles of well-maintained trails offering diverse scenery, from wooded paths to lakeside views. Perfect for hiking and podcasts.

Clinton Marina Kayak Rentals
Clinton Marina
Enjoy a self-service kayak rental kiosk for an exhilarating way to experience the lake and its surroundings.

Beach and Swimming Area
Designated beach area
A relatively private beach spot perfect for getting into the water, with a cool walkway and beautiful sunset views. Safe for kids.

New Playground at Civic Center Park
Clinton Township Civic Center Park
A recently upgraded playground featuring barrier-free play for all ages, including swings, ziplines, and bouncers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors, But Be Prepared
Navigating Campsites and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable. Download maps beforehand to navigate trails and park areas easily.
Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of your surroundings; deer, snakes (including copperheads), and frogs are common.
Book Campsites Early
Popular sites, especially those with hookups, can fill up quickly. Reserve in advance to secure your spot.
Bring Linens for Cabins
If staying in a cabin, remember to pack your own linens and towels.
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be unreliable. Download maps beforehand to navigate trails and park areas easily.
Watch for Wildlife
Be aware of your surroundings; deer, snakes (including copperheads), and frogs are common.
Book Campsites Early
Popular sites, especially those with hookups, can fill up quickly. Reserve in advance to secure your spot.
Bring Linens for Cabins
If staying in a cabin, remember to pack your own linens and towels.
Check Kiosk Instructions
Kayak rental kiosks are self-service; follow the on-screen instructions for a smooth rental process.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Clinton State Park for its beautiful lake, extensive hiking trails, and family-friendly amenities like the new playground. The peaceful atmosphere and proximity to Lawrence are also highlights. However, some reviews mention issues with campsite numbering, occasional debris, and basic restroom facilities, which are typical for state parks.
"We arrived today eith 2 travel trailers, having paid in full for reservations for 1 night... two side by side sites with electric &water. There was no one posted at the entrance kiosk. We stopped at a small unmarked building nearby, which turned out to be the park office. The lady was nice, checked us in &gave directions to our sites in Conflower campground. The grounds are well groomed. A quiet, peaceful atmosphere.
Now for the problems...the site numbers are confusing. The signage is small. The electrical hookup at the site has a different number altogether, & that number is bigger than the site number. The sites were gravel turned to grass, &confusing as to where or how to park. The sites had garbage lying around. A ramshackle camper-like structure was sitting on our site & appeared long since abandoned. We called the office to complain. She said the occupants had until 2 pm to vacate. It was 1:45 & a gentleman was soon dropped off at the site & proceeded to enjoy sitting in the shade, not packing it up. Finally, our two husbands approached the gentleman & he said his "roommate" was out looking for another site. By the by, we waited... broiling in the sun. The roommate returned, presumably having found them another site. Somehow they pulled the non-road worthy camper-like structure away, bound for their new location.
My theory: these gentleman were non-paying squatters.
We will remain hitched & prepare to leave this campground early tomorrow...never to return. My guess is the two gentlemen will return to our site as soon as we leave. After all, it has a shade tree."
Deb Read
"It wasn't crowded. The price for tenting overnight was reasonable. There were a lot of bow hunters truck camping overnight in October when I stayed. There wasn't a lot of people noise, or carrying on, after 10.
There was trash strewn about the camp sites and woods. The shower and bathroom facilities were kind of gross, but also typical for a state park."
Eric Wolfe
"The beach is pretty private cannot actually swim there but surely get into the water. Safe for the kids too. The walkway from the parking lot to the spot is pretty cool too. Watch out for reptiles and snakes. Decently maintained. It’s typically a private beach spot so young couples paradise with a beautiful sunset 😉"
Ravi Teja
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clinton State Park is conveniently located just outside of Lawrence, Kansas. Most visitors drive, and it's a short trip from the city center. Follow local road signs for "Clinton State Park" or "Clinton Lake."
Public transportation options directly to Clinton State Park are limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
The park has multiple access points, including the main entrance near the marina and campgrounds, and other access points for specific trails or beaches.
Yes, ample parking is available at various points throughout the park, including trailheads, the beach, and the marina.
While possible, accessing Clinton State Park without a car can be challenging due to its location. Ride-sharing services might be an option, but confirm availability beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While some areas like Rock Chalk Park aim to remain free for Douglas County residents, general park entry and camping fees may apply. Check the official Kansas State Parks website for current rates.
Clinton State Park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like campgrounds and visitor centers may have seasonal hours. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Campsites can typically be booked online through the Kansas State Parks reservation system or by contacting the park office directly. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or other groups is usually available on the Kansas State Parks website. Inquire directly with the park office for details.
While some sites may allow on-site payment, it's highly recommended to book in advance online to guarantee your spot and avoid potential issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Clinton State Park offers a wide range of activities including hiking, camping, boating, swimming, fishing, disc golf, and exploring new playgrounds.
Yes, many trails around Clinton Lake are well-maintained and suitable for beginners, offering varied terrain and beautiful views.
Absolutely! The park offers numerous campsites, including those with electric and water hookups, making it a popular spot for camping.
Yes, there is a designated beach area where you can swim and access the water. It's considered safe for children.
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, frogs, snails, and various bird species. Be mindful of snakes, especially during warmer months.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants within Clinton State Park itself. However, the park is very close to Lawrence, which offers a wide variety of dining options.
Yes, picnic areas are available throughout the park, making it a great spot for a day trip meal. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Miller Mart, a gas station just outside the park, is recommended for purchasing worms and other essentials. Lawrence also has numerous grocery stores and outdoor supply shops.
Food vendors are not a common feature within the park itself. It's best to bring your own food or plan to dine in nearby Lawrence.
Lawrence offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. Exploring downtown Lawrence will provide many choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake offers beautiful sunset views, especially from the beach area. Trails provide opportunities for capturing nature, wildlife, and seasonal foliage.
The overlooks along the lake, particularly near the marina and beach, offer expansive views. The trails also provide intimate nature shots.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the best light for photography. Overcast days can also provide soft, even lighting for nature shots.
Yes, the park is home to various wildlife. Be patient and respectful, and you might capture some great shots of deer, birds, or other creatures.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the Kansas State Parks or the park office for specific rules regarding drone operation before flying.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit