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Kansas
54

Kansas State Parks

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USA Parks
Kansas
Northeast Kansas Region
Clinton State Park
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Clinton State Park Catch Release © Talyn Shrouf
This angler released the big one back into the water to swim again.He caught it in the side with light tackle. 5/31.2007 below dam
Clinton State Park Family outing at Clinton Lake © Talyn Shrouf
Family of deer at Clinton State Park
Clinton State Park Vulture © Talyn Shrouf
Vulture flying over Clinton
Clinton State Park Baby Hawk Upclose © Talyn Shrouf
Baby Hawk at Clinton State Park
Clinton State Park Red Tail Hawk © Talyn Shrouf
Red Tail hawk at Clinton State Park
Clinton State Park Baby Hawk © Talyn Shrouf
New baby at Clinton
Clinton State Park Eagle at Clinton State Park © Talyn Shrouf
One of the many Eagles who visit Clinton every winter.
Clinton State Park Eagle at Clinton State Park © Talyn Shrouf
There are a lot of Eagles at Clinton State Park
Clinton State Park Big Flathead © Talyn Shrouf
Watched an unidentified angler pull this big one out below the dam around 630 PM 5/31/2007.Water is being released after all the rains.
Clinton State Park Blue Bird Habitat © Talyn Shrouf
The Blue Birds love the shelters from the snow storms in the Clinton State Park Blue Bird habitat
Clinton State Park Young Eagle © Talyn Shrouf
This young Eagle was sitting with two full grown Eagles in a tree next to the Clinton dam.
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CLINTON STATE PARK
CLINTON STATE PARK
798 N. 1415 Road
Lawrence, Kansas   66049

Phone: 785-842-8562
Clinton State Park is located four miles west of Lawrence in the scenic Osage Questas region. The 1,500-acre park lies on the north shore of Clinton Reservoir, known for its clear water and good fishing. Modern facilities and an extensive hiking/biking trail system make this park and adjacent 9,200-acre wildlife area an attractive destination for a outdoors enthusiasts.

Popular activities include picnicking, swimming, or camping on one of the nearly 500 campsites, including 240 water/electric utility sites and 220 primitive sites. Nearby restrooms and showers add a touch of comfort and convenience for park visitors.

Visitors to the park can enjoy viewing white-tailed deer, wild turkey, waterfowl, bald eagles in spring and fall, and numerous species of songbirds in the carefully managed habitats that make Clinton a distinctive outdoor destination.

Clinton offers 16 boat ramps, eight courtesy docks, separate launching areas for windsurfers and personal watercraft, a beach with shower house, six picnic shelter areas, a separate day-use picnic area, four playgrounds, a sand volleyball area, an archery range, six shower buildings, two dump stations, and more.

The Clinton Lake Marina offers boat slips, fishing and boating supplies, equipment rental, and a floating restaurant. Anglers are attracted to Clinton Reservoir for its good channel catfish, walleye, and crappie fishing.

Well-known for its extensive trails system, Clinton State Park is an outdoor mecca for hikers, nature photographers, mountain bicyclists, wildflower enthusiasts, wildlife observers, even cross-country snow skiers. Park staff work closely with Lawrence and University of Kansas individuals and organizations to present several concerts and other special events each year.
Camping
CAMPING AREAS

* Camp #1-144 camping pads,100 w/electricity & water * Camp #2- 260 camp pads, 140 w/electricity & water

PETS:

Pets shall be controlled at all times by the use of a hand held leash not more than 10 feet in length or confined to a cage, vehicle or camper with access to shade and water. Pet owners are required to clean up after their pets.

QUIET HOURS:

Quiet hours shall be observed between the hours of 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Persons with knowledge or probable cause to believe that their acts will alarm, anger or disturb others and who engage in noisy conduct between these hours, may be removed from the park and are subject to penalties provided by law. (Authorized by implementing K.S.A. 1984 supp 74-4510;effective May 1, 1996)

LENGTH OF STAY:

Length of stay is limited to seven to fourteen consecutive days. After completing seven to fourteen days of consecutive stay all persons and their property must leave the park for no less than five days. Extensions may be granted at the manager's discretion.

PAYMENT AND REGISTRATION:

All vehicle and camping fees are to be paid in advance. Campers are required to register with the Camp Host after choosing a campsite. Self-pay stations are available at each campground entrance and at the park office. Self-pay permits are primarily for single night stays. If you are staying for several days, please pay fees to the camp host during the hours posted. A detailed explanation of all park and camping policies are available through the park office or camp hosts.

HOURS

Gate Hours:

* Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM; * Friday: 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM; * Saturday: 7:00AM. - 11:00PM; * Sunday 7:00AM - 9:00 PM (March - October)

Camp Host Hours:

Campground #1, Site 17 & Campground #3, Site #218

* Friday: 4:00 PM -9:00 p.m; * Saturday:9:00 AM - 11:00 AM./ 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM; * Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM / 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Campground #1 Host - Open for both campgrounds - Wednesday & Thursday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PMCampground #3 Host - Open for both campgrounds - Monday & Tuesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Swimming
1. Clinton State Park in Kansas offers various swimming options for visitors.
2. The park features a designated beach area on the shores of Clinton Lake, perfect for swimmers.
3. Lifeguards are not present at this location; swim with caution and supervise children closely.
4. Swimming is allowed from sunrise to sunset throughout the summer season only (April 15 - September 30).
5. There's no additional fee required beyond regular vehicle entrance fees to access the swimming areas within the park.
6. The sandy beach provides ample space for sunbathing or playing games when you're done taking a dip in lake waters.

Boating
BOATING:16 Ramps, 8 Courtesy Docks, Seperate lauching area for Windsurfers and jet skis, Full Service Marina
Fishing
Fishing Population Creel Limit Min Length LimitBluegill Channel Catfish 10 Crappie 20 10Flathead Catfish 5 Green Sunfish Largemouth Bass 6 18Sauger 5 15Smallmouth Bass 6 15Striped Bass 2 Walleye 5 15White Bass Wiper 2 18



Picnicking
Clinton State Park in Kansas offers numerous picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters. Some require reservations for use.
Bicycling
Several trails are available for cycling, ranging from easy to challenging. Be aware of potential hazards.

The Blue Trail offers a moderate 15-mile ride with some steep sections; caution is advised.

For beginners, the White Trail provides an easier option at just five miles long but still requires careful navigation.

Advanced riders may prefer the Red Trail's technical terrain and elevation changes - proceed carefully due to difficulty level.

Ensure you have appropriate safety gear before embarking on any trail rides in this area.

Check weather conditions beforehand as certain paths can become treacherous after heavy rain or snowfall.

Remember that all cyclists must yield right-of-way to pedestrians and horseback riders within park boundaries.

Always follow posted signs regarding restricted areas or seasonal closures while biking here.

Respect wildlife by keeping your distance - do not disturb animals encountered during your bike ride.


Disc Golf
There are two disc golf courses available: an 18-hole course and a more challenging, professional-grade 22-hole course. Both offer scenic views of the lake area. The park also hosts annual tournaments for enthusiasts to participate in or watch.
Geocaching
Unleash your inner explorer with a geocaching adventure in this Kansas gem. Discover hidden treasures using GPS coordinates, adding an exciting twist to traditional hiking.

Numerous caches are scattered throughout the park's 1,500 acres of lush landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats. Each one offers unique surprises waiting for you to uncover!

Beginners can start their journey at easy-to-find locations while seasoned adventurers may opt for more challenging spots nestled deep within nature's embrace.

For those seeking aquatic adventures, some caches even require canoeing or kayaking across serene lake waters - making every find feel like a true treasure hunt!

Remember: leave no trace behind except footprints; take nothing but pictures and memories from each cache found - preserving the thrill of discovery for future explorers too!

So grab your compasses and lace up those boots because it's time to embark on an unforgettable quest filled with mystery, excitement...and maybe just that little bit of magic only Mother Nature provides.
Trails
TRAILS:Mountain biking/hiking - Over 15 miles, Cross Country Ski Trail - 3 miles, Prairie Trail - Through native prairie area
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting over 300 species, including waterfowl and raptors. The park offers birding trails and checklists.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
December 8 State Park Office by Hiker
park review stars; one to five Visited the Clinton State Park Office to obtain information about the hiking trails. Found Sheri to be very friendly, informative and helpful. She is a great Ambassador for the Park. Thanks Sheri
May 29 A place to relax. by Joe Brown
park review stars; one to five A place to relax and enjoy the out doors not so far from home.
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Area Campgrounds
Lawrence KOA Kampground
1473 Highway 40
Lawrence, KS
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Directions: 10 Hwy take from KC (traveling West), through Lawrence (10 Hwy turns into 23rd Street & then Clinton Parkway ? All the same road.) go as far as it will go (to the Dead- End - E900 Road) turn right, then take the second left (by Texaco Station, 1415 Road) this is our entrance to the State Park. Follow the long drive, it goes down a hill then up a hill to the pay booth. You pay your parking permit fee there (when open), park office or use the Self-pay Station across from the Park Office. Then go to the camping area, get set up and pay your camping fees at the camp host during her business hours. (There is also a Selfpay Station available to leave your camping fees, if you arrive after the CampHost hours.)

Directions: I-70? take from KC (traveling West), past both Lawrence exits, to Exit #197 ?the Lecompton exit. (There will be a brown sign with white letters that says Clinton & PerryLake) After paying toll, take a left at the stop sign. This is 10 Hwy East take it to the Clinton Parkway exit (3RD Exit after exiting I 70 on 10 hwy) at the bottom of the Exit Ramp turn right at the stop sign (you will be facing E900 Road), take another right at the dead end, then take the second left (by Texaco Station) this is our entrance to the State Park. Follow the long drive, it goes down a hill then up a hill to the pay booth. You pay your parking permit fee there (when open), park office or use the Self-pay Station across from the Park Office. Then go to the camping area, get set up and pay your camping fees at the camp host during her business hours. (There is also a Selfpay Station available to leave your camping fees, if you arrive after the CampHost hours.)

Directions: From Topeka ? Take I ? 70 (traveling East) to the Lecompton Exit (There will be a brown sign with white letters that says Clinton & Perry Lake) After paying toll, take a right at the Stop sign onto 10 Hwy East, take that to the Clinton Parkway exit (3RD Exit after exiting I 70 on 10 hwy) at the bottom of the Exit Ramp at the stop sign turn Right (E900 Road-dead end), take another right at the dead end, then take the second left (by Texaco Station) this is our entrance to the State Park. Follow the long drive, it goes down a hill then up a hill to the pay booth. You pay your parking permit fee there (when open), park office or use the Self-pay Station across from the Park Office. Then go to the camping area, get set up and pay your camping fees at the camp host during her business hours. (There is also a Selfpay Station available to leave your camping fees, if you arrive after the CampHost hours.)

Directions: From Ottawa ? Hwy 59 ? Take Hwy 59 (traveling North) to Hwy 10 West ? Bypass ? (Taking a left onto Hwy 10) follow to Clinton Parkway Exit (3rd Exit) turn left (West) at the stop sign, travel the 100 yards to dead-end of Clinton Parkway to E-900 Road, turn right at the stop sign, then take the second left (by Texaco Station, 1415 Road) this is our entrance to the State Park. Follow the long drive, it goes down a hill then up a hill to the pay booth. You pay your parking permit fee there (when open), park office or use the Self-pay Station across from the Park Office. Then go to the camping area, get set up and pay your camping fees at the camp host during her business hours. (There is also a Selfpay Station available to leave your camping fees, if you arrive after the CampHost hours.)

If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact via phone 785/842-8562 or

e-mail: [email protected]

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Kansas
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Kansas State Parks

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