Clinton Lake State Recreation Area spans seven distinct camping loops with terrain varying from shady wooded sites to lakefront locations. The recreation area sits at approximately 700 feet elevation and features an unusually warm lake due to water discharge from the nearby nuclear power plant. Camping options extend beyond traditional tent and RV sites to include rustic hike-in areas and primitive backpacking locations at nearby parks.
What to do
Fishing and boating opportunities: Clinton Lake State Recreation Area offers excellent fishing access with multiple shore fishing spots. "The hiking path all around the shore of the lake. Some hidden fishing areas but we didn't have any luck," notes Melissa B., who appreciates the lake's unusual warmth and shoreline access.
Historical exploration: Visit the preserved one-room schoolhouse at Friends Creek Campground. "The conservation area extends across the road and that's where most of the trails are. Start at the one room schoolhouse and make your way down wide trails," recommends Art S., who found the trails added up to a satisfying walk despite not being particularly long.
Pickleball and playgrounds: The newly constructed Love's RV Stop includes recreational amenities unusual for highway-adjacent camping. "Pickle ball courts, playground, trash, full hook ups, clean, right next to the freeway and convenience store for quick getting in the road the next day," reports Jennifer H., highlighting the convenient recreational options.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Weldon Springs State Park Campground offers walk-in tent sites away from the main campground. "I loved how the tent sites especially as you go further back just had a secluded woodsy feeling to them," writes Priscilla J., who appreciated the privacy despite the trail running through the middle of the camping area.
Fishing access: Moraine View State Recreational Area provides waterfront sites with direct fishing access. "The RV campground is on the water, book far enough in advance for a waterfront site. You can kayak or fish from campground," advises Sarah M., who found the sites generally flat and suitable for both RVs and tents.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention clean bathrooms at several area campgrounds. "The bathhouse is clean and up to date with lots of hot water," notes Jamie G. about Weldon Springs, while others praise the "Super clean laundry" at D&W Lake RV Park and "immaculate" facilities at Friends Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Friends Creek Campground operates from May 1 to November 1, making advance planning essential for off-season visits.
Varying privacy levels: Site selection significantly impacts your camping experience. "Sites are the perfect size. Showers are clean & the water is hot. Trails are well kept & new fishing decks are wonderful," writes Traci W. about Weldon Springs.
Alcohol restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit alcohol entirely. "There is a STRICT no alcohol rule in the tent sites. A sign said coolers are subject to inspection," explains Priscilla J. about Weldon Springs, though she notes enforcement seemed relaxed for quiet campers.
Highway noise considerations: Roadside campgrounds provide convenience but with traffic noise. "Despite being located right next to a major highway, as access is key-code enabled and you're surrounded by good securing fencing around the perimeter, you'll feel safe & secure here," notes Stuart K. about Love's RV Stop.
Tips for camping with families
Off-season camping: Visiting during shoulder seasons offers more privacy. "Had practically the whole campground to ourselves. Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear," advises Matthew I. about Clinton Lake, reminding campers to prepare for limited water access.
Camp host interactions: Friends Creek Campground has notably friendly staff. "The camp host was very kind! He came around with suckers for the kids and just to check in," shares Sara W., highlighting the personal touches that enhance family camping experiences.
Loop selection matters: At Clinton Lake, choosing the right camping loop significantly impacts your experience. "The loops that allow alcohol can get a bit rowdy with weekend partiers, but the alcohol restricted loops can get loud from all the families," explains Marisa A., suggesting full hookup areas avoid generator noise.
Seasonal bug awareness: Insect activity varies throughout the season. "Worst bugs (mosquitoes and locusts) I've ever dealt with," warns Lucas T. about Weldon Springs during early summer, suggesting families pack appropriate repellents during peak insect seasons.
Tips from RVers
Off-season hookup status: Water systems often shut down during colder months. "Water was turned off for winter which wasn't entirely clear. The RV fill was shutdown too. Water option we're the lake or a 30 min drive into town for bottled," cautions Matthew I. about Clinton Lake, emphasizing the importance of checking seasonal utility status.
Site selection considerations: At many area campgrounds, not all sites are created equal. "We have only stayed in the electric only sites as the full hookup sites are hard to come by," notes Tim F. about Clinton Lake, adding that "Very quiet at night and depending on your site, there are nice views of the summer sky."
Reservation timing: For premium waterfront sites, reserve well in advance. "Book far enough in advance for a waterfront site," advises Sarah M. about Moraine View, where the most desirable RV camping spots overlooking the water fill quickly during peak season.
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