Clinton Lake features 7,000 acres of water surrounded by 1,500 acres of public land in northeastern Kansas. Most campgrounds in the region sit at approximately 875 feet elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and winter lows often dipping below freezing. Camping conditions vary significantly between the primitive sites that lack facilities and the glamping options at Clinton Lake that feature climate-controlled accommodations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The surrounding parks offer excellent fishing for crappie, bass, and catfish. At Lone Star Lake Park, the water access is "extremely close, including the swim beach" according to Alex J., who calls it his "favorite place in my immediate area." Adam M. confirms it's a "great little lake. Good fishing, great locations for kayaking and paddle boarding."
Archery practice: Bow hunters can practice their skills at dedicated facilities in some parks. Hillsdale State Park "has a great bow range for siting in and practicing with your bow. You can even climb towers to practice shooting from 'tree-stand' elevations," notes Jason W.
Water recreation: Beyond glamping at Clinton Lake, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and paddling. At Pomona State Park Campground, Nancy C. reports: "Swimming, boating, fishing, horses, archery, wide open spaces" are all available, though she notes "cold spring winds made kayaking impossible."
What campers like
Varied camping environments: From wooded sites to lakefront spots, the area offers diverse camping settings. At Eisenhower State Park Campground, one camper got "a prime tree shaded spot on the water. In fairness, most sites are on the water or have a water view. Spectacular sunsets." The park has "plenty of sand to sit in and relax," according to Cindy K.
Family-friendly activities: Many Clinton Lake glamping options focus on families, and nearby parks follow suit. One camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park shared, "My kids love camping here, we came in an RV and we're barely ever inside it until we were ready to sleep. So much fun activities for the kids to do to keep them entertained and occupied, giving the adults time to do things like conversations and hanging out without kids interrupting."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and showers. At Weston Bend State Park Campground, Lauri J. found "the cleanest bathrooms and facilities that I have been to I think Mabye ever. The camp hosts were super nice stop by to make sure that I was all set up and didn't need any help."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Clinton Lake experience significant train noise. At Kansas City West-Lawrence KOA, Myron C. reports: "There was a train passing through, and the person I spoke to offered to throw in a pair of ear plugs and a night mask. Now I know why... the trains were one right behind the other… ALL NIGHT LONG!!!!! Every thirty minutes or so, a train passed by."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites at Clinton Lake require advance booking. During peak times, even standard campgrounds fill quickly. At Eisenhower State Park, one camper noted they were "glad we had reservations prior as it was full even though it was the end of October and the weather wasn't the best."
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant seasonal variation. In spring, Nancy C. found at Pomona State Park that "the cold spring winds made kayaking impossible." Summer glamping at Clinton Lake can be hot, while winter temperatures require heavier preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for easier supervision. At Lone Star Lake Park, Chris L. notes the "playground is in the middle and there's a great dock and beach. Views of the lake are fantastic," though he cautions it's "not the best spot if you're wanting peace, quiet, solitude."
Weekend considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds can become busy and noisy on weekends. Adam M. warns that Lone Star Lake "can get crowded quick and it's a toss up who will be around and how well behaved."
Water safety: When glamping at Clinton Lake with children, bring appropriate flotation devices. Many waterfront sites lack lifeguards. At Hillsdale State Park, one visitor noted "water is a little muddy but good for fishing," indicating that swimming conditions may not always be ideal.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for RV leveling. At Perry State Park Campground, one camper found their "site a little off level, nothing a few blocks or boards couldn't solve. 30 amps of clean 122 vac, water tucked in between two pine trees that blocked the view of the sites to the left and right of us."
Big rig accommodation: Not all glamping sites at Clinton Lake accommodate larger RVs. At Carbolyn Park, JC C. notes there are "29 sites total, 26 electric ($16), 3 primitive ($12)" with a "dump station" available. Bev R. calls it a "hidden gem" with "frequent Ranger patrol."
Electrical considerations: Check amperage before booking. At Hillsdale State Park, Jason W. cautions that "full-hookup sites don't have any tree coverage, but the electric/water sites near the lake are very cozy."
