Cedar Ridge Campground

🌳 Introduction / Overview

For many Kansans, the thought of a perfect weekend getaway involves the clear waters of Clinton Lake, and the Cedar Ridge Campground stands out as one of the most beloved spots to experience it. Located within the scenic Bloomington East Park near Lawrence, this campground offers a classic, relaxing outdoor experience that has brought families back for decades. It's renowned for its fantastic location right next to the lake, providing campers with easy access to all the water-based and trail activities the area is famous for. Guests consistently describe the campground as “exceptional,” “clean,” and “very well maintained.” The hosts are often highlighted as "delightful," creating a friendly, community-focused atmosphere that makes every visit feel like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With over 100 campsites equipped with essential utilities and often featuring asphalt parking pads and shade, Cedar Ridge is perfectly set up for both seasoned RV travelers and traditional tent campers looking for a comfortable, quality stay on the shores of one of Kansas's premier recreational lakes.

🗺️ Location and Accessibility

Cedar Ridge Campground is part of the larger Bloomington East Park, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at Clinton Lake. It is conveniently situated at 660 N 1190 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA. Its location is ideal for residents of Eastern Kansas, being just a short drive from the city of Lawrence and easily accessible from major highways. The campground is nestled between the Rock Creek and Wakarusa River arms of Clinton Lake, placing it in a prime position for lake enthusiasts. Getting here is straightforward, and once you arrive, you’ll find yourself instantly immersed in a natural, forested environment. This spot serves as a gateway to all of Clinton Lake's numerous recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to swimming and miles of hiking trails. For those needing supplies or seeking a night out, the vibrant city of Lawrence, with its historic downtown and dining options, is just minutes away. The proximity to Lawrence allows campers to enjoy the solitude of nature while having quick access to urban amenities.

⚡ Services Offered

Cedar Ridge Campground is a dedicated facility primarily focused on providing comfortable, clean, and reliable camping essentials. The sites are well-designed to accommodate various setups, and the core services are maintained to a high standard, contributing to the exceptional reviews the campground receives.

• Campsites with Utility Hookups: The campground features 101 campsites, all of which offer both electric and water hookups.
• Electrical Service: Sites primarily offer 20/30 amp service, with select sites (including 7-12 and 66-72) upgraded to offer 50/30/20 amp service for larger RVs.
• Pull-Through Capabilities: Many of the campsites are designed with pull-through access, making it easier for large trailers and RVs to navigate and set up.
• Comfort Stations: There are three strategically located comfort stations (restrooms) throughout the campground.
• Shower Building and Laundry Facility: A centralized building provides clean showers and a dedicated laundry facility, shared with the adjacent Hickory and Walnut campgrounds for convenience.
• Camp Host Assistance: Friendly and knowledgeable camp hosts are on-site to assist guests, manage the area, and ensure the rules for a pleasant experience are followed.
• Water Hydrants: Sites have water hookups, and additional drinking water hydrants are available in surrounding areas of the park.
• Dump Station: A facility is available within Bloomington East Park for RV waste disposal.

🌲 Features / Highlights

The appeal of Cedar Ridge goes far beyond its basic amenities. Its placement within Bloomington East Park on Clinton Lake makes it a prime spot for a wide range of outdoor and family-friendly activities, making it a true recreational hub in the region.

• Direct Access to Clinton Lake: Campers have immediate access to the lake for popular activities like boating, fishing, canoeing, and swimming (nearby Bloomington Beach requires a day-use fee for non-campers).
• Extensive Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole professional disc golf course is located nearby within Bloomington East Park and is free to all visitors, a major draw for local enthusiasts.
• Hiking and Biking Trails: Campers can easily access trails like the Smokehouse Trail, with numerous other trail systems (North Shore, South Shore, George Latham Trails) just a short drive away, catering to hiking, biking, and equestrian riders.
• Amphitheater and Programs: The historic stone Smokehouse Amphitheater, shared by the Bloomington East campgrounds, hosts evening programs on many Saturdays from May through September, providing community entertainment.
• Playground Area: A dedicated playground facility is available for children, offering a safe and fun place to burn energy.
• Quality Campsite Design: Most sites feature asphalt parking pads and offer welcome shade, enhancing the comfort and leveling ease for RVs and tents.
• Extended Operating Season: The Cedar Ridge Campground section is typically open from April 1 through October 15, providing a long season for enjoying the Kansas outdoors.

📞 Contact Information

Cedar Ridge Campground is managed by the USACE as part of the Bloomington East Park facilities at Clinton Lake. Reservations and general inquiries are handled through the national reservation system and the local USACE Project Office.

Physical Address: 660 N 1190 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA

USACE Clinton Lake Project Office: (785) 843-7665 (For general information)

National Recreation Reservation Service: 1-877-444-6777 (For reservations or online via recreation.gov)

It is important to note that a separate phone number, 785-842-8562, is often associated with the nearby Clinton State Park Office for general state park inquiries. For all Cedar Ridge Campground reservations, use the national reservation number or website.

⭐ What is Worth Choosing

For Kansans seeking a genuine, high-quality outdoor experience near a major recreational water body, Cedar Ridge Campground is an easy choice. The number one reason to choose Cedar Ridge is its unbeatable location on Clinton Lake coupled with the guaranteed presence of electric and water hookups at every site—a significant comfort upgrade for many campers. Unlike more rustic options, the paved, shaded sites here are praised for being clean and well-maintained, reducing the hassle of setup and providing a more enjoyable stay. The longevity of its appeal is evident in the reviews, with one customer noting they've been visiting for over 20 years, a powerful endorsement of its consistent quality. While some sites might be considered "a little small," the trade-off is the immediate and easy accessibility to the lake, the beach, and a top-tier disc golf course, making it a recreational paradise. The combination of helpful, delightful camp hosts, clean modern facilities, and an abundance of recreational activities makes Cedar Ridge an exceptional value. It's the perfect spot to create new family traditions, hit the trails, or spend a day on the water, all within a welcoming, highly-regarded setting right in your Kansas backyard.