Coneflower Campground

For Kansans seeking an accessible, yet deeply rewarding escape into nature, the Coneflower Campground at Clinton State Park near Lawrence, KS, stands out as a premier destination. Located on the northern shores of the stunning Clinton Lake, this campground provides the ideal blend of modern convenience and pristine natural beauty. It's more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent—it’s a gateway to over 9,000 acres of clear waters, rolling prairies, and extensive trail systems that define the best of outdoor recreation in Douglas County.

Whether you're a long-time Lawrence resident looking for a quick weekend getaway or a traveler passing through the heart of the Sunflower State, Coneflower Campground offers a welcoming, well-equipped environment. The area is named for the beautiful native Kansas wildflowers that dot the landscape, offering gorgeous views, especially during the spring and fall seasons, making it a favorite for nature lovers and campers alike.

### Overview: Camping Flexibility at Clinton Lake

Coneflower Campground is a designated loop or area within the larger, well-established Clinton State Park, one of Kansas’s premier recreation areas. The campground is designed to cater to a broad spectrum of campers, ensuring that everyone from the dedicated RVer to the simple tent camper can find a suitable spot. This flexibility is a significant draw, allowing visitors to tailor their experience from simple, rustic immersion to full-service comfort.

The entire park, and by extension the campground, is renowned for its easy access to the clear waters of Clinton Lake and its extensive network of hiking and biking trails. As one happy customer noted, the experience is transformative, helping visitors "fall in love with fall camping" thanks to the "gorgeous views and abundant wildlife." The park's commitment to accessibility and ease of use is highlighted by its 24-hour access and self-registration option, providing unmatched convenience for those with unpredictable travel schedules.

Strategically located near the major metropolitan centers of Lawrence, Topeka, and the Kansas City area, Coneflower Campground serves as a crucial resource for urban residents looking for quick, high-quality outdoor immersion without a long drive.

### Location and Accessibility

Coneflower Campground is ideally situated within Clinton State Park, which lies just four miles west of Lawrence, Kansas. This proximity to a vibrant university town means that while you are fully immersed in nature, you are never far from city amenities, dining, or historical sites should you need them.

The general address for the park area containing the campground is:

Lawrence, KS 66049, USA (Park Office address: 798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049)

Access to the state park is exceptionally well-managed, with multiple routes from nearby highways:

• From Lawrence: The park is easily accessed by taking Clinton Parkway west.
• From I-70/Kansas Turnpike: Travelers can use the Lecompton exit (Exit 197) and follow directions to K-10 East, exiting onto Clinton Parkway.

Once inside Clinton State Park, the Coneflower Loop is clearly signposted. Campsites are notably easy to navigate, featuring gravel driveways and often pull-thru sites that accommodate large RVs and trailers, as confirmed by visitor reviews praising the ease of setup and access.

### Services Offered

The variety of campsites at Coneflower Campground ensures a comfortable stay for all types of campers, backed by essential park services that enhance the overall experience. The facilities are maintained by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP).

• Utility Hookups: The campground offers a mix of sites, including water and electric hookups (20/30 amp), and sometimes full hookups (water, sewer, and electric) on select sites within the wider park, making it ideal for self-contained RVs.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: Modern comfort stations are available, featuring flush toilets and hot showers. While a minority of reviewers sometimes note maintenance issues common in busy state parks, the presence of these facilities is a major benefit.
• Dump Station: RV dump stations are conveniently located within Clinton State Park, often near the main campground areas, ensuring easy departure and vehicle maintenance.
• Reservations: Many Coneflower sites are reservable, particularly those with utility hookups, through the state's official booking system, which is highly recommended during peak seasons.
• Potable Water: Public water access points are available throughout the loop.
• Self-Registration: The option for self-registration caters to late arrivals, streamlining the check-in process.

### Features / Highlights

Coneflower Campground’s reputation stems from its location within Clinton State Park, offering significant recreational features that elevate the camping experience far beyond a simple overnight stop.

• Extensive Trail System: The campground provides immediate access to the park’s renowned trail system, including the nearly 25-mile hiking and mountain biking trail that winds along the north shore of Clinton Lake. This is a massive draw for cyclists and hikers, offering trails from easy to difficult, and is a noted highlight in customer reviews.
• Clinton Lake Access: Being situated near the lake, campers have easy access to a boat ramp, swimming beach, and multiple areas for shoreline fishing. Clinton Lake is famous for its clear waters and excellent fishing for species like walleye, crappie, and bass.
• Abundant Wildlife and Scenic Beauty: Visitors frequently comment on the gorgeous views and the abundant wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and a variety of bird species, making it a prime spot for photography and wildlife observation.
• Variety of Site Types: The ability to choose between primitive tent camping and well-equipped utility sites (including pull-thru options for large rigs) means the campground genuinely accommodates every style of outdoor enthusiast.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The proximity to playgrounds and picnic shelters within the greater park area makes Coneflower an excellent base for family camping trips.

### Contact Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on reservations, current site conditions, and park regulations, it is best to contact the Clinton State Park office directly.

Address (Park Office):

798 N 1415 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049

General Phone (Park Office):

(785) 842-8562

Mobile Phone (Park Office):

+1 785-842-8562

Reservations:

Reservations for utility sites are highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, and can typically be made online through the Kansas State Park reservation system.

### What is Worth Choosing Coneflower Campground?

For residents of Kansas, particularly those in the Eastern region, choosing Coneflower Campground at Clinton State Park is choosing a top-tier outdoor experience right in your backyard. The primary reasons to select this spot over other options are threefold: recreational density, flexible amenities, and accessibility.

First, the recreational density is unmatched. With over 25 miles of renowned mountain biking and hiking trails directly accessible, plus the comprehensive water-based activities of Clinton Lake—boating, swimming, and fishing—there is an activity for every interest and fitness level. This extensive offering is why the location is continually hailed by outdoor enthusiasts.

Second, the flexible amenities provide the ultimate convenience. Whether you are driving a large RV requiring 30-amp service, or simply pulling over to pitch a small tent, Coneflower’s wide range of site options, from primitive spots to pull-thru utility sites, means you don't have to compromise on your style of camping. The self-registration process further simplifies arrival, a significant benefit noted by those traveling during non-standard hours.

Finally, its accessibility just minutes from Lawrence makes it a stress-free choice. You gain the full benefits of a state park setting—the tranquility, the wildlife, and the space—without the multi-hour drive often associated with prime camping spots. Coneflower Campground is not just a place to sleep; it’s a central base for exploring the best of Douglas County's natural landscape, offering gorgeous views, clean facilities, and endless opportunities for adventure in the heart of Kansas.