Ash Campground

For groups across Kansas looking for a tranquil and spacious setting to gather amidst the beauty of nature, Ash Campground at Clinton Lake in Lawrence offers an ideal solution. This dedicated group camping area provides a more primitive and immersive experience, allowing larger parties to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors together. It’s a space where the rustling of leaves and the open sky set the stage for memorable gatherings, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Ash Campground is a unique offering within the popular Clinton Lake recreation area, designed to accommodate larger tent camping groups. While it embraces a natural, no-frills approach, its location ensures convenient access to all the recreational opportunities that Clinton Lake is renowned for. If your group in Kansas is seeking a quiet, spacious, and naturally shaded spot for a collective outdoor adventure, Ash Campground provides a welcoming and practical base.

Ash Campground is situated at N 1182 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA. This places it within the larger Bloomington East Park area, which is part of the extensive Clinton Lake project, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The campground is located on the north side of Clinton Lake, offering convenient access to various points of interest around the lake and its extensive trail system.

For residents across Kansas, Ash Campground boasts excellent accessibility. The vibrant college town of Lawrence is just a short drive away, typically within a 15-20 minute radius. This proximity provides groups with the flexibility to easily access city amenities such as grocery stores for supplies, diverse dining options, and local attractions, blending the rustic camping experience with urban convenience when needed. Major roadways, including I-70 and US-59, lead directly to Lawrence, ensuring a straightforward journey from various parts of the state, whether traveling from Topeka, Kansas City, or other communities.

The setting within the Clinton Lake area means that Ash Campground benefits from the lake's reputation for clear waters and its largely undeveloped shoreline. This commitment to preserving the natural aesthetic enhances the overall group camping experience, allowing visitors to enjoy an unspoiled environment. While specific reviews for Ash Campground itself are limited, its location within the well-regarded Bloomington East Park suggests a well-maintained setting. Access to the lake from the campground, whether for fishing, non-motorized boating, or simply enjoying the scenic views, is convenient, making Ash Campground a practical and appealing choice for Kansas locals organizing group outdoor activities.

• Group Camping Sites: Ash Campground is specifically designed as a group camp, able to accommodate up to 75 people. This makes it ideal for larger gatherings, family reunions, youth groups, or organizational outings.

• Primitive Camping: Ash Group Camp is primarily intended for tent camping groups, offering a more primitive experience. It can handle a limited number of small trailers, such as tent campers, as long as they remain on the gravel circle drive.

• No Electricity: It's important to note that no electricity is provided in Ash Group Camp, maintaining a truly rustic and "off-grid" feel for groups.

• Shade: Reviewers mention "Lots of shade," which is a valuable amenity, especially during warm Kansas summers, providing comfort for group activities.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Group sites typically include multiple picnic tables and a communal fire ring, essential for shared meals and evening campfires.

• Access to Water: While direct hookups are not at each site, there is likely communal access to potable water within the group camp area or nearby within Bloomington East Park.

• Proximity to Restrooms/Vault Toilets: Groups will have access to restrooms, likely vault toilets, within the group camp area or nearby within Bloomington East Park.

• Access to Dump Station: Campers in the larger Bloomington East Park area, including those from Ash Campground, have access to a dump station, a convenient service for RVs and trailers that might accompany the group.

• Pets Allowed: Ash Campground is pet-friendly, allowing groups to bring their furry companions (subject to park rules regarding leashes and waste).

• Large Group Capacity: The primary feature of Ash Campground is its capacity to host large groups, accommodating up to 75 people, making it perfect for organized events, family gatherings, or youth retreats.

• Secluded and Shaded Setting: Described as having "Lots of shade," the campground offers a comfortable and natural environment, ideal for escaping the sun during the day and enjoying the outdoors in a more private setting.

• Primitive Outdoor Experience: For groups seeking a genuine connection with nature, the lack of electricity encourages a more rustic and immersive camping adventure, fostering camaraderie and reliance on natural elements.

• Access to Clinton Lake Activities: Despite its primitive nature, Ash Campground provides convenient access to the extensive recreational opportunities at Clinton Lake. This includes fishing, non-motorized boating (kayaking, canoeing), swimming at the beach, and enjoying the clear waters.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: Groups can easily access the network of hiking and biking trails that wind through Bloomington East Park and around Clinton Lake, providing opportunities for group walks, runs, or bike rides.

• Proximity to Lawrence Amenities: While offering a wilderness feel, the campground's relatively close proximity to Lawrence means that groups can easily access supplies, emergency services, or enjoy a meal out if desired, providing a practical balance.

• Well-Maintained Grounds (General Area): Although specific reviews for Ash Campground were limited, the overall Bloomington East Campground area (which includes Ash) is noted for being "beautiful and clean" by some campers, suggesting a general commitment to park maintenance.

Ash Campground, as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-managed group camp within Clinton Lake, generally operates under federal fee structures for reservations rather than offering individual "promotions" in the commercial sense. However, there are inherent cost benefits and potential considerations for groups:

• Group Site Value: Group campsites like Ash are typically priced as a flat fee per night for the entire group, which can be highly cost-effective when divided among many participants, offering significant savings compared to booking multiple individual sites.

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series: While these passes typically apply to individual campsite discounts, it's always advisable for the group organizer to inquire if any federal pass holder within the group can influence the group site fee, though this is less common for group facilities.

• Off-Peak Season: While Ash Campground is likely seasonal (generally open from spring through fall), booking during less busy times (e.g., weekdays outside of summer or shoulder seasons) might offer better availability and a more secluded experience, though fees may remain consistent.

Fees for Ash Group Camp would be a set rate per night, intended to cover the large capacity. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, availability, and specific reservation requirements for Ash Campground, it is essential to consult the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Clinton Lake Project Office directly. Group sites often book up far in advance, especially during popular times, so early reservation (up to six months ahead) is highly recommended.

For more information about Ash Campground, its facilities, or to inquire about reservations and park details for your group, please use the following contact information for the Clinton Lake Project Office:

Address: 872 N. 1402 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66049 (This is the main Project Office address for Clinton Lake, which oversees Ash Campground and other facilities within Bloomington East Park.)

Phone: (785) 843-7665

Mobile Phone: +1 785-843-7665

Email: Clinton@usace.army.mil

While the specific physical address for the campground is N 1182 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, contacting the main project office is the best way to get comprehensive and current information regarding group site availability, park policies, and any specific requirements for your visit to Ash Campground.

Ash Campground at Clinton Lake offers an exceptional and highly suitable outdoor solution for groups across Kansas. Its dedicated design as a primitive group camp makes it perfect for family reunions, scout troops, church groups, or any large gathering seeking a shared experience in nature. The convenience of its location near Lawrence means groups can easily access this natural retreat without extensive travel, blending the tranquility of the outdoors with the option for urban amenities nearby.

While the campground embraces a primitive style (no electricity), this is often a desired feature for groups aiming to truly disconnect and foster camaraderie through shared outdoor experiences. The abundance of shade is a significant comfort during the warmer months, providing a pleasant environment for group activities and relaxation. Its direct access to the vast recreational opportunities of Clinton Lake—including fishing, non-motorized boating, and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails—ensures there are plenty of activities to keep everyone engaged and entertained.

Ash Campground provides a cost-effective and practical solution for group outings. The ability to book a large, dedicated space ensures privacy and convenience for organized events. For locals in Kansas seeking to host a memorable group camping trip that emphasizes natural beauty, shared experiences, and easy accessibility, Ash Campground at Clinton Lake stands out as a prime choice. It’s a place where communities can come together and enjoy the very best of Kansas's outdoor charm.