Elm Campground

Are you a Kansas local looking for the perfect outdoor escape? Perhaps you're planning a memorable group gathering, a family reunion, or just a peaceful retreat into nature. Look no further than Elm Campground, nestled conveniently close to Lawrence, Kansas. This dedicated group camping area offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors, providing a space where memories are made and the stresses of daily life simply melt away.

Elm Campground offers a unique and focused camping experience, primarily catering to larger groups. Situated within the expansive Bloomington East Park at Clinton Lake, it provides a balance of natural tranquility and accessible amenities. We understand that for many Kansans, finding a reliable and enjoyable camping spot is key to a successful outdoor adventure, and Elm Campground aims to deliver just that. With its focus on group accommodations, it's designed to facilitate camaraderie and shared experiences under the Kansas sky. This article will guide you through what makes Elm Campground a top choice for your next group camping trip, from its convenient location to the thoughtful features that enhance your stay.

It's worth noting that while Elm Campground is designed for group gatherings, individual campers can still find excellent options within the broader Bloomington East Park, which includes other campgrounds like Cedar Ridge, Hickory/Walnut, and Oak. This ensures that whether you're bringing a large scout troop or just a few friends, there's a camping solution for you in this beautiful area of Kansas. The emphasis at Elm, however, remains firmly on providing an excellent, well-equipped space for larger parties to enjoy the natural splendor of Clinton Lake.

One important consideration when enjoying Kansas's beautiful lakes is the presence of zebra mussels, an aquatic invasive species. While they can filter water and make it seem clearer, it's crucial to understand that clearer water does not mean cleaner water, and they can lead to harmful algal blooms and impact native aquatic life. When visiting any body of water, including Clinton Lake, it's essential to follow the "Clean, Drain, Dry" protocol for all watercraft and equipment to prevent their spread. This simple practice helps protect our precious Kansas waterways for future generations to enjoy. Rest assured, the beauty of Clinton Lake, despite this ecological challenge, remains a significant draw for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Elm Campground is ideally situated at N 1182 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA. This prime location places it within Bloomington East Park, a popular section of the greater Clinton Lake recreational area. For residents of Lawrence and surrounding communities in Kansas, this means a relatively short and convenient drive to your outdoor adventure. The ease of access makes it an excellent choice for weekend getaways or longer trips, eliminating the hassle of long-distance travel.

The campground's proximity to Clinton Lake is a significant advantage. Clinton Lake is a beloved destination for a wide array of water activities, from boating and fishing to swimming and kayaking. Being so close to the water means less time spent commuting and more time enjoying the lake. Furthermore, the area is generally well-maintained, with gravel roadways within the group camp area, making it accessible for a limited number of wheeled camping units in addition to its primary design for tent camping. While some reviewers have mentioned unpaved or gravel paths to certain camping spots in the broader area, the main access to Elm Campground is generally straightforward.

Accessibility within Bloomington East Park also includes various trails for hiking, biking, and even equestrian use, all within a 20-minute drive of the campgrounds. This ensures that beyond the immediate camping experience, there are ample opportunities for exploration and physical activity. The park also features accessible fishing docks, demonstrating a commitment to making outdoor recreation enjoyable for a wider range of visitors. The convenience of being able to quickly reach town for any forgotten supplies or a quick meal also adds to the overall appeal of Elm Campground's location for Kansas locals.

• Group Camping: Elm Campground is specifically designed for group use, accommodating between 10 and 75 people, making it perfect for family reunions, youth group outings, or large gatherings of friends.
• Picnic Shelter: Each group camp area includes a picnic shelter, offering a shaded and communal space for meals, games, and socializing, regardless of the weather.
• Grilling and Picnic Area: Designated grilling and picnic areas are available, complete with picnic tables, providing convenient spaces for preparing and enjoying outdoor meals.
• Fire Pits: Campfires are a quintessential part of the camping experience, and Elm Campground provides fire pits for safe and enjoyable bonfires, perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories.
• Volleyball Court: For active groups, a volleyball court is on-site, offering a fun way to engage in some friendly competition and stay entertained.
• Vault Toilets: Essential for any camping trip, vault toilets are conveniently located within the group camp area.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available, ensuring campers have access to fresh water throughout their stay.
• Shared Shower Building/Laundry Facility: While Elm Group Camp itself does not have showers, campers have access to the shower building and laundry facilities located a short drive away in the Hickory/Walnut campground area. This provides a welcome convenience for longer stays.
• Pet-Friendly (Leashed): Pets are generally allowed at Elm Group Campground, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside of vehicles, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

• Proximity to Clinton Lake: One of the most significant highlights is the campground's immediate vicinity to Clinton Lake, offering endless opportunities for water-based recreation such as boating, fishing, jet skiing, canoeing, and swimming at Bloomington Beach.
• Ideal for Large Groups: Unlike many individual campsites, Elm Campground specializes in accommodating large groups, providing the necessary space and amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable collective experience.
• Secluded and Natural Setting: Despite its accessibility, the campground offers a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, with ample shade from trees and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
• Volleyball Court: A dedicated volleyball court adds a unique recreational feature, promoting active fun and group engagement.
• Convenient Access to Amenities: While primarily a group camp, the short drive to the main campgrounds (Hickory/Walnut) for shower and laundry facilities provides a practical and appreciated convenience.
• Ample Space: Reviews suggest that the sites are generally spacious, allowing for comfortable setup and activities for larger groups.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Being away from significant light pollution, Elm Campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear Kansas nights.

As a publicly managed recreation area through Recreation.gov and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Elm Campground does not typically offer ongoing promotional deals or special offers in the same way a private campground might. Pricing is generally set by the managing authorities for group sites. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any potential seasonal discounts or specific booking incentives, it is always recommended to check the official Recreation.gov website for Elm Group Campground or contact the Clinton Lake Project Office directly.

However, what Elm Campground does offer is exceptional value for larger groups. The ability to reserve a dedicated space for up to 75 people for a single fee (typically $60.00 per day, subject to change) can be a significant cost-saving for big gatherings compared to booking multiple individual campsites. This inherent value proposition serves as its own "special offer" for those planning substantial camping events.

Additionally, visitors should be aware of standard Kansas State Park entrance and camping fees that apply to all state parks, which may include daily or annual vehicle permits and daily camping permits. These are separate from the group campsite reservation fee. It's advisable to check the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWP) website for the latest fee schedules and permit requirements to ensure a smooth arrival and stay. While there may not be specific “promotions” in the traditional sense, the comprehensive and affordable group camping experience at Elm Campground itself is a compelling offer for Kansas locals seeking a natural escape.

For reservations and detailed information about Elm Campground, the primary point of contact is through the National Recreation Reservation Service. This is the official booking platform for many federally managed recreation sites, including those managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

• Address: Elm Campground is located within Bloomington East Park, near Clinton Lake. The general address for the area is N 1182 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA. For more precise navigation within the park, it's often helpful to refer to maps provided by Recreation.gov or the Clinton Lake Project Office.
• Phone: To make reservations or inquire about availability, you can call the National Recreation Reservation Service at 1-877-444-6777.
• For direct inquiries regarding Clinton Lake facilities and general park information, you can contact the Clinton Lake Project Office:
• Phone: 785-843-7665
• Email: Clinton@usace.army.mil
• It is always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website for Elm Group Camp for the most up-to-date information on booking, availability, and any specific rules or advisories.

For Kansas locals, Elm Campground presents an unparalleled opportunity for a convenient, affordable, and deeply enriching outdoor experience. Its strategic location just outside Lawrence, within the beloved Clinton Lake recreational area, means that a natural escape is never far from home. This accessibility is a huge advantage, cutting down on travel time and allowing more moments to be spent enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty of our state.

The primary suitability of Elm Campground for locals lies in its specialized focus on group camping. Kansas families, friends, clubs, and organizations often seek suitable venues for larger gatherings, and Elm Campground perfectly fills this niche. Whether it’s a multi-family camping trip, a youth group adventure, or a memorable reunion, the dedicated group sites provide ample space and essential amenities to ensure everyone can participate comfortably. The provision of picnic shelters, grilling areas, fire pits, and even a volleyball court fosters a communal atmosphere, encouraging bonding and shared experiences that are at the heart of any successful group outing.

Beyond the group-centric design, the broader amenities of Bloomington East Park and Clinton Lake enhance the appeal. The lake itself offers a myriad of recreational possibilities, from peaceful fishing mornings to exhilarating afternoons of boating and swimming. The nearby hiking and biking trails provide additional avenues for exploration and exercise, catering to various interests and activity levels. Even the convenience of accessible showers and laundry facilities, a short drive away, contributes to a more comfortable and extended stay, making it easier for locals to truly unwind and disconnect from daily routines.

In essence, Elm Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to creating lasting memories in the heart of Kansas's natural landscape. It's a testament to the idea that grand adventures don't always require distant journeys. For those living in Kansas, it’s a readily available slice of tranquility, a perfect backdrop for reconnecting with loved ones, and an ideal spot to rediscover the simple joys of the great outdoors, all within easy reach.