Hickory Campground

Are you a Kansas resident seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape into nature? Look no further than Hickory Campground, a gem nestled within the Bloomington East Park at Clinton Lake, just a stone's throw from Lawrence. This campground offers a serene setting for campers, whether you're pulling in an RV for the night, setting up a tent for a weekend getaway, or simply looking for a safe and beautiful spot to unwind.

Hickory Campground is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, particularly the breathtaking full moon views over Clinton Lake. Many visitors appreciate the sense of security and peacefulness that makes it an ideal spot for solo travelers and families alike. Imagine waking up to the sight of deer playing nearby, a gentle breeze rustling through the trees, and the promise of a day filled with outdoor adventure or quiet relaxation. It’s a perfect setting for those who appreciate the natural side of Kansas.

While Hickory Campground provides an excellent base for exploring Clinton Lake and its surroundings, it’s important for campers to be aware of the natural conditions that can sometimes affect the area. Like many natural areas, it can be subject to environmental factors such as high water levels and insects, especially during certain seasons. Visitors are encouraged to prepare for these conditions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Always bring your preferred insect repellent, and check current park conditions before your visit for the latest updates on water levels and facility status.

Despite occasional natural challenges, the dedicated staff and rangers at Clinton Lake consistently work to maintain the area, ensuring that key amenities like playgrounds and nearby attractions such as sculpture parks and boat ramps remain accessible and well-kept. Hickory Campground is designed to provide a wholesome outdoor experience, focusing on the joy of camping, the beauty of the lake, and the opportunities for quiet reflection or active recreation. This article will delve into what makes Hickory Campground a compelling choice for your next Kansas camping adventure, from its convenient location to the practical amenities that cater to a variety of camping styles.

Hickory Campground is conveniently located at N 1182 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA. This address places it squarely within the popular Bloomington East Park, a vibrant part of the expansive Clinton Lake recreational area. For residents of Lawrence and the surrounding communities in Kansas, this translates to an easily accessible getaway. The relatively short drive makes Hickory Campground an excellent choice for impromptu weekend trips or planned longer vacations, minimizing travel stress and maximizing leisure time.

The campground's proximity to Clinton Lake is undeniably one of its greatest assets. Clinton Lake is a significant draw for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of water-based activities. Campers at Hickory have excellent access to opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the scenic views. While some areas of Clinton Lake can experience elevated water levels during certain seasons, which might affect direct lake access from some points, the overall recreational opportunities on the lake remain a key attraction. The park actively manages and informs visitors about current conditions, ensuring that boat ramps and other essential facilities are maintained as best as possible.

Accessibility within Bloomington East Park extends beyond the immediate campground. The park is home to a well-kept playground, providing a safe and fun area for younger campers. Additionally, the nearby sculpture park offers an artistic and cultural diversion, while various trails around Clinton Lake provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The paved and well-maintained roads within the park generally make for easy navigation to and from the campsites, accommodating both RVs and vehicles towing camping trailers. The convenience of being just a short drive from the amenities of Lawrence, including grocery stores and emergency services, further enhances Hickory Campground's appeal as a practical and enjoyable camping destination for Kansas locals.

• Campsites with Electrical Hookups: Hickory Campground offers a variety of campsites, including many with 20/30 amp electrical service, with some sites also featuring 50 amp service and water hookups, catering to both RV and tent campers seeking modern conveniences.
• Non-Electric Campsites: For those who prefer a more rustic experience or traditional tent camping, numerous non-electric sites are also available.
• Potable Water: Access to drinking water is provided, ensuring campers have a reliable source for hydration and cooking.
• Comfort Stations: The campground features conveniently located comfort stations, which typically include flush toilets.
• Shared Shower Building/Laundry Facility: Hickory Campground shares a shower building and laundry facility with the adjacent Walnut Campground, providing essential amenities for a comfortable and extended stay.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table, offering a dedicated space for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are available at campsites, perfect for campfires, cooking, and enjoying the ambiance of the outdoors.
• Playground: A well-kept playground is accessible within the shared Hickory/Walnut area, providing a fun and safe space for children.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at Hickory Campground, provided they are kept on a leash and owners follow park rules regarding pet waste.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available within Bloomington East Park, offering a convenient service for RV campers.
• Access to Historic Stone Smokehouse Amphitheater: Campers at Hickory can enjoy access to the centrally located historic stone smokehouse amphitheater, where evening programs are often presented on Saturdays from May through September.

• Scenic Lake Views: Enjoy beautiful views of Clinton Lake, particularly striking during full moons, providing a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
• Peaceful and Safe Environment: Reviewed as a peaceful and safe place, making it ideal for solo female travelers and families looking for a tranquil outdoor retreat.
• Variety of Campsite Options: Offers a range of sites from primitive tent camping to RV sites with electrical and water hookups, accommodating diverse camping preferences.
• Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to observe local wildlife, such as deer, enhancing the natural experience.
• Proximity to Recreational Activities: Easy access to Clinton Lake for boating, fishing, and other water sports, as well as nearby hiking and biking trails.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: A well-maintained playground ensures entertainment for children, contributing to a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Access to Cultural Attractions: The nearby sculpture park offers an unexpected blend of nature and art.
• Close to Lawrence: Its location near Lawrence means easy access to city amenities, shops, and restaurants, providing convenience without sacrificing the outdoor experience.
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Despite occasional natural challenges, the staff strives to keep key facilities, including comfort stations and shared shower buildings, in good working order.
• Value for Money: Campers often find the rates at Hickory Campground to be very reasonable, especially when considering the available hookups and scenic location.

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and reservable through Recreation.gov, Hickory Campground operates under a standardized fee structure rather than offering traditional promotional deals or discounts. Prices are typically set annually and reflect the type of campsite (e.g., non-electric, electric, electric and water). For the most accurate and current pricing, it is always recommended to check the official Recreation.gov website for Hickory Campground or contact the Clinton Lake Project Office directly.

However, visitors may benefit from various interagency passes that offer discounts on camping fees at federally managed sites. These include:

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass: This pass system offers various options, including an Annual Pass, Senior Pass (for those 62 and older, providing a 50% discount on camping fees), Access Pass (for those with permanent disabilities, also providing a 50% discount on camping fees), Military Passes, and a 4th Grade Pass. These passes can significantly reduce camping costs for eligible individuals.
• Annual USACE Day Use Pass: While this typically covers day-use fees for areas like boat ramps and swimming beaches, it can indirectly enhance the value of your stay by allowing access to these amenities without additional charges.

It's important to verify eligibility and the specific benefits of these passes at the time of booking or upon arrival. While Hickory Campground doesn't run flash sales, the inherent value of its well-maintained sites, beautiful location, and access to a wide array of recreational opportunities, combined with the potential for discounts through federal passes, makes it an attractive and affordable option for Kansas campers.

To make reservations or for detailed inquiries about Hickory Campground, the primary method is through the National Recreation Reservation Service. This service handles bookings for many federally managed campsites across the United States, including those at Clinton Lake.

• Address: Hickory Campground is located within Bloomington East Park at N 1182 Rd, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA. When navigating, ensure you are headed to the Bloomington East Park section of Clinton Lake.
• Phone for Reservations: For direct reservations or to check availability, you can call the National Recreation Reservation Service toll-free at 1-877-444-6777.
• Local Park Office Phone: For general inquiries about Clinton Lake facilities, current conditions, or specific questions about the park (such as water levels or facility status), you can contact the Clinton Lake Project Office directly. Their phone number is (785) 843-7665.
• Mobile Phone (Clinton Lake Project Office): +1 785-843-7665 (This is the same number, often listed with the international dialing code for clarity).
• Website: It is highly recommended to visit Recreation.gov and search for "Hickory Campground at Clinton Lake" for the most up-to-date information on booking, site details, and any important alerts or advisories.

Hickory Campground at Clinton Lake stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for Kansas locals, offering a blend of convenience, natural beauty, and essential amenities that cater to a wide range of camping preferences. Its location, just a short drive from Lawrence, makes it an accessible escape for a spontaneous weekend trip or a planned family vacation, eliminating the need for long-distance travel and maximizing precious leisure time.

For RV enthusiasts and tent campers alike, Hickory Campground provides diverse site options, including those with electrical and water hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay regardless of your camping style. The affordability of these sites, especially when considering the scenic views and available amenities, makes it a highly economical choice for outdoor recreation. Many local campers appreciate the peace of mind that comes with a safe and quiet environment, as highlighted by numerous positive reviews, making it a welcoming spot for solo travelers and families seeking a serene retreat.

Beyond the campsites themselves, the proximity to Clinton Lake offers an abundance of recreational opportunities right at your doorstep. Locals can easily indulge in boating, fishing, swimming at Bloomington Beach, or exploring the numerous hiking and biking trails surrounding the lake. The shared amenities, such as the shower building, laundry facility, and playground, add a layer of convenience that elevates the camping experience from rustic to comfortably enjoyable.

While the natural environment can sometimes present challenges like high water levels or insects, the commitment of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff to maintain and inform visitors about conditions helps ensure that locals can plan accordingly and still have a rewarding experience. The opportunity to witness stunning lake views, enjoy campfire evenings under the stars, and observe local wildlife such as deer, all contribute to a rich and authentic Kansas outdoor adventure.

In essence, Hickory Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a readily available haven for relaxation and recreation, perfectly tailored for the Kansas community. It embodies the spirit of local outdoor living, providing an ideal backdrop for creating cherished memories with family and friends without straying too far from home. For those seeking to reconnect with nature, enjoy watersports, or simply unwind in a beautiful setting, Hickory Campground at Clinton Lake is an excellent choice for your next Kansas adventure.