Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground

For horse enthusiasts and outdoor lovers across Kansas, finding the perfect blend of scenic trails, comfortable camping, and dedicated facilities for their equine companions can be a challenge. Look no further than Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground at Clinton Lake in Clinton, Kansas. This unique destination is specifically designed to cater to those who wish to explore the beautiful Kansas landscape on horseback, offering a specialized and welcoming environment for both riders and their four-legged friends. It's a place where the love of horses meets the tranquility of lakeside camping, creating an unparalleled outdoor experience.

Rockhaven Park is more than just a campground; it’s a hub for equestrian adventure, seamlessly integrated into the expansive recreational opportunities of Clinton Lake. While its primary focus is on horse camping, it also provides sites for general campers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park's offerings. Locals consistently praise its well-maintained trails and the overall beauty of the area. If you're seeking a camping spot that combines the thrill of horseback riding with serene natural surroundings and essential amenities, Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground stands out as a top choice in Kansas.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is conveniently located in Clinton, KS 66047, USA. It is situated on the south side of Clinton Lake, west of the Dam on the Rock Creek Arm of the lake. This prime position makes it an ideal base for exploring the vast Clinton Lake area, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. For residents across Kansas, its accessibility is a significant advantage, ensuring a relatively easy journey for those towing horse trailers or RVs.

To reach Rockhaven Park, you can typically follow directions from 23rd St (Clinton Parkway) in Lawrence, KS, heading south on US-59 Highway (Iowa St.) for approximately 2 1/3 miles. Then, turn onto westbound Douglas County 458, drive for about 8 1/2 miles, and finally turn north (right) on E 700 road for about 3/4 of a mile to the Rockhaven Park entrance. The well-maintained roads ensure a smooth drive, even for larger vehicles.

The campground's location on Clinton Lake is a major draw. Clinton Lake is renowned for its clear waters and limited shoreline development, offering a more pristine and natural environment compared to many other lakes in Kansas. This setting provides abundant opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the beautiful views. Additionally, the cities of Lawrence and Topeka are both within a 30-minute drive, offering convenient access to supplies, dining, and other urban amenities should campers require them. The blend of natural beauty and practical accessibility truly makes Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground a highly desirable destination for Kansas locals.

• Equestrian-Friendly Campsites: Rockhaven Park offers 24 campsites, with a majority (19 sites, specifically sites #1-4 and #10-24) designated for equestrian campers only. These sites are equipped to accommodate horses and mules, often featuring corrals, hitching posts, and manure bins.

• Electric Hookups: Twelve of the equestrian-friendly campsites come with electrical service (30-amp), providing modern comforts in a rustic setting.

• Non-Equestrian Campsites: Five sites (#5-9) are open to all campers, including those without horses, suitable for tents and RVs.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available throughout the park, including centrally located spigots for camper convenience.

• Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides modern flush toilets and hot-water showers, centrally located for easy access. While some reviews mention facilities can be "a bit dated," they are generally clean.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite includes a gravel parking spur, a picnic table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and gatherings.

• Group Shelter: A free, first-come, first-served group shelter is available in the picnic area, suitable for family gatherings and events.

• Day-Use Parking Lot: For those who wish to ride or hike the trails without overnight camping, a dedicated day-use parking lot is available.

• Direct Trail Access: The campground provides direct access to over 30 miles of bridle and hiking trails, including the South Shore Trails, with the main trailhead located on the north side of the campground.

• Playground and Horseshoe Pits: Recreational amenities like a playground and horseshoe pits are available for family fun.

• Manure Piles: Designated manure piles are provided for equestrian campers, ensuring proper waste management.

• Premier Equestrian Camping: Rockhaven Park is Clinton Lake's only campground that allows overnight camping with horses and mules, making it a truly unique and invaluable resource for Kansas's equestrian community.

• Extensive Trail System: With access to over 30 miles of well-marked bridle and hiking trails, including the South Shore Trails, the campground offers endless opportunities for scenic rides and invigorating hikes through diverse terrain. Reviewers note that trails are "nice and well marked" and "challenging and pleasant."

• Spacious and Shady Campsites: Campers praise the "wonderful" and "nice and open, shady" sites. Many sites offer ample space to tie off and/or enclose horses, enhancing the convenience for equestrian campers.

• Access to Clinton Lake: The campground's location on Clinton Lake provides excellent opportunities for water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming at nearby Bloomington Beach. The lake's "beautiful setting of steep bluffs, wooded shoreline and clean water is unequaled among Kansas lakes."

• Family-Friendly Amenities: Beyond equestrian activities, the presence of a playground and horseshoe pits ensures that there are recreational options for all ages, making it suitable for family outings.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground allows pets, making it convenient for visitors to bring their dogs along to enjoy the trails, provided they are kept on a leash (addressing a common concern noted in reviews about loose dogs).

• Good Cell Service: Reviewers note that cell service is generally good in the area, allowing campers to stay connected if needed.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground, being managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, operates under a standard federal fee structure rather than frequent, private-sector style promotions. However, there are inherent value propositions and potential ways for campers in Kansas to benefit:

• Federal Pass Discounts: Holders of federal recreation passes, such as the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass, may be eligible for discounts on individual campsites. It is always recommended to present these passes upon arrival and confirm eligibility when making reservations.

• Competitive Pricing: Campsite fees typically range from approximately $14.00 to $20.00 per night, offering competitive rates for campsites, especially considering the specialized equestrian facilities and access to amenities.

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open from April 1st through November 30th. While not a promotion, planning trips during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) might offer a quieter experience with potentially better site availability compared to peak summer months.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and specific reservation requirements for Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground, it is essential to consult the official Recreation.gov website or contact the Clinton Lake Project Office directly. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance and are highly recommended, especially for equestrian sites during popular times, as they can be in high demand.

For more information about Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground, its facilities, or to inquire about reservations and park details, 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 Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground.)

Phone: (785) 843-7665

Mobile Phone: +1 785-843-7665

Email: Clinton@usace.army.mil

While the provided address for the campground is Clinton, KS 66047, contacting the main project office is the best way to get comprehensive and current information regarding site availability, park policies, and any specific requirements for equestrian campers.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is an exceptional and highly suitable destination for locals in Kansas, particularly those with a passion for horseback riding and a desire for immersive outdoor experiences. Its specialized focus on equestrian camping, complete with corrals and direct access to over 30 miles of well-marked horse trails, makes it an unparalleled resource for the state's riding community. For Kansans, this means the convenience of finding a truly accommodating spot for themselves and their horses, right in their own backyard.

Beyond its equestrian appeal, the campground offers a beautiful natural setting on Clinton Lake, providing stunning views and access to a wealth of water-based activities like fishing and boating. The availability of both equestrian-specific and general campsites ensures that Rockhaven Park can cater to diverse outdoor enthusiasts, including families who may have both riders and non-riders. While the occasional issue with loose dogs (as noted in reviews) highlights the importance of adhering to park rules, the overall positive feedback on "wonderful" sites and "nice" trails underscores the park's quality.

The presence of modern amenities like electric hookups, flush toilets, and hot showers adds a significant level of comfort to the camping experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the rustic charm of the outdoors without sacrificing essential conveniences. For locals in Kansas seeking a unique, activity-rich, and well-equipped campground that truly embraces the spirit of outdoor adventure, especially with horses, Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground at Clinton Lake stands out as a prime choice. It's a place to create lasting memories, explore vast trails, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Sunflower State.