Overview
Clinton Lake is a reservoir located on the southwest side of Lawrence, Kansas. The reservoir and its surrounding public lands cover roughly 35 square miles of water and shore, and are managed to balance flood control, municipal water supply and outdoor recreation.
Physical characteristics
The lake was formed when Clinton Dam was constructed to retain seasonal flows and store water in the regional watershed. The impoundment created a mixture of open water, wooded shorelines and grassland tracts that include boat ramps, picnic sites and trail corridors. Shoreline length and water levels vary seasonally and with flood-control operations.
History and management
Clinton Dam and the adjacent reservoir were developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as part of regional water resources planning. The Corps continues to operate and maintain the dam, lake, and many of the day-use and camping areas, while state and local agencies often partner to provide visitor services and habitat management on adjoining lands.
Recreation and uses
The lake is a popular destination for nearby communities and visitors. Typical activities include boating, fishing, camping, hiking and wildlife observation. Facilities around the lake support both day trips and longer stays.
- Boating and sailing from maintained ramps
- Angling and shoreline fishing
- Multi-use trails and interpretive areas
- Picnicking, camping and seasonal events
Ecology and notable facts
The reservoir provides habitat for aquatic and terrestrial species and serves as a corridor for migrating birds. It also functions as a regional resource for flood mitigation and municipal water needs. Visitors should consult Corps and state resources for regulations, seasonal advisories and permitted uses before planning an outing.
For official information on recreation, water levels and management actions see the Corps and local agency resources linked through the lake's informational pages: Clinton Lake information and local community guides for Lawrence, Kansas.