About Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area
Overview Rockhaven Park is located on the south side of Clinton Lake, west of the Dam on the Rock Creek Arm of the lake. Rockhaven Park is the trailhead for the South Shore Trails (equestrian and hiking trails on the south side of the lake) and is the only place where equestrians can camp overnight with their horses and mules. Recreation Rockhaven Park, first of all, is an equestrian friendly campground. This is Clinton Lake's only campground that allows overnight camping with horses and mules but is open to all campers. There is a "day use only" parking lot for those who come to ride or hike for the day, but not stay overnight. Access to the South Shore Trails is located in Rockhaven Park. The main trailhead is on the north side of the campground, which is a short walk or ride from a campsite or the day use parking lot.In addition to campsites, Rockhaven offers a free first-come, first-serve group shelter, perfect for familiy gatherings and eventsBloomington Beach is a short drive away located in Bloomington East Park. Bloomington Beach requires a day use fee, for non-campers, between May 1 and September 30. Bloomington East offers 4 sets of boat ramps with courtesy docks. Launching a Boat requires a day use fee, for non-campers, between April 1 and November 30. Rockhaven has horshoe pits and a playground within the campground.Clinton Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, canoeing, jet skiing, swimming and countless other water sports, however the best water access is a short drive away in Bloomington East ParkThe lake's fish and wildlife resources provide sightseers, fishermen, and hunters, ample opportunities for their sports, and Clinton Lake is well-stocked with crappie, walleye, channel catfish and white bass. Bloomington East Park has three boat ramps within a short driving distance of the campgrounds. These boat ramps (#5, 6 and 7) do require a day use fee, for non-campers, between April 1 and October 31.Visitors enjoy viewing bald eagles, white-ta
How to Get There
From 23rd St (Clinton Parkway) in Lawrence, KS, go south on 59 Highway (Iowa St.), approximately 2 1/3 miles. Turn onto westbound Douglas County 458, drive for about 8 1/2 miles, turn north (right) on E 700 road, about 3/4 of a mile to the Rockhaven Park entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area
Heading to Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area?
No central reservation system listed for Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/250850) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area?
From 23rd St (Clinton Parkway) in Lawrence, KS, go south on 59 Highway (Iowa St.), approximately 2 1/3 miles. Turn onto westbound Douglas County 458, drive for about 8 1/2 miles, turn north (right) on E 700 road, about 3/4 of a mile to the Rockhaven Park entrance.
How do I contact Rockhaven Park Campground and Equestrian Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 785-843-7665 or email: Clinton@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources