Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground

For Kansans who cherish the great outdoors and share a special bond with their equine companions, finding a campground that caters to both is a true treasure. Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground, nestled by the beautiful Clinton Lake in Clinton, Kansas, is precisely that kind of gem. It stands out as a unique and highly sought-after destination, specifically designed for those who wish to camp alongside their horses and explore miles of scenic trails. This article will provide a detailed overview of Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground, highlighting its prime location, the comprehensive services it offers, its distinct features, and why it's the perfect choice for local Kansans seeking an unforgettable equestrian and outdoor adventure.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is not just another place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a dedicated haven for equestrian enthusiasts and general campers alike, with a strong emphasis on horse-friendly facilities. Located on the south side of Clinton Lake, it boasts the unique distinction of being the only campground on this popular lake that allows overnight camping with horses and mules. This focus on equestrians means that a significant portion of its campsites are specifically designated for campers with horses, ensuring that visitors have the necessary amenities for their animals. However, a portion of the sites are also open to non-equestrian campers, making it a welcoming spot for a broader range of outdoor lovers. The campground provides a serene environment where the sounds of nature, combined with the gentle presence of horses, create a truly unique atmosphere. It’s a place where riders can wake up, saddle their horses, and directly access a vast network of trails, making it an unparalleled experience for those passionate about trail riding in Kansas.

The accessibility of Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is a significant advantage for Kansas residents. Its address, Clinton, KS 66047, USA, places it conveniently near Lawrence, Kansas, and within a reasonable driving distance from Topeka and other major population centers in the state. Situated on the south side of Clinton Lake, west of the dam on the Rock Creek Arm, the campground is easily reachable via well-maintained roads. Detailed directions often involve turning south from 59 Highway onto Douglas County 458, then north onto E 700 Road to reach the park entrance. This straightforward access minimizes travel time and maximizes the time visitors can spend enjoying the park's offerings. The location also means campers are close to the amenities of nearby cities while still enjoying a distinct sense of being immersed in nature. This balance of convenience and natural beauty makes Rockhaven an ideal getaway for Kansans looking for a refreshing escape without a long, arduous journey.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is well-equipped with a variety of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both human and equine guests. These amenities cater to the specific needs of equestrian campers while also providing essential comforts for all visitors.

• Campsites: The campground features 24 campsites. Sites 1-4 and 10-24 are designated as "equestrian campers only," requiring campers to have horses or mules. Sites 5-9 are open to any campers.
• Electric Hookups: 12 electric hookup campsites are available, all of which are specifically for equestrian campers, providing power for RVs and other needs. Non-electric sites are also available for a more rustic experience.
• Water Access: Drinking water is available within the campground, ensuring campers have access to potable water. Some reviews suggest that more water hydrants throughout the camp would be a welcome addition.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides both vault toilets and flush toilets. There are also hot-water showers, which are a highly valued amenity for campers after a day on the trails. Recent improvements include a new four-unit shower and flush toilet restroom for paid campers.
• Equestrian Facilities: Each equestrian site may include horse corrals or ample space to set up portable corrals, along with hitching posts. There are also designated manure bins for proper waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining and a fire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking over an open flame and enjoying evenings by the campfire.
• Day Use Parking: A separate day-use parking lot is available for those who wish to ride or hike the trails without overnight camping, helping to manage traffic within the campground.
• Trash Collection: Trash collection services are provided to help maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the park.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground offers several key features and highlights that make it a standout destination, particularly for the equestrian community in Kansas. These attributes contribute significantly to its popularity and the unique experiences it provides.

• Direct Trail Access: The campground serves as the main trailhead for the South Shore Trails of Clinton Lake, offering over 30 miles of bridle and hiking trails directly accessible from the campground. This is a major draw for horseback riders and hikers.
• Equestrian-Focused Environment: Its primary focus on equestrian camping creates a welcoming and understanding community among horse owners, fostering a shared passion for trail riding.
• Scenic Beauty of Clinton Lake: Located on the beautiful Clinton Lake, the campground offers a picturesque setting with steep bluffs, wooded shorelines, and clean water, providing stunning views and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Playground and Group Shelter: For families and groups, there is a playground for children and a group picnic shelter in the picnic area, offering additional recreational and gathering spaces.
• Horseshoe Pits: Horseshoe pits provide another outdoor activity for campers to enjoy.
• Well-Marked Trails: Reviews frequently mention that the trails are well-marked, making navigation easier for riders and hikers, although some sections may experience downed trees or become chewed up due to horse traffic.
• Proximity to Clinton Lake Activities: Beyond the trails, campers can enjoy other Clinton Lake activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports, although direct access to the lake from the campground might be limited in some areas.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground explicitly allows pets, though they must be kept on a leash no more than 6 feet in length, accommodating campers who wish to bring their dogs to enjoy the trails.

For inquiries, reservations, or to gather more specific details about Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground, you can utilize the following contact information. Given that campsites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance, especially during high-demand periods, it's advisable to plan and book early through the reservation system.

Address: Clinton, KS 66047, USA (Note: While the general address is Clinton, KS, more precise navigation may involve "1050 E. 700 Rd. Lawrence, KS 66047" as indicated by some sources, which is the road leading to the park entrance.)

Phone: (785) 843-7665

Mobile Phone: +1 785-843-7665

Reservations: Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facilities at Clinton Lake, and reservations can typically be made through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to visit the Recreation.gov website or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Kansas City District website for Clinton Lake to check availability and make bookings, as this is the primary reservation system.

In conclusion, Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground stands as an unparalleled destination for Kansas locals, particularly those with a passion for horses and outdoor adventure. Its unique focus on providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience for equestrians, complete with direct access to extensive trail networks, sets it apart. The well-maintained sites, essential amenities like showers and electric hookups, and the stunning natural backdrop of Clinton Lake create an inviting atmosphere for all visitors. While the occasional off-leash dog issue has been noted in reviews, the overall sentiment highlights well-marked trails and a beautiful area. For Kansans seeking to combine their love of camping with the joy of horseback riding, or simply looking for a serene outdoor escape with ample hiking opportunities, Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground offers an ideal solution close to home. It's a true local gem, providing a blend of recreational opportunities and natural beauty that makes it perfectly suited for memorable adventures in the heart of Kansas.

Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground

Clinton, KS 66047, USA