Bloomington East
4.20430 reviews700 N. 1190 Rd
Bloomington East
$14.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $14 for standard non-electric sites to $60 for group standard non-electric sites. Additional fees include a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees ($8 online, $9 by phone, $3 in person).
About this campground
Nestled within the scenic Clinton Lake Recreation Area, Bloomington East Campground welcomes adventurers with an impressive array of over 300 campsites that cater to every camping style. Whether you're seeking the raw simplicity of primitive camping, the convenience of full hook-up sites, or planning a memorable group gathering, you'll find your perfect spot among the thoughtfully designed Cedar Ridge, Hickory/Walnut, and Oak campground sections. Each area offers its own unique character while providing access to the stunning natural beauty that makes this destination a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
The campground supports a range of camping styles including family sites, group sites, and primitive camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a visit to the nearby Clinton Lake Museum, where powerful stories of courage and freedom come alive through captivating Underground Railroad exhibits. These displays illuminate the region's pivotal role in American history, offering visitors a deeper connection to the land they're camping on. The museum's carefully curated collections reveal layers of local heritage that transform a simple camping trip into a journey through the cultural tapestry of the heartland.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through October, Bloomington East transforms into a bustling outdoor paradise where moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and campfire gatherings. While Mother Nature occasionally delivers dramatic rainstorms that can create muddy adventures, these passing showers also bring out the earthy scents of the forest and create spectacular cloud formations over the lake. Savvy campers know to pack rain gear and embrace these moments as part of the authentic outdoor experience.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates natural amphitheaters for campsites and provides varying vantage points throughout the campground, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery as you explore the landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic steep bluffs rise majestically from the crystalline waters of Clinton Lake, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your outdoor adventure. Dense woodlands hug the shoreline, their canopy providing welcome shade and serving as nature's own cathedral. Keep your camera ready for unforgettable wildlife encounters – majestic bald eagles soar overhead, Canada geese announce the changing seasons with their distinctive calls, and graceful white-tailed deer emerge at dawn and dusk to drink from the pristine reservoir waters.
Geological RegionThe Wakarusa Valley cradles Bloomington East in a geological embrace millions of years in the making. Here, ancient forces carved steep bluffs that now stand as natural monuments overlooking Clinton Lake's sparkling reservoir. The interplay of water, stone, and forest creates a dynamic landscape where wooded shorelines meet clean waters, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. This unique topography provides both sheltered coves for quiet reflection and commanding viewpoints for spectacular sunsets over the water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible fishing dock, showers, picnic shelters, and campsites are available.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some accommodating large groups. Pull-through sites are available.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced, providing privacy. Users noted that some areas offer shade but others are more exposed.
Total Campsites300 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReserve shaded sites early to avoid exposure to high temperatures. Bug spray is recommended due to gnats.
Best CampsitesSite 47 is noted for its excellent view of Clinton Lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 6:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 5:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground, with a maximum of 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single campsite permits up to 8 guests.
Groups
Elm and Ash Group Camps can accommodate up to 75 people and are suitable for tent camping. Small trailers are permitted on gravel surfaces.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into Cedar Ridge, Hickory/Walnut, and Oak sections. Loops and pull-through sites are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1 to October 15 for reservations. Closed outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via the mobile app, or through the contact center at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but numbers are not specified. Busy holiday weekends may affect availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or through the contact center prior to the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations (from midnight 1 day before check-in) incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Bloomington East offers a wide range of activities including swimming, hiking, disc golf, and wildlife viewing. Clinton Lake is the centerpiece for water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and jet skiing.
Hiking
Three trail systems are located around Clinton Lake, offering hiking, biking, and equestrian opportunities within a 20-minute drive.Fishing
Fishing opportunities at Clinton Lake are abundant, with crappie, walleye, channel catfish, and white bass being commonly stocked.Swimming
A large sandy beach is available for swimming at Bloomington Beach. Day use fees apply for non-campers between May 1 and September 30.Biking
Trail systems support biking activities, but specific details about trail difficulty were not provided.Boating
Three boat ramps are located within the park, requiring day-use fees for non-campers between April 1 and October 31.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently spot bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and Canada geese. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity.Beach activities
Bloomington Beach is noted for its clean sand and is popular among families.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Clinton Lake Museum offers exhibits on the history of the area and the Underground Railroad.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not specifically mentioned.Water Sports
Jet skiing, canoeing, and other water sports are popular at Clinton Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Dead and downed wood may be used as firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsGnats and bugs can be overwhelming during certain seasons, as mentioned in multiple user reviews. Heavy rains can lead to muddy conditions.
Active alertsSome reviews mention flooding and power outages as recurring issues.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Lawrence Memorial Hospital approximately 15 miles away in Lawrence, KS. The Douglas County Sheriff's Department is reachable at 785-843-0250 for urgent law enforcement needs.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but recycling facilities were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Clinton Lake and features a sandy beach for swimming.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include dirty restrooms, power outages, and noisy neighbors during holiday weekends.
HostHosts are generally helpful but receive mixed reviews in user comments regarding responsiveness.
Campground Map
700 N. 1190 Rd
Driving directionsFrom Lawrence, Kansas, take 6th Street west for 4 miles. Take a left onto County Road 442 and continue 5 miles to Stull, Kansas. Make a left turn onto County Road 1023 and continue about 6 miles to County Road 6, make a left turn, and go 4 miles through the town of Clinton. Follow directional signs to the park.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with clear signage directing visitors to the park. Roads are maintained and suitable for all vehicle types, including larger RVs.Nearby places
Lawrence: approximately 15 miles, 30-minute drive
Topeka: approximately 30 miles, 40-minute drive
Kansas City: approximately 50 miles, 1-hour drive.
Nearby supplies
The closest location for supplies is a small store in Clinton, KS, situated along County Road 6 before entering the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
430 reviews
Bloomington East is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bloomington East is highly popular among campers for its spacious sites and accessibility to Clinton Lake. However, reviews highlight inconsistent facility maintenance and noise disturbances during peak times.
Review Summaries
Based on 430 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground for its spacious sites, proximity to Clinton Lake, and variety of activities. Many appreciated the professional disc golf course and scenic trails.
Based on 430 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include unclean bathrooms, mold in showers, poor enforcement of quiet hours, and inconsistent power supply. Noise disturbances during holiday weekends were frequently noted.
Based on 430 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving shaded sites early, bringing extra water hoses due to distant water hookups, and preparing for bugs with repellents. Weekdays are quieter compared to weekends.
Based on 430 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are busiest, with many families utilizing the swimming beach and playgrounds. Winter activities were not highlighted in reviews.
Based on 430 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We love the trees and large sites at this campground." "Bathrooms need lots of work and grass needs mowed more." "Nice shady spots and a lot of them are drive-through."
Based on 430 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 016 in Cedar Ridge is praised for its proximity to the boat ramp. Site 056 received negative feedback due to gnats swarming caused by hedge apple trees.
Based on 430 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible fishing dock and campsites were appreciated. However, one user noted that a designated handicapped site was not particularly accessible due to gravel surfaces.
Based on 430 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Complaints were raised regarding owners not picking up pet waste.
Based on 430 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025