Bloomington West
4.7212 reviews1299 E. 600 Rd.
Bloomington West
$150.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for group camping is $150 during the April 1 to October 15 peak season. Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or additional charges.
About this campground
Discover the perfect retreat for your group at Bloomington West, where spacious campsites meet modern amenities in the scenic landscape west of Clinton Dam. This well-appointed group campground welcomes you with all the comforts you need – from refreshing hot showers and clean flush toilets to convenient grills for evening cookouts and fresh drinking water throughout. When you're ready for recreation, challenge friends to a game on the sand volleyball court, test your aim at the horseshoe pit, or organize a friendly softball match on the dedicated field. Kids will love the playground while basketball enthusiasts can shoot hoops well into the evening. It's where memories are made under Kansas skies.
Bloomington West specializes in group camping accommodations, suitable for large gatherings and family events. It offers basic amenities like electricity and water hookups at four sites, along with comfortable restroom facilities.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape shaped by both nature and history at Bloomington West. The story begins in 1962 when Congress envisioned Clinton Lake as a vital flood control project, transforming the region when its waters first filled the basin in 1980. Today, this engineering marvel serves as both protector and playground. Delve deeper into the area's rich past at the nearby Clinton Lake Museum, where exhibits reveal layers of local heritage including poignant stories from the Underground Railroad – a reminder that these peaceful shores once served as pathways to freedom.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit perfectly with Bloomington West's inviting seasonal patterns. The campground basks in dry, comfortable conditions throughout peak season, making it ideal for outdoor adventures without weather worries. Spring arrives with nature's renewal and crystal-clear skies, while autumn paints the landscape in warm hues under equally pristine conditions. These shoulder seasons offer the sweet spot of pleasant temperatures and minimal precipitation – perfect for those seeking the best camping experience Kansas has to offer.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the dramatic Kansas landscape where steep bluffs rise majestically from the water's edge and dense woodlands frame crystal-clear waters. Clinton Lake stretches magnificently across 8 miles, its 7,000 acres of pristine water creating a vast aquatic playground. The thoughtfully limited shoreline development ensures that nature remains the star attraction, offering countless opportunities to spot local wildlife in their undisturbed habitat. Whether you're watching dawn break over the wooded shores or enjoying sunset reflections on the water, the natural beauty here provides an ever-changing canvas of memorable moments.
Geological RegionNestled within the rolling hills of Kansas near Clinton Dam, Bloomington West showcases the region's surprising topographical diversity. Here, steep bluffs carved by ancient forces create dramatic vistas, while dense woodlands cascade down to meet the crystal-clear waters of Clinton Lake. This unique geological setting defies typical plains stereotypes, offering instead a landscape where elevated terrain meets aquatic beauty in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible picnic shelters, flush toilets, and showers are available, making the campground suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate up to 150 people collectively in the group camping area. Individual site sizes are not specified.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is spacious but designed for group use, which may limit privacy. User reviews do not specifically address privacy.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to facilities for easier access to amenities like showers and restrooms.
Best CampsitesGS1 (Group Site) is frequently praised for its amenities and layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
- Maximum of 6 consecutive nights per visit
- maximum of 14 nights within 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 150 guests for group camping.
Groups
Designed for group use, Bloomington West accommodates up to 150 guests across 25 individual sites. Four of these sites provide 20/30 Amp electric hookups and water connections. User reviews praise the site for being "perfect for a large group" and reasonably priced.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 25 individual sites arranged as a group camping area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 1 to October 15. Closed season: October 15 to April 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center. Fees apply for reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is gated with a combination required for access; no information provided on walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) also forfeit the first night's fee. Additional penalties may apply, such as forfeiting the entire reservation fee for late group site cancellations.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Bloomington West offers a variety of recreational opportunities for campers. "Amazing group camping spot!!" commented one user, highlighting its suitability for large gatherings. Popular activities include water sports at Clinton Lake, such as boating, canoeing, jet skiing, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing, hiking, biking, and equestrian trails located within a 20-minute drive. On-site amenities like a playground, sand volleyball courts, and horseshoe pits make it ideal for family outings.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available within a 20-minute drive from the campground. The trails include North Shore, South Shore, Smokehouse, and George Latham Trails, which support hiking, biking, and equestrian use.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Clinton Lake. The lake is well-stocked with crappie, walleye, channel catfish, and white bass, providing excellent opportunities for anglers.Swimming
Swimming is permitted, but specific details about designated swimming areas or safety measures are not provided.Biking
Biking opportunities are available on trails around Clinton Lake, suitable for various skill levels and terrains.Boating
Clinton Lake supports boating activities, including canoeing and jet skiing. A boat ramp is located within a mile of the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, featuring species such as bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkeys.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the source material.Water Sports
Water sports at Clinton Lake include boating, jet skiing, canoeing, and various other water-based recreational opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires must be confined to designated fire rings. Use of dead and downed wood is permitted while cutting standing trees is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters and risks related to firewood transport due to Emerald Ash Borer. Visitors are advised to follow guidelines on firewood usage to prevent pest spread.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 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
Emergency services are located in Lawrence, approximately 30 minutes away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided, but recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Clinton Lake, offering access to water sports like boating, fishing, canoeing, and swimming.
Common complaintsLimited electric hook-ups, only four available; some reviewers mentioned the need for tree trimming.
Hostnull
Campground Map
1299 E. 600 Rd.
Driving directionsFrom Lawrence, Kansas, take 6th Street/Highway 40 west for 4 miles. Take a left onto Douglas County Road 442 and go 5 miles to Stull, Kansas, then take another left onto Douglas County Road 1023 and go 6 miles to Douglas County Road 6. Make a left turn on 6 and go 4 miles to Douglas County Road 4. Make a right turn and go 1/2 mile and turn left on the first gravel road. Go 1/4 mile to the park entrance on the left.
The campground is accessed via gravel and paved roads; reviews note that it is "not the most convenient to get to" due to its remote location.Nearby places
Lawrence (approximately 30 minutes), Topeka (approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Lawrence, 30 minutes away
grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies can be found there.
Camper Reviews
4.7
12 reviews
Bloomington West is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment is highly positive for Bloomington West as a group campground. Campers appreciate the cleanliness of facilities, availability of firewood, and suitability for large gatherings.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, hot showers, accessible amenities like electricity and water hookups, and its suitability for group camping. "Bathrooms are plumbed and clean,...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include limited hookups—only four sites have electricity and water connections—and occasional need for tree trimming. "Could use some tree trimming and would be nice if there were more...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking early for large group events and bringing pets along, as the campground is pet-friendly. Some reviews suggest planning return trips due to positive experiences.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal trends favor camping during peak season (April 1 to October 15), with users enjoying warm weather and access to water sports. Off-season bookings are not available.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms are plumbed and clean, showers have hot water." "Amazing group camping spot!! We go yearly." "Grandkids had a blast. Can't wait to go back!" "Could use some tree trimming and would be nice...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
GS1 (Group Site): Reviewers gave positive feedback on site GS1, praising its cleanliness and accessibility. "Amazing location and facilities," and "access to electricity, and water is a big plus!"
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible picnic shelters, flush toilets, and showers make this campground welcoming for individuals with disabilities. No specific user reviews address accessibility concerns.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, and user reviews appreciate this feature. "The best part is that you can take your pet."
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025