Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground
4.3154 reviews1050 E. 700 Rd.
Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground
$14.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$20.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are seasonal: $14/night for standard or equestrian non-electric campsites, and $20/night for equestrian electric sites during peak season (April 1 - November 30).
About this campground
Saddle up for an unforgettable camping experience at Rockhaven Park, Clinton Lake's premier equestrian destination where riders and their four-legged companions find a perfect home base for adventure. This unique campground welcomes horses and mules alongside their human partners, offering 24 thoughtfully designed campsites that blend modern conveniences with rustic charm. Twelve electric sites are exclusively reserved for equestrian campers, complete with sturdy corrals and convenient hitching posts, while five additional sites welcome all outdoor enthusiasts. Fresh water hydrants dot the campground, and direct access to the renowned South Shore Trails promises endless exploration through Kansas's captivating countryside.
Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground offers a mix of primitive, RV, and tent camping accommodations. It is one of the few campgrounds in the area that caters specifically to equestrian campers.
Historical SignificanceJust a short ride away in Bloomington East Park, the Clinton Lake Museum stands as a guardian of local heritage, where the echoes of the past come alive through carefully preserved artifacts and stories. Here, visitors discover the area's profound connection to the Underground Railroad, where brave souls once traveled these very lands seeking freedom. The museum's exhibits weave together tales of early settlers, indigenous peoples, and the transformative creation of Clinton Lake itself, offering context that transforms every trail ride into a journey through living history.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through November, Rockhaven Park comes alive under the Kansas sun, where warm days invite long trail rides and cool evenings are perfect for campfire gatherings. The peak season brings its own rhythm of gentle spring rains that paint the landscape emerald green, followed by the golden warmth of summer. Seasoned campers know to pack insect repellent during the wetter months when ticks and mosquitoes join the outdoor party, but these minor companions are a small price to pay for experiencing nature at its most vibrant. The high humidity creates those magical misty mornings that make early rides feel like stepping into a watercolor painting.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery by each visitor, the gently rolling terrain of Rockhaven Park creates a landscape that challenges and delights riders of all skill levels, with natural rises and falls that add excitement to every trail adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryRockhaven Park sits like a jewel in Kansas's emerald crown, where the landscape unfolds in waves of verdant beauty that stretch as far as the eye can see. Clinton Lake's crystalline waters lap against dramatic steep bluffs that rise like ancient sentinels, while dense woodlands provide shade and sanctuary for both riders and wildlife. The shoreline remains refreshingly undeveloped, preserving the raw beauty that makes this corner of Kansas feel like a secret paradise. Morning mists dance across the water's surface while sunset paints the bluffs in shades of gold and crimson, creating a natural amphitheater that changes its show with every passing hour.
Geological RegionNestled within the distinctive Kansas green landscape, Rockhaven Park showcases the region's unique geological character where ancient limestone bluffs meet pristine waters. These steep escarpments tell a story millions of years in the making, their weathered faces revealing layers of time while providing dramatic backdrops for trail rides. The wooded shorelines that embrace Clinton Lake create a tapestry of oak, hickory, and native grasses, all thriving in the rich soil that makes this region a natural haven for both equestrians and nature lovers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets, vault toilets, and showers are present. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for campers with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe campsites are generally described as spacious, though users with slide-out trailers found them snug. Tent campers reported flat and level ground.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly detailed. However, the campground layout includes both equestrian and non-equestrian sites, indicating some separation.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites 18E, 20E, 21E, and 23E are recommended for shade and proximity to water.
Best CampsitesSites like 18E, 20E, 21E, and 23E are noted for being shady with well-maintained corrals.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Official check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights per visit, with a 30-day rolling restriction.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes sites with electric hookups for equestrian campers and non-electric sites for general camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1 through November 30 during peak season. Closed for reservations from December to March.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov through phone or website.
Walk-in AvailabilityIf arriving without a reservation, campers need to contact the reservation service for immediate booking via phone and card payment.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before check-in. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiting the first night’s fee for late cancellations starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground are centered around equestrian pursuits, hiking, and nature exploration. Access to the South Shore Trails is a highlight for campers, offering both equestrian and hiking opportunities. Other activities include birdwatching, photography, and picnicking.
Hiking
The South Shore Trails are accessible from the campground and are described as rocky and varied, with scenic views of the lake. Trails are well-marked, but maintenance issues such as missing markers and washouts have been noted.Fishing
Clinton Lake provides fishing opportunities, including crappie, walleye, channel catfish, and white bass. Specific fishing spots near the campground are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Visitors report seeing bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, and wild turkeys, among other species.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are available at Clinton Lake, but access is not directly from Rockhaven Park.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be confined to designated fire rings; cutting standing trees or bushes is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are strictly enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsTicks and mosquitoes are common during warm months. Wildlife hazards include coyotes and occasionally mountain lions, per user review.
Active alertsAdverse trail conditions may lead to temporary closures; check before arrival.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 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
Douglas County Sheriff’s Department (phone: 785-843-0250). Emergency services are limited to weekdays from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, requiring messages to be left after hours.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - November 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available for general waste. Concrete compost pens are provided for horse manure disposal.
Proximity to water featuresClinton Lake is nearby; no direct water access is provided at Rockhaven, but Bloomington Beach offers swimming and water sports within a short drive.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of water hydrants near campsites, unclean bathrooms, noisy groups, and trail maintenance concerns.
HostCamp hosts are noted as friendly and helpful; they provide firewood and trail information.
Campground Map
1050 E. 700 Rd.
Driving directionsFrom 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.
The access roads are paved and relatively easy to navigate, but some user reviews have noted poor signage leading to the equestrian campground.Nearby places
Lawrence (about 10 miles, 20-minute drive), Topeka (about 30 miles, 30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Lawrence, approximately 10 miles away, including groceries, camping essentials, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.3
54 reviews
Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rockhaven Park Equestrian Campground receives mixed reviews. Positive aspects include its well-maintained trails, equestrian-friendly amenities, and peaceful setting. Negative feedback focuses on the cleanliness of facilities, lack of staff presence, and noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 54 reviews
What Campers Love
"Wonderful campsites," "trails are superbly well marked and cleared," and "horse pens were great." Reviewers appreciated the spacious sites, shaded horse pens, and friendly camp hosts.
Based on 54 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent issues include "bathrooms never clean," "no hot water," and "trail systems maintained only by volunteers." Noise disturbances from large parties and lack of on-site staff were also noted.
Based on 54 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a key for water spigots and being prepared for ticks during wet conditions. Those camping with horses suggest cleaning pens before departure and carrying extra hoses for...
Based on 54 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate better experiences during cooler months due to fewer insects and noise disturbances. Trails may close during wet conditions, impacting activities.
Based on 54 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bring a key if you want to access the water spigots located around the grounds," "the trails are beautiful and shady," and "bathrooms could be a little cleaner."
Based on 54 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #7 received praise for its flat ground, while site #6 had issues with noise disturbances. Sites #20E and #23E were noted for their shaded horse pens.
Based on 54 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility directly, but the campground's flat terrain and accessible facilities likely provide a reasonable experience for visitors with disabilities.
Based on 54 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviews noted noise from barking dogs as a disturbance.
Based on 54 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025