This Kansas Lake Is Absurdly Photogenic, Especially in Winter

Clinton Lake is nestled in the southwestern part of Lawrence, and it's easily one of my favorite lakes in Kansas. It's not a natural lake, though, to me, this doesn't matter; it was created by the creation of the Clinton Dam. It's photogenic and wonder-filled, home to countless fish, flora, and fauna that rely on the water for life. It's amazing all year, but believe it or not, it transforms into a veritable wonderland in the winter.

It's like something from a frozen Arctic tundra adventure rather than the American Plains. I'm not sure what it is about frozen lakes, ponds, and waterfalls that are absurdly magical, but they are - and Clinton Lake proves it.

It's not overly enormous, with a total length of 1.8 miles and a width of 940 feet at its widest; it's the perfect size for year-round delights. Ice fishing is popular in the winter, and I love to watch folks do it.

I greatly enjoy the tranquil stillness of winter. While Clinton Lake is abuzz with folks in the summer, in the winter, it's the opposite - it's quiet and low-key, not to mention absurdly photogenic. Strolling around the banks is an experience every Kansan ought to have at least once or twice; for me, I do it numerous times every year.

Perhaps obviously, Clinton State Park is built up around the lake, offering even more hiking and camping opportunities than one can shake a weekend-long stick at. It's 1500 acres of pure perfection that anyone can fall in love with. Kansas is a grossly underrated state; I know I say this a lot, but I mean it. Kansas is scenic and beautiful, and each season brings many reasons to love it all the more - even winter.

One of my favorite aspects of this park - quirky as it might sound - is its hot shower houses, so camping here this time of year is extra cozy. While most campgrounds shut down many amenities in the winter, Clinton State Park does not - at least not regarding the bathrooms and showers. It's incredibly convenient - you won't know just how convenient it is until you've experienced it, and after that, it's all you'll ever want out of a camping trip. Camping in Kansas doesn't have to be miserable, not even when temperatures plunge below freezing.

For more information about Clinton Lake and camping at Clinton State Park, including how to reserve your campsite, check out the official ReserveAmerica listing.

Planning to visit in the summer? No worries - Clinton Lake is one of the best swimming holes in Kansas, hands down. And if that's not your speed, use our new Travel Planner to discover your next favorite Kansas hidden gem.