Recreation
Sports and recreation are an important part of life in Lawrence, whether you're a participant or a spectator.
Boaters, golfers, hikers, birdwatchers — even frisbee golfers — find challenging recreational opportunities. More than 50 local parks and Clinton Lake state park provide fun outings for the whole family.
Recreational Paths
The League of American Bicyclists named Lawrence a "Bicycle-Friendly Community" in 2000. Trails range from the nine miles of hard surface walkways along Clinton Parkway to miles and miles of scenic nature trails in the 50-plus city parks and throughout Douglas County. Mountain bike trails are rated by the National Off-Road Mountain Biking Association (NORBA) for skill levels.
KU Sports
The Kansas Jayhawks dominate the spectator sports scene with consistently top-rated men's basketball and football programs. Other KU athletic programs include baseball, tennis, golf, volleyball, women's soccer, softball, rowing, track and swimming. The major league sports teams located in Kansas City are just 45 minutes away!
Clinton Lake
Located just three miles southwest of Lawrence, Clinton Lake provides 7,000 surface acres for boating, swimming and fishing. In the five developed areas surrounding the lake, you'll find bridle, hiking and mountain biking trails, camper hookups, primitive camping areas, picnic areas, fishing platforms, playing fields and a swimming beach. Clinton Marina offers complete facilities for boating and fishing-boat ramps and docks, boat rental and storage, a restaurant and a convenience store.
More than 9,000 acres of public hunting lands are available in the park featuring game species such as mourning dove, quail, turkey and deer; and waterfowl like Canada and snow geese, mallards and teal. In addition, secluded fishing spots offer crappie, walleye, largemouth and smallmouth bass, white bass, blue gill and channel catfish. Find out more about Clinton Lake, listed as one of the "50 Best Boating Lakes" by Boating World Magazine and featured on the TV show "The American Outdoorsman" by calling 785-843-7665.
Golf Courses
Lawrence is the perfect starting point for any golf getaway.
