Clinton Lake, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Congress authorized Clinton Lake in 1962 and funds were first appropriated for construction in 1971. Nearly $55 million was needed to complete the project. Initial filling of Clinton Lake began in 1977. To improve fishing potential, the lake was filled slowly over a three-year period and multipurpose pool level was reached in 1980.

Clinton Lake spans eight miles up the Wakarusa Valley and covers 7,000 surface acres. If the lake ever approaches the top of its flood pool, an additional 5,800 acres will be covered and the lake will then extend thirteen miles along the valley floor.

Clinton Lake's bluffs, wooded shoreline, and clear water is unequaled among Kansas lakes for the beauty of its setting. Shoreline development has been limited in an effort to preserve as much of the natural setting as possible.