Outdoor dates around Douglas County
Key facts
| Clinton Lake trails | More than 50 miles |
|---|---|
| Prairie Park Nature Center | 100 acre preserve, free entry |
| Haskell Indian Art Market | Held each September, free |
| Clinton Lake from Lawrence | About a mile west on Clinton Parkway |
Douglas County has lakes, prairie and woods within a short drive of downtown. Being outside takes the pressure off a first date. Here are three easy picks.
Hike at Clinton Lake
Clinton Lake has more than 50 miles of hiking, horse and mountain bike trails just west of town. Choose a short section for a first date. Check the weather before you go, as Kansas storms can build fast.
Source: US Army Corps of Engineers: Clinton Lake, checked 9 November 2026
Walk the lake at Prairie Park
Prairie Park Nature Center has trails through prairie, wetland and woodland around a five acre lake, plus live animals and a bird of prey collection inside. Admission is free. The building is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Source: City of Lawrence: Prairie Park Nature Center, checked 9 November 2026
Visit the Haskell Indian Art Market
The Haskell Indian Art Market is a free, two-day market on the Haskell Indian Nations University campus, with handmade jewelry, pottery, paintings and traditional food from Native artists across the country. The 2026 market was held on 12 and 13 September. Check for next year's dates.
Source: eXplore Lawrence: Haskell Indian Art Market, checked 9 November 2026
Questions
What can couples do at Clinton Lake?
Hike or bike the trails, go boating or fishing, or swim in season. There is also camping and a state park on the lake.
Is Prairie Park Nature Center free?
Yes. Admission is free. The building opens Tuesday to Saturday.
When is the Haskell Indian Art Market?
It is held each September at Haskell Indian Nations University. In 2026 it ran on 12 and 13 September and was free to attend.
Read next
Our sister site Smooch covers dating across the US. WhichDating, our sister review site, has a guide to first date tips.