Cameron’s Bluff is a proposed park, open space, and recreation area on the west side of the Kansas River in Lawrence. Establishing the area would open free access to trails in the heart of Lawrence, reconnecting the community to the Kansas River and creating new opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, trail running, and fishing.
Cameron’s Bluff Presentation
Cameron’s Bluff Drone Footage
Cameron’s Bluff Presentation Slides
Cameron’s Bluff History
Cameron’s Bluff originally was named for Gen. Hugh Cameron, a famed abolitionist, Civil War officer, and eccentric outdoorsman who lived in a hollowed-out tree on the bluff in the 1800s. Today, the land is owned by Evergy, Inc., which operates the coal-fired power plant west of the area. Evergy has agreed to grant public access to the area for outdoor recreation.
Why Cameron’s Bluff?
Despite the river’s physical and cultural prominence, Lawrence has been disconnected from the Kansas River, a fact underscored in the City’s Downtown Master Plan, which vows to reconnect the city to the river. Interest and momentum are building, with the possibility of additional access to Cameron’s Bluff through the North Lawrence Corridor Study, which will consider the Kansas River Corridor as a key feature.
Where is Cameron’s Bluff?
The simplest, and least expensive way for the public to access Cameron’s Bluff is to walk north from Burcham Park via a “recreation easement” that was established through the work of Sen. Jane Eldredge via Kansas State Statute in 1981. By statute, the easement is to be used “as a nature trail and for similar park and recreational purposes.” The easement currently runs through private property, so community support for establishing this access will be essential.
What’s the Cost?
All funds necessary for the development and maintenance of Cameron’s Bluff have been committed through private sources. Evergy has made the land available for public access, which is the most important piece. Evergy also has committed volunteer labor and equipment from their Green Team to build the trails. Trail design is estimated to cost $18,000–$20,000. Members of Friends of Lawrence Area Trails (FLAT) have committed to raising these funds. The Bowersock Mills & Power Company has committed to ensuring maintenance of the trails through staff and volunteer work.
Join the Effort!
Contact your City or County Commissioner and tell them you’re in favor of the Cameron’s Bluff project.
Take a short survey about Cameron’s Bluff
