Douglas County

Douglas County is an administrative county in northeastern Kansas with Lawrence as its county seat, situated in the valley of the Kansas River. The county encompasses a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas with diverse land uses and infrastructure.

The county was established in 1855 and witnessed fierce confrontations between pro-slavery and anti-slavery groups during the Bleeding Kansas period. This tumultuous era left lasting marks on the region's identity and subsequent development.

The University of Kansas shapes daily life in Lawrence through student activities and academic events that enliven the city center.

Visitors find access to parks, lakes, and trails scattered throughout the county for recreation and relaxation. The best time to explore is from late spring through early autumn when weather is mild and most outdoor activities are available.

Clinton Lake and Lone Star Lake offer water sports and fishing opportunities and are popular day-trip destinations from Lawrence. Together with Douglas State Fishing Lake, they form a system of recreational water bodies that draw many visitors.

Location: Kansas

Inception: August 30, 1855

Capital city: Lawrence

Reference: DG

Shares border with: Jefferson County, Franklin County, Leavenworth County, Johnson County, Miami County, Osage County, Shawnee County

Website: http://douglascountyks.org

GPS coordinates: 38.86670,-95.23330

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:32