Question
How can I get rid of these things that look like mushrooms.  They grow in clusters and look gross to me.  They are located around the base of my tree. I have seen them growing in the lawn, too.
These mushroom looking things just keep coming back.  I believe the tree is a maple.  Also, the ground around these maple trees is quite bare.  ( no grass, just dirt)  Will plants survive if I plant them?  These trees have very strong roots that grown above ground?  and extend quite away from the tree.  Please help.

Answer
I would start with a soil test.  Determine if the soil under the tree has a pH adequate for plant growth.  Just be sure to specify what type of plant you desire to grow. The soil test will also help you decide how much fertilizer and what kind to apply.  Every state should have a service through the county extension service that will do this for free or at least at a very minimal exspense. Proper fertility and pH will likely take care of your mushroom problem.