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Camper submitted image from Matsell Bridge Natural Area

Matsell Bridge Natural Area

A quiet escape from developed campgrounds, Matsell Bridge Natural Area sits along the Wapsipinicon River in eastern Iowa. Managed by Linn County Conservation Board, this primitive site accommodates RVs, trailers, and tents on level ground with ample shade trees. Campers access the area by multiple routes, including drive-in, walk-in, and boat-in options.

Each site includes a fire pit and picnic table, with firewood available for purchase just across the bridge. The campground operates year-round with basic amenities including trash service and primitive restrooms, though no showers or running water are available. Cell service reaches the area, and both pets and alcohol are permitted. Rangers maintain a nearby presence for assistance.

The Wapsipinicon River provides the main attraction, offering water access for fishing, swimming, and paddling. However, seasonal flooding can affect riverside sites, as one reviewer noted when rising water forced a campsite change mid-stay. Spring visitors should prepare for gnats and mosquitoes near the water. "Primitive bathrooms, no showers or running water," confirms Carol M., setting expectations for the rustic experience.

Solo campers and small groups seeking an inexpensive riverside retreat will find this county-managed area well-suited to their needs, particularly those comfortable with basic facilities and seasonal insect activity.

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Location

Public Campground

Matsell Bridge Natural Area is located in Iowa

Address

3742 Matsell Park Rd.
Central City, IA 52214

Coordinates

42.13200071 N
91.38200097 W

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Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.
Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Dispersed
Group
Cabins
Tent Cabin
Equestrian

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

39 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
52 min from Dubuque, IA
55 min from Iowa City, IA
1 hr 5 min from Waterloo, IA

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Guests commonly noted the peaceful riverside location with level, shaded sites and helpful DNR staff. Primitive facilities include basics like fire pits and tables but no showers. Some mentioned seasonal bugs as the main drawback.

Carol M.

Traveler

Reviewed Mar. 21, 2026

Beautiful and secluded, campground road closed

Off the beaten path, beautiful area but when we got there the road to the campground was closed, so we ended up parking for the night in the horse staging area instead.

Siteparking lot for horse trailers

Month of VisitMarch

Ryan

Scout

Reviewed Feb. 20, 2021

Great place

Good campsite for a mellow weekend. When i visited we were the only campers there an it was awesome!

Carol M.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 6, 2018

Nice little inexpensive primitive site... spaces almost always available

Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River. Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness of this "best kept secret" for primitive and inexpensive camping sites. Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site. Good for RV, trailer or tent camping… level ground and lots of shade. Primitive bathrooms, no showers or running water.

Month of VisitMay

Randi C.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 25, 2017

Quiet

The 4th of July weekend it was us, one other camper and the random one nighters. The first day my dog got off his leash and jumped into the river. An hour later he had gotten up the cliff and was in the woods and the DNR picked my up and took me back to camp. The DNR was very nice about everything. The dog came back to camp half an hour later. By the 3rd morning the river had risen to the point of flooding out our campsite. The DNR let us switch sites for our last night. Overall very good experience

SiteM16

Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping facilities are available at Matsell Bridge Natural Area?

Matsell Bridge Natural Area offers primitive camping facilities next to the Wapsipinicon River. This is a rustic campground with minimal amenities, making it perfect for those seeking a more natural camping experience. The area has designated campsites but maintains its peaceful, undeveloped character. It's relatively uncrowded, even on holiday weekends, offering a secluded outdoor experience. Be prepared for a truly primitive camping experience without many modern conveniences.

Are there hiking trails and outdoor activities at Matsell Bridge Natural Area?

The natural area features hiking opportunities through woodlands near the Wapsipinicon River. Activities center around enjoying the rustic natural environment, including wildlife viewing and exploring the riverfront. The river provides opportunities for water activities, though be cautious of steep cliffs in some areas. The surrounding woods offer plenty of space to explore and connect with nature. It's an excellent spot for those who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities in a less developed setting.

What are the best times of year to visit Matsell Bridge Natural Area?

Summer can be pleasant at Matsell Bridge, particularly for those seeking a quiet getaway, though be prepared for insects. The late May period has significant gnat activity and increasing mosquito presence, so pack plenty of bug spray if visiting during warmer months. Early summer holidays like Fourth of July can offer surprisingly uncrowded experiences. For more comfortable conditions with fewer insects, consider early fall when temperatures are moderate and bug activity has decreased. Weather patterns and river conditions may vary seasonally, so check current conditions before your visit.

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