A large grassy field surrounded by walnut trees sits along the Shellrock River, offering free camping for up to three days. This county-managed preserve provides basic amenities including portable toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, with a gravel track running alongside the water for easy river access.
The open terrain lacks privacy between sites, but campers consistently note the quiet atmosphere away from road noise. Ax H. describes it as a "big grassy field surrounded by huge (walnut) trees" with abundant shade. The heavy tree cover means insects can be problematic, so bug spray proves essential. A shelter structure provides additional weather protection, and both hiking and biking trails extend through the preserve.
Cell service varies by carrier, with AT&T providing enough signal for audio streaming but not video content according to visitor reports. The preserve allows pets and alcohol, making it suitable for relaxed group camping. Access can be confusing, as some gates restrict vehicle entry to designated areas only.
Campers seeking more developed facilities can find Mason City Campground about six miles west, which offers full hookups and amenities for those wanting additional comfort after exploring this riverside preserve.
Description
Camping at Shellrock River Greenbelt and Preserve
The Shellrock River Greenbelt Preserve provides both primitive and equestrian camping opportunities all year round. Two small shelters, fire rings, pit toilets, and hitching posts are provided at this site.
Located on Yucca Avenue between 290th and 280th Streets.
Open Year Round
There is no charge for using this rustic campground
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsShellrock River Co Preserve is located in Iowa near Nora Springs
Coordinates
43.1740001 N
93.0440004 W
Connectivity
T-MobileLTESome Coverage- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileLTESome Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Shellrock River Co Preserve needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 9 min from Waterloo, IA
- 1 hr 21 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 23 min from Ames, IA
- 1 hr 46 min from Mankato, MN
