Best Dispersed Camping near Cedar Falls, IA
Dispersed camping near Cedar Falls, Iowa primarily centers around Eagle City County Park, Cross Ford River Access, and Lake Considine. Eagle City County Park features primitive sites along the Iowa River with minimal amenities. The 172-acre park provides multiple camping options on both upper and lower levels. Cross Ford River Access in Iowa Falls allows drive-in primitive camping. Lake Considine in Dumont provides completely primitive camping experiences with no amenities but offers fishing access and natural surroundings.
Access to these dispersed sites varies significantly by location. Eagle City County Park requires a $10 permit fee, which must be paid within 30 minutes of claiming a site. The park sits at the end of maintained gravel roads approximately two miles from the main highway. Many sites are suitable for tents and small campers, though big rigs may have difficulty at most locations. Winter access is limited, with gates often closed and roads unplowed during colder months. Cross Ford River Access accommodates larger vehicles but offers fewer amenities.
These primitive areas provide varying levels of seclusion and basic facilities. Eagle City County Park includes fire rings, picnic tables, a hand pump for water, and a vault toilet, though recent reviews indicate inconsistent maintenance. The grounds are regularly mowed but not treated for insects. Lake Considine offers a more rugged experience with no amenities whatsoever. "It's that primitive. For us that's great though! There is a nice lake that is great for fishing," notes one visitor. Another camper describes Eagle City Park as "directly on a river with wildflowers" and mentions it often remains quiet with few other campers present. Gates Bridge County Park in Marble Rock provides additional primitive camping options between May and September, with trash collection available but limited other facilities.
