Campsites for equestrians remain limited around Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with most facilities lacking dedicated horse corrals or stalls. The terrain consists primarily of gently rolling hills surrounded by agricultural land, with elevations ranging from 700-850 feet above sea level. Summer humidity levels frequently exceed 80%, creating challenging conditions for both horses and riders during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking on multi-use trails: At Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek), campers can access the nearby single track trails. According to Kris P., "The best thing about this campground is it's access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff."
Wildlife viewing: Matsell Bridge Natural Area attracts nature enthusiasts with its diverse wildlife population. Ryan reports, "Good campsite for a mellow weekend. When i visited we were the only campers there an it was awesome!"
Water recreation: Lake Iowa County Park offers both lake and pond access for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Ken G. notes, "The campground is above the lake but a short trail will take you to the lake. Nice little visitor area. Lots of trails to walk with the dog including a nice trail along the lake."
Prairie exploration: Visit the restored natural habitats at Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area which attract butterflies and birds during spring and summer months. Jessica H. explains, "This park also has prairie/natural habitat restoration areas that, in spring and summer, attract Monarch butterflies, and an abundance of birds including indigo bunting, red headed woodpecker, and goldfinch."
What campers like
Private woodsy sites: Many campsites at Lake Iowa County Park offer natural separation and wildlife viewing opportunities. Leslie P. mentions, "The area around the lake and near by pond, is not overly developed. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife. We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards at local parks. At Keokuk County Belva Deer Park, Keith B. reports, "Nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance. Stand-alone bathrooms throughout the park have the deep composting toilets that smell bad but whatever the ones up front are nice."
Proximity to Cedar Rapids: For equestrians seeking overnight accommodations near Cedar Rapids without dedicated horse facilities, Wakpicada Natural Area provides a convenient option. Parker H. explains, "Went when it was 110 degrees with humidity. Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun anyway. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other."
Affordability: Most area campgrounds offer reasonable rates for primitive camping. John S. notes that at Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area, "Ten dollars per tent per night and you're restricted to the primitive area. It's not bad if you're just wanting to get away for a little bit but stay close to town."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds have limited availability outside summer months. Wanatee Park operates from April 15 to October 15, while Saulsbury Bridge closes from October 30 to April 15.
Flooding risk: River-adjacent campgrounds can experience closures during high water periods. Jessica H. warns about Saulsbury Bridge: "When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds. A call ahead to the conservation office to check on closures is a good idea."
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Cedar Rapids lack dedicated equine infrastructure. Riders should contact park offices directly to verify policies for temporary corrals or hitching posts.
Reservation requirements: At South Lake Campground in Backbone State Park, Edward B. notes, "All reservable spots...clean bathrooms, showers and spots. Beautiful park!" This differs from many area campgrounds that operate on first-come, first-served basis.
Insect concerns: Biting insects can be problematic during summer months. Carol M. warns about Matsell Bridge Natural Area: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Wanatee Park includes playground equipment within the main campground area, convenient for families with young children.
Swimming options: Backbone State Park offers swimming areas popular with families. Emma N. shares, "Have camped here twice with large groups (12-25 people) of college age friends. Was a great time with plenty to keep everyone interested. My favorite memory was definitely swimming in the river."
Educational opportunities: Lake Iowa County Park provides nature learning experiences with wildlife viewing areas. Clifton B. states, "Wife and I met friends here in August 2025. The campground was very well maintained. Shower rooms & restrooms were very clean and all were functional. We really enjoyed the long weekend here."
Safety considerations: Some water areas may have quality concerns. At Backbone State Park, Cheryl V. cautions, "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it." Check with park offices for current water conditions before planning swimming activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites are available at most area campgrounds, but full hookups are limited. At South Lake Campground, Edward B. advises, "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hookups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available."
Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. Clint G. shares about Wanatee Park: "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers."
Spacing between sites: Campgrounds vary in how close sites are positioned. Randall K. warns about Lake Iowa County Park: "The spots are pretty close together. Around 2:30am there was so much smoke in our van from nearby campfires that I woke up sick and my dog threw up all over the bed."
Seasonal humidity considerations: Summer camping can be challenging for those unused to Iowa humidity. Clifton B. cautions, "Be advised tho, we were not adequately prepared for the humidity in August. Being from Colorado where we live at much higher altitudes & we didnt expect the humidity to affect us as it did."
