Dispersed camping near Clarksville, Iowa offers primitive outdoor experiences in the rolling hills of northeastern Iowa, where elevations range from 900-1100 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with camping opportunities primarily available from April through October. Most sites sit along tributaries of the Cedar River watershed, providing riverside camping with varying levels of accessibility depending on recent rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access points: Eagle City County Park provides direct access to the Iowa River for fishing opportunities. "We go to Eagle City at least once a year to just get away from it all, it's close to home but feels cut off which is what I look for when camping. We have only camped on the lower side to facilitate fishing the river," notes camper Chantal C.
River paddling: The Iowa River access at Eagle City County Park serves as a launch point for kayakers. "Eagle City Park has two parts - a lower campground that is a paddlers camp on the Iowa River, and an upper campground with a few secluded campsites," explains Kerry M.
Wildlife observation: The undeveloped areas around Cross Ford River Access provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. One camper who spent two weeks there reported: "Had a good 2 weeks here. Some wildlife and lots of bugs but we didn't have a problem with mosquitoes at all."
What campers like
Seclusion and privacy: The camping areas near Clarksville offer quieter alternatives to developed campgrounds. "We love how quiet it is, we are quite often the only ones down there. Kayakers frequent the river access on the lower side as well as some equestrian use for river access," shares a visitor to Eagle City Park.
River proximity: Lake Considine offers a scenic waterside setting for primitive camping. "There is a nice lake that is great for fishing, there was access for small boats previously (think kayak/canoe). It is located out literally in the middle of nowhere wrapped by trees on both sides with a cleared out area," according to Chantal C.
Well-maintained grounds: Despite minimal development, many dispersed sites are regularly maintained. "5-6 nice spots right on a river, picnic table and fire pits and the grounds are well kept. It was also easy to find and access even with a low clearance car," reports Caleb S. about Eagle City Park.
What you should know
New permit requirements: Eagle City County Park now requires payment. "Note that they do now require a permit to stay here. Sites are first come first served with no reservations. Cost is $10 and you can pay up to 30 min after claiming your site," advises Brian.
Water availability issues: Water sources at primitive sites are inconsistent and may not always function. "Water well isn't working though, only downside," noted Austin A. about Cross Ford River Access. Campers should bring adequate water supplies.
Seasonal closures: Gates Bridge County Park operates only from May through September. The gates at Eagle City Park remain closed throughout winter and sometimes into spring, with no plowed access during snow season.
Tips for camping with families
Pack all essentials: The primitive nature of these sites requires complete self-sufficiency. "If you're coming out here plan to bring a table. It's that primitive. For us that's great though!! There is a nice lake that is great for fishing," advises a Lake Considine visitor.
Consider site selection carefully: Gates Bridge County Park offers limited amenities but provides trash disposal options that other primitive sites lack. This can be advantageous for family camping where waste management becomes more challenging.
Bathroom situation: Toilet facilities vary significantly between locations. "Wow! This campground surprised us! Not only is it directly on a river with wildflowers, it has a pit toilet and hand pump water," shares Megan C. about Eagle City Park. However, other reviewers note maintenance issues with these facilities.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites near Clarksville can accommodate smaller RVs but have limitations. "You could easily park a van here, and probably a small trailer but nothing all that long," notes Jonathan about Eagle City County Park.
Weather considerations: The unpaved access roads can become challenging after rain. Low-clearance RVs should exercise caution, though some campers report success: "It was also easy to find and access even with a low clearance car."
Limited hookups: None of the primitive camping areas offer electric, water, or sewer connections. One camper notes: "We have camped with an RV when its cooler and doesn't need an A/C but we love to tent camp out there."
