Dispersed camping near Collins, Iowa offers primitive, riverside sites within a rural Iowa setting. Eagle City County Park spans 172 acres of public land along the Iowa River with designated camping areas accessed via maintained gravel roads. The area experiences seasonal flooding in spring, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and moderate humidity levels that contribute to insect activity from June through September.
What to do
River activities: At Eagle City County Park, the Iowa River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddling. Kayakers frequently use the river access point on the lower side. According to Austin A., "Great camping spot! We'll maintain camp sites. I was the only one on grounds."
Wildlife observation: The woodland areas around Eagle City Park host various wildlife species, particularly active at dawn and dusk. One visitor noted, "Had a nice time here on the first night of a long road trip, no one else was around except some coon hunter came and went a couple times which was a little spooky until I figured out what was going on, would definitely return!"
Seasonal hiking: Trails throughout the park vary in condition depending on recent rainfall. Kerry M. states, "It is a nice place to hike in winter time, but there is no camping." Winter closures typically begin after the first hard freeze and continue until spring thaw.
What campers like
Seclusion value: Cross Ford River Access offers more remote camping with fewer visitors than other nearby options. One camper, Wayne H., reported, "Had a good 2 weeks here. Some wildlife and lots of bugs but we didn't have a problem with mosquitoes at all. Would come back."
Level camping areas: Many sites at Eagle City Park provide flat terrain suitable for tents and small vehicles. Caleb S. notes, "Couldn't have asked for more, 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."
Off-peak solitude: Visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons often results in having the entire area to yourself. According to Kerry M., "I tend to prefer off-season when I am (often) the only camper in either campground. Summer will have more campers, ranging from tents to small RVs, but there are plenty of campsites so it is never full."
What you should know
Payment system: Eagle City County Park now requires a $10 camping fee payable online. Brian explains, "Cost is $10 and you can pay up to 30 min after claiming your site. Sites are first come first served with no reservations."
Water availability: The hand pump well at Eagle City is unreliable. One recent visitor reported, "Water well isn't working though, only downside. Will definitely come again." Bringing your own drinking water is recommended regardless of season.
Facility limitations: Basic amenities exist but maintenance varies. Jason K. notes, "First, there is no pit toilet. Second, you need to pay ($10) via a website. Scan the QR code by the entrance. I couldn't get it to work."
Trash management: No disposal facilities exist at most dispersed sites near Collins. Kerry M. observed, "As there are no trash containers, it is not uncommon to find the firepits full of burned or unburned trash."
Tips for camping with families
Protected camping areas: The upper campground at Eagle City County Park offers more sheltered sites away from the river, making it safer for families with small children. One camper states, "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."
Firewood gathering: Allow time for collecting wood if planning campfires with children. According to Kerry M., "There is nowhere to buy firewood, but a short hike in the woods usually produces a small supply for a campfire."
Playground access: Eagle City Park includes basic playground equipment. Brian F. mentions, "This park is located on 172 acres of land. It has an enclosed picnic shelter, hand pump well, vault rest rooms, primitive camping, and 2 swing sets."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Small trailers and vans can access most sites at Eagle City, but larger RVs may struggle. As jonathan notes, "You could easily park a van here, and probably a small trailer but nothing all that long."
Weather considerations: Gravel access roads can become difficult after heavy rain. Stay updated on local conditions before arrival, especially during spring and fall. Chantal C. advises, "We have camped with an RV when its cooler and doesn't need an A/C but we love to tent camp out there."
Self-contained camping: With limited and unreliable facilities, RVers should arrive fully stocked. One camper recommends, "I needed a place to stay between Wisconsin and Colorado and this place fit the bill. I had the entire campground to myself the night I stayed here."
