Eagle City County Park's 172-acre landscape provides dispersed camping opportunities along the Iowa River, with seasonal considerations affecting site availability. The lower campground features riverside spots while the upper area offers more secluded options. During spring and fall, campers frequently report having the entire area to themselves. Several other free camping near Garwin, Iowa locations exist within reasonable driving distance, providing alternatives when Eagle City reaches capacity.
What to do
River activities: Kayakers frequent Eagle City County Park for river access. The lower campground provides direct access to the Iowa River for paddling and fishing. "The Iowa River runs next to this campground. The campground is down a couple miles of maintained gravel Rd," notes Brian F.
Wildlife watching: The natural surroundings support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "Had a good 2 weeks here. Some wildlife and lots of bugs but we didn't have a problem with mosquitoes at all," reports Wayne H. about his stay at Cross Ford River Access.
Fishing: Lake Considine offers fishing opportunities in a primitive setting. "There is a nice lake that is great for fishing, there was access for small boats previously (think kayak/canoe)," explains Chantal C., highlighting the area's angling potential.
What campers like
Seclusion: Many visitors appreciate the quiet, undeveloped nature of these campgrounds. "We go to Eagle City a 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," shares Chantal C. about her experiences at Eagle City.
Riverside spots: Direct access to water ranks highly among camper preferences. "Wow! This campground surprised us! Not only is it directly on a river with wildflowers, it has a pit toilet and hand pump water," reports Megan C. about her time at Eagle City County Park.
Low traffic: The remote nature ensures limited crowds even during peak seasons. "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," notes Jonathan about Eagle City, highlighting its value for travelers seeking solitude.
What you should know
Recent fee changes: Several formerly free sites now require 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," explains Brian about Eagle City County Park.
Facility limitations: Services vary significantly between sites. "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," reports Jason K. about Eagle City Park.
Seasonal closures: Winter accessibility can be restricted. "The gates are closed all winter, often into late spring. The roads are not plowed in either campsite. It is a nice place to hike in winter time, but there is no camping," warns Kerry M.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some locations may feel isolated, affecting comfort levels. "Liked the spot by the lake and we could have been the only ones there but we noticed a few things on the way to the site that was unsettling and then we were followed in by a truck that just went to the end of the loop then left, with the driver and passenger obviously not wanting to be seen," reports Kara S. about her experience at Eagle City County Park.
Water reliability: Hand pump functionality varies throughout the season. "Water well isn't working though, only downside," mentions Austin A., suggesting families bring sufficient water supplies regardless of listed amenities.
Trash management: Pack out policies require planning. "As there are no trash containers, it is not uncommon to find the firepits full of burned or unburned trash," observes Kerry M., highlighting the importance of bringing garbage bags and teaching children leave-no-trace principles.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed camping near Garwin accommodates smaller rigs only. "It's that primitive. For us that's great though!! It is located out literally in the middle of nowhere wrapped by trees on both sides with a cleared out area that you could set a tent or bring a camper if you're ok with no hookups," explains Chantal C. about Lake Considine.
Level sites: Some areas provide suitable parking for vehicles. "Great camping spot! We'll maintain camp sites. I was the only one on grounds," reports Austin A. about his experience at Eagle City, where grounds maintenance includes keeping sites reasonably level.
Low clearance access: Vehicle accessibility remains good despite primitive conditions. "It was also easy to find and access even with a low clearance car," notes Caleb S., indicating that specialized off-road vehicles aren't necessary to reach most sites.
