Eagle City County Park offers dispersed camping near Lehigh, Iowa, with seasonal considerations impacting the visitor experience. Located in Hardin County along the Iowa River, the park includes two distinct camping areas across its 172-acre property. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, and winter access becomes limited when park gates close and roads remain unplowed. Recent policy changes now require campers to pay a $10 permit fee within 30 minutes of claiming a site.
What to do
Fishing the Iowa River: Eagle City County Park provides direct river access for anglers looking to fish the Iowa River. "This park is located on 172 acres of land... The Iowa River runs next to this campground," notes Brian F. in his Eagle City County Park review.
Paddling opportunities: The lower campground serves as a paddler's camp with river access points ideal for kayakers. Kerry M. mentions, "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."
Wildlife observation: Free camping near Lehigh, Iowa offers chances to observe local wildlife. At Cross Ford River Access, 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."
What campers like
Secluded camping: The remote setting appeals to those seeking quieter dispersed camping options around Lehigh. Jonathan notes, "I had the entire campground to myself the night I stayed here. It has well maintained grounds and is right on the water."
Off-season solitude: Visiting during weekdays or non-peak seasons increases chances of having the area to yourself. "I tend to prefer off-season when I am (often) the only camper in either campground," writes Kerry about Eagle City Park.
Riverside sites: Campers appreciate the direct access to water at both locations. Caleb S. enthuses, "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."
What you should know
Water availability issues: The hand pump well at Eagle City is unreliable. Austin A. reported, "Water well isn't working though, only downside. Will definitely come again."
Toilet facilities limited: Vault toilets receive minimal maintenance. "There is a very poorly kept vault toilet in the lower campground. I do not believe that it is ever pumped out. The upper campground has no toilet," notes Kerry M.
Trash management: No trash receptacles means campers must pack out all waste. Kerry also mentions, "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
Multiple site options: Eagle City offers choices between upper and lower camping areas depending on your needs. "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.
Bring drinking water: With unreliable well conditions, families should pack adequate drinking water. Austin notes in his review, "Great camping spot! We'll maintain camp sites... Water well isn't working though."
Bug protection needed: The riverside location means insects are common. Wayne H. reports, "Some wildlife and lots of bugs but we didn't have a problem with mosquitoes at all."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: These areas accommodate smaller recreational vehicles but have limitations. Jonathan advises, "You could easily park a van here, and probably a small trailer but nothing all that long."
Level parking spots: Eagle City provides reasonably level areas for vehicle camping. Brian notes, "level spots for tent and vehicle camping with fire rings."
Access considerations: The gravel access roads remain manageable even for non-specialized vehicles. Caleb S. mentions, "It was also easy to find and access even with a low clearance car."
