Eagle City County Park offers primitive camping near Thor, Iowa, across 172 acres along the Iowa River. The park features two distinct camping areas - a lower section serving as a paddler's camp and an upper area with more secluded sites. Located down gravel roads approximately two miles from Iowa Falls, the park provides level spots for both tent and vehicle camping. A $10 fee is now required, payable via website after claiming a site.
What to do
Fishing access: The Iowa River provides fishing opportunities at Eagle City County Park. "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," reports Chantal C.
Kayaking: The river access point makes this area popular with paddlers. "Kayakers frequent the river access on the lower side as well as some equestrian use for river access," notes one camper. Cross Ford River Access provides another put-in option for paddlers exploring the Iowa River.
Wildlife viewing: Wildlife observation is common at dispersed camping locations in this region. Wayne H. reported from Cross Ford River Access: "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: Many visitors appreciate the quiet environment at primitive camping sites near Thor. Jonathan notes about Eagle City County Park: "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."
Riverside camping: Campers enjoy the proximity to water at these sites. "Wow! This campground surprised us! Not only is it directly on a river with wildflowers, it has a pit toilet and hand pump water," writes Megan C. about her experience at Eagle City.
Well-maintained grounds: Despite being primitive, campsites are regularly cared for. "Great camping spot! We'll maintain camp sites. I was the only one on grounds," writes Austin A. Caleb S. agrees: "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
Fee changes: While previously free, Eagle City 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," reports Brian.
Water availability: The hand pump at Eagle Lake State Wildlife Management Area may not always function. "There are NO amenities here," writes Skip H. Similarly at Eagle City Park, Austin A. notes: "Water well isn't working though, only downside."
Limited facilities: Be prepared for basic accommodations. Kerry M. writes about Eagle City Park: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Seasonal considerations: Families should note accessibility changes throughout the year. "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," advises Kerry M.
Playground equipment: Eagle City Park offers limited recreation facilities for children. Brian F. notes: "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."
Safety awareness: Some campers have reported concerns about isolated locations. Kara S. shares about her visit to Eagle City Park: "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."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV camping options are limited but possible with smaller units. Jonathan advises: "You could easily park a van here, and probably a small trailer but nothing all that long."
Level parking: Eagle Lake State Wildlife Management Area provides flat surfaces for larger vehicles. "Level spot but it's really just an oversized boat launch," notes Mike M. Skip H. adds: "There's plenty of room here for any size rig."
Seasonal privacy: Vegetation changes affect privacy levels for RVers. "This spot is exposed with virtually no privacy (Winter/early spring). It's about a 1/4 mile off of the dirt road and makes a left towards the end with water access that is great for a kayak. During the summer, when the corn is in, it looks like there would be plenty of privacy," explains Skip H.
