Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area offers rustic camping near Westfield, Iowa, positioned on the Nebraska side of the Missouri River. The region typically experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F and cold winters often dropping below 20°F. During spring and fall, campers can expect significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, sometimes varying by 30 degrees or more.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Mulberry Bend provides direct access to the Missouri River for anglers. "I tow a 20ft trailer Next to Vermilliom river. 1 picnic table, pit toilet, boat ramp. Easy to get to," reports Travis A. about Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area.
Wildlife observation: The management area hosts numerous bird species and small mammals throughout the year. During spring and fall migrations, waterfowl numbers increase significantly. Rick M. notes, "it's such a big place and a lot of places to park," which provides multiple vantage points for wildlife spotting.
River access: The boat ramp allows for kayaking and canoeing, though water levels fluctuate seasonally. "This was a fine location. A few people stopped by the boat ramp but no one else stayed the night," Lynn shares about her experience at Mulberry Bend.
What campers like
Natural setting: Campers appreciate the undeveloped character of the area. "Great views and breeze of the Missouri River. No signs about camping or not. I see a vault toilet but didn't try it," says Jessica K. about her stay at Wiseman Wildlife Management Area.
Convenience to supplies: The proximity to amenities in nearby towns helps campers extend their stays. "Walmart is 5.3 miles away," mentions Travis A., providing a practical resupply option without sacrificing the rustic camping experience.
Privacy: Outside of peak fishing seasons, the area offers relative seclusion. Rick M. observed, "I almost skipped this spot because people were complaining about it being roped off or closed, or it didn't look safe or whatever, and it couldn't be farther from the truth."
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: The area experiences significant seasonal variations affecting access and comfort. "Lots of mosquitos and flies made me stay indoors," reports Lynn about her September visit to Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area.
Access uncertainty: Visitors report conflicting information about accessibility. Jessica K. shared contradictory experiences, first stating "This is now closed off w a fence" but later noting "Not too far down a gravel road."
Limited facilities: Amenities are minimal and primitive. Dennis N. observes, "Well from where I come from this is considered a boat landing not a camping spot still going to Camp here don't want to keep driving."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: The area's proximity to the river requires constant supervision of children. There are no designated swimming areas or barriers between camping areas and the water.
Site selection: Choose sites farther from the boat ramp for more privacy and less traffic, especially during weekends. "Not a very large spot but enough room for 6 or 7 rigs," notes Travis A., indicating that early arrival helps secure better spots.
Weather preparation: The exposed riverside location experiences strong winds at times. Bring extra stakes for tents and secure loose items, especially during spring and fall when weather changes rapidly.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: The access road and parking areas accommodate modest-sized recreational vehicles. "I don't see a grey dump though. No problem at all getting my bus in here," shares Rick M. about Mulberry Bend Wildlife Management Area, though larger rigs may have difficulty with turnaround space.
Road conditions: The gravel access remains passable for most vehicles but can deteriorate after heavy rain. "Well maintained gravel road," confirms Travis A., though seasonal washouts can occur.
Leveling challenges: The parking area has uneven sections requiring leveling blocks. Some campers report needing to try multiple spots to find suitably level ground for overnight parking.
