Cedar Bridge Park

Introduction / Overview

For Iowans seeking a versatile and serene outdoor retreat, Cedar Bridge Park in Osage offers a truly exceptional camping experience that blends natural beauty with thoughtful amenities. This "great campground" is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a destination that caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from families looking for a peaceful riverside getaway to equestrians seeking dedicated trails and facilities. Its charm lies in its clean, well-maintained environment and its convenient location, making it a beloved spot for both short visits and extended stays.

As highlighted by local reviews, Cedar Bridge Park is lauded for its "clean and conveniently right outside of Osage" setting. Visitors appreciate the "about 20 spots," each equipped with "water and electric," ensuring a comfortable stay. The availability of a "dump station on site" adds to the convenience for RVers. Beyond the basics, the park offers unique attractions like a charming cabin situated "right by the river," perfect for family traditions, as one happy customer noted their family comes "from Des Moines every year to rent this cabin for a week." With its peaceful ambiance, recreational opportunities, and dedication to guest comfort, Cedar Bridge Park stands out as a premier camping destination in northern Iowa.

Location and Accessibility

Cedar Bridge Park is ideally located at 1876 IA-9, Osage, IA 50461, USA. This strategic address places the park just west of the charming city of Osage, Iowa, along a state highway, ensuring excellent accessibility for campers traveling from various parts of the state and beyond. Osage itself is the county seat of Mitchell County, nestled in a region of northern Iowa characterized by fertile farmlands and winding rivers.

The park's location on Highway 9 provides straightforward access, making it easy to find and reach, which is a significant advantage for Iowans looking for a convenient escape. Despite its roadside location, the park maintains a "peaceful setting," offering a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle. For residents across Iowa, the drive to Cedar Bridge Park is manageable, allowing for quick weekend getaways from areas like Des Moines, Waterloo, or Rochester (MN), as noted in local travel times, maximizing leisure time and minimizing travel stress.

Furthermore, Cedar Bridge Park's proximity to the Cedar River is a major natural draw. This allows for direct access to "fishing, canoeing, and kayaking," providing immediate recreational opportunities. The park also boasts access to "8 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails" and even "horseback riding trails," highlighting its appeal to various outdoor enthusiasts. The presence of the Milton R. Owen Nature Center nearby further enriches the natural experience. Combining easy accessibility with rich natural surroundings and close proximity to the small-town charm of Osage, Cedar Bridge Park serves as a well-located hub for enjoying the best of Iowa's outdoors.

Services Offered

• Designated Campsites: The park features 19 designated campsites, catering to both RVs and tent campers. Nine of these sites are specifically designed for equestrian use, offering specialized facilities for horse owners.
• Full Electrical Hookups: Each campsite is equipped with 50, 30, and 20 amp electrical hookups, accommodating a wide range of RVs and ensuring reliable power.
• Water Hookups: All campsites include water hookups, providing convenient access to fresh water for drinking and other camping needs.
• Modern Shower and Toilet Facility: The park offers a "modern shower and toilet facility," ensuring cleanliness and comfort for all guests. These facilities contribute significantly to the overall positive camping experience.
• On-Site Dump Station: For the convenience of RVers, a "dump station on site" is available near the exit, simplifying waste disposal.
• Cabin Rental: The Cedar Bridge Park cabin is available for rent, described as "modern and comfortable," featuring a full bathroom with tub and shower, a well-equipped kitchenette (microwave, fridge, stove, sink), and sleeping for up to 6 people. It also has heat, air conditioning, and a large covered porch.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite and the cabin area are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings with grills, facilitating outdoor dining and traditional campfires.
• Playground Area: A dedicated playground area is available for families with children, providing entertainment and fun for younger visitors.
• Access to Cedar River: Direct access to the Cedar River for activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
• Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails: Access to "8 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails" allows guests to explore the park's natural beauty.
• Horseback Riding Trails: Conveniently located trails for horseback riding, just a short walk from the Milton R. Owen Nature Center.
• Self-Serve Firewood: Firewood is available for purchase at the park, offering convenience for campers.
• Seasonal "Tour of Lights": During winter months, the park transforms with the "Tour of Lights" light display, offering a unique seasonal attraction.

Features / Highlights

• Versatile Camping Options: Cedar Bridge Park caters to a broad audience, offering 19 designated campsites for RVs and tents, with 9 "specially designed for equestrian use." This makes it ideal for diverse camping styles and interests.
• Comprehensive Site Amenities: "Each spot has water and electric" (50, 30, and 20 amp), providing essential hookups for modern RVs. The presence of a "dump station on site" further enhances convenience for RVers.
• Comfortable Cabin Rental: The "Cedar Bridge Park cabin" is a significant highlight, described as "modern and comfortable" with a full bathroom, kitchenette, and sleeping for up to 6. Its location "right by the river" offers a peaceful and picturesque stay, making it a beloved annual tradition for some families.
• Direct River Access: The park's location directly on the Cedar River provides prime opportunities for "fishing, canoeing, and kayaking," offering immediate water-based recreation.
• Extensive Trail System: Access to "8 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails" and dedicated "horseback riding trails" ensures plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and exercise, catering to both hikers, bikers, and equestrians.
• Modern Facilities: The "modern shower and toilet facility" maintains cleanliness and comfort for all campers, enhancing the overall camping experience.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: A "playground area" ensures entertainment for younger guests, making it a suitable destination for family vacations.
• Seasonal "Tour of Lights": A unique winter highlight, the "Tour of Lights" display transforms the park into a festive wonderland, adding year-round appeal.
• Peaceful Setting: Despite being "conveniently right outside of Osage," the park maintains a "peaceful setting," allowing campers to relax and enjoy nature without excessive noise or crowds.

Contact Information

Address: 1876 IA-9, Osage, IA 50461, USA

Phone: (641) 732-5204

Mobile Phone: +1 641-732-5204

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Iowans, Cedar Bridge Park in Osage is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination that perfectly embodies the spirit of local outdoor recreation. Its comprehensive offerings, combined with its accessible yet peaceful location, make it an ideal choice for a wide variety of residents seeking an authentic Iowa experience. This isn't just a place to stay; it's a community asset that fosters cherished memories and a deep connection to the natural environment.

One of the primary reasons for its suitability for locals is its versatility. Whether your family prefers the comfort of an RV with "water and electric" hookups, the rustic charm of tent camping, or the convenience of a modern cabin that "sits right by the river," Cedar Bridge Park has an option to fit. The fact that families "come from Des Moines every year to rent this cabin for a week" speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and ability to create beloved traditions for Iowans.

Furthermore, the park’s dedication to diverse recreational activities directly caters to the active Iowa lifestyle. With "8 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails," along with specialized "horseback riding trails" for equestrian enthusiasts, there are abundant opportunities to explore the beautiful Mitchell County landscape. Direct access to the Cedar River for "fishing, canoeing, and kayaking" means that popular water sports are just steps away from your campsite. These features ensure that there's always something engaging to do, appealing to all ages and interests within a family.

Finally, the park's "clean and conveniently right outside of Osage" location offers the perfect balance: a tranquil setting for relaxation, coupled with easy access to the town's amenities and the Milton R. Owen Nature Center. This combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and community-oriented management makes Cedar Bridge Park a truly ideal and repeatable destination for any Iowa local looking to experience the best of their home state's outdoors.

Cedar Bridge Park

1876 IA-9, Osage, IA 50461, USA