Delaware County Conservation

Hello, fellow Iowans! If you're looking to escape the everyday and immerse yourselves in the natural beauty that our state has to offer, look no further than the fantastic opportunities provided by Delaware County Conservation. While the name "Delaware County Conservation" encompasses many natural areas, the address provided, 2379 Jefferson Rd, Manchester, IA 52057, USA, specifically points to one of their crown jewels: Bailey's Ford Park. This 170-acre park is a beloved destination for campers, anglers, hikers, and families seeking quality outdoor time, making it a standout choice for residents across Iowa.

Bailey's Ford Park is renowned for its diverse offerings and well-maintained facilities. As one satisfied camper noted, "Camp at Bailey's Ford. There are 3 playgrounds throughout the park. Trout stream. Hiking trails. River access. 2 nice rentable shelters for events. Conservation center. Very nice shower house." This concise review perfectly encapsulates the park's appeal, highlighting its family-friendly amenities, excellent fishing opportunities, and expansive natural beauty. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip, a family reunion, or just a day out in nature, Bailey's Ford Park, managed by the dedicated Delaware County Conservation, promises an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Bailey's Ford Park is conveniently located at 2379 Jefferson Rd, Manchester, IA 52057, USA. This places it approximately three miles southeast of Manchester, a charming city in Delaware County, Iowa. The park's setting offers a perfect balance of natural seclusion and easy access to local amenities.

For Iowans, reaching Bailey's Ford Park is straightforward. It’s accessible via well-maintained county roads from major state highways, making it a manageable drive from cities like Dubuque (approximately 32 minutes), Waterloo (43 minutes), Cedar Rapids (49 minutes), and Iowa City (1 hour 7 minutes). This central location within Eastern Iowa makes it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation for many residents. The park's terrain features a mix of flat open spaces and wooded areas, bordered by the Maquoketa River and featuring a popular trout stream. This diverse landscape provides a beautiful setting for a variety of outdoor activities while still being close enough to Manchester for any necessary supplies, dining, or services.

Delaware County Conservation, through Bailey's Ford Park, offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to cater to various camping preferences and recreational needs.

• Diverse Campsites: The park boasts a total of 71 campsites. This includes 33 sites with both water and electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp options), 22 sites with electric hookups only, and 16 primitive sites for tent campers or those seeking a more rustic experience.
• Shower House: A "very nice shower house" with flush toilets is available, ensuring campers have access to clean and comfortable restroom and bathing facilities.
• Dump Station: An on-site dump station is provided for RV campers to dispose of wastewater conveniently.
• Potable Water: Available via wells throughout the park.
• Rentable Shelters: Two "nice rentable shelters for events" are available, perfect for family reunions, picnics, or other gatherings. These are the Deer Run Shelter and Walnut Woods Shelter, with amenities like grills, tables, and electricity.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables and areas are scattered throughout the park for day use.
• Nature Center: The Delaware County Conservation Board office and a nature center are located within the park, offering interpretive wildlife displays and educational opportunities.
• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring for campfires.
• Firewood: Available for purchase on-site.
• Self-Registration: Campers can select their site and self-register at the information kiosk within one hour of setting up. Fees are payable by cash or check only.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the park and campground, though they must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

Bailey's Ford Park stands out with several key features and highlights that enhance the outdoor experience for all visitors, especially those from Iowa.

• Trout Stream Access: A major highlight is the presence of a stocked trout stream (Spring Branch Creek), offering excellent opportunities for trout fishing. This is a significant draw for anglers.
• River Access & Boat Launch: Direct access to the Maquoketa River is available, including a boat launch, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, or fishing on the river.
• Multiple Playgrounds: With "3 playgrounds throughout the park," Bailey's Ford is exceptionally family-friendly, providing ample space and equipment for children of all ages to play.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The park features well-maintained hiking trails that wind through its diverse terrain, offering opportunities for nature walks and exploration.
• Nature Center: The on-site nature center provides educational exhibits about local wildlife and the natural environment, enriching the visitor's understanding of the area.
• Sports Courts: Amenities like a ball diamond, volleyball court, and horseshoe courts provide additional recreational opportunities for active campers.
• Scenic Setting: The 170-acre park boasts flat terrain with open spaces and wooded areas, creating a beautiful and relaxing environment for camping and outdoor activities.
• Proximity to Manchester State Trout Hatchery: Located nearby, this hatchery offers public tours and allows visitors to see the fish raceways up close, adding an interesting educational element to your visit.
• Year-Round Access: While campgrounds typically close to vehicle traffic in late fall/winter, the park itself remains open for walk-in access, allowing for year-round enjoyment of trails and other features.

Ready to plan your trip to Bailey's Ford Park? Here’s how you can connect with Delaware County Conservation:

Address: 2379 Jefferson Rd, Manchester, IA 52057, USA (This is the address for Bailey's Ford Park, which houses the Delaware County Conservation Board office).

Phone: (563) 927-3410

Mobile Phone: +1 563-927-3410

Email: delawareccb@gmail.com

Website: You can find more information on their official county website at delawarecounty.iowa.gov/conservation/, which details all their parks and facilities.

For us Iowans, Bailey's Ford Park, managed by Delaware County Conservation, is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for experiencing the best of our state's outdoors. Its convenient location in Eastern Iowa makes it easily accessible from various major cities, providing a perfect escape without extensive travel. The park's diverse camping options—from full hookups for RVs to primitive tent sites—cater to a wide range of preferences, ensuring that every type of camper can find their ideal spot.

What truly sets Bailey's Ford Park apart for locals are its abundant recreational opportunities. The readily available trout fishing and river access for boating and kayaking offer prime activities for water enthusiasts. Families will particularly appreciate the multiple playgrounds, open grassy areas for play, and the engaging nature center, which provides both fun and educational experiences for children. The "very nice shower house" and overall cleanliness ensure a comfortable stay, even when roughing it. Whether you're looking for a peaceful fishing trip, an active hiking adventure, a lively family gathering, or simply a quiet retreat in nature, Bailey's Ford Park delivers. It’s a testament to the beauty and recreational richness that our Iowa county parks proudly offer to their residents.

Delaware County Conservation

2379 Jefferson Rd, Manchester, IA 52057, USA