Middle Bear Campground

Hello, fellow Iowans! If you’re yearning for a peaceful retreat into nature, where the gentle murmur of a stream and the rustle of leaves replace the everyday clamor, then Middle Bear Campground in Decorah is a hidden gem you’ll want to explore. Nestled in the picturesque Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, this campground offers a serene and intimate setting, perfect for those who cherish quiet moments in the great outdoors, especially if trout fishing or scenic walks are on your agenda.

Middle Bear Campground is often described as an "awesome little campground," and for good reason. It provides a unique opportunity to connect with Iowa's beautiful natural landscapes on a more personal scale. As one satisfied visitor noted, it's "nestled along a stream, easily accessed and accommodating." This perfectly captures the essence of Middle Bear: a charming and unpretentious spot that prioritizes a tranquil camping experience. While it may not boast elaborate amenities, its strength lies in its simplicity and its proximity to natural wonders.

The highlight for many is the direct access to "scenic walking trails" and its prime location along South Bear Creek, which is celebrated as one of Iowa's top trout streams. This means exceptional opportunities for fishing right at your doorstep. The campground is also "easily accessed" from Decorah, making it a convenient escape for locals. For those who "are ready for some hunting, fishing, or simply some time away from it all," Middle Bear Campground provides a refreshing change of pace. It's a place where you can breathe in the fresh air, let the "scenery win you over," and truly unwind in a "hidden paradise."

Middle Bear Campground is conveniently located at 1449 380th St, Decorah, IA 52101, USA. This address places it just north of the charming city of Decorah, within Winneshiek County, deep in the heart of Iowa's unique Driftless Region. This area is characterized by its dramatic bluffs, spring-fed streams, and lush valleys, offering a stark and beautiful contrast to the more rolling farmlands found elsewhere in the state.

Accessibility to Middle Bear Campground is quite straightforward for most Iowans. As noted in a review, it's "Located just a mile or so off the Locust Rd North of Decorah, Iowa." This means it's easily reachable via well-maintained county roads once you exit main highways, providing a quick transition from urban or suburban settings to a peaceful natural environment. Decorah itself is a popular hub, accessible from larger cities like Cedar Falls/Waterloo, Rochester, MN, and even Madison, WI, within a reasonable driving distance. The convenience of its location so close to Decorah allows campers to enjoy both the natural serenity of the campground and the vibrant amenities, dining, and attractions that Decorah has to offer, without extensive travel. The modest approach ensures you’re quickly immersed in the tranquil surroundings.

Middle Bear Campground, while described as "little" and "rustic," provides essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for campers seeking a natural environment. The focus here is on fundamental amenities that support outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.

• Campsites with Electricity: The campground features 13 sites with electrical hookups (rated at $26/night), catering to RV and pop-up campers who require power.
• Primitive Campsites: For those seeking a more traditional and rustic experience, there are 6 primitive sites available ($18/night), ideal for tent camping.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides 4 bathrooms and 2 showers, which are important amenities for hygiene and comfort.
• Playground Area: A "large playground area for the kids" is available, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.
• General Store: There is a store on-site that offers a variety of items, including "many unique gifts," a "great hunting and fishing section," "ice, firewood, night crawlers, groceries, Iowa lottery, and clothing."
• Hunting and Fishing Licenses: A highly convenient service, hunting and fishing licenses can be purchased directly at the store.
• Specialized Fishing Gear: The store also offers "muzzle loaders and many accessories along with several hard-to-find trout fishing favorites," catering specifically to the avid angler.
• Direct Stream Access: The campground is located "right along the South Bear Creek," providing immediate access to one of Iowa's premier trout streams for fishing.

Middle Bear Campground truly shines with its key features and highlights, primarily appealing to those who appreciate a quiet, natural setting with excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation, particularly trout fishing and hiking.

• Prime Trout Fishing Location: Its location "right along the South Bear Creek, where some of the best trout fishing takes place!" is a significant highlight. This makes it a top destination for anglers looking to catch brook and brown trout. The stream is regularly stocked, ensuring good fishing opportunities.
• Scenic Walking Trails: The campground is complemented by "scenic walking trails," perfect for leisurely strolls, nature observation, and enjoying the beautiful surrounding landscapes of the Driftless Region.
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Described as a "nice little campground" with "not many people around" and "nice quiet small campgrounds," it offers a serene escape for those seeking peace and tranquility away from larger, more bustling sites.
• Nestled Along a Stream: Being "nestled along a stream" adds to the picturesque setting and provides soothing ambient sounds, enhancing the natural experience.
• Convenient On-site Store: The presence of a well-stocked store offering not only essentials like ice and firewood but also specialized fishing gear and licenses is a huge convenience for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The "large playground area for the kids" ensures that younger campers have a dedicated space for fun and play.
• Accessibility to Decorah: Despite its secluded feel, its proximity "just a mile or so off the Locust Rd North of Decorah" means campers can easily access the town's amenities, dining, and attractions when desired.
• Beautiful Natural Scenery: The overall environment is one where you can "breathe in the fresh air, and let the scenery win you over," offering a genuinely refreshing outdoor experience.

To plan your tranquil camping and fishing trip to Middle Bear Campground, you can reach them using the following contact details:

Address: 1449 380th St, Decorah, IA 52101, USA

Phone: (563) 735-5350

Mobile Phone: +1 563-735-5350 (This is the same number, provided with the international dialing code.)

Given its smaller size and focus on a serene experience, it’s advisable to call ahead for reservations, especially during peak fishing seasons or popular weekends, to ensure site availability. The store hours (Mon-Sat 8-7 and Sundays 10-4, for Bear Creek Cabins which appears to be closely related or the managing entity) also indicate when you might reach someone directly for inquiries.

For us Iowans, Middle Bear Campground is an ideal local destination that perfectly caters to those seeking a classic, peaceful outdoor experience, particularly for anglers and nature lovers. Its location just outside of Decorah in the Driftless Region makes it easily accessible from many parts of the state, allowing for convenient weekend getaways without extensive travel. This proximity is a major plus, meaning more time enjoying nature and less time on the road.

The primary appeal for locals, especially those who enjoy fishing, is its direct access to South Bear Creek, widely regarded as one of Iowa's premier trout streams. Having "some of the best trout fishing" right at your campsite is an unbeatable convenience for any Iowan angler. Coupled with "scenic walking trails," it provides ample opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty that sets the Driftless Region apart.

Furthermore, Middle Bear's reputation as a "nice little campground" with a quiet atmosphere is exactly what many Iowans look for when they want to truly unwind. It's not a bustling resort, but rather a serene haven where you can relax, listen to the sounds of the stream, and reconnect with nature. The provision of both electric and primitive sites, along with clean restrooms and showers, ensures that various camping preferences are accommodated. The on-site store, selling everything from fishing gear and licenses to firewood and snacks, adds a layer of convenience that makes the camping experience even more enjoyable for locals. If you're an Iowan looking for a tranquil, no-frills camping experience centered around excellent trout fishing and beautiful walks in one of our state's most unique landscapes, Middle Bear Campground in Decorah is an absolutely perfect choice. It’s a true slice of Iowa paradise.

Middle Bear Campground

1449 380th St, Decorah, IA 52101, USA