Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground

For Iowans seeking a delightful and accessible outdoor adventure, Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground in Harlan offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a variety of recreational activities. This well-regarded campground, managed by the Shelby County Conservation Board, is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a vibrant hub for family fun, fishing excursions, and peaceful strolls through diverse landscapes. As one happy visitor noted, it's "Very fun. My son enjoyed it," highlighting its appeal for families.

Nishna Bend Recreation Area spans 80 acres, featuring a unique landscape that includes over 30 acres of wetlands, a result of past gravel mining operations. This diverse environment makes it a haven for wildlife and a fascinating place to explore. The campground itself is designed to provide comfortable and enjoyable stays, with amenities that cater to various camping preferences, from cozy cabins to electrical campsites. It's truly "a nice place," as another review succinctly puts it, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit.

Iowa's natural beauty, often characterized by its rolling hills, prairies, and waterways, is beautifully showcased at Nishna Bend. The area’s focus on water resources and wildlife value, coupled with its nature learning program, means that visitors can not only enjoy recreational pursuits but also gain a deeper appreciation for Iowa's ecological richness. Whether you're an avid angler, a keen hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind with loved ones, Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground provides an ideal setting for creating cherished outdoor memories right here in Iowa.

Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground is conveniently located at 1246 River Ave, Harlan, IA 51537, USA. This placement in Shelby County, just 5 miles south of Harlan, makes it an exceptionally accessible destination for Iowans. Harlan, a welcoming community, offers essential services and supplies, ensuring that campers can easily re-stock or find anything they might need during their stay.

Its proximity to Harlan means that campers can enjoy the tranquility of the recreation area while still being within a short drive of town amenities. This balance is particularly appealing for families and those who prefer not to venture too far into remote wilderness. The campground's access roads are well-maintained, allowing for easy navigation for both cars and recreational vehicles.

Furthermore, Nishna Bend Recreation Area is situated within the broader context of Iowa's beautiful Loess Hills region. While not directly within the Loess Hills, its location near this unique geological feature adds to the scenic appeal of the drive to the campground and the surrounding exploration opportunities. Major state highways and county roads provide straightforward routes to the park from various parts of Iowa, making it a convenient weekend getaway from cities like Omaha or Des Moines, or a pleasant stop for those traveling through the western part of the state. The fact that the main office of the Shelby County Conservation Board and Roadside Management Department are also located here further enhances accessibility for information and assistance.

Services Offered:

• Camping Cabins: Two cozy camping cabins are available for rent, providing a comfortable alternative to tent camping.
• Electrical Campsites: 24 campsites equipped with 50-amp electric hookups (some sources mention 18 sites with modern shower building, and 20 additional sites for a total of 24 or more).
• Modern Shower Building: A newly constructed shower house and restroom facility (opened May 2009) ensures clean and comfortable amenities for campers.
• Public Toilets: Well-maintained public toilet facilities are available.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water.
• Picnic Tables: Available at campsites and throughout the recreation area.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings at campsites for campfires and cooking.
• River Fishing: Opportunities for fishing in the Nishna Botna River.
• Sand Pit Fishing Ponds: Five sand pit fishing ponds stocked with various fish species.
• Hiking Trails: A network of trails for scenic walks and nature exploration.
• Playground: On-site playground for children, enhancing the family-friendly atmosphere.
• Shelter House: A shelter house is available for gatherings.
• Public Hunting: During winter months, public hunting is permitted.

Features / Highlights:

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Reviewed as "Very fun" and enjoyable for children, indicating suitability for families.
• Peaceful and Scenic Environment: Described as a "nice place," highlighting its calm and appealing setting.
• Diverse Fishing Opportunities: Five sand pit ponds and river access provide abundant fishing for species like bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and bullhead.
• Extensive Wetlands: Over 30 acres of wetlands, a unique feature that supports diverse wildlife and offers excellent nature observation.
• Hiking Trails: Scenic trails throughout the 80-acre park for walking and exploring prairies and woodlands.
• Nature Learning Center: Provides educational opportunities about the local environment and wildlife.
• Arboretum: A planting of tall grass and short grass prairie with many species of wildflowers, adding to the park's natural beauty.
• Managed by Shelby County Conservation: Ensures dedicated care and development for water resources and wildlife.
• Wheelchair-Accessible: Features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed, though should be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
• Variety of Camping Options: From traditional tent sites to modern electric sites and camping cabins.
• Community-Focused: Seasonal events may foster a sense of community among visitors.

Contact Information:

Address: 1246 River Ave, Harlan, IA 51537, USA

For direct inquiries or to make reservations, it is best to contact the Shelby County Conservation Board, which manages the Nishna Bend Recreation Area Campground.

While a specific phone number for the campground itself isn't typically listed as separate from the managing body, the Shelby County Conservation Board generally serves as the primary point of contact for Nishna Bend Recreation Area.

Please refer to the official Shelby County Conservation Board website or contact their main office for current phone numbers, reservation procedures, and detailed information about Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground. While a generic search sometimes yields the main Shelby County Conservation phone number as 712-744-3403, it's always recommended to verify this through official county resources for the most up-to-date contact.

Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground stands out as an ideal camping destination for Iowa locals, perfectly blending accessibility with rich outdoor experiences. For Iowans seeking a memorable getaway without venturing too far from home, this campground in Harlan offers a comprehensive package of amenities and natural beauty. Its "Very fun" atmosphere, particularly noted for children, ensures that families across the state can create cherished memories here, making it a frequent return spot for many.

The variety of camping options—from electrical sites for RVs to comfortable camping cabins—caters to diverse preferences, ensuring that every Iowan can find their ideal way to enjoy the outdoors. The presence of a modern shower house and clean restrooms significantly enhances the camping experience, providing essential comforts that make extended stays more enjoyable for families and individuals alike. This attention to detail contributes to its reputation as a "nice place" that visitors appreciate.

Furthermore, Nishna Bend's abundant recreational opportunities, especially its five sand pit fishing ponds and access to the Nishna Botna River, are a major draw for local anglers. Whether you're an experienced fisherman or introducing a child to the joys of casting a line, the diverse fish populations offer a rewarding experience. Beyond fishing, the extensive hiking trails, playground, and wetlands provide ample opportunities for exploration, nature observation, and active enjoyment of Iowa's unique landscapes.

Being managed by the Shelby County Conservation Board, Nishna Bend benefits from dedicated care and a focus on environmental preservation and education. This commitment ensures that the area remains a high-quality resource for public enjoyment for years to come. For Iowans looking for a family-friendly, well-equipped, and naturally beautiful campground that is conveniently located, Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground offers an exceptional and highly recommended destination to experience the best of Iowa's outdoors.

Nishna Bend Rec Area Campground

1246 River Ave, Harlan, IA 51537, USA