Saulsbury Bridge Campground

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For Iowans seeking a peaceful and well-maintained outdoor escape, Saulsbury Bridge Campground in Muscatine offers a cherished destination. Part of the larger Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area, this campground is a testament to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities managed by the Muscatine County Conservation Board. While some long-time visitors fondly recall past attractions like a nature center and aviary, the core appeal of Saulsbury Bridge Campground remains its excellent camping facilities and direct access to the scenic Cedar River.

This campground isn't just a place to set up a tent or park an RV; it's a hub for outdoor activities and relaxation. Surrounded by 675 acres of diverse landscapes, including flood plain forest, open fields, creeks, and wetlands, it offers a rich environment for nature lovers. Campers often praise the cleanliness and quality of the facilities, especially the private shower rooms, which are a stand-out feature ensuring a comfortable and refreshing stay.

Whether you're planning a weekend fishing trip, a family gathering, or a quiet retreat into nature, Saulsbury Bridge Campground provides a welcoming and well-cared-for environment. The dedication of the groundskeeper and staff, as noted by appreciative visitors, helps maintain the inviting atmosphere that makes this a beloved spot for creating happy childhood memories and continuing outdoor traditions for many Iowa families.

Saulsbury Bridge Campground is conveniently located at 2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA. This puts it approximately eight miles northwest of Muscatine, nestled directly adjacent to the Cedar River. Its position within Muscatine County ensures relatively easy access for residents throughout eastern Iowa and beyond, providing a convenient escape into nature.

The drive to Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area typically involves well-maintained county roads. From Highway 61 in Muscatine, you would typically go 2.5 miles north on Mulberry Rd., then 4 miles west on Saulsbury Rd. The park is named for the old Saulsbury Bridge, which once spanned the Cedar River at this location. Although much of the original bridge burned down in 1977, the two remaining spans are open to pedestrian traffic and offer scenic views of the river, providing a historical and picturesque element to the area.

Within the recreation area, the campground is well-situated to provide access to various activities. It features multiple campgrounds: a Main Campground, a River Campground, and a Primitive Tent Camping Area along Chicken Creek. This variety ensures different levels of access and seclusion. Boat ramps are available on both the Cedar River and Chicken Creek, facilitating easy water access for paddlers and anglers. The network of trails within the 675-acre park further enhances accessibility for hikers and equestrians, allowing visitors to fully explore the diverse habitats.

• Main Campground: Features 24 camping spurs with electrical hookups (20, 30, and 50-amp), picnic tables, and fire rings. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• River Campground: Offers 9 camping spurs primarily for tents or smaller rigs, with vault toilets. Showers and firewood are available at the Main Campground within walking distance.
• Primitive Tent Camping (Area A - Chicken Creek): Located along Chicken Creek, these are walk-in tent-only sites with limited picnic tables and fire rings. Restrooms, showers, and firewood are available in the Main Campground.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Provided in the Main Campground, featuring clean facilities and private-door shower rooms, often highlighted as a fantastic feature by campers.
• Drinking Water: Available throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: A dedicated dump station for RVs is provided for convenience.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase within the Main Campground, often from a firewood shed, ensuring campers have access to suitable wood for campfires. (No out-of-state firewood is allowed).
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite, across all campground types, is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are available within the recreation area, including one in the Main Campground and another in the day-use area along Chicken Creek.
• Handicapped Accessible Fishing Dock: Available for easy fishing access.
• Boat Ramps: Public boat ramps on both the Cedar River and Chicken Creek for easy launching of non-motorized and motorized boats (on Cedar River).
• Canoe & Kayak Rentals: Available through the Muscatine County Conservation office, for those who don't have their own paddling equipment.
• Lodge Rental: Saulsbury Lodge is available for gatherings.
• Picnic Shelters: Reservable picnic shelters are available for day use.
• Sand Volleyball Court and Horseshoe Pits: Recreational amenities in the day-use area.
• Hiking and Equestrian Trails: Extensive trail system throughout the 675-acre recreation area.
• Public Hunting: Permitted in designated areas (approximately 600 acres) within the recreation area, following state laws.

• Excellent Restrooms and Private Showers: A highly praised feature, offering fantastic cleanliness and privacy, often exceeding expectations for a county park campground.
• Dedicated Groundskeeper: Mentioned by reviewers as a "great guy," contributing to the overall positive and well-maintained atmosphere of the campground.
• Diverse Camping Options: Caters to various preferences, from electric RV sites to secluded primitive tent camping.
• Direct River Access: Situated along the Cedar River, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and enjoying the serene river environment.
• Historical Landmark: The remnants of the old Saulsbury Bridge offer a unique scenic view of the river and a piece of local history for pedestrians.
• Extensive Recreational Area: The 675-acre park offers a wide range of activities including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, public hunting, and nature viewing.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The diverse habitats attract a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles (in colder months), Monarch butterflies, and numerous bird species.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Playgrounds, picnic areas, and open grassy fields make it suitable for families.
• Firewood Available On-Site: Convenient purchase of firewood within the Main Campground.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites: While some sites may be reservable, many operate on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips.

Address: 2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA

Phone: (563) 264-5922

Mobile Phone: +1 563-264-5922

Muscatine County Conservation Board: (563) 264-5922 (This is the primary contact for park and camping information as they manage the area.)

For Iowans, especially those in the eastern part of the state, Saulsbury Bridge Campground in Muscatine stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for a local outdoor getaway. Its blend of accessible natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and diverse recreational opportunities makes it a beloved choice for residents looking to connect with nature without extensive travel.

A key factor making it ideal for locals is the quality of its amenities, particularly the consistently praised "private door lock shower rooms." This attention to comfort and cleanliness is a significant advantage, providing a refreshing experience often sought after but rarely found to this degree in many campgrounds. Knowing that the facilities are top-notch allows locals to relax and enjoy their stay without concerns about basic comforts. The presence of a "great groundskeeper" further assures visitors of a well-cared-for and pleasant environment.

The diverse camping options, from electric sites in the Main Campground to more primitive tent sites along Chicken Creek, cater to a wide range of preferences and experience levels. This flexibility means whether you're a seasoned RVer or a family trying tent camping for the first time, you'll find a suitable spot. The accessibility of firewood on-site is another practical convenience that simplifies the camping experience for locals.

Beyond the camping itself, the Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area offers a wealth of activities right at your doorstep. Direct access to the Cedar River for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, coupled with extensive hiking and equestrian trails, provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventure. The natural environment is perfect for wildlife viewing, offering moments of tranquility and connection with Iowa's rich biodiversity. The area's history, marked by the remnants of the old Saulsbury Bridge, also adds a unique local flavor.

For Iowans seeking a familiar, reliable, and highly enjoyable camping experience where they can create new memories or relive happy childhood ones, Saulsbury Bridge Campground is an excellent choice. Its commitment to quality facilities and a diverse natural setting ensures a rewarding outdoor adventure close to home, making it a perfect destination for repeat visits.

Saulsbury Bridge Campground

2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA