Sherman Park Campground And RV Park

Are you an Iowa local searching for a hidden gem that combines scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and perhaps a touch of local legend? Sherman Park Campground and RV Park in Calamus, IA, offers all this and more. Nestled along the beautiful Wapsipinicon River, this county-run park has undergone significant upgrades, providing a comfortable and engaging experience for campers of all ages. From active family fun to quiet contemplation by the river, and even a friendly spectral resident, Sherman Park promises a unique and memorable Iowa getaway. As one recent visitor noted, it's a "huge upgrade" and offers "beautiful views," making it a truly appealing spot for your next adventure.

Sherman Park Campground and RV Park is a 233-acre county-managed park that has seen remarkable improvements, transforming it into a highly appealing destination for Iowa residents. Visitors who have experienced its evolution describe it as a "huge upgrade," suggesting enhanced facilities and a more enjoyable environment. Despite its "smaller size" as a campground, it cleverly maximizes its space, offering a diverse range of amenities that cater to families and individuals alike. The park boasts an "enjoyable view along the Wapsi River," providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and nature observation. Local lore adds an intriguing layer to the park's charm, with mentions of "Wapsi Willy" and other "ghosts" that are said to haunt the area. This playful nod to the supernatural, combined with the park's natural beauty and recreational offerings, creates a truly distinctive and memorable experience for those seeking more than just a typical camping trip. It's a place where you can enjoy modern comforts while still embracing the quirky local flavor.

Sherman Park Campground and RV Park is conveniently located at 2776 160th Ave, Calamus, IA 52729, USA. This prime location places it directly along the picturesque Wapsipinicon River in Clinton County, Iowa. For Iowa residents, accessing the park is straightforward, making it an ideal destination for weekend trips or longer escapes without extensive travel. Calamus, while a small town, is easily reached from larger population centers in Eastern Iowa. The park's situation along the river offers direct access for various water activities, enhancing its appeal for fishing, paddling, and enjoying the serene river views. While it offers a sense of natural seclusion, it's not so remote that necessary supplies or other local points of interest are out of reach. The location provides a harmonious balance between natural immersion and convenient accessibility, making it a stress-free choice for Iowa locals looking to enjoy their state's natural beauty.

Sherman Park Campground and RV Park provides a well-rounded set of services and amenities designed to enhance the camping experience, blending rustic charm with essential modern conveniences. It caters to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone:

• Camping: The park offers a mix of 8 electrical campsites priced at $25 per night and 8 primitive (non-electrical) campsites at $15 per night. The primitive sites are often described as having "plenty of room along the river," providing a more secluded feel. RV length limits are not explicitly stated, but review indicate sufficient space for trailers and tow vehicles.
• Modern Restrooms: The campground boasts "modern restrooms" that are frequently praised by visitors as "nicest & cleanest" they've seen, a significant comfort for all campers.
• Shower House: A clean and well-maintained shower house is available, providing hot showers for refreshing after a day of outdoor activities.
• Picnic Shelter: A designated picnic shelter is available for group gatherings or family meals.
• Playground: A "set of playground equipment" is on-site, perfect for younger kids to "burn off some of that excess energy," making it a family-friendly destination.
• Boat Ramp: A "basic boat ramp" provides easy access to the Wapsipinicon River for fishing, paddling, and other water activities.
• Wapsipinicon River Fishing: Direct access to the Wapsipinicon River, known for its fishing opportunities.
• Nature Trail & Hiking: Trails are available for exploring the park's diverse landscapes, which include forests, bluffs, prairies, and wetlands.
• Public Hunting: A portion of the park is designated for public hunting during appropriate seasons.
• Astronomical Observatory: A unique feature, the park includes an astronomical observatory, offering opportunities for stargazing and celestial observation.
• Horseshoe Pits: Available for classic campground entertainment.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is open annually from April 1st through October 31st, while the rest of the park remains open year-round.

Sherman Park Campground and RV Park stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for Iowa locals:

• Beautiful Riverfront Views: Its location directly along the Wapsipinicon River offers "enjoyable views" and a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
• Clean and Modern Facilities: The "super clean" modern restrooms and shower house are consistently highlighted by visitors as a major plus, significantly enhancing the comfort of the camping experience.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a playground, picnic areas, and ample space to run around, it's an excellent spot for families with younger children looking to create lasting memories outdoors.
• Unique Astronomical Observatory: The presence of an astronomical observatory is a rare and exciting feature for a county park campground, offering a fantastic opportunity for stargazing and educational experiences.
• Diverse Landscape: The park encompasses 233 acres of varied terrain, including forests, bluffs, prairies, and wetlands, providing diverse natural beauty and habitats for wildlife.
• Recreational Variety: Beyond camping, the park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and public hunting, catering to a wide range of outdoor interests.
• Affordable Camping: With competitive pricing for both electrical and primitive sites, it offers an accessible and budget-friendly option for an outdoor getaway.
• Intriguing Local Legend: The mention of "Wapsi Willy" and other ghosts adds a unique, playful, and memorable local flavor to the campground, sparking curiosity and conversation among visitors.
• Spacious Sites: Even on the smaller side, the campground ensures decent spacing between sites, particularly in the primitive area, allowing for a more private and peaceful experience.

For those planning a visit or needing more information about Sherman Park Campground and RV Park, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 2776 160th Ave, Calamus, IA 52729, USA

While no specific phone numbers were provided for Sherman Park Campground and RV Park, as a county-run campground in Clinton County, Iowa, general inquiries can typically be directed to the Clinton County Conservation Board. Their official website (clintoncounty-ia.gov/conservation/parks/sherman_park/) provides detailed information about the park, including features, camping rates, and operational dates (April 1st through October 31st for the campground, park open year-round). It is always recommended to check their website or contact the Clinton County Conservation Board for the most up-to-date information on site availability, specific rules, and any seasonal alerts, such as Wapsi River water levels, which can impact boating and certain primitive sites due to potential flooding. Since campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, arriving early is advisable, especially during peak season or holidays, to secure your preferred spot.

Sherman Park Campground and RV Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for Iowa locals, offering a rich and diverse outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its convenient location in Calamus, along the Wapsipinicon River, makes it easily accessible for residents across Eastern Iowa, minimizing travel time and maximizing the duration of their escape into nature. This accessibility encourages frequent visits, whether for a quick weekend campout or a longer family vacation.

For Iowa families, the park’s combination of a playground, a boat ramp for river activities, hiking trails, and even an astronomical observatory ensures there’s something for every age and interest. The consistently praised "super clean" modern restrooms and shower house provide a level of comfort that enhances the overall camping experience, making it appealing even for those less accustomed to rustic camping. Furthermore, the intriguing local lore surrounding "Wapsi Willy" adds a unique and fun element that truly distinguishes this campground. For those seeking affordable, well-maintained, and naturally beautiful camping with a hint of local mystery and plenty of activities, Sherman Park Campground and RV Park is a prime choice and a true local gem in Iowa.

Sherman Park Campground And RV Park

2776 160th Ave, Calamus, IA 52729, USA