Sugar Bottom Campground

For Iowa locals looking for an exceptional outdoor experience that truly has something for everyone, Sugar Bottom Campground on Coralville Lake in Solon is a standout destination. This expansive and beautifully maintained campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers a diverse array of camping options, from serene primitive tent sites to modern full hookup RV spots. More than just a place to stay, Sugar Bottom is a vibrant hub for recreation, surrounded by the natural beauty of Coralville Lake and its extensive trail systems.

Whether you're an avid mountain biker, a passionate angler, a family with young children, or simply someone seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, Sugar Bottom Campground consistently delivers. Visitors rave about the "wonderful host," the "very nice and well maintained" grounds, and the clean facilities, proving it's a cherished spot for many Iowans. It's a place where you can genuinely disconnect from the everyday grind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Sugar Bottom Campground is ideally located at 2192 Mehaffey Bridge Rd NE, Solon, IA 52333, USA. This prime position places it directly on the eastern shores of Coralville Lake, just north of Iowa City. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for residents across Iowa, particularly those in the eastern and central regions. The campground can be easily reached via well-maintained roads, making it convenient for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers.

The proximity to major population centers like Iowa City and Cedar Rapids means that while you feel immersed in nature, essential services, dining, and other attractions are never too far away. The blend of a peaceful lakeside setting with convenient access to urban amenities makes Sugar Bottom a highly desirable location for locals planning their next camping trip.

• Diverse Campsites: Sugar Bottom Campground offers over 200 campsites, catering to a wide range of preferences. Options include non-electric tent sites, 30 Amp electric sites (gravel or concrete pads), 50 Amp electric sites (gravel or concrete pads), 50 Amp electric with water hookup sites (gravel), and full hookup sites (50 Amp electric, water, and sewer with concrete pads). This variety ensures suitability for everything from basic tent camping to large RVs.

• Modern Restroom & Shower Facilities: The campground boasts modern shower facilities with hot and cold water, as well as flush restrooms. Reviews consistently praise the cleanliness and maintenance of these facilities, with one noting an outhouse near a tent site was "spotless." Vault toilets are also available in some areas.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station with potable water is available for RVers to manage their waste.

• Drinking Water Supply: Access to fresh drinking water is readily available throughout the campground.

• Fire Rings & Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table, perfect for cooking, dining, and enjoying a traditional campfire experience.

• Group Camping: For larger gatherings, Sugar Bottom offers one group loop area (Loop A) with 10 campsites available for group reservations.

• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are available for children, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.

• Boat Launch Ramp (Campers Only): Registered campers have exclusive access to a boat launch ramp, providing direct and convenient access to Coralville Lake for boating and water activities.

• Swimming Beach (Campers Only): A designated swimming beach within the campground is available exclusively for registered campers, offering a safe and enjoyable spot to cool off on warm days.

• Knowledgeable and Friendly Hosts: Visitors consistently highlight the "wonderful host" and friendly nature of the staff, indicating a welcoming and helpful environment for all guests.

• Premier Mountain Biking Trails: Sugar Bottom is home to Iowa's first and one of its premier mountain bike trail systems. With approximately 10-14 miles of one-way single-track trails, ranging from beginner to expert difficulty, it offers an aerobic challenge and scenic rides through wooded valleys and prairies overlooking Coralville Lake. Trail maps are available, and the trails are well-marked by difficulty level.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: Beyond mountain biking, the campground provides access to excellent hiking opportunities. Trails like the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and a barrier-free asphalt trail wind through timber, ravines, and along the lake, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: Coralville Lake is renowned for its fishing, and campers at Sugar Bottom have direct access to its waters. Anglers can expect to find a variety of species, including large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish. Reviews confirm that "the fishing isn't bad either!"

• Disc Golf Course: An 18-hole disc golf course is located in the Sugar Bottom Day Use Area, providing another fun recreational activity for campers and day visitors.

• Swimming and Boating on Coralville Lake: The campground's location on Coralville Lake means ample opportunities for pleasure boating, water skiing, and swimming at the designated camper-only beach.

• America the Beautiful Senior Pass Discount: For U.S. citizens and permanent residents aged 62 or older, the America the Beautiful Senior Pass offers a 50% discount on camping fees at Sugar Bottom Campground, making it an even more affordable option for eligible individuals. This was a highlight for one satisfied senior camper who received "50% off the $14 fee (tent - no power)."

• Natural Beauty and Wildlife: The campground is set within a heavily wooded forest of mixed hardwood species, teeming with wildlife such as white-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, and various bird species, offering a true immersion in nature.

• Proximity to Devonian Fossil Gorge: Just below the Coralville Dam (about 10 miles away), the Devonian Fossil Gorge offers a unique educational opportunity to explore a 375-million-year-old sea floor and discover fossil remains, an excellent nearby attraction.

Address: 2192 Mehaffey Bridge Rd NE, Solon, IA 52333, USA

Phone: (319) 338-3543

Mobile Phone: +1 319-338-3543

For campground inquiries, particularly between May 1st and September 30th, the campground entrance station can be reached at (319) 624-2102. During the off-season (October 1st - April 30th), inquiries should be directed to the Coralville Lake Project Office at (319) 338-3543 ext. 6300. Reservations for campsites can typically be made via Recreation.gov or by calling toll-free at 1-877-444-6777.

For Iowa residents, Sugar Bottom Campground truly stands out as an ideal and accessible outdoor recreation destination. Its comprehensive offerings cater to every type of camper, from those seeking a rustic tent experience to those who prefer the comforts of a full hookup RV site. The affordability, particularly with discounts for America the Beautiful Senior Pass holders, makes it an attractive option for frequent visits throughout the season.

What truly makes Sugar Bottom special for locals is the sheer breadth of activities available right at your doorstep. The challenging and extensive mountain bike trails are a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts, complemented by scenic hiking paths and excellent fishing opportunities on Coralville Lake. The dedicated swimming beach and playgrounds make it a perfect family destination, ensuring fun for all ages.

The consistently positive feedback about the "well maintained" grounds and "wonderful host" ensures a pleasant and welcoming environment. Being a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park, visitors can expect high standards of cleanliness and upkeep. For Iowans seeking a versatile, amenity-rich, and beautiful campground that offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation, Sugar Bottom Campground on Coralville Lake is an undeniable top choice right here in your home state.

Sugar Bottom Campground

2192 Mehaffey Bridge Rd NE, Solon, IA 52333, USA