Tailwater West Campground

For Iowa locals seeking a blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and an incredibly welcoming atmosphere, Tailwater West Campground in Iowa City is a hidden gem. Nestled along the Iowa River, just below the impressive Coralville Lake Dam, this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground offers a serene escape with all the comforts you need for a fantastic outdoor adventure. It’s a place where the sounds of the river and the rustling leaves replace the everyday noise, inviting you to relax and reconnect with nature.

Campers consistently sing its praises, with one enthusiastic review stating, "We love this place! The campgrounds are clean and spacious with trees everywhere around the dam and the Iowa river." Another highlights the "Great area. Secure with regular roll through by park services and county. They are not intrusive.. good area for fishing, play areas for kids, and very pet friendly." And perhaps most enticingly, the rates are truly "Amazing!" at just $30 for full RV hookups in mid-May 2025. With helpful staff like the camp host, Kathi Kester, who went above and beyond to ensure a perfect site, it's no wonder visitors say, "We definitely would stay here again!"

Tailwater West Campground is ideally situated at 4103 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA. This prime location places it on the west bank of the Iowa River, directly below the impressive Coralville Lake Dam complex. Its position offers a unique vantage point, with the river flowing on one side and the substantial dam structure on the other.

Accessibility is a significant advantage for Iowans. The campground is easily reached via well-maintained roads, making it convenient for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and trailers. Despite its natural, treed setting, it remains very close to the bustling amenities of Iowa City. This means campers can enjoy a peaceful natural environment while still having quick access to essential services, diverse dining options, shopping centers, and cultural attractions like the University of Iowa campus and medical facilities. The blend of seclusion and convenience makes Tailwater West a highly desirable destination for a local getaway.

• Varied Campsites: Tailwater West Campground offers a total of 22 campsites, catering to different camping preferences. These include full hook-up campsites (typically 20/30/50 amp electric, water, and sewer), standard electric campsites (30/50 amp electric), and non-electric walk-to tent campsites, ensuring options for RVs, trailers, and traditional tent campers.

• Spacious and Clean Sites: Campsites are consistently described as "clean and spacious" with "paved and level pad" and "grass surrounding the pad," providing a comfortable and tidy environment for setting up camp. Fire rings and picnic tables are also provided at each site and noted as "nice and clean."

• Modern Restroom & Shower Facility: The campground features a modern restroom and shower facility, which are well-maintained and clean, enhancing the comfort of campers.

• Fish Cleaning Station: For avid anglers, a convenient fish cleaning station is available on-site, a valuable amenity for processing your catch from the Iowa River or Coralville Lake.

• Dump Station and Drinking Water: A dump station and potable drinking water supply are located just outside the West Overlook Campground, which is adjacent to Tailwater West, providing essential services for RVers.

• Play Areas for Kids: The campground features "play areas for kids," making it a family-friendly destination where younger campers can enjoy themselves.

• Pet-Friendly: Tailwater West Campground is very "pet friendly," allowing furry companions to join the camping adventure. (Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet when outside the vehicle, as per standard USACE regulations).

• Accommodating Camp Host: Visitors praise the "camphost tending the check-in kiosk," specifically mentioning Kathi Kester, as "such big help getting us into a different campsite, one a bit more level than the one we picked on the website." This highlights the helpful and accommodating on-site staff.

• Affordable Rates: As noted by a recent review, the price in mid-May 2025 was "only $30 for full rv hookups! Amazing!" making it a highly economical option for camping with comprehensive amenities.

• Picturesque Riverside Location: Situated directly on the Iowa River below the Coralville Lake Dam, the campground offers scenic views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. This unique "tailwater" environment is visually appealing and creates a tranquil atmosphere.

• Abundant Wildlife: The heavily wooded forest of mixed hardwood species surrounding the campground is home to diverse wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and various songbirds, providing excellent opportunities for nature observation.

• Excellent Fishing: The Iowa River and the tailwaters below the dam are renowned for their fishing opportunities. Anglers can expect to find large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish, making it a prime spot for a successful fishing trip. Reviewers confirm it's a "good area for fishing."

• Proximity to Coralville Lake Recreation: While specifically on the Iowa River, the campground is part of the Coralville Lake Project, offering easy access to the larger lake's recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and various water sports.

• Extensive Trail System: Several trails are located within the Dam Complex and are easily accessible from Tailwater West, including the Woodpecker Trail, Tailwater Riverwalk, and the barrier-free Veterans Trail. These trails are perfect for walking, hiking, and exploring the natural surroundings. "Lots of places to walk" confirms this highlight.

• Devonian Fossil Gorge Nearby: Just below the Coralville Dam is the fascinating Devonian Fossil Gorge, a 375-million-year-old sea floor exposed by a flood. Visitors can explore and discover fossil remains, providing a unique educational and geological experience. "Very nice place to find fossils among the back rocks" was noted by a visitor.

• Secure and Well-Monitored: Campers appreciate the sense of security, noting "Secure with regular roll through by park services and county. They are not intrusive," ensuring a safe and comfortable stay.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With playgrounds for kids and a pet-friendly policy, Tailwater West is well-suited for families looking for an engaging and safe outdoor experience.

Address: 4103 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA

Phone: (319) 338-3543

Mobile Phone: +1 319-338-3543

For campground inquiries, particularly during the main operating season (typically May 1st to October 31st), the campground entrance station can be reached at (319) 338-3685. During the off-season (November 1st to April 30th), it is best to contact the Coralville Lake Project Office directly at (319) 338-3543 ext. 6300. Reservations for campsites are highly recommended and can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling their toll-free number, 1-877-444-6777.

For Iowa locals, Tailwater West Campground presents an exceptionally compelling and highly accessible option for a memorable outdoor retreat. Its prime location directly on the Iowa River, with trees surrounding the dam area, offers both scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere that feels miles away from the everyday, yet is conveniently close to Iowa City amenities.

The core appeal lies in its outstanding value and facilities. At just $30 for full RV hookups (as of mid-2025), it provides an incredibly affordable way to enjoy top-tier amenities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' management ensures "clean and spacious" campsites with paved pads, well-maintained restrooms, and a general sense of cleanliness throughout the park. The praise for the "big help" from the camp host, Kathi Kester, further underscores the commitment to guest satisfaction.

Beyond comfort, the recreational opportunities are abundant. With excellent fishing in the Iowa River, diverse wildlife for observation, and "lots of places to walk" including direct access to unique spots like the Devonian Fossil Gorge, there's no shortage of activities to fill your days. The "secure" environment, regular patrols, and "pet friendly" policy make it an ideal choice for families and those traveling with their furry companions. For Iowans seeking a high-quality, affordable, and amenity-rich camping experience that truly connects them with the natural beauty of their state, Tailwater West Campground is an absolute must-visit.

Tailwater West Campground

4103 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA