West Overlook Campground

For Iowa residents seeking a top-tier camping experience that beautifully blends natural beauty with modern conveniences, West Overlook Campground at Coralville Lake is an undeniable gem. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this campground consistently receives high marks for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and prime location. It's a place where you can truly unwind, connect with the great outdoors, and create lasting memories with family and friends, all within easy reach of Iowa City.

Campers consistently rave about the quality of their stay, noting the "Nice paved and level site with grass surrounding the pad," and the "very well kept campground." The "super nice" and "very clean" bathrooms are a frequent highlight, ensuring a comfortable experience for all. With its focus on accessibility, comfort, and diverse recreational opportunities, West Overlook Campground stands out as a premier choice for Iowa locals looking for an exceptional outdoor escape.

West Overlook Campground is strategically located on the west side of the Coralville Lake Dam, with its address being W Overlook Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA. This prime position places it within the Coralville Lake Project area, just a short drive north of Iowa City. Its accessibility is a significant advantage for campers traveling from various parts of Iowa, with convenient access from Interstate 80.

The campground is nestled within a heavily wooded forest of mixed hardwood species, providing a natural and serene setting. While offering a tranquil escape, its proximity to Iowa City and Coralville means campers are never far from essential services, shopping centers like Coral Ridge Mall, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions like the University of Iowa campus and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Navigating to the campground is straightforward, with clear signage leading visitors directly to the entrance from West Overlook Rd NE.

• Standard Electric Campsites: West Overlook Campground offers 89 standard electric campsites, primarily with 30/50 amp hookups. These sites are noted for being "nice paved and level" pads, often surrounded by grass, reducing dirt around the campsite area.

• Some Full Hookup Options: While predominantly electric, some sites may offer full hookups (50 Amp electric, water, and sewer), providing maximum convenience for RVers. It is advisable to check site-specific details when booking.

• Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: A consistent highlight from customer reviews is the quality of the "Nice bathrooms" which are described as "very clean and well kept," featuring modern amenities and hot water. These facilities are a significant comfort for campers.

• Dump Station and Drinking Water: A conveniently located dump station and potable drinking water supply are available just outside the West Overlook Campground entrance, essential for RV and trailer owners.

• Spacious and Well-Kept Campsites: Reviews emphasize that "The campsites were spacious and well kept," providing ample room for camping setups and privacy.

• Fire Rings & Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table. Customers specifically noted the "fire rings were nice and clean" and "picnic tables were clean," indicating good maintenance.

• Playgrounds: Several playgrounds are available within the campground area, providing "lots of entertainment for the kids" and making it a very family-friendly destination.

• Swimming Beach: A dedicated "beach was clean and well cared for" and available for campers, offering a safe and enjoyable spot for swimming in Coralville Lake.

• Boat Ramp: Campers have access to a boat ramp within the campground, allowing for convenient launching of boats directly onto Coralville Lake.

• Horseshoes: Horseshoe pits are available for recreational use, adding another activity option for campers.

• Campground Hosts: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, US Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds typically have campground hosts on-site who provide assistance and help maintain the facilities.

• Direct Lake Access and Views: West Overlook offers fantastic access to Coralville Lake. Campers "loved hanging out at the lake" and can enjoy various water activities like boating, swimming at the clean beach, and fishing. Some sites even offer views of the lake, enhancing the natural experience.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Coralville Lake is known for its diverse fish population, including large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish. Campers have reported success, stating they "even caught a fish," making it a great spot for anglers of all skill levels.

• Paved and Level Campsites: The "paved and level site" with "grass surrounding the pad" are a significant highlight, offering a clean, stable, and comfortable base for tents, RVs, and trailers, regardless of weather conditions.

• Impeccable Cleanliness and Maintenance: Consistently praised as "super clean and well kept," the campground and its facilities, especially the bathrooms, are maintained to a high standard, contributing to a pleasant and worry-free stay.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity and numerous campers, the campground maintains a "quiet" atmosphere, allowing for a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor experience. This suggests good site spacing and respectful campers.

• Abundant Shade Options: While some sites are sunny (requiring campers to "check satellite imagery before you book" for shade), the presence of "shaded options throughout" the heavily wooded campground means campers can choose a site that suits their preference for sun or shade.

• Proximity to Unique Attractions: The campground is very close to the Devonian Fossil Gorge, a fascinating geological site where visitors can explore a 375-million-year-old sea floor. Other nearby attractions include the Turkey Creek Disc Golf Course and various hiking trails (like Squire Point, Woodpecker Trail, Tailwater Riverwalk, and the barrier-free Veterans Trail) within the Dam Complex.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With clean playgrounds, a swimming beach, and general safe, spacious areas, West Overlook is clearly designed to cater to families, ensuring "lots of entertainment for the kids."

Address: W Overlook Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA

Phone: (319) 338-3543

Mobile Phone: +1 319-338-3543

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

For Iowa locals, West Overlook Campground at Coralville Lake presents an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for outdoor recreation. Its managing entity, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, ensures a high standard of cleanliness and maintenance, evident in the "super clean and well kept" facilities, from spacious campsites with paved pads to immaculate bathrooms. This level of upkeep greatly enhances the comfort and enjoyment of any camping trip.

The campground's direct access to Coralville Lake is a major draw, offering endless opportunities for swimming at the clean beach, fishing for various species, and enjoying boating activities. Families will particularly appreciate the dedicated playgrounds that provide "lots of entertainment for the kids," fostering a truly family-friendly atmosphere. The quiet ambiance, even with numerous campers, indicates a well-designed layout that allows for relaxation and peace.

While one review mentioned the distance to dumpsters as a minor inconvenience, it's clearly outweighed by the multitude of positives. For Iowans seeking a comfortable, activity-rich, and beautifully maintained campground that offers a genuine escape into nature without sacrificing modern amenities, West Overlook Campground is a top choice. Its strategic location near Iowa City also means convenient access to urban necessities, making it an ideal local base for both relaxation and exploration.

West Overlook Campground

W Overlook Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA