Willow Lake Rec Area Campground

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For Iowa locals seeking a delightful escape into nature, Willow Lake Rec Area Campground in Woodbine offers a truly sparkling experience. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Harrison County, this recreation area is a true gem, providing a perfect blend of tranquil lakeside relaxation and engaging outdoor activities. It’s more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a well-maintained park designed for families, anglers, hikers, and anyone looking to unwind by clear, inviting waters. With its reputation for cleanliness and natural charm, Willow Lake Rec Area Campground stands as a testament to Iowa's commitment to providing accessible and enjoyable outdoor spaces for its residents, inviting you to discover your next adventure just a short drive away.

Willow Lake Rec Area Campground is conveniently located at Q6F7+GG, 2725 Easton Trail, Woodbine, IA 51579, USA. This accessible location places it approximately six miles northwest of Woodbine, Iowa. For Iowans, particularly those in the western and central parts of the state, reaching this picturesque destination is straightforward. From I-29, visitors can take Highway 30 east and continue to Woodbine, then turn left onto F20L (Easton Trail) and follow the clear signage to the park entrance. The ease of access, with well-maintained roads leading directly to the campground and cabins, makes it an ideal spot for a spontaneous weekend trip or a planned family vacation. Despite its convenient accessibility, the park successfully maintains a serene and natural atmosphere, allowing visitors to feel truly immersed in the Iowa landscape without venturing too far off the beaten path. Its setting within Harrison County’s beautiful terrain, part of the unique Loess Hills region, adds to its appeal as a local outdoor haven.

Willow Lake Rec Area Campground is commendably equipped with a range of services and facilities designed to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of all campers. This isn't a primitive site; it's a modern campground that aims to provide a welcoming and convenient experience. Based on available public information, the services typically offered include:

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The park features 41 campsites, all equipped with electric hookups (20 Amp/50 Amp), accommodating both tents and RVs. Many sites are paved and offer some shade, providing comfort and convenience.
• Water Hydrants: Water hydrants are available throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to potable water for all campers.
• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained restroom and shower facilities are provided, a significant comfort for campers. These shower houses are typically open seasonally, usually from April through October.
• Camping Cabins: Several camping cabins are available for rent, offering a more rustic cabin experience. These one-room facilities usually include a full-size bed, bunk beds, a futon, microwave, small refrigerator, heating, and air conditioning. Outside, they have a picnic table, campfire ring, and grill.
• Deluxe Cabins: For those seeking more amenities, deluxe cabins are also offered. These typically feature multiple bedrooms, full baths, full kitchens with appliances (toaster, microwave, coffee maker, pots/pans), living areas with TV/DVD, and large decks with picnic tables and charcoal grills.
• RV Dump Station: While not explicitly stated for this particular campground, many modern county parks with RV sites typically offer an RV dump station for waste disposal.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite and cabin includes a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor meals and traditional campfires.
• Playgrounds: A new-looking playground area is available for children, ensuring entertainment for younger visitors.
• Picnic Shelters: Covered picnic shelters are provided, offering shaded areas for day-use visitors or larger gatherings.

Willow Lake Rec Area Campground boasts a variety of features and highlights that make it a truly attractive destination for Iowans. Its combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities ensures a memorable visit for all ages. Key highlights, as reflected in real customer reviews and public information, include:

• Sparkling, Clear Lake Water: Multiple reviewers praise the lake's clarity, with one exclaiming, "I swear the water SPARKLES and its super clear." This is a significant draw for swimmers and those enjoying water activities.
• Excellent for Small Boats and Kayaks: The 27-acre Willow Lake is described as a "Great body of water for small boats and kayaks," making it ideal for paddling, canoeing, and non-motorized water sports.
• Fishing Opportunities: The lake features fishing jetties and is well-suited for anglers. Reviews mention "fishing" as a popular activity, indicating good prospects for catches.
• Well-Maintained Park: Visitors consistently commend the park's upkeep, with comments like "absolutely gorgeous area, well maintained park" and "Clean campground and modern facilities were well kept."
• Family-Friendly Environment: The presence of "lots of families" and a "new" playground underscores its suitability for family outings, providing activities for children of all ages.
• Hiking Trails: The park offers "six miles of trails," including a "rugged natural trail system that stretches around the lake," perfect for hiking and exploring the scenic Loess Hills.
• Unique Willow Features: One charming, albeit surprising, feature noted by a reviewer is the presence of "literal willows IN the lake," which adds to the natural aesthetic and unique character of the water body.
• Cabin Rentals: The availability of both camping cabins and deluxe cabins provides diverse accommodation options for those who prefer more comfort than traditional camping, or who are new to outdoor overnights. The "Monarch cabin" was specifically mentioned for its "wonderful view of the lake."
• Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite being well-maintained and popular, the campground seems to offer a relaxed environment, conducive to unwinding ("relaxed in front of our fire until about midnight").
• Nature Center: A nature center is located within the Willow Lake Recreation Area, likely offering educational programs and insights into the local ecosystem.

For those planning their next outdoor adventure at Willow Lake Rec Area Campground, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Q6F7+GG, 2725 Easton Trail, Woodbine, IA 51579, USA

Phone: (712) 647-2785

Email: hccb@harrisoncountyparks.org

Website: http://www.mycountyparks.com/county/Harrison/Park/Willow-Lake-Recreation-Area.aspx or http://harrisoncountyparks.org

The phone number provided connects directly to the Harrison County Conservation Board, which manages Willow Lake Recreation Area. This is the best point of contact for inquiries regarding campsite availability, cabin reservations (which can also be made online), park regulations, seasonal operating hours for facilities like shower houses, and any current alerts or conditions. Given the popularity of the campground and cabins, especially during peak seasons and weekends, it is highly recommended to call in advance or check the official Harrison County Parks website (harrisoncountyparks.org) to make reservations and ensure availability. This proactive approach will help you secure your preferred spot and ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this fantastic Iowa recreational area.

Willow Lake Rec Area Campground is an ideal destination for Iowa locals, offering a comprehensive and incredibly enjoyable outdoor experience right in their backyard. Its strategic location near Woodbine, coupled with easy accessibility, means less travel time and more quality time spent relaxing and recreating. For families, the combination of a sparkling clean lake, a new playground, diverse camping options including cabins, and well-maintained facilities makes it a perfect spot for creating cherished memories. Anglers will appreciate the fishing jetties and the healthy fish population, while hikers can explore the scenic trails that wind through the unique Loess Hills landscape. The consistent praise for its cleanliness and well-kept facilities from real customers further solidifies its reputation as a top-tier local campground. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend retreat by the fire, an active day of fishing and paddling, or a comfortable family getaway, Willow Lake Rec Area Campground provides everything needed for a fulfilling Iowa adventure. It truly embodies the spirit of our state's natural beauty and community-oriented outdoor spaces, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to embrace the best of Iowa's outdoors.

Willow Lake Rec Area Campground

Q6F7+GG, 2725 Easton Trail, Woodbine, IA 51579, USA