Antique Acres Campground, Cedar Falls, IA

Introduction / Overview

For Iowa residents looking for a camping experience that offers more than just a place to park your RV, Antique Acres Campground in Cedar Falls, IA, presents a truly unique destination. This isn't your typical sprawling resort; instead, it's a quaint and charming campground with a distinct connection to Iowa's rich agricultural heritage. While one review notes it can be a quiet retreat with few occupants, highlighting a peaceful atmosphere, it’s truly renowned for its association with the annual Old Time Power Show, a significant event that draws enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. This blend of simple camping amenities with a deep historical and cultural backdrop sets Antique Acres apart. The campground itself offers essential services, making it a practical choice for those with self-contained units. You'll find approximately 12 sites, suggesting a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger campgrounds. While a communal shower house is available, it's noted that personal preferences for self-sufficiency might make its condition less of a concern for some campers. Beyond the camping, Antique Acres is celebrated for its "good food, good people, lots of demonstrations, and Exhibits," particularly during its famous annual show. This indicates a vibrant community and a commitment to preserving and showcasing antique machinery and traditional skills. For Iowans who appreciate history, agriculture, and a quieter camping environment with the option to engage in unique cultural events, Antique Acres Campground offers a distinctive and memorable getaway right here in our home state. It's a place where the pictures might not fully capture its charm, encouraging visitors to experience its unique character firsthand.

Location and Accessibility

Antique Acres Campground boasts a convenient and accessible location for Iowa residents, situated in Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA. Specifically, it can be found at 7610 Waverly Road, Cedar Falls, making it easy to locate and reach from various parts of the state. Cedar Falls itself is a well-known city in Northeast Iowa, offering a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, ensuring that campers have access to necessary supplies and additional recreational opportunities should they desire. The campground's address places it in a rural area of Cedar Falls, providing that desirable sense of escape into nature without being too far from civilization. For Iowans traveling from the Des Moines area, or even eastern and western parts of the state, Cedar Falls is a central hub, making Antique Acres a feasible destination for a weekend trip or a longer stay. The ease of accessibility means less time spent on the road and more time enjoying your camping experience and exploring the unique attractions that Antique Acres and the surrounding Cedar Falls area have to offer. Its connection to the annual Old Time Power Show, which draws significant crowds, also underscores its established presence and clear navigation for visitors. Whether you're heading north, south, east, or west within Iowa, Antique Acres Campground in Cedar Falls is a straightforward and welcoming destination for your next outdoor adventure, offering a peaceful retreat that's still comfortably connected to local resources.

Services Offered

Water Hookups: Each campsite is equipped with water access, providing a crucial convenience for campers.
Electric Hookups: Campers can utilize electric hookups at their sites, making it suitable for RVs and for powering various camping essentials.
Dump Site On Property: A convenient dump site is available on the campground premises, allowing campers to easily dispose of wastewater without needing to seek off-site facilities.
Shower House: A shower house is provided for communal use, offering facilities for personal hygiene, though one review notes it "wasn't great," suggesting it may be basic.
Good Food Availability: Especially during events like the Old Time Power Show, the campground is noted for offering "good food," suggesting on-site food options or nearby accessible dining.
Camping Sites: Approximately 12 camping sites are available, indicating a smaller, more intimate campground setting.
Shelter with Stage Area: Antique Acres offers a shelter area equipped with a stage, suitable for gatherings, events, or performances.
Air-conditioned Hall with Kitchen Facilities: For larger events or group needs, an air-conditioned hall with kitchen facilities is available for use, enhancing its capacity for various functions beyond just camping.
Restrooms: In addition to the shower house, restrooms are available for camper use.

Features / Highlights

Unique Historical Connection: Antique Acres is best known for its annual "Old Time Power Show," held each August, dedicated to the preservation and operation of antique machinery. This makes it a distinctive cultural and historical attraction beyond a typical campground.
Exhibits and Demonstrations: Visitors can enjoy "lots of demonstrations and Exhibits" related to antique farming equipment, including jelly making on old-fashioned wood stoves and horses pulling antique plows, especially during the Power Show.
"Parade of Power": A highlight of the annual show is the "Parade of Power," featuring antique garden tractors to powerful steam engines, which even put on a "beautiful light show after dark."
On-Site Museum: A museum on the grounds houses many "old time and valuable pieces" of farm machinery, some over 100 years old, offering educational tours for groups or casual visitors.
Intimate Camping Experience: With approximately 12 sites, the campground offers a more personal and less crowded atmosphere, described by one visitor as "peaceful" and where they were "sadly the only occupants," implying tranquility.
Essential Camping Utilities: The availability of water and electric hookups, plus a convenient on-property dump site, provides essential comforts for RV and tent campers.
Affordable Camping: While a specific price is not mentioned, the basic nature of the campground and its small size often imply a more budget-friendly camping option.
Scenic Setting: Despite one reviewer wishing they had taken pictures because the existing ones "don't do the campground justice," it suggests a picturesque and appealing environment.
Community and Engagement: The presence of "good food, good people" during events points to a friendly and engaging atmosphere, particularly for those interested in the historical aspects of the site.

Promotions or Special Offers

While specific ongoing promotions or special offers for Antique Acres Campground are not detailed in the provided customer reviews, its primary unique offering is its direct connection to the annual Old Time Power Show. For Iowa residents, this yearly event in August serves as a significant draw and could be considered a "special offer" in itself, providing a rich, educational, and entertaining experience beyond standard camping. It's common for such unique destinations to have specific rates or packages tied to their hallmark events. For instance, during the Old Time Power Show, there might be special admission prices for campers, or perhaps a combined ticket that includes both camping and event access. Visitors interested in attending the show and camping should always contact Antique Acres directly to inquire about any specific event-related booking options or packages that might be available. Beyond the annual show, given its smaller size of approximately 12 sites, Antique Acres might not frequently advertise broad discounts, but direct inquiry is always best. Sometimes, smaller campgrounds offer flexible rates for longer stays or for groups, which would be worth asking about. It's also possible that, as a historical preservation site, they might have specific membership benefits or discounts for patrons of agricultural history organizations. The most reliable way for Iowa locals to discover any current or upcoming promotions, especially those related to the Old Time Power Show or off-peak camping, is to reach out directly to Antique Acres Campground using their provided contact information.

Contact Information

To learn more about Antique Acres Campground, inquire about camping availability, or get details on the Old Time Power Show and other events, please use the following contact information:

Address: Cedar Falls, IA 50613, USA (Physical address noted as 7610 Waverly Road, Cedar Falls, IA 50613)

Phone: (319) 987-2380

Mobile Phone: +1 319-987-2380

When contacting them, it is advisable to specify your interest in camping and, if applicable, your plans to attend the Old Time Power Show, to ensure you receive the most relevant and up-to-date information regarding reservations, site availability, and event schedules. Direct communication is the best way to plan your visit to this unique Iowa destination.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Iowa locals, Antique Acres Campground offers more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an immersive dive into the state's agricultural past, combined with a tranquil camping experience. What makes it particularly suitable for Iowans is its direct connection to our heritage. The annual Old Time Power Show, where antique machinery roars to life, and demonstrations showcase traditional skills, is a truly unique event that celebrates the very roots of our state. This offers a compelling reason for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Iowa’s farming legacy to visit. The campground's smaller size, with approximately 12 sites, suggests a quieter, more personal camping atmosphere, a welcome respite from larger, often crowded, recreational areas. This can be ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat where the focus is on relaxation and connection with history. While basic, the provision of water, electricity, and an on-site dump station caters to essential camper needs, ensuring a comfortable stay. The location in Cedar Falls further enhances its appeal for locals, offering easy accessibility and the option to explore a vibrant Iowa city should you desire a break from the rustic charm. Antique Acres isn't about extensive modern amenities; it's about the genuine experience of stepping back in time, witnessing living history, and enjoying a simple, peaceful camping trip. For Iowans who value their heritage, appreciate a more intimate setting, and seek a camping adventure with a unique cultural twist, Antique Acres Campground is a truly special destination that highlights the best of our state’s character.