Douma Park Campround

- 3351 Polk Ave, Sanborn, IA 51248

For us Iowans, the joy of discovering a local gem that perfectly blends natural beauty with modern convenience is truly special. Douma Park Campground, located just outside Sanborn, is precisely that kind of place. What was once a gravel pit has been thoughtfully transformed into a vibrant, family-friendly campground complete with a serene 10-acre fishing pond and a host of amenities designed for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. As locals, we appreciate having such a well-equipped and peaceful outdoor retreat so accessible within our own O'Brien County.

The story of Douma Park is one of impressive transformation. A 21-acre parcel, including the former gravel pit, was generously acquired from the Oscar Douma family and meticulously developed by the O'Brien County Conservation Board. This vision turned a utilitarian landscape into a recreational haven, demonstrating a commitment to providing quality outdoor spaces for the community. The careful planning and recent renovations have made Douma Park Campground a standout destination, featuring updated facilities that cater to today's campers while maintaining a connection to nature.

Visitors to Douma Park will immediately notice the fresh and modern feel of the campground. Recent upgrades have introduced spacious campsites, new fire rings, and picnic tables, along with the significant addition of a modern shower house and full hookups at many sites. This level of amenity sets Douma Park apart, offering the convenience often sought by RVers and families, while the peaceful 10-acre fishing pond and swimming beach provide ample opportunities for classic outdoor fun. Whether you’re casting a line, taking a dip, or simply enjoying the quiet surroundings from your campsite, Douma Park Campground offers a refreshing and well-equipped experience for Iowa residents seeking an escape from the everyday.

Douma Park Campground is conveniently located at 3351 Polk Ave, Sanborn, IA 51248, USA. Situated approximately two miles west of Sanborn and a half-mile south, its positioning in O'Brien County makes it an easily accessible destination for residents across northwest Iowa and even those coming from neighboring states. Sanborn itself is a welcoming community, offering local services and a quaint small-town feel for any provisions you might need before or during your stay.

Accessibility to Douma Park is generally straightforward. While the park is located slightly off main paved roads, the short stretch of gravel road leading to the entrance is typically well-maintained and navigable for all types of vehicles, including larger RVs. This makes the journey to the campground relatively stress-free, allowing campers to quickly transition from travel to relaxation. The park's layout is designed with ease of use in mind, with clear signage and well-defined roads within the campground itself, facilitating easy navigation to individual campsites. This blend of convenient access and a peaceful, natural setting makes Douma Park an ideal choice for Iowa locals looking for a hassle-free outdoor escape.

Douma Park Campground provides a comprehensive array of modern services and amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all visitors:

• Full Hookup Campsites: The campground offers 14 camping spots available from May through October, with some seasonal sites (1-6) and pay-at-site options (7-13). Each site provides full hookups, including electric service (20/30/50 AMP), water hookups, and sewer hookups, catering to RVs and campers seeking full convenience.
• Modern Shower House and Restrooms: A significant upgrade, the park now features a modern shower house with clean and well-maintained restrooms, providing comfortable facilities for all campers.
• Swimming Beach: Douma Park boasts a great swimming beach at the 10-acre fishing pond, offering a refreshing spot to cool off during warm Iowa summers. It is important to note that no lifeguards are on duty, so swimming is at your own risk.
• 10-Acre Fishing Pond: A central feature of the park, this pond provides ample opportunities for fishing. It is stocked with a variety of aquatic plant and animal life, making it a popular spot for anglers.
• Fishing Jetty: For convenient fishing access, a dedicated fishing jetty area extends into the pond, allowing easy casting from the shore.
• Boating Ramp: A boat ramp is available for easy access to the fishing pond, suitable for non-motorized or electric-motor boats.
• Playground: A new playground facility offers a safe and engaging area for children to play, making the park a family-friendly destination.
• Wireless Internet: Douma Park provides wireless internet access, allowing campers to stay connected if desired, even while enjoying the outdoors.
• Online Payment and Reservations: Payment for campsites is conveniently handled via online payment methods at each site. Some sites (1-6 are seasonal, 7-13 are pay-at-site) allow for direct payment, while reservations may be available for specific sites (e.g., sites 19-24, 1-10) through the O'Brien County Conservation Board’s online system (MyCountyParks.com).

Douma Park Campground stands out for several key features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for Iowa locals:

• Transformed Gravel Pit to Oasis: One of its most unique aspects is its impressive transformation from a 21-acre gravel pit into a beautiful and functional family campground and a 10-acre fishing pond. This successful reclamation project showcases thoughtful park development.
• Modern Amenities in a Natural Setting: Douma Park strikes a great balance, offering modern conveniences like full hookup campsites (water, sewer, electric), a modern shower house, and even wireless internet, all within a peaceful, natural environment, making camping more comfortable for a wider range of users.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The 10-acre pond is a significant highlight, known for its ample aquatic plant and animal life, providing great fishing experiences. The presence of a dedicated fishing jetty further enhances accessibility for anglers.
• Family-Friendly Environment: With a new playground and a designated swimming beach (swim at your own risk), Douma Park is perfectly suited for families with children, offering plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
• Convenient Location: Situated just outside Sanborn, the park offers a secluded feel without being too remote. Its accessibility means less travel time and more time enjoying the outdoors for Iowa residents.
• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Despite its amenities, Douma Park is generally described as a quiet park, providing a serene environment for relaxation, whether you're fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Local Management by O'Brien County Conservation: Being managed by the O'Brien County Conservation Board ensures that the park is well-maintained and developed with local community needs and environmental preservation in mind.

As a public park managed by the O'Brien County Conservation Board, Douma Park Campground operates on a fixed fee schedule rather than offering typical commercial promotions or discounts. However, understanding their pricing and operational structure can help locals plan their visits effectively:

• Standard Camping Rate: The current camping rate at Douma Park is $20.00 per night for a site with full hookups (electric, water, sewer). This rate is generally consistent throughout the season.
• Seasonal Site Options: Douma Park offers seasonal sites (sites 1-6), which can be a beneficial option for locals who wish to have a dedicated spot for an extended period throughout the camping season. Long-term site rental rates are published by O'Brien County Conservation (e.g., $450 per month or $2,200 per year, though specific rates should always be confirmed directly).
• Pay-at-Site Convenience: For standard camping, sites 7-13 are designated as "pay at site," allowing for on-the-spot payment using online methods, which offers flexibility for spontaneous trips.
• Online Reservations: While some sites are "pay at site," the O'Brien County Conservation Board provides online reservation options for other sites at Douma Park and other county parks (e.g., sites 19-24, 1-10 are often online reservation sites at their parks). Checking the MyCountyParks.com website for O'Brien County is the best way to determine which sites are reservable and to book in advance, ensuring you secure your preferred spot.
• Camping Season: The campgrounds typically operate from May 1 through October 15. Planning within this window ensures full access to all amenities and services.

While specific "promotions" in the commercial sense are not available, the value provided by Douma Park Campground's modern amenities, clean facilities, and family-friendly environment at its set public rates makes it a highly attractive and affordable option for Iowa residents seeking quality outdoor recreation.

For detailed information, reservations, or any specific inquiries regarding Douma Park Campground, locals in Iowa can contact the O'Brien County Conservation Board, which manages the park. It's always best to reach out to them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Address: 3351 Polk Ave, Sanborn, IA 51248, USA

Phone: 712-295-7200 (This is the general contact number for the O'Brien County Conservation Board/Prairie Heritage Center, which oversees Douma Park).

Website: For online reservations and detailed park information, it's recommended to visit the O'Brien County Conservation section on the MyCountyParks website or the Prairie Heritage Center website (prairieheritagecenter.org), where Douma Park is listed under "Our Parks."

Calling during business hours will generally provide the quickest response for specific questions about site availability, rules, or amenities at Douma Park Campground.

Douma Park Campground is an ideal destination for us Iowans seeking a convenient, comfortable, and thoroughly enjoyable outdoor experience close to home. Its strategic location near Sanborn, coupled with its remarkable transformation from a gravel pit into a modern recreational area, makes it a prime example of accessible local recreation. For residents across Iowa, especially those in O'Brien County and surrounding areas, Douma Park offers an easy escape that combines natural beauty with practical amenities.

What truly makes Douma Park suitable for locals is its focus on modern comforts. The provision of full hookup campsites (electric, water, sewer) means that RVers and campers can enjoy their stay with all the conveniences of home. The recently renovated shower house and modern restrooms further enhance the comfort level, eliminating common camping inconveniences. This commitment to well-maintained facilities ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience for families and individuals alike.

Beyond the amenities, the park’s natural features provide ample opportunities for recreation. The 10-acre fishing pond, complete with a jetty, is a fantastic resource for anglers of all ages, offering a peaceful setting for casting a line. The swimming beach provides a refreshing way to cool off during the warmer months, creating a perfect spot for family fun. The new playground ensures that younger visitors have plenty of space to burn off energy, making it a truly family-friendly environment.

As a park managed by the O'Brien County Conservation Board, Douma Park Campground is a valuable public asset. Its affordable rates and commitment to serving the local community make it an attractive and accessible option for regular use. By choosing Douma Park, Iowans are not only securing a fantastic outdoor experience but also supporting the continued development and maintenance of quality recreational spaces within our state. It’s a place where lasting memories are made, laughter echoes across the lake, and the simple joys of Iowa’s outdoors are celebrated, right in our own backyard.

Douma Park Campround

3351 Polk Ave, Sanborn, IA 51248, USA