Eveland Access Campground

For Iowans eager to reconnect with nature without straying too far from home, Eveland Access Campground in Oskaloosa offers an inviting and well-maintained outdoor escape. Situated beautifully alongside the Des Moines River, this campground provides a serene setting for a variety of recreational activities, from peaceful picnics by the water to engaging fishing expeditions. It's a cherished local spot where the beauty of Iowa's natural landscape meets convenient camping amenities, making it a perfect destination for a family outing, a solo adventure, or a gathering with friends.

Eveland Access Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a multi-use recreation area designed to cater to diverse outdoor interests. Visitors consistently praise its clean and well-maintained facilities, the stunning river views, and the helpfulness of the staff. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax, a place to launch your boat, or trails to explore, Eveland Access Campground provides "something for everyone." Its blend of affordability and quality amenities ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all who visit, making it a highly recommended choice for your next Iowa outdoor adventure.

Managed by the Mahaska County Conservation Board, Eveland Access reflects a commitment to preserving natural resources while providing accessible recreational opportunities for the public. This article will delve into the specifics of Eveland Access Campground, offering a comprehensive overview of its location, the services and features available, and why it stands out as an excellent choice for local Iowans seeking a memorable outdoor experience.

Eveland Access Campground is conveniently located at 2890 Galeston Ave, Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA. This prime location places it approximately 4 miles southwest of Beacon and roughly 8 miles southwest of Oskaloosa. Its position adjacent to the Des Moines River is a key highlight, providing beautiful views and direct access to the waterway.

For Iowans, the accessibility of Eveland Access Campground is a significant advantage. It is within reasonable driving distance for many communities across Central and Southern Iowa, making it an ideal spot for weekend getaways or shorter trips. Oskaloosa, a nearby larger town, offers a range of services, including grocery stores, gas stations, and other conveniences that campers might need to stock up on supplies before or during their stay.

The campground's direct access to the Des Moines River via one of the finest concrete boat ramps in the county further enhances its accessibility for water enthusiasts. This means boaters and anglers can easily launch their vessels and enjoy the river's offerings. Additionally, the multi-use recreation area includes trails, making it accessible for those who enjoy hiking and exploring the natural surroundings. The clear signage and well-maintained roads leading to the campground contribute to a smooth and stress-free arrival for visitors, ensuring that the focus remains on relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

Eveland Access Campground, a multi-use recreation area managed by the Mahaska County Conservation Board, offers a variety of services to ensure a pleasant and functional camping experience. The campground is divided into East and West sides, each with specific features.

• Campsites: Eveland Access boasts a total of 44 campsites. The East Side Campground features 26 campsites with 30 amp electrical hookups. The West Side Campground offers 18 campsites, including 5 pull-through sites, with both 30 amp and 50 amp electrical hookups. All campsites include a fire ring and picnic table.
• Tent Camping: Dedicated tent sites are available, often without electricity, catering to those who prefer a more traditional camping experience. These are typically priced affordably.
• Restrooms: Clean restrooms are available. The East side typically has pit toilet accommodations, while the West side features a unisex shower house and flush restrooms. Both sides can utilize these facilities.
• Showers: A clean shower house is available, providing hot water for campers to refresh after a day of outdoor activities. Note that the shower house might be closed until overnight temperatures consistently remain above freezing in early spring.
• Drinking Water: Access to drinking water is available within the campground for refilling bottles and tanks. Continuous hook-up to water hydrants is not permitted; they are for filling holding tanks only.
• Boat Ramp: A concrete boat ramp, recognized as one of the finest in the county, provides direct access to the Des Moines River for boating and fishing.
• Sanitary Dump Station: A dump station is located above the campgrounds at the cabin site, providing a convenient facility for RV and trailer owners to empty their waste tanks.
• Playground Equipment: A playground area is available, offering a fun and safe space for children to play.
• Picnic Shelters: Picnic shelters are on-site, providing covered areas for day-use activities, group meals, or shelter during inclement weather. An electric shelter house is specifically mentioned for the East Side.
• First-Come, First-Serve (FCFS) Basis: All campsites at Eveland Access Campground are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. No reservations are accepted, so early arrival is recommended, especially during peak times.
• Self-Registration: Campers are required to self-register upon arrival. Payment envelopes are available at kiosks on both sides of the campground for easy payment.
• Extended Stays: Campers may stay a maximum of 14 consecutive nights. After this period, they must vacate the park for 24 hours before returning.

• Beautiful River Views: A standout feature is the campground's picturesque location "by the river," offering scenic views of the Des Moines River. This provides a serene backdrop for camping and offers opportunities for quiet reflection or photography.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the campground for being "clean and well maintained," with "clean bathrooms and showerhouse." This attention to cleanliness significantly enhances the camping experience.
• Affordable Camping Options: Eveland Access offers budget-friendly camping. Tent sites (no electricity) are available for $10 a night, while electric spots are $15 per night (though official Mahaska County Conservation Board site states $20.00 per night, it's worth verifying current rates upon arrival). This affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of campers.
• Variety of Campsites: With both electric (30 amp and 50 amp) and non-electric tent sites, as well as pull-through options, the campground caters to diverse camping preferences and equipment sizes.
• Excellent River Access: The "fine" concrete boat ramp provides direct and easy access to the Des Moines River for boating, kayaking, and canoeing, making it a hub for water-based recreation. Fishing is also a popular activity here.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The presence of "playgrounds for children" and picnic shelters makes Eveland Access a great choice for families, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.
• Walking Paths/Trails: The multi-use recreation area includes walking paths, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls or more vigorous hikes to explore the natural surroundings.
• Small, River Access Area: Described as a "small river access area with camp sites available," it offers a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger parks, fostering a sense of peace.
• First-Come, First-Serve Convenience: While some prefer reservations, the FCFS system can be a highlight for spontaneous travelers or those who prefer flexibility in their plans.
• On-site Cabins: For those looking for a more comfortable stay without "roughing it," two-bedroom luxury cabins (Birch and Apple Cabins) are available adjacent to the campground, offering a home-away-from-home experience with full amenities.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural setting along the river provides opportunities for observing local wildlife and birdwatching.

As a campground managed by the Mahaska County Conservation Board, Eveland Access Campground primarily offers structured pricing rather than dynamic, short-term promotions common in private businesses. However, there are specific cost-saving opportunities and long-term value options available for frequent visitors, particularly locals:

• Affordable Daily Rates: The standard camping rates are already quite competitive and affordable. Tent sites are $10 per night (no electricity), and electric sites are $15-20 per night. This inherent affordability serves as a continuous "offer" for budget-conscious campers.
• Camping Coupon Books: The Mahaska County Conservation Board (MCCB) offers "coupon books." For a purchase of $200.00, campers receive 11 coupons, meaning they "pay for 10 nights and the 11th night is free." This is a significant discount for those who plan multiple visits throughout the camping season.
• Value of Amenities for Price: The availability of clean bathrooms and a shower house, a concrete boat ramp, playgrounds, and picnic shelters at such reasonable rates provides excellent value, which acts as an ongoing benefit to campers.
• Off-Season Comfort of Cabins: While not a camping promotion, the adjacent Eveland Access Cabins offer "Off Season" rates (January 1 - March 31) at $110.00 per night, compared to $140.00 during Peak Season. This provides a promotional opportunity for more comfortable lodging during colder months.

Since campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis, there are no reservation-based promotions. Prospective campers should directly contact the Mahaska County Conservation Board or Eveland Access Campground using the provided phone number to confirm current rates and the availability of the coupon books or any other specific long-term value options.

Address: 2890 Galeston Ave, Oskaloosa, IA 52577, USA

Phone: (641) 295-1483

Mobile Phone: +1 641-295-1483

Eveland Access Campground is an outstanding choice for locals across Iowa, offering a blend of affordability, convenience, and natural beauty that truly caters to the desires of those seeking an accessible outdoor experience. Its location in Oskaloosa, nestled by the Des Moines River, provides a serene and picturesque setting without requiring extensive travel, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend getaways or longer, relaxing stays.

The campground's diverse camping options, from budget-friendly tent sites to electric hookup spots (including 50-amp service on the West side), ensure that it can accommodate various types of campers and their equipment. The consistent praise for its "clean bathrooms and showerhouse" highlights a commitment to providing comfortable and well-maintained facilities, a critical factor for an enjoyable camping trip. The "awesome staff" further enhances the welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel at home.

Eveland Access truly offers "something for everyone." Anglers will appreciate the direct river access and "fine" concrete boat ramp, while families can enjoy the playgrounds and spacious picnic areas. The presence of walking paths encourages exploration of the beautiful natural surroundings. For those seeking a slightly less rustic experience, the adjacent cabins provide an excellent alternative.

Furthermore, the affordability of the campsites, coupled with the option to purchase coupon books for even greater savings, makes Eveland Access a financially sensible choice for regular local campers. It's a place where Iowans can consistently find peace, recreation, and a strong connection to their state's natural landscape, making it a highly suitable and cherished local destination.