Fillmore Recreation Area Campground

For Iowa residents seeking a serene and straightforward camping experience, Fillmore Recreation Area Campground in Cascade offers a welcoming retreat. Tucked away behind a charming 9-hole golf course, this county campground is praised for its cleanliness, well-maintained sites, and tranquil atmosphere. While it might not boast an endless list of high-tech amenities, it excels at providing the essentials for a comfortable and peaceful stay, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate simplicity and natural beauty. If you're an Iowan looking for an affordable, quiet, and clean place to park your RV or pitch a tent, with the added bonus of a nearby golf course, Fillmore Recreation Area Campground is an excellent choice for your next outdoor escape.

Fillmore Recreation Area Campground is located at 21655 US-151, Cascade, IA 52033, USA. This convenient address places it within Dubuque County, making it easily accessible for residents across Eastern and Central Iowa. Its setting "behind the 9-hole golf course" of Fillmore Fairways provides a unique and pleasant backdrop, offering views of manicured greenery.

The campground’s proximity to US-151 ensures straightforward travel, whether you're coming from nearby Dubuque or further afield. While the campground itself offers a peaceful atmosphere, it’s still close enough to the town of Cascade to access local services, dining, and attractions. Cascade provides a small-town charm with necessary conveniences, including the Cascade Riverview Amphitheater, local museums like the Red Faber Museum and Tri-County Historical Society, and various shops and eateries.

Being part of the larger Fillmore Recreation Area, campers also have immediate access to the golf course, which is a significant draw for many. The presence of White Water Creek running through the park further enhances its natural appeal, offering shaded banks and an excellent location for picnics. This blend of natural tranquility, recreational opportunities, and local accessibility makes Fillmore Recreation Area Campground a well-rounded option for Iowans looking for a convenient and enjoyable outdoor experience.

Fillmore Recreation Area Campground focuses on providing essential services that ensure a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience. The emphasis here is on cleanliness and functionality, making it a reliable choice for campers.

• P RV/Camper Van Sites: The campground offers dedicated RV/camper van spots, with some available for online reservation and others operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are noted to have "new gravel and pretty level."
• P Electric and Water Hookups: Sites are available with both electricity (20/30 Amp) and water hookups, providing convenience for RV and camper van users. Non-electric sites are also available for a more rustic experience.
• P Clean Latrines/Restrooms: Reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of the latrines, which are described as "new" and well-maintained. Public restrooms and showers are advertised amenities.
• P Dump Station: A dump station is available for RV users to dispose of waste conveniently.
• P Picnic Areas: Shaded picnic areas along White Water Creek provide excellent spots for outdoor meals and relaxation.
• P Pet-Friendly: Fillmore Recreation Area is pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join your camping adventure. Pets must be kept on a leash and picked up after, and are typically not allowed in bathing areas or playgrounds.

While a previous review mentioned "standing water on the ground all in the women's restroom" and "dump station and water facilities are poor, unpaved and homemade looking" for a different campground (Riverview Ridge Campgrounds), this feedback does not apply to Fillmore Recreation Area Campground, which generally receives positive remarks for its facilities.

Fillmore Recreation Area Campground stands out with its quiet setting and direct access to recreational amenities:

• P Golf Course Proximity: Being "tucked in behind the 9-hole golf course" (Fillmore Fairways) is a major highlight, offering scenic views and easy access for golf enthusiasts. The clubhouse also offers food, drink, showers, and restroom facilities for golfers.
• P Tranquil Atmosphere: Reviewers consistently emphasize the "quiet campground" aspect, making it ideal for those seeking relaxation and a break from urban noise.
• P Stream Access and Trails: A "cute bridge and short trail to the stream area" (White Water Creek) provides a charming natural feature for exploration and picnics. The park offers shaded areas along the creek.
• P Playground: A playground is available adjacent to the picnic and camp areas, providing entertainment for younger campers.
• P Canoe Launch: The recreation area offers a canoe launch, indicating opportunities for water recreation on White Water Creek.
• P Well-Maintained Sites: The gravel sites are noted to be "pretty level," contributing to an easy setup for RVs and campers.
• P Excellent Value: With rates of $23/night for electric and water hookups (as of May 2023) and even lower for non-electric sites, it offers a very affordable camping option in Iowa.

One review mentioned "SOOOOOOO many moths and aphids that got into the van," which might be a seasonal or weather-dependent issue to be aware of when planning a visit.

Fillmore Recreation Area Campground maintains a straightforward pricing structure, with rates that are notably affordable for Iowa campers. While no specific "promotions" in the traditional marketing sense are widely advertised, the consistent low rates are a form of ongoing value.

• P Current Rates (as of May 2023):
  • P Electricity and Water Hookup: $23/night
  • P 20/30 Amp Electric Sites (2021 rates): $18/night
  • P Non-Electric Sites (2021 rates): $13/night
• P Online Reservations: Six of the eight RV/camper van spots can be reserved online, offering convenience for planning ahead. The remaining two are first-come, first-served.

These rates represent excellent value for a clean, well-located campground with essential amenities. It's advisable for potential visitors to check the Dubuque County website or contact the park directly for the most current pricing, as rates can change.

To learn more about Fillmore Recreation Area Campground, check availability, or make a reservation, you can utilize the following contact details. While a direct phone number for the campground itself isn't always distinct from the broader Dubuque County Conservation/Parks department, inquiries can be made through the general recreation area contacts.

• P Address: 21655 US-151, Cascade, IA 52033, USA (The given 83FQ+JG is a Google Plus Code for precise location.)
• P Phone: Dubuque County Conservation (which manages the park) can be reached at (563) 556-6745. While not a direct campground line, this is the appropriate contact for inquiries about county parks and camping.

Given that six out of eight sites are reservable online, using the Dubuque County Parks and Recreation website for booking is often the most efficient method to secure a spot. For general questions or specific details not found online, a call to the county conservation office would be appropriate.

For Iowa residents seeking a straightforward, clean, and incredibly peaceful camping experience, Fillmore Recreation Area Campground in Cascade is an exceptional choice. Its modest size (only 8 RV/camper van spots) contributes to its quiet charm, making it ideal for those who prefer a less crowded atmosphere. The positive feedback on its clean latrines, level sites, and the scenic backdrop of the adjacent golf course underscore its appeal.

While it may not offer extensive resort-style amenities, its affordability, convenient location near Cascade, and direct access to golf and natural features like White Water Creek make it perfectly suitable for an overnight stop or a relaxing weekend. For Iowans who prioritize a calm environment and well-maintained basic facilities over elaborate entertainment, Fillmore Recreation Area Campground provides a reliable and enjoyable outdoor escape that feels like a true hidden gem.