Foster Acres Campground & Trails Boys Scouts of America Mid-Iowa Council

For those in Iowa seeking a refreshing escape into nature, a hidden gem awaits on the northern edge of Ottumwa: Foster Acres Campground & Trails, proudly maintained by the Boys Scouts of America Mid-Iowa Council. This serene destination offers a unique blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it a perfect spot for individuals, families, and groups looking to reconnect with the great outdoors without venturing too far from home. Whether you're an experienced camper or simply looking for a peaceful day hike, Foster Acres provides an accessible and inviting environment to unwind and explore the natural beauty of our state.

Foster Acres is not just a campground; it’s a place where the simplicity of nature meets the warmth of community. It embodies the spirit of outdoor adventure and offers a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit. With its dedication to maintaining a clean and functional space, the Mid-Iowa Council ensures that Foster Acres remains a valuable resource for outdoor recreation in the region. Many visitors have praised the efforts of the BSA in keeping the grounds well-maintained, highlighting it as a favorite place to relax and unwind.

Foster Acres Campground & Trails is conveniently located at 525 Grandview Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501, USA. Its position on the northern edge of Ottumwa makes it easily accessible for residents of Ottumwa and surrounding communities within Iowa. Situated just outside the Indian Hills Community College Campus, the campground benefits from being close enough to town for convenience, yet far enough to provide that essential feeling of being away from it all. While some areas, particularly trails, have been noted by visitors as being overgrown at times, the overall accessibility to the main facilities and the general grounds remains straightforward, making it an ideal local destination for a quick getaway or a planned adventure.

For those planning a visit, access to the property often requires arranging to pick up a key from the Mid-Iowa Council Office, ensuring a controlled and secure environment for all visitors. This system helps maintain the integrity of the campground and its facilities, allowing guests to enjoy their time with peace of mind. Despite being nestled amidst natural woodlands, Foster Acres is relatively easy to find, providing a seamless transition from the everyday bustle to the tranquility of nature.

Foster Acres Campground & Trails offers a range of services designed to accommodate various outdoor activities and gatherings. These include:

• Strother Lodge: A four-season lodge that is heated and equipped with kitchen facilities, electricity, water, and bathrooms. It can accommodate up to 25 people for meetings or sleep 20 on the floor for overnight stays. Tables and chairs are available for meeting room use. The lodge and campsites are available year-round.
• Primitive Campsites: Numerous primitive campsites are available throughout the property, ideal for traditional tent camping and a true outdoor experience. These sites offer a more rustic setting for those who enjoy minimal amenities. There are at least 16 campsites, some with outdoor fireplaces.
• Trail System: Several miles of trails wind through the forested grounds, providing opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings. Bridges cross over Sugar Creek, adding to the scenic beauty of the trails.
• Event Hosting: The facilities, particularly Strother Lodge, are suitable for hosting various events, training sessions, and group gatherings. The flexibility of the lodge makes it a versatile space for different needs.
• Key Access System: To ensure controlled access and security, visitors are typically required to arrange for key pickup with the Mid-Iowa Council Office.

Foster Acres Campground & Trails boasts several features that enhance the visitor experience, making it a desirable location for outdoor enthusiasts:

• Year-Round Accessibility: Both the Strother Lodge and the primitive campsites are available for use throughout the year, allowing for camping and activities in all seasons.
• Forested Grounds: The 60 acres of dense forest provide a rich natural environment for exploration, offering a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature.
• "Lightning Tree": One of the unique points of interest mentioned by visitors is the "Lightning Tree," encouraging exploration and discovery within the trail system.
• Proximity to Indian Hills Community College: Its location near the college campus adds a layer of convenience and makes it a recognizable landmark in the area.
• Clean and Maintained Facilities: Reviews often highlight the cleanliness of the area, indicating a commitment from the BSA to upkeep the grounds.
• Outdoor Fireplace: Some campsites are equipped with outdoor fireplaces, perfect for campfires and cooking.

As a property managed by the Boys Scouts of America Mid-Iowa Council, Foster Acres primarily supports Scouting activities and programs. While specific public-facing promotions or discounts for general visitors might not be widely advertised in the traditional sense, the Mid-Iowa Council frequently hosts special events and offers for its members and the broader community that utilize Foster Acres. These often include:

• Cub Fun Days: Periodically, events like the "Woodland Trails Foster Acres Cub Fun Day" are organized, open to Cub Scouts and their families, often including activities such as range target activities, crafts, and nature hikes. These family-centered events encourage participation and offer a taste of the outdoor experience.
• Overnight Camping Opportunities with Events: For certain events, families and packs may have the opportunity to participate in overnight camping, providing new scouts with their first experience outdoors.
• Youth and Adult Training Programs: The Mid-Iowa Council utilizes its properties, including Foster Acres, for various training sessions and workshops related to Scouting skills and leadership.
• Facility Rentals: While not a "promotion," the availability of Strother Lodge and campsites for rent by groups or individuals can be seen as an ongoing offering that provides a valuable resource at a reasonable cost, especially for those seeking a private outdoor space.

It is always recommended to check the official Mid-Iowa Council website (scoutingiowa.org) or contact them directly for the most current information on upcoming events, special programs, and availability for rentals that might be considered beneficial offers for local users.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Foster Acres Campground & Trails, you can reach the Mid-Iowa Council of the Boys Scouts of America:

• Address: 525 Grandview Ave, Ottumwa, IA 52501, USA (for Foster Acres itself). The administrative office for the Mid-Iowa Council is located at 6123 Scout Trail, Des Moines, IA 50316.
• Phone: For general inquiries and reservations, you can contact the Mid-Iowa Council at (515) 266-2135.

It's important to remember that access to Foster Acres often requires coordinating key pickup with the Mid-Iowa Council Office, so contacting them in advance of your visit is highly recommended.

Foster Acres Campground & Trails offers an unparalleled opportunity for locals in Iowa to embrace the outdoors, providing a perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and functional amenities. For residents of Ottumwa and surrounding areas, it serves as a convenient escape, allowing for weekend getaways or day trips without the need for extensive travel. This makes it an ideal spot for spontaneous adventures or well-planned outdoor activities.

The facility caters to a variety of needs, from providing primitive campsites for those seeking a true back-to-nature experience to the well-equipped Strother Lodge for group gatherings, meetings, or comfortable overnight stays. The extensive trail system invites hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore the dense forests and discover the serene beauty of Sugar Creek, offering a peaceful respite from daily life. While some users have noted the trails can be overgrown at times, the overall consensus points to a clean and well-managed property, reflecting the dedication of the Boys Scouts of America Mid-Iowa Council.

Beyond its physical attributes, Foster Acres fosters a sense of community and connection to nature, aligning with the core values of the Scouting movement. It’s a place where families can create lasting memories, where individuals can find solace in solitude, and where groups can come together for shared experiences. The availability of year-round options ensures that Iowans can enjoy this natural haven regardless of the season. For anyone in Iowa looking for a local outdoor destination that offers both relaxation and a touch of adventure, Foster Acres Campground & Trails is an excellent choice, providing a valuable resource right in our own backyard.