Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation- Camp Wakonda

For generations, the great outdoors has played a vital role in shaping character, fostering leadership, and creating unforgettable memories. In the heart of Iowa, the Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation, home to Camp Wakonda, stands as a testament to this enduring tradition. While primarily known for its extensive Boy Scouts of America programs, this remarkable facility offers much more, serving as a hub for outdoor education and a unique venue for various groups and events. As one enthusiastic reviewer perfectly puts it, it’s the "Best place on earth, except for maybe National Parks!" This speaks volumes about the quality of the experience visitors can expect.

The Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation encompasses a sprawling 500-acre property that provides a rich and diverse environment for learning, adventure, and personal growth. It's a place where "young men learn about leadership" and where the principles of the Scout Law are exemplified through practical experience. Beyond its core Scouting mission, the reservation actively works to serve the "greater community," offering opportunities for groups and individuals to engage with its impressive facilities and natural surroundings.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what makes Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda a standout destination for Iowans. We'll cover its strategic location, the wide array of services and facilities it offers, its many highlights, and how you can connect with them for your next adventure or event. Whether you're a Scout family, an educational institution, a non-profit organization, or simply an individual seeking an enriching outdoor experience, read on to discover the potential of this exceptional Iowa treasure.

Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda is nestled at 4521 Boy Scouts Rd, Central City, IA 52214, USA. This location places it in a serene, natural setting near Central City, a charming community in Linn County, Iowa. The reservation's position provides a sense of being truly "away from it all" while still maintaining reasonable accessibility from major Iowa cities.

For those traveling from Iowa City or Cedar Rapids, the camp is conveniently reached via I-380 and local county roads, typically involving a scenic drive through Iowa's picturesque countryside. Detailed directions are often provided by the camp, guiding visitors efficiently to the property. From Central City itself, the drive is short and straightforward, leading into the heart of the reservation.

The expansive 500-acre property itself boasts diverse terrain, including an inlet of the Wapsipinicon River (John's Lake), which adds to its natural allure. The rural setting contributes to the camp's ability to offer extensive outdoor programs, from hiking and mountain biking to shooting sports, without the distractions of urban environments. Despite its secluded feel, the accessibility of the camp ensures that it remains a practical destination for groups and organizations from across Eastern Iowa and beyond, making it a valuable resource for locals seeking immersive outdoor and educational experiences.

Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda, managed by the Hawkeye Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, offers a wide array of services and facilities. While primarily serving Scouting programs, many of its resources are available for rental by other organizations and the wider community.

• Scouts BSA Resident Camp: During summer months, the camp hosts comprehensive resident programs for Scouts BSA, offering a wide variety of merit badges and activities focused on learning, achievement, and leadership.
• Cub Scout Camping: Specific camping programs are designed for Cub Scouts, introducing younger participants to outdoor skills and fun.
• Facility Rentals: Many facilities are available for year-round rental by Scouting units, businesses, students, and non-profit organizations. This includes:
  • Dakin Dining Hall: A large dining hall capable of seating up to 300 people, available for meals during summer camp and for rent during the off-season for indoor camping and programs.
  • Allsop Outdoor Education Center: A 7,000 sq ft facility with 18 sleeping rooms, accommodating up to 72 guests for overnight stays and over 80 for meetings. Ideal for winter camping, retreats, and general meetings.
  • Lodge and Shelter Rentals: Various lodges (Eyman Lodge, Hanford Lodge) and open shelters (Handicraft Shelter, Pole Shelters, Program Shelter) are available for rent, suitable for smaller groups or day events.
  • Campsite Rentals: Multiple campsites (e.g., Meadowlark, Morning Dove, Edwards, Blue Jay, Eagle, Kingfisher, Whippoorwill, Hawkeye, Falcon, Billy Anderson) are available for rent, some with handicap accessibility.
• Pool and Shower House: A swimming pool is available for program use, complemented by a shower house with separate facilities for youth and adults, males and females. Laundry facilities and a handicapped accessible shower are also provided.
• Medical Center: During summer camp, a medical center with trained staff is on-site, and the camp ranger is an EMT, ensuring a commitment to safety and well-being.
• Equipment Rental: The reservation offers a variety of equipment for rent, including canoes, personal flotation devices (PFDs), mountain bikes, cooking equipment (stoves, cook kits, Dutch ovens), and carnival equipment (tents, games, portable dunk tank).
• Pinewood Derby Tracks: Tracks are available for rent, including 4-lane, 3-lane, and 2-lane options.
• Program Offerings (Staffed): For groups renting facilities, some program activities requiring trained staff (e.g., climbing, shooting sports) can be reserved by contacting the office.

Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda is rich with features and highlights that contribute to its "best place on earth" reputation:

• Extensive Program Offerings: The camp provides a vast array of activities, including traditional Scouting programs like rifle shooting, archery, and climbing, alongside unique opportunities such as a welding merit badge program (for Scouts) and the challenging COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) course.
• Aegon Challenge Course and Climbing Center: This impressive facility includes a series of outdoor challenges, from group initiative games to high-course activities, and features the "Big Zip," a 300-foot zip line, and a 50-foot climbing center named 'Altitude with Attitude' – considered a premier climbing experience in Eastern Iowa.
• Shooting Sports Facilities: Multiple ranges are available for various shooting sports, including rifles, BB guns, pistols, shotguns, archery, and sling shots, under supervised conditions.
• John's Lake and Water Activities: An inlet of the Wapsipinicon River, John's Lake, offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, providing a serene waterfront experience.
• Mountain Bike and Hiking Trails: The 500-acre reservation features several mountain bike and hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty and engage in active outdoor pursuits. Bikes are also available for rent in the off-season.
• Year-Round Use: Unlike many seasonal campgrounds, Camp Wakonda is utilized year-round, thanks to facilities like the Dakin Dining Hall and Allsop Outdoor Education Center, which can accommodate indoor camping and programs during colder months.
• Commitment to Safety: Safety is a top priority, with a medical center, EMT camp ranger, and adherence to BSA's "Guide to Safe Scouting." Nine concrete storm shelters are spread throughout the property for added security.
• Conservation and Environment Focus: The reservation actively engages in conservation efforts and provides educational resources related to the environment, aligning with the values of outdoor stewardship.

Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda, as a non-profit organization focused on youth development, does not typically offer traditional "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense. Their pricing structure for Scouting programs and facility rentals is generally set annually.

For Scouts BSA Summer Camp, fees are structured with early bird discounts (e.g., $350 paid in full before May 1, 2025) and regular rates ($375, then $390 after May 31st). Troops reserving campsites for summer camp pay a non-refundable campsite reservation fee (e.g., $85).

For facility and program rentals for non-Scouting groups and the general public, there are set rental rates. For example, shelter rentals may be $30/day for non-Scouts ($60/weekend), compared to Scout rental rates. There is also a facility rental fee of $1 per person, per night, in addition to the facility fee for non-Scout groups.

The camp also offers "Adventure Punch Cards" for $50, allowing participation in 5 selected activities at $12 per individual adventure, which could be seen as a bundled offering for public access to specific activities. Free public events, like an "Earth Day Celebration," are also occasionally hosted.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, availability, and any specific public events or rental opportunities, it is essential to contact the Hawkeye Area Council directly or visit their official website.

To learn more about the Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda, inquire about programs, or book facilities, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 4521 Boy Scouts Rd, Central City, IA 55214, USA
• Phone: (319) 438-1837 (Camp direct line) or (319) 862-0541 (Hawkeye Area Council Service Center)
• Mobile Phone: +1 319-438-1837
• Website: For comprehensive information on programs, facility rentals, calendars, and resources, please visit the Hawkeye Area Council's official website: hawkeyebsa.org/camping/hhcsr/

Reaching out directly is the best way to get specific details about program availability, rental rates, and any requirements for group bookings or public access activities.

For Iowans across the state, Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda offers a truly unique and highly suitable destination, extending far beyond its primary role as a Scouting camp. Its prime location near Central City provides a peaceful, expansive natural environment that feels like a true escape, yet remains accessible for weekend trips or longer stays. This blend of seclusion and convenience is a significant draw for local residents seeking outdoor recreation without extensive travel.

What truly sets Camp Wakonda apart is its exceptional range of facilities and activities. It's not merely a campground; it’s an outdoor education and adventure hub. For families, the presence of premier climbing facilities, zip lines, extensive hiking and biking trails, and access to John's Lake for canoeing and kayaking provides endless opportunities for active engagement. The commitment to safety, with on-site medical staff during peak times and robust safety protocols, offers peace of mind for parents and organizers.

Beyond individual and family recreation, the availability of diverse facilities for rent—from the large Dakin Dining Hall and Allsop Outdoor Education Center to various lodges and campsites—makes it an ideal venue for local businesses, schools, non-profits, and community groups seeking unique retreat, meeting, or event spaces. This versatility means that the reservation actively contributes to the broader community, embodying the spirit of service and leadership.

The positive sentiment from visitors, describing it as the "Best place on earth," resonates with the quality and breadth of experiences offered. Whether for a dedicated Scouting program, a corporate retreat, a family gathering, or an individual seeking a challenging outdoor adventure, Howard H. Cherry Scout Reservation - Camp Wakonda is an invaluable local asset. It provides Iowans with a comprehensive, well-maintained, and inspiring environment to learn, grow, and connect with the great outdoors, truly exemplifying the spirit of adventure and community in our state.