Ivan's Recreation Area

For Iowans seeking a tranquil and activity-rich outdoor experience, Ivan's Recreation Area near Knoxville presents an ideal destination. Situated right on the scenic Des Moines River, just below the Lake Red Rock Dam, this charming campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. It’s a cherished local spot where families, friends, and solo adventurers can unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a variety of recreational pursuits. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape without venturing too far from the heart of Iowa, Ivan's Recreation Area is a standout choice.

Ivan's Recreation Area is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors consistently praise its relaxing atmosphere, well-maintained facilities, and diverse offerings. From expansive walking paths to dedicated playgrounds for children, there truly is "something for everyone." The campground's setting, with its abundant shade trees and proximity to the river, creates a picturesque and inviting environment for all. It’s a place that encourages repeat visits, building a loyal community of campers who appreciate its unique charm.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ivan's Recreation Area is part of the larger Lake Red Rock outdoor recreational landscape, Iowa's largest lake. This affiliation ensures a commitment to maintaining high standards for both facilities and natural resources. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to Ivan's Recreation Area, detailing its location, the services and features you can expect, and why it remains a top choice for locals looking to immerse themselves in Iowa's beautiful outdoors.

Ivan's Recreation Area is conveniently located at 1125 198th Pl, Knoxville, IA 50138, USA. This strategic position places it just below the Red Rock Dam on the south side of the Des Moines River, making it easily accessible for residents throughout Central Iowa. It’s a mere 10 minutes from the charming town of Pella, famous for its Dutch heritage, and approximately 15 minutes from Knoxville, known as the "Sprint Car Capital of the World." This provides campers with a perfect balance of natural seclusion and convenient access to local amenities, dining, and attractions.

The accessibility of Ivan's is a significant advantage for Iowans. Instead of embarking on long, arduous journeys, campers can reach this serene destination relatively quickly from major population centers. For instance, Des Moines, Iowa's capital, is approximately an hour's drive away, making Ivan's a viable option for weekend trips or even day visits. The campground's proximity to well-maintained roads ensures a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including those towing RVs or trailers.

Being situated on the Des Moines River also offers unique access to a key waterway for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing enthusiasts. Furthermore, its connection to the extensive Volksweg Trail provides immediate access to miles of paved pathways for hiking and biking, linking Ivan's to other popular recreational areas around Lake Red Rock. This integrated network of trails and waterways significantly enhances its appeal and accessibility for a variety of outdoor activities.

Ivan's Recreation Area, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, provides a range of essential services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.

• Campsites: The campground offers 21 campsites, all of which are equipped with 50-amp electric hookups. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate. Some sites are noted for having "nice big shade trees," providing comfort during warmer months.
• Restrooms and Showers: Ivan's Recreation Area features "nice restrooms" with flush toilets and showers, which are a highly appreciated amenity for campers seeking comfort and cleanliness.
• Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available within the campground.
• Parking: Ample and "great parking" is provided for campers' vehicles and equipment.
• Reservations: All campsite reservations must be made online, typically through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
• Campground Host: While not explicitly stated for Ivan's, most US Army Corps of Engineers campgrounds have a host on site to assist campers and manage daily operations.
• Waste Management: Trash receptacles are provided for convenient waste disposal.
• Pet-Friendly: Like most federal campgrounds, pets are typically allowed but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.

• Riverside Location: A significant highlight of Ivan's Recreation Area is its prime location "right on the river," referring to the Des Moines River. This offers scenic views, direct access for river fishing, and opportunities for water-based activities like kayaking and canoeing. The proximity to Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake, further enhances water recreation options.
• Shaded Campsites: Reviewers consistently praise the "nice big shade trees on almost every site." This natural canopy provides excellent relief from the summer sun, contributing to a more comfortable and relaxing camping experience.
• Electric Hookups: All 21 campsites at Ivan's are equipped with 50-amp electric hookups, catering to RVs and trailers and providing convenience for charging devices and running appliances.
• Excellent Facilities: Visitors frequently commend the "nice restrooms," which are clean and well-maintained, adding to the overall comfort of the stay.
• Abundant Walking and Biking Trails: The campground offers "plenty of walking paths on or off road paths," and is directly connected to the paved Volksweg Trail. This 15-mile trail stretches from Pella to the Des Moines River and the Cordova Recreation Area, providing extensive opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Playgrounds for Children: Ivan's Recreation Area includes "playgrounds for children," making it a highly suitable and enjoyable destination for families with young ones.
• Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: Reviewers describe the campsite as "peaceful and serene" and "very relaxing," underscoring its appeal as a quiet retreat from daily life. It is noted as the "smallest and quietest campground on Lake Red Rock."
• Wildlife Viewing: The area around Lake Red Rock and the Des Moines River is rich in wildlife, including diverse waterfowl, migrating American White Pelicans, bald eagles (especially from November to March), white-tailed deer, and turkeys. This makes it an excellent spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
• Proximity to Local Towns and Attractions: Being just minutes from Pella (known for its Dutch heritage and Tulip Time Festival) and Knoxville (Sprint Car Capital of the World) means campers have easy access to local culture, dining, and entertainment options.

As a campground managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ivan's Recreation Area typically follows federal fee structures and policies. Direct "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense are uncommon. However, there are inherent cost-saving opportunities and specific federal programs that benefit campers:

• America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series: While Ivan's is a Corps of Engineers site, it's part of the federal recreation land system. Holders of certain passes, like the Senior Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or over) or Access Pass (for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities), may receive discounts on camping fees. These passes generally provide a 50% discount on individual campsites at federal campgrounds. Prospective campers should inquire about the applicability of these passes directly with the campground or check the Recreation.gov website.
• Seasonal Rates: Like many campgrounds, rates may vary by season. Off-peak seasons (early spring and late fall) might offer slightly lower prices or less crowded conditions, providing a different kind of "value."
• Advance Booking Benefits: While not a discount, the ability to reserve sites online in advance ensures you secure your spot, especially during busy times. This saves potential frustration and travel time if the campground were full on arrival.
• Value of Amenities: The "reasonable price" mentioned in reviews, combined with the full electric hookups, well-maintained restrooms, and access to numerous recreational activities, means Ivan's Recreation Area inherently offers excellent value for the camping fee.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, potential discounts (especially for federal pass holders), and reservation policies, it is always best to visit the Recreation.gov website directly or contact Ivan's Recreation Area using the provided phone number. Any cancellation or change fees for reservations would also be detailed on the Recreation.gov platform.

Address: 1125 198th Pl, Knoxville, IA 50138, USA

Phone: (641) 828-7522

Mobile Phone: +1 641-828-7522

Ivan's Recreation Area is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Iowa, offering a convenient, high-quality, and diverse outdoor experience that caters to a wide range of interests. Its strategic location near Knoxville and Pella means that residents across Central Iowa can enjoy a genuine escape into nature without enduring long travel times. This accessibility makes it perfect for weekend getaways, impromptu camping trips, or even just a day of enjoying the trails and river.

The campground’s inherent features strongly appeal to the local community. The presence of "nice big shade trees on almost every site" provides comfort during Iowa's warm summers, while the "nice restrooms" and "great parking" enhance the overall convenience and quality of the stay. For families, the dedicated playgrounds offer a safe and engaging space for children, while the "plenty of walking paths on or off road paths" and direct access to the Volksweg Trail provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and connecting with nature for all ages.

The "peaceful and serene" riverside setting, coupled with opportunities for fishing in the Des Moines River and exploring Lake Red Rock, makes Ivan's an ideal spot for relaxation and active pursuits. Whether locals are seeking a quiet fishing trip, a scenic bike ride, or simply a place to unwind by a campfire, this campground delivers. Its status as a US Army Corps of Engineers managed site also assures a level of reliable maintenance and natural resource management that many appreciate.

Ultimately, Ivan's Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s a readily accessible natural haven that allows Iowans to easily embrace the beauty and recreational opportunities of their own state. It fosters a sense of community, promotes outdoor activity, and provides a much-needed respite from daily life, making it a truly suitable and valuable resource for local residents.