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Linder point campground

Linder point campground Overview

Rating

Address 2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA

Website https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/272091

Hours

Linder point campground Location & Map

IowaJohnson CountyIowa CityLincolnPrairie Du Chien Road Northeast

Linder point campground About

For Iowans seeking a refreshing escape into nature without venturing too far from urban conveniences, Linder Point Campground presents an excellent choice. Located within the sprawling Coralville Lake Project near Iowa City, this campground offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Iowa River Valley. It's a place where the tranquility of the heavily wooded forests meets the expansive waters of Coralville Lake, providing a diverse backdrop for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Linder Point Campground is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, part of a larger multi-use project designed for flood control, recreation, and wildlife management. This means visitors can expect a well-maintained environment focused on preserving natural resources while offering ample recreational opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a full-hookup RV, a traditional tent camper looking for a peaceful spot, or simply a day-use visitor eager to explore nature trails, Linder Point is designed to cater to a variety of outdoor enthusiasts. It's a convenient and appealing destination for locals looking to reconnect with nature right here in Iowa.

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Location and Accessibility

Linder Point Campground is strategically located at 2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA. This address places it squarely within the Dam Complex of the Coralville Lake Project, just north of Iowa City. Its proximity to a major Iowa urban center makes it highly accessible for residents from Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and surrounding communities.

For those traveling by car, accessibility is straightforward. From Interstate 80 in Iowa City, campers can take Exit 244 towards Dubuque St./North Liberty, then travel north on Dubuque St. for about 3 miles before turning right onto West Overlook Rd. NE. A short drive of 0.7 miles on West Overlook Rd. NE will bring you to the entrance of Linder Point Campground on the left. Alternatively, from Interstate 380 near North Liberty, take Exit 4 towards North Liberty, travel east on W. Penn St. for 2 miles, turn right onto N. Dubuque St., and follow it south. After a traffic circle, continue straight onto Dubuque St. NE for 1.9 miles, then turn left onto West Overlook Rd. NE and travel 0.7 miles to the campground entrance.

The campground's location on the west side of the dam places it among a heavily wooded forest of mixed hardwood species, teeming with local wildlife such as whitetail deer, turkeys, pheasants, and waterfowl. Beyond the natural setting, Linder Point offers convenient access to the urban amenities of Iowa City, including the University of Iowa campus and medical facilities, numerous restaurants, shops, and the Coral Ridge Mall. Nearby attractions also include the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch and the unique Amana Colonies, providing plenty of options for day trips and exploration.

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Services Offered

Linder Point Campground provides a range of essential services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. These services are managed to support both rustic and more amenity-dependent camping styles:

  • Campsites: The campground offers 18 campsites, catering to various preferences. This includes full hook-up campsites (offering 50 Amp electric, water, and sewer connections), standard electric campsites (with 30 Amp or 50 Amp electric only), and non-electric campsites for those who prefer a more primitive setup.

  • Modern Restroom and Shower Facilities: For added comfort, the campground provides modern restroom and shower facilities that are regularly cleaned and maintained.

  • Dump Station: An RV dump station is available for waste disposal, conveniently located just outside the West Overlook Campground, which is nearby.

  • Drinking Water: Access to potable drinking water is available, also located near the West Overlook Campground's dump station.

  • Fee Booth and Reservations: The campground fee booth is located at the West Overlook Campground. All sites at Linder Point are reservable, with reservations available up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov. This allows campers to plan their trips well ahead of time.

  • Picnic Sites: The Linder Point Day Use Area offers designated picnic sites for day visitors or campers looking for a spot for a meal.

  • Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are generally welcome at the campground, though some restrictions may apply. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead for more details regarding pet policies.

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Features / Highlights

Linder Point Campground, being part of the Coralville Lake Project, boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Coralville Lake Access: Direct access to Coralville Lake provides extensive opportunities for water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. Anglers will find an abundance of large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish.

  • Extensive Trail Network: Several trails are located within the Dam Complex, offering diverse experiences. These include the Woodpecker Nature Trail (accessible from the Linder Point Day Use Area), Squire Point, Tailwater Riverwalk, and the barrier-free Veterans Trail, catering to various hiking and walking preferences.

  • Devonian Fossil Gorge: A truly unique geological feature, the Devonian Fossil Gorge is located just below the dam. This site offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore a 375-million-year-old sea floor, where visitors can discover fossilized remains of ancient marine life. Twenty discovery points and a cell phone audio tour enhance the educational experience.

  • Turkey Creek Disc Golf Course: For disc golf enthusiasts, the nine-hole Turkey Creek Disc Golf Course, featuring a mix of wooded and open holes, is located within the Dam Complex.

  • Abundant Wildlife: The heavily wooded environment around the campground is home to a rich variety of wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation.

  • Proximity to Iowa City Attractions: Beyond the natural wonders, the campground's closeness to Iowa City means easy access to cultural attractions, dining, shopping, and entertainment options, providing a balanced experience of nature and urban convenience.

  • Renovation and Improvement: As noted by a reviewer, the campground is "just getting started so they are still renovating." This suggests ongoing efforts to improve facilities and enhance the visitor experience, indicating a forward-looking approach to park management.

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Promotions or Special Offers

As a campground managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Linder Point Campground typically adheres to federal recreation fee policies rather than offering frequent, commercial promotions. However, there are established discounts available for eligible individuals:

  • America the Beautiful Passes: Holders of America the Beautiful Interagency Senior Passes or Access Passes are entitled to a 50% discount on camping fees. This is a significant benefit for qualifying seniors and individuals with disabilities, making camping even more affordable.

  • Annual Pass for Day Use: While not a direct camping promotion, a $40 Annual Pass is available for unlimited nationwide use of Day Use Areas, which can be beneficial for frequent visitors to federal recreation sites, including picnic areas and trails near Linder Point.

Camping fees range from $22.00 to $26.00 per night, depending on the type of site (non-electric, electric, or full hook-up). While there isn't a specific "speed sign yet" as noted by a reviewer, the general operational guidelines focus on safety and respectful use of the park. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of speed limits even without explicit signage, especially during ongoing renovations.

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Contact Information

For current information, reservations, or any inquiries about Linder Point Campground, here's how to get in touch:

  • Address: 2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240, USA

  • Campground Entrance Station (May 1 - October 31): (319) 338-3685

  • Coralville Lake Project Office (November 1 - April 30): (319) 338-3543 ext. 6300

  • National Recreation Reservation Service (Reservations): 1-877-444-6777 or visit Recreation.gov

It's always advisable to contact the appropriate office based on the season or use the reservation service for the most up-to-date availability and information, particularly as renovations might be ongoing.

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Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents across Iowa, Linder Point Campground at Coralville Lake stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its strategic location near Iowa City provides the ideal balance: the peaceful immersion of a natural setting combined with convenient access to urban amenities. This means Iowans don't have to travel far to experience a genuine outdoor escape, making it perfect for weekend trips or longer family vacations.

The campground offers a variety of site types, accommodating everything from tent campers seeking a rustic experience to RV enthusiasts desiring full hook-ups. This versatility ensures that a wide range of local campers can find a spot that meets their needs. Beyond camping, the extensive recreational opportunities – including fishing and boating on Coralville Lake, exploring miles of hiking trails, and discovering the unique Devonian Fossil Gorge – provide endless ways for Iowans of all ages to engage with nature and create lasting memories.

Furthermore, the ongoing renovations and the attentive management, as suggested by reviews, indicate a commitment to improving the campground and ensuring a positive visitor experience. This dedication, coupled with the natural beauty and diverse activities available, solidifies Linder Point Campground as a premier local destination for anyone in Iowa looking to embrace the outdoors.

Customer Reviews

5.0
1 reviews
S
Shirtless Bill
May 28, 2025

It was a good experience and a nice area. I think they are a little smaller than the west point but it is just getting started so they are still renovating. There is not a speed sign yet so 20mph to 30 is norm atm unforn. Look both ways!!!