Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin

For those in Iowa looking to reconnect with nature, enjoy a peaceful getaway, or embark on an outdoor adventure, Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin in Kellogg, Iowa, stands as a prime destination. More than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV, this meticulously maintained campground, part of the larger Mariposa Recreation Area, offers a comprehensive outdoor experience designed to delight visitors of all ages.

Iowa, known for its picturesque landscapes and abundant natural beauty, provides a fantastic backdrop for camping and outdoor activities. Campgrounds like Mariposa Bison Ridge are vital resources for local Iowans, offering an accessible escape from daily routines without requiring extensive travel. They foster a sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts and provide crucial access to activities that promote physical and mental well-being. From serene mornings by the lake to invigorating hikes through scenic trails, these spaces are integral to the recreational fabric of the state.

Mariposa Recreation Area, a 151-acre outdoor haven, has undergone significant improvements in recent years, transforming it into an even more appealing spot for recreation. The addition of the Bison Ridge Campground and the charming Coneflower Cottage represents a commitment to providing diverse and modern amenities for campers and nature lovers. This upgrade has ensured that whether you prefer the rustic charm of tent camping, the convenience of an RV site, or the comforts of a fully furnished cabin, Mariposa Bison Ridge has an option for you.

Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin is conveniently located at 6825 North 67th Ave E, Kellogg, IA 50135, USA. This address places it northeast of Newton, within the beautiful Mariposa Recreation Area. The location offers a peaceful rural setting while remaining relatively accessible from major population centers in Iowa. For instance, it's approximately a 48-minute drive from Des Moines, 52 minutes from Ames, and a bit over an hour from Cedar Rapids and Waterloo. This makes it an ideal spot for a weekend trip or a longer vacation for many Iowans.

Accessibility to the campground is straightforward. Visitors can take Highway T-12 north out of Newton and follow the signs leading to the park entrance. The road infrastructure in this area is generally well-maintained, ensuring a smooth journey for those traveling by car or RV. While nestled in nature, its proximity to nearby towns means that essential supplies and services are never too far away, striking a perfect balance between an outdoor escape and convenience.

Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin, as part of the broader Mariposa Recreation Area, offers a range of services and facilities designed to enhance your outdoor experience:

• Modern Campground Sites: The Bison Ridge Campground features 15 sites equipped with modern utilities, including access to electricity and water at each site. This is a significant upgrade from more primitive camping options, providing comfort and convenience for RV and tent campers alike.
• Furnished Cabin Rental (Coneflower Cottage): For those seeking more comfort, the Coneflower Cottage is a fully furnished rental cabin. It includes two bedrooms (one with a queen-sized bed, another with bunk beds), a bathroom, a full kitchen, and a back deck offering scenic views, particularly of the lake. It's built with families in mind, providing ample space and homey amenities.
• Restroom and Shower Facilities: A newly constructed bathhouse is available nearby the campground sites, offering clean restrooms and shower facilities for campers.
• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campground site is equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and gathering with loved ones.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV campers before they depart, ensuring a hassle-free cleanup.
• Primitive Camping Area: In addition to the modern Bison Ridge Campground, Mariposa Recreation Area still offers a primitive camping area for those who prefer a more rustic experience.
• Kayak Rentals: Self-serve kayak rentals are available at the boat ramp, allowing easy access to the lake for paddling enthusiasts.
• Children's Nature Playscape: Families with children will appreciate the Children's Nature Playscape, which includes areas for digging, a musical area, and a little free library, encouraging interactive outdoor play.

Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin boasts several features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Iowa:

• Newly Renovated 18-Acre Lake: The centerpiece of Mariposa Recreation Area is its beautifully renovated 18-acre lake. After significant dredging and improvement projects, the lake now offers clearer waters and enhanced fish habitats, making it excellent for fishing and non-motorized boating.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The lake is stocked with various fish, including catfish, bluegill, and bass, providing ample opportunities for anglers.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The recreation area features a network of hiking trails, including a ½ mile self-guided nature trail, allowing visitors to explore the diverse landscape of oak-hickory woods and observe local flora and fauna.
• Party Shelters: For group gatherings and celebrations, covered shelters with picnic tables are available, providing a perfect spot for parties and events amidst nature. One customer review specifically highlighted "shelter pad for party's."
• Bison Ridge Campground's Modern Amenities: The new Bison Ridge Campground offers modern conveniences, including electricity and water hookups at each of its 15 sites, a significant upgrade for comfortable camping.
• Coneflower Cottage's Home Comforts: The newly added Coneflower Cottage provides a unique "glamping" experience, offering all the comforts of home (full kitchen, bathroom, multiple bedrooms) within a natural setting, perfect for families or those not keen on traditional camping.
• Nature Immersion: The entire area is designed to help visitors "spend time with nature," as noted by a reviewer, with abundant natural spaces, walking trails, and a butterfly garden.
• Variety of Activities: Beyond camping, the park offers a wide array of activities including picnicking, kayaking, and a nature playscape, ensuring there's something for everyone.

While specific, ongoing promotions for Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin are not always publicly advertised in detail, pricing information for the new modern facilities has been released:

• The modern campground sites at Bison Ridge are available for rent at $25 per day, with a minimum stay of two days.
• The Coneflower Cottage cabin can be rented for $175 per day, also with a two-day minimum stay.

It is always advisable for interested parties to check the Jasper County Conservation website or contact them directly (information below) for the most up-to-date pricing, availability, and any potential seasonal discounts or package deals that might be offered. Given the recent improvements and popularity, early booking is recommended, especially for the cabin and during peak seasons.

For bookings, inquiries about availability, or more detailed information about Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin, please use the following contact details:

Address: 6825 North 67th Ave E, Kellogg, IA 50135, USA

Phone: +16417929780

Website: For reservations and further details, you can visit the MyCountyParks.com website, which handles bookings for Jasper County Conservation parks, including Mariposa Recreation Area. Searching for "Mariposa Recreation Area" or "Bison Ridge Campground" on their site will likely lead you to the booking portal.

Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin offers an exceptional outdoor escape that is perfectly suited for locals across Iowa. Its location in Kellogg provides convenient access for residents from central and eastern Iowa, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer family vacations without the hassle of extensive travel. The recent, significant improvements to the entire Mariposa Recreation Area, including the modern Bison Ridge Campground and the inviting Coneflower Cottage, mean that visitors can enjoy a high-quality camping experience, whether they prefer traditional tent camping, the convenience of an RV, or the comforts of a furnished cabin.

The array of services and features caters to diverse interests and needs. For nature lovers, the "wonderful place to hang out and spend time with nature" (as one reviewer noted) is evident in the extensive hiking trails, the renovated lake perfect for fishing and kayaking, and the serene natural surroundings. Families will appreciate the dedicated Children's Nature Playscape and the availability of sheltered areas for gatherings and parties. The presence of modern restrooms, showers, and utility hookups ensures a comfortable and hassle-free stay, even for those new to camping.

Ultimately, Mariposa Bison Ridge Campground & Cabin embodies the best of Iowa's outdoor recreational offerings. It’s a testament to Jasper County Conservation's dedication to providing accessible, well-maintained, and engaging natural spaces for its community. For Iowans seeking to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in the beauty of their home state, while still enjoying modern amenities, Mariposa Bison Ridge offers an unparalleled opportunity to create lasting memories in the great outdoors.