Midwest Old Threshers Campground

Are you an Iowa local searching for a camping experience that goes beyond just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent? Do you crave a destination that combines the tranquility of the outdoors with a rich sense of history, community, and year-round excitement? Then look no further than the Midwest Old Threshers Campground in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. This isn't just any campground; it's an integral part of the renowned Midwest Old Threshers area, offering a unique blend of recreational opportunities and a connection to Iowa's agricultural heritage.

For many Iowans, the name "Midwest Old Threshers" immediately conjures images of the annual Reunion, a beloved event that celebrates steam engines, antique farm machinery, and the ingenuity of past generations. What many might not realize is that the vast grounds, including a sprawling campground, are open beyond the main event, providing a fantastic resource for locals throughout the year. As one enthusiastic visitor noted, "Love all the activities available at the Midwest Old Threshers area. The campground becomes a Christmas wonderland every December." This speaks volumes about the diverse appeal and continuous engagement offered by this special place.

Camping in Iowa is a cherished pastime, allowing residents to escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty. Midwest Old Threshers Campground elevates this experience by integrating it with educational, entertaining, and community-focused activities. It’s a place where history comes alive, and where families can create new traditions. Another glowing review highlights the depth of engagement available: "This an extremely fun event. With all the demonstrations and shows it can keep you entertained all weekend." While this specifically refers to the Reunion, it reflects the spirit of lively activity and learning that permeates the entire Midwest Old Threshers area, including its campground.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of Midwest Old Threshers Campground, helping Iowa locals discover its multifaceted appeal. We'll delve into its convenient location, detail the extensive services and features available, and highlight why this particular campground is so well-suited for Iowans seeking a unique and memorable outdoor experience, whether for a quiet weekend or a bustling festival.

Midwest Old Threshers Campground is perfectly situated in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, a location that offers both ease of access and a charming small-town atmosphere. You'll find this expansive campground at 405 E Thresher Rd, Mt Pleasant, IA 52641, USA. This address places it squarely within the renowned Midwest Old Threshers grounds, making it incredibly convenient for those attending the famous annual Reunion or exploring the associated museum and attractions.

Mount Pleasant, the host city, is a vibrant community in Southeast Iowa, well-connected by major roadways. The campground's address on East Thresher Road indicates straightforward access from various directions, ensuring a smooth journey for RVs, trailers, and cars. Whether you're coming from Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, or even neighboring states, the Iowa road network provides clear routes to this destination. Detailed directions are often available on the Midwest Old Threshers' official website, guiding visitors step-by-step from major highways like US 218, US 34, and their respective business routes into Mt. Pleasant and directly to the grounds.

One of the significant advantages of this location for locals is its integration with the broader Midwest Old Threshers area. This means campers aren't just staying at a campground; they're on the doorstep of a living history museum and a hub of activity. The grounds are designed to be walkable, and during major events like the Reunion, there's often internal transportation available, such as ground trains, steam trains, and electric trolleys, making it easy to navigate between the campground and the main show areas or the Log Village. This unique feature adds a layer of convenience and immersion that few other campgrounds can offer.

Beyond the immediate grounds, Mt. Pleasant provides all the necessary amenities a camper might need, including grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and medical facilities. This blend of a spacious, event-rich campground and proximity to a well-equipped town ensures that visitors have both the tranquility of a natural setting and the practical conveniences of modern life. The location truly makes Midwest Old Threshers Campground a central and accessible hub for recreation and historical exploration in Iowa.

Midwest Old Threshers Campground offers a wide array of services designed to accommodate various camping preferences and ensure a comfortable stay, particularly during its busy event seasons like the annual Reunion. With its vast capacity and thoughtful amenities, it caters to both short-term visitors and those seeking to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere for longer periods. Here's a look at the services provided:

• Extensive Campsites: The campground boasts an impressive number of sites, with approximately 1200 sites available, including about 1500 tent sites. This large capacity ensures that there's typically space for many visitors, even during popular events.
• Electric Hookups: A significant portion of the campsites offer electric hookups, with options for 30-amp and 50-amp service, catering to a wide range of RVs and trailers. There are 909 sites with 30-amp, and 96 sites with 50-amp electrical.
• Full Service Hookup Sites: For maximum convenience, there are 70 full-service hookup campsites available, which include gravel pads, sewer, water, and 50-amp electrical service. These are particularly popular for reserved camping during the annual Reunion.
• Water Access: While not all electric sites are full hookup, water is readily available nearby (typically within 50' to 200') for convenient access.
• Restrooms and Showers: The campground is equipped with multiple modern restroom and shower houses (reportedly four of them), providing clean and accessible facilities for personal hygiene.
• Dump Stations: For RVers, two on-site sanitary dump stations are provided for convenient waste disposal upon departure. During the Reunion event, campers also have the option to purchase an onsite holding tank pumping service from Campground Hospitality.
• Campground Hospitality/Store: During major events, there's typically a campground hospitality area or store where guests can purchase essentials like groceries and ice, adding to the convenience.
• Year-Round Operation: The campground is open all year, though services might vary by season, allowing for diverse camping experiences, including the popular Christmas wonderland event in December.
• On-Site Transportation (during Reunion): During the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion, campers benefit from unique internal transportation options, including ground trains, the Midwest Central Railroad steam trains, and the Midwest Electric Railway trolley system, which offers stops throughout the campgrounds, connecting to the main grounds and the Log Village.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome, though they must be on a leash (no longer than 4 feet) and escorted by their owner at all times. Owners are expected to pick up after their pets, and pets should not be left unattended. Proof of rabies vaccination is required.

Midwest Old Threshers Campground offers an array of unique features and highlights that make it much more than just a place to stay. These attributes create a memorable experience that blends outdoor recreation with a rich cultural and historical immersion, particularly appealing to Iowa locals:

• Integration with Midwest Old Threshers Area: This is arguably the biggest highlight. The campground is part of a vast complex dedicated to preserving and showcasing agricultural history and Americana. Campers have direct access to the Midwest Old Threshers Heritage Museum, working demonstrations of antique machinery, and various historical exhibits. This provides an unparalleled educational and entertaining experience right at your doorstep.
• The Annual Old Threshers Reunion: While the campground is open year-round, its most famous feature is its role as the primary accommodation for the annual Midwest Old Threshers Reunion (typically Labor Day weekend). During this event, the grounds come alive with steam engines, antique tractors, live entertainment (including grandstand concerts), craft shows, and unique food vendors. Staying at the campground during the Reunion means you're at the heart of the action.
• Christmas Wonderland Transformation: A truly magical highlight, as noted in a review, is how "The campground becomes a Christmas wonderland every December." The "Mount Pleasant Festival of Lights" is hosted here, transforming the grounds into a spectacular drive-through light display. Camping during this time offers a festive and unique holiday experience.
• Diverse Internal Transportation: During major events, the ability to ride "ground trains, Midwest Central Railroad steam trains, or Midwest Electric Railway system" to navigate the grounds and campground is a unique and fun feature. The trolleys even offer stops right within the campground and connect to the charming 1850s Log Village.
• Kid-Friendly Activities: The larger Old Threshers grounds feature numerous activities for children, including puppet shows, pony rides, sandboxes, and even the opportunity to "Drive-A-Tractor" (modified for safety). This makes it an ideal family camping destination.
• Historical Demonstrations and Shows: Beyond the Reunion, various demonstrations and shows related to agricultural history, such as threshing, sawmill operation, and even printing presses, are often ongoing or accessible through the connected museum, providing continuous learning and entertainment.
• Community Atmosphere: Especially during events, the campground fosters a vibrant community spirit where visitors share a common interest in history, machinery, and good times. This can lead to new friendships and shared experiences.
• Accessibility Features: The campground offers handicapped sites designed for easier leveling and convenient location near amenities and transportation stops, demonstrating a commitment to accessibility.

Midwest Old Threshers Campground operates primarily in conjunction with the events held on the larger Midwest Old Threshers grounds, particularly the annual Reunion. While explicit "promotions" in the typical commercial sense (like "buy one night, get one free") are less common for an event-focused campground, their pricing structure and offerings during key times can be seen as valuable incentives and special offers. It's crucial for prospective campers to refer to the official Midwest Old Threshers website or contact them directly for the most current and accurate information on rates and any specific packages.

• Reunion Camping Packages: The most significant "special offer" is the ability to reserve campsites for the entire duration of the annual Midwest Old Threshers Reunion. While a reservation fee secures the site for a specific period (e.g., from August 16th to early September for the Labor Day Reunion), this bundling provides a convenient and often cost-effective way to guarantee your spot during this immensely popular event. Rates are published annually, and pre-booking offers peace of mind.
• Affordable Nightly Rates (Outside Reunion): For camping outside of the Reunion dates, the campground offers very competitive nightly rates. For instance, rates for first-come, first-served nightly camping are generally affordable: $15.00 for Tent Camping, $20.00 for Regular Camping (without electric), $20.00 for Generator Camping, $25.00 for 30 amp electric, $30.00 for 50 amp electric, and $45 for Full Service Hookup. These rates are attractive for casual campers exploring the Mt. Pleasant area.
• Inclusive Grandstand Shows During Reunion: A major "value added" feature during the Reunion is that all Grandstand shows and entertainment are free with the purchase of a gate admission to the Reunion. This means campers staying on-site have easy access to top-tier entertainment without additional ticket costs for these specific performances.
• Pre-Purchase Admission Discounts: While not a campground offer directly, multi-day admission passes for the Old Threshers Reunion are often available at a discounted rate if purchased in advance (e.g., by May 31st), providing savings for those planning to fully immerse themselves in the event.
• Festival of Lights Admission: During December, when the campground transforms into the "Christmas wonderland" for the Mount Pleasant Festival of Lights, there is typically a per-car admission fee to drive through the display. While not a "discount," it's a unique seasonal offering.

To confirm any current rates, availability, or specific booking policies, especially for the highly sought-after Reunion period, always contact Midwest Old Threshers Campground directly via phone or visit their official website.

To plan your unique camping experience at Midwest Old Threshers Campground or to inquire about the various events and facilities available, direct contact is the best approach. The friendly staff can assist with reservations, answer questions about specific site availability, and provide details on upcoming activities.

• Address: 405 E Thresher Rd, Mt Pleasant, IA 52641, USA
• Phone: (319) 385-8937
• Mobile Phone: +1 319-385-8937 (Often the same primary number, provided for completeness in mobile search scenarios.)
• Website/Email: While not provided in the prompt, it is highly recommended to search for the official "Midwest Old Threshers" website (often oldthreshers.com) or their general contact email (e.g., info@oldthreshers.org) for comprehensive information, online booking options, and a calendar of events.

Reaching out directly is especially important for confirming campsite availability during the peak Midwest Old Threshers Reunion, as these spots are highly coveted and often reserved well in advance. They can also provide details on specific campground rules, pet policies, and any seasonal variations in services.

For Iowa locals, Midwest Old Threshers Campground in Mt. Pleasant offers an unparalleled camping experience that goes far beyond a typical outdoor stay. Its suitability for residents of the Hawkeye State stems from a unique combination of its historical significance, the vibrant community it fosters, the diverse activities it presents, and its practical amenities, all within easy reach.

Firstly, its deep connection to the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion is a profound draw. For generations, Iowans have celebrated this annual event, and being able to camp directly on the grounds allows for an immersive, multi-day experience. It’s a chance to reconnect with agricultural heritage, witness incredible demonstrations of antique machinery, and enjoy live entertainment – truly making memories that resonate with Iowa's rural roots. Even outside the Reunion, the presence of the Midwest Old Threshers Heritage Museum and ongoing site maintenance ensures that this rich history is always accessible.

Secondly, the campground offers a dynamic environment that caters to varied interests. It's not just for history buffs; the vast grounds provide ample space for traditional camping, and the added recreational features like the internal ground trains, steam trains, and trolleys provide unique fun for all ages. For families, the kid-friendly activities, from puppet shows to pony rides, make it an ideal destination where children can learn and play in a safe, engaging setting. This versatility means that whether you're seeking a quiet weekend or a bustling festival experience, Midwest Old Threshers Campground can deliver.

Moreover, the distinct transformation into a "Christmas wonderland" every December highlights the campground's year-round appeal. This festive attraction provides a local, magical experience that adds another layer of appeal for Iowa families looking for holiday cheer close to home. It showcases the versatility and commitment of the Old Threshers organization to providing diverse community events.

From a practical standpoint, the extensive number of campsites, including full hookup options, ensures that various types of RVs and camping setups are accommodated comfortably. The presence of clean restrooms, showers, and convenient dump stations, coupled with on-site services like a store and firewood sales, makes for a hassle-free stay. This focus on well-maintained facilities ensures that campers can relax and enjoy their time without unnecessary concerns.

In essence, Midwest Old Threshers Campground is perfectly suited for Iowa locals because it offers an authentic, community-centric, and activity-rich camping experience. It’s a place where history, recreation, and celebration intertwine, providing an enriching escape that truly embodies the spirit and heritage of Iowa. It’s a destination that Iowans can return to again and again, each time discovering something new and creating cherished memories right in their home state.