North Campground

For Iowans seeking a genuine escape into nature, where the simplicity of traditional camping meets the beauty of the outdoors, North Campground in Bedford, Iowa, presents an appealing option. Located within the scenic embrace of the Lake of Three Fires State Park, this campground offers a rustic experience, focusing on connecting campers with the natural environment. It's a place where campfires flicker under starry skies, and the sounds of wildlife replace the urban hum, making it a favorite for those who cherish a less developed, more intimate connection with Iowa's landscapes.

North Campground is distinct for its commitment to a non-electric camping experience, catering to those who prefer to unplug and embrace the true essence of outdoor living. While it provides essential amenities for comfort, such as a shower house and restrooms, the focus remains on the natural setting. The campground is also notably developing specific areas for equestrian campers, highlighting its versatility and appeal to a niche yet growing segment of Iowa's outdoor community. This article will delve into the specifics that make North Campground a suitable choice for Iowans, covering its serene location, the practical services it offers, and its unique features that promise a quiet and rewarding outdoor adventure.

Many campers appreciate North Campground for its "nice place" atmosphere and the straightforward, back-to-basics approach it embodies. It's an ideal setting for families to bond around a campfire, for youth groups like scouts or church organizations to experience nature firsthand, and for equestrians to enjoy direct access to trails with their horses. The ongoing development of equestrian sites, complete with corrals and hitching posts, further underscores the campground's dedication to enhancing the visitor experience. For Iowans desiring a peaceful retreat where the focus is squarely on nature, traditional camping, and perhaps even horseback riding, North Campground offers a compelling invitation to explore the quieter side of our beautiful state.

North Campground is located at 2303 Lake Rd, Bedford, IA 50833, USA. This address places it within the Lake of Three Fires State Park, a cherished natural area in Taylor County, southwestern Iowa. Bedford, a quaint town, serves as the local community, offering basic services and amenities for campers.

For Iowans, accessing North Campground is relatively straightforward. Bedford is located on state highways, making the journey to the park and campground manageable from various parts of the state. While it offers a sense of being "away from it all," it remains within a reasonable driving distance for a weekend trip or a longer vacation for many Iowa residents. The specific address on Lake Road indicates direct access to the park's main features. Campers should be aware that once within the state park, the campground roads are typically well-maintained dirt or gravel, suitable for most vehicles and trailers. The development of equestrian sites also notes "Access to these sites is limited to 32 ft or shorter length trailers," which is an important detail for those planning to bring larger setups. Its location within a state park means campers benefit from proximity to park amenities like fishing, hiking trails, and the lake itself, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.

North Campground provides essential services that support a rustic, non-electric camping experience while ensuring basic comforts for its visitors.

• Non-Electric Campsites: The campground primarily offers "non-electric" sites, specifically sites 43 to 62. Each of these sites includes a "picnic table and a wood grill," providing basic amenities for cooking and dining outdoors.

• Shower House/Restroom Facilities: A key amenity is the presence of a "shower house/ restroom in this campground." This provides modern toilet facilities and the convenience of warm showers, a significant comfort for campers after a day of outdoor activities. It is important to note that this facility "does close during the winter season."

• Youth Group Site: Site "?? is reserved for youth groups such as scouts or church groups," and is conveniently located "close to shower house." This dedicated site caters specifically to organized youth outings, offering a suitable space for group camping.

• Equestrian Sites (In Development): The campground is actively developing "6 pull-through equestrian sites" at its east end. These sites "have been graveled," and "corrals and hitching posts are in the works for each site." This indicates future specialized services for campers with horses, providing dedicated space and amenities for equestrian activities.

• Water Hydrant Access: Although the new equestrian sites' water hookups are currently unknown, there is "a hydrant presently located about in the middle of the new sites," indicating a communal source of potable water.

North Campground offers several distinct features that appeal to different types of outdoor enthusiasts, making it a versatile choice for Iowans.

• Rustic, Non-Electric Camping: For those who truly want to unplug, the non-electric sites (43-62) offer a traditional camping experience with a focus on nature and simplicity. Each site comes with a picnic table and a wood grill, perfect for classic campfire cooking.

• Modern Shower House: Despite its rustic focus, the presence of a shower house/restroom provides a comfortable amenity for personal hygiene, a welcome feature for many campers.

• Dedicated Youth Group Area: The reserved site for youth groups underscores the campground's suitability for organized educational and recreational outings, offering a safe and convenient base for scouts or church groups.

• Emerging Equestrian Facilities: The ongoing development of pull-through equestrian sites (57-63, previously 57-63) with graveling, corrals, and hitching posts highlights a unique appeal for horse riders. These sites offer direct access to equestrian trails within the state park, providing a specialized camping experience.

• Proximity to Lake of Three Fires State Park Amenities: Being located within the state park means campers have easy access to the park's lake for fishing, boating (though specific boat launch details for North Campground are not given, the park has them), and extensive hiking trails. This expands the recreational opportunities beyond the campground itself.

• Peaceful Environment: The campground's non-electric nature and location within a state park often contribute to a quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to busier, full-hookup campgrounds.

As a campground likely managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as part of Lake of Three Fires State Park, North Campground typically adheres to standard state park camping fees rather than offering frequent, commercial promotions. However, Iowans can still benefit from certain programs or considerations:

• Standard State Park Rates: Camping fees are generally set at reasonable rates, providing good value for access to state park amenities and a maintained camping environment.

• No Special Entrance Fees: Iowa State Parks generally do not charge entrance fees for vehicles, meaning the primary cost is the campsite itself.

• Annual Passes/Permits (Limited): While Iowa doesn't have a universal state park pass like some other states, specific permits might be required for certain activities (e.g., fishing license) or for certain types of camping (e.g., equestrian permits, though not specified for these sites yet).

• Off-Season Considerations: While the shower house closes in winter, camping might still be available during cooler shoulder seasons (spring/fall) potentially at lower demand, though rates usually remain static for state parks.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on camping fees, availability, reservation policies (many state park campgrounds allow online reservations), and any specific guidelines related to the equestrian sites, it is highly recommended to consult the official Iowa DNR website for Lake of Three Fires State Park or contact the park office directly using the provided phone number.

Ready to plan your rustic camping or equestrian adventure at North Campground? Here's how you can get in touch:

• Address: 2303 Lake Rd, Bedford, IA 50833, USA (within Lake of Three Fires State Park)

• Phone: (712) 523-2700

• Mobile Phone: +1 712-523-2700

Calling the park office is the best way to inquire about site availability, especially for the youth group site or the new equestrian sites, and to get the most current information on the shower house operating season or any specific rules for your stay.

For Iowans seeking an authentic and serene outdoor experience, North Campground in Bedford offers a compelling choice. Its commitment to providing non-electric sites, complete with picnic tables and wood grills, caters perfectly to those who wish to disconnect from modern conveniences and truly immerse themselves in nature. This focus on rustic charm fosters a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat from the daily grind.

The presence of a well-maintained shower house and restrooms adds a welcome level of comfort, ensuring that even a rustic experience can be refreshing. What truly sets North Campground apart, however, is its evolving dedication to specialized camping. The reserved site for youth groups makes it an excellent location for educational and character-building outdoor adventures, while the actively developed pull-through equestrian sites with corrals signify a significant enhancement for Iowa's horse-riding community. This thoughtful expansion ensures that North Campground caters to a wider range of outdoor passions. Being located within the beautiful Lake of Three Fires State Park means easy access to fishing, hiking, and the serene lake itself, providing abundant recreational opportunities. For Iowans who appreciate the simplicity of traditional camping, the convenience of essential amenities, and the unique appeal of equestrian facilities, North Campground promises a rewarding and memorable outdoor getaway that truly showcases the beauty of our state.