Pilot Grove Park Campground

For those of us living in Iowa, finding convenient and enjoyable outdoor destinations is a key part of embracing our state's natural beauty. Pilot Grove Park Campground, nestled near Elliott, Iowa, stands out as an excellent choice for a refreshing escape. This beloved local campground offers a blend of tranquility and recreation, making it a perfect spot for families, anglers, and anyone looking to unwind amidst the peaceful Iowa landscape.

Pilot Grove Park Campground is a significant asset within the Montgomery County Conservation Board's extensive network of parks and wildlife areas. The Conservation Board is dedicated to managing and preserving natural resources while providing valuable recreational opportunities for residents. This commitment is evident in the well-maintained facilities and diverse activities available at Pilot Grove Park, ensuring a positive experience for all who visit.

The campground's charm lies in its simplicity and focus on core outdoor activities. Visitors often highlight its serene environment, making it an ideal location to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with nature. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip, a day of fishing, or simply a leisurely stroll, Pilot Grove Park Campground offers the perfect setting for making cherished memories right here in our home state.

As Iowans, we understand the value of local gems that provide accessible and enriching outdoor experiences. Pilot Grove Park Campground perfectly fits this description, offering a readily available retreat that combines natural beauty with practical amenities. Its appeal for local users stems from its straightforward approach to camping and recreation, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the joys of the outdoors without unnecessary fuss. It's a place where the simple pleasure of a campfire under the stars or a successful fishing trip truly comes alive.

Pilot Grove Park Campground is conveniently located at 2821 110 St, Elliott, IA 51532, USA. This address places it just three miles west of Grant, and within easy reach of the charming town of Elliott, in Montgomery County, Iowa. The campground's location strikes an excellent balance, offering a peaceful, rural setting that feels like a true escape, while remaining easily accessible for residents across southwestern Iowa and beyond.

Navigating to Pilot Grove Park Campground is straightforward, thanks to well-maintained county roads. For those traveling from nearby communities like Red Oak, Atlantic, or even further afield within Iowa, the drive is typically scenic and hassle-free. This ease of access is a significant benefit for local users, reducing travel time and allowing for more enjoyment once you arrive. It’s an ideal spot for impromptu weekend getaways or even a mid-week break, as the journey itself is part of the pleasant experience.

While the campground provides a secluded natural environment, its proximity to Elliott and other small towns ensures that essential amenities are never too far away. Campers can easily venture into town for groceries, camping supplies, or to experience local dining options if they wish. This blend of remote tranquility and convenient access to services makes Pilot Grove Park Campground a practical and appealing choice for Iowans looking for a genuine outdoor experience without being completely isolated from modern conveniences. The journey to Pilot Grove is a gentle reminder of Iowa’s agricultural beauty, setting a relaxed tone for your visit.

Pilot Grove Park Campground is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience, offering a range of essential services to cater to the needs of its visitors. The focus here is on straightforward, functional amenities that enhance the natural setting without over-complicating your outdoor adventure.

• Electrical Campsites: The campground features 20 electrical sites, providing convenient power hookups for RVs and tents. This allows campers to operate essential devices, lighting, and small appliances, making for a more comfortable stay. All sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, meaning no reservations are typically needed.

• Modern Shower House and Restrooms: Pilot Grove Park offers a modern shower house with clean and well-maintained restrooms. This is a highly valued amenity for campers, providing the comfort and convenience of hot showers after a day of outdoor activities.

• Dump Station: For RV campers, a dedicated dump station is available, offering a convenient way to empty waste tanks before leaving the campground.

• Pit Latrines: In addition to the modern shower house, pit latrines are also available, providing additional restroom facilities for convenience throughout the park.

• Shelter Houses: The park features three shelter houses. These covered picnic areas are ideal for group gatherings, family meals, or simply seeking shade during sunny days. They can often be reserved for events, though checking with the Montgomery County Conservation Board is recommended.

• First-Come, First-Serve Camping: Unlike some campgrounds that require advance reservations, Pilot Grove Park Campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis for its electrical sites. This offers flexibility for spontaneous trips but also means it's advisable to arrive earlier during peak season to secure a spot.

Pilot Grove Park Campground offers several appealing features and highlights that draw visitors from across Iowa. These attractions focus on active recreation and natural enjoyment, providing a well-rounded outdoor experience.

• Fishing Lake: A central feature of Pilot Grove Park is its stocked lake, which provides excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is known to be stocked with various fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers of all skill levels to cast a line and enjoy the tranquility of lakeside fishing.

• Half-Mile Concrete Walking Trail: Surrounding the lake is a half-mile concrete walking trail. This accessible trail is perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or simply enjoying the scenic views of the water and surrounding parkland. It provides a flat and easy surface for exercise and connection with nature.

• Grass Volleyball Court: For those looking for some friendly competition, the park includes a grass volleyball court. This offers a fun recreational option for families and groups to engage in active play during their visit.

• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic tables and open spaces are scattered throughout the park, ideal for outdoor meals, day use, and enjoying the fresh air. The availability of three shelter houses further enhances group picnic possibilities.

• Wildlife Viewing: As a natural area managed by the Montgomery County Conservation Board, Pilot Grove Park provides opportunities for observing local wildlife and birdwatching. The diverse habitat around the lake and trails can attract various species, making it an enjoyable experience for nature enthusiasts.

• Peaceful Setting: The overall ambiance of Pilot Grove Park Campground is one of peace and quiet. It's a place where visitors can genuinely relax, away from the noise and distractions of urban life, making it a true highlight for those seeking a serene outdoor retreat.

Specific, ongoing promotions or special offers for Pilot Grove Park Campground are generally not publicly advertised. Most county-managed campgrounds in Iowa, including Pilot Grove Park, typically operate on a standard fee structure, often on a first-come, first-serve basis, with rates set by the local conservation board. The current rate for an electrical campsite at Pilot Grove Park is $15 per night, as indicated by the Montgomery County Conservation Board.

While direct discounts or "buy one get one free" type promotions are uncommon for these types of parks, there are a few considerations that could be viewed as beneficial for campers:

• Affordable Rates: The consistent nightly rate of $15 for an electrical site is already a highly competitive and affordable option for camping in Iowa, especially considering the amenities like a modern shower house and dump station.

• First-Come, First-Serve Flexibility: The lack of a reservation system for individual sites (though shelter houses might be reservable) means there are no booking fees or penalties for last-minute changes to plans, offering a certain type of flexibility that can be seen as a "promotion" for spontaneous travelers.

• Local Conservation Board Support: By utilizing Pilot Grove Park Campground, visitors are directly supporting the Montgomery County Conservation Board's efforts in maintaining and improving local natural areas, which benefits the entire community and future recreational opportunities.

For any potential group rates for the shelter houses or long-term stay considerations, it is always best to directly contact the Montgomery County Conservation Board. Their office would be the most accurate source for any information regarding current policies, fees, or any unadvertised local incentives that might occasionally arise.

For inquiries, additional information, or to learn more about Pilot Grove Park Campground, you can direct your questions to the managing authority, the Montgomery County Conservation Board.

Address: 2821 110 St, Elliott, IA 51532, USA. While this is the physical address of the campground, general inquiries and contact for the park system are best directed to the main office of the Montgomery County Conservation Board.

Phone: The primary contact number for the Montgomery County Conservation Board, which oversees Pilot Grove Park, is 712-623-4753.

Email: You can often reach the Montgomery County Conservation Board via email. A common email address for their inquiries is mccb@montgomerycountyia.gov.

It is always recommended to contact the Montgomery County Conservation Board directly for the most up-to-date information regarding campsite availability (especially during peak seasons, as sites are first-come, first-serve), park rules, or any specific questions about facilities. Their office hours are typically Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, but these can be subject to change due to program scheduling.

Pilot Grove Park Campground is an outstanding destination for Iowans, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient accessibility. For those of us living in the state, it provides an ideal escape without the need for extensive travel, making it perfect for spontaneous weekend trips or a mid-week refresh.

The campground's appeal for local families is particularly strong. The consistently positive, albeit brief, feedback suggests a pleasant and enjoyable environment, indicating that it's a "nice place" where children, like the son mentioned in a review, can have a "very fun" time. This family-friendly atmosphere, combined with straightforward amenities, creates a welcoming space for all ages to connect with the outdoors.

The main attractions at Pilot Grove Park cater directly to popular Iowa pastimes. The stocked lake provides excellent fishing, a beloved activity for many residents seeking relaxation and sport. The half-mile concrete walking trail circling the lake offers an accessible way to enjoy the scenery, whether for a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll. The grass volleyball court adds a fun element for active groups, encouraging friendly competition and outdoor play.

Furthermore, the practical services at the campground—including 20 electrical campsites, a modern shower house with restrooms, and a dump station—ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay. These amenities are precisely what Iowans look for in a local camping spot: essential comforts that support a genuine outdoor experience without being overly complicated or expensive. The first-come, first-serve policy for campsites also adds a level of spontaneity, allowing for flexible planning.

In essence, Pilot Grove Park Campground represents the best of what local Iowa outdoor recreation has to offer. It's a testament to the Montgomery County Conservation Board's dedication to providing accessible, well-maintained green spaces for its residents. For Iowans seeking a peaceful retreat, a family adventure, or simply a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures of nature, Pilot Grove Park Campground is a reliable and welcoming choice, right in our own backyard.