Reiff Park Campground

For Iowans seeking a genuine outdoor experience that combines natural beauty with practical amenities and affordability, Reiff Park Campground in Early, Iowa, presents an excellent choice. Nestled within the larger Reiff Park, this campground offers a serene setting that invites campers to unwind and connect with nature. It’s designed for those who appreciate a well-maintained environment and the simple joys of camping, whether in a tent or an RV.

Reiff Park Campground is managed by the Sac County Conservation Board, ensuring a commitment to preserving the natural environment while providing comfortable facilities. One recent visitor happily noted, "I didn't have a pen to fill out the paperwork but put cash in the drop envelope. Campground is very well kept! Enjoying it here." This review highlights the self-service convenience and, more importantly, the high standard of maintenance that the park upholds. The mention of "shady campsites" further emphasizes the natural comfort available to campers, even as some ash trees have been removed, demonstrating the park's ability to adapt and continue offering a pleasant experience. Reiff Park is not just a place to stay; it's a destination where the peaceful atmosphere and well-kept grounds contribute to a truly enjoyable and memorable outdoor escape in the heart of Iowa.

Reiff Park Campground is conveniently located within Reiff Park, identified by the address CVQ2+VJ, Early, IA 50535, USA. More specifically, the park is situated about 1.5 miles south of Early on Highway 471 (also referred to as Highway 71 & 20 in some older references). This strategic location offers a harmonious blend of rural tranquility and easy accessibility for Iowans traveling from various parts of the state.

Being directly on a state highway simplifies navigation, making it straightforward for RVers and campers to find the park without venturing onto complicated back roads. This is a significant advantage for those pulling trailers or driving larger vehicles. Despite its proximity to the highway, the park is designed to offer a peaceful environment, ensuring that road noise is minimal and the focus remains on the natural surroundings. Reiff Park itself spans 120 acres, split by the Boyer River, with the eastern portion dedicated to recreational activities, including the campground. This provides a spacious setting, allowing campers to feel immersed in nature. While Early is a smaller community, its location within Sac County means it's part of a region with other natural attractions and small-town amenities accessible within a reasonable drive. This balance of quiet seclusion and convenient access makes Reiff Park Campground an ideal spot for Iowans looking for a stress-free journey to their outdoor retreat.

Reiff Park Campground, managed by the Sac County Conservation Board, provides a range of essential services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience, emphasizing convenience and access to natural amenities.

• Shaded Campsites with Hookups: The campground offers 7 shaded campsites, each equipped with water and 50 amp electrical hookups. This is a significant convenience for RV and camper users, providing essential utilities for a comfortable stay and protection from the sun. Primitive or tent camping is also allowed, indicating flexibility for various camping styles.
• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available near the campground, providing a crucial service for RVers to dispose of their wastewater conveniently and responsibly.
• Enclosed Shelterhouse: The park features a large enclosed shelterhouse with a fireplace and outdoor grills. This facility can be reserved for gatherings and provides indoor restrooms, offering a comfortable space for groups or for campers seeking a more sheltered area.
• Indoor Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available inside the enclosed shelterhouse, providing campers with access to clean and maintained washroom amenities.
• Playground Equipment: For families visiting the campground, playground equipment is available, offering a dedicated area for children to play and enjoy the outdoors.
• Pond Access: The park includes a small pond, offering opportunities for fishing (with bluegills potentially available) and general enjoyment of a water feature.
• Hiking Trail: Reiff Park features hiking trails, allowing campers to explore the natural surroundings and enjoy walks within the 120-acre park, which includes developed recreational areas and undeveloped wildlife areas.
• Boyer River Access: The park is split by the Boyer River, which provides opportunities for fishing (home to bullheads and channel catfish) and enjoying a riverine environment.
• Self-Registration System: The mention of putting "cash in the drop envelope" suggests a self-registration or honor-system payment method, offering flexibility for arrivals. However, campers should note that sites are generally first-come, first-served as reservations for camping facilities are not typically accepted.
• Firewood Collection: Campers are permitted to collect dead and downed firewood within the park using hand saws, providing a natural and sustainable source for campfires.

These services make Reiff Park Campground a well-equipped yet naturally focused destination for campers in Iowa.

Reiff Park Campground, managed by the Sac County Conservation Board, stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a compelling choice for campers in Iowa, particularly those valuing nature and well-maintained facilities.

• Well-Kept Grounds: A consistently praised highlight is that the "Campground is very well kept!" This commitment to maintenance ensures a clean, orderly, and pleasant environment for all visitors, enhancing the overall camping experience.
• Shaded Campsites with Full Hookups: The availability of 7 shaded campsites, each equipped with 50 amp electrical and water hookups, is a significant draw. The natural shade provides comfort during warmer months, and the modern hookups offer convenience for RVers, allowing for a comfortable stay.
• Versatile Camping Options: While offering hookups for RVs, the park also allows primitive or tent camping, making it accessible to a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts with different preferences and equipment.
• Enclosed Shelterhouse with Amenities: The presence of a large enclosed shelterhouse with a fireplace and indoor restrooms is a valuable asset. This facility is perfect for group gatherings, providing a comfortable indoor space regardless of weather, and adds convenience for all campers.
• Dedicated Playground for Families: For those camping with children, the on-site playground equipment is a major highlight, offering a safe and engaging area for kids to play and expend energy.
• Access to Varied Natural Landscapes: Reiff Park spans 120 acres and is split by the Boyer River. This diverse landscape includes developed recreational areas, a small pond, hiking trails, evergreen plantations, hardwood plantings, and native grass plots. This variety offers multiple opportunities for exploration and connection with nature.
• Fishing Opportunities: Both the small pond (home to bluegills) and the Boyer River (with bullheads and channel catfish) provide fishing opportunities for anglers, adding another recreational dimension to the park.
• Hunting and Trapping Opportunities: For licensed enthusiasts, the undeveloped western portion of the park is managed as a wildlife area, offering seasonal hunting (deer, pheasants, small game) and trapping, making it appealing to a specific niche of outdoor recreationists.
• Self-Service Convenience: The self-registration system, where campers put cash in a drop envelope, offers flexibility and ease of access for arrivals, particularly outside of regular office hours.

These features collectively position Reiff Park Campground as a versatile, well-maintained, and naturally rich destination for a memorable camping experience in Iowa.

As a public campground managed by the Sac County Conservation Board, Reiff Park Campground primarily offers value through its established amenities and accessible pricing, rather than frequent, dynamic promotions. Its core "special offers" are inherent in its operational model.

• Affordable Public Rates: The most significant "special offer" of Reiff Park Campground is its competitive and generally low camping fees. Public campgrounds are known for providing an economical way to enjoy the outdoors, making camping accessible to a wider range of Iowans. While specific rates are not provided in the review, the general sentiment for well-kept public parks often points to excellent value.
• Inclusion of Hookups: The provision of 50 amp electrical and water hookups at 7 shaded campsites is a considerable value. Many private campgrounds charge a premium for such services, so having them included at a likely affordable public rate enhances the overall "offer" of the park.
• Access to Comprehensive Park Amenities: The camping fee grants access to the wider Reiff Park, which includes an enclosed shelterhouse (with indoor restrooms), playground equipment, a small pond, hiking trails, and access to the Boyer River for fishing. This bundled access to diverse recreational opportunities adds significant value to the camping experience.
• First-Come, First-Served Accessibility: While some prefer reservations, the "first-come, first-served" policy for campsites (as is common for many county parks) can be a "special offer" for spontaneous campers or those who prefer flexibility without booking months in advance. However, this also means popular times might require early arrival.
• Natural Firewood Collection: The permission to collect dead and downed firewood within the park using hand saws is a practical and cost-saving "offer" for campers who enjoy campfires, reducing their need to purchase firewood externally.

For the most current information on specific rates, open dates (May through October), and any regulations, it is always best to directly contact the Sac County Conservation Board, as they manage Reiff Park.

For detailed inquiries regarding Reiff Park Campground, including current rates, campsite availability, facility reservations for the shelterhouse, or any other questions, please contact the managing authority:

• Address: CVQ2+VJ, Early, IA 50535, USA (Physical location within Reiff Park). The managing entity's address is 2441 Highway 471, Early IA 50535.
• Contact Entity: Sac County Conservation Board
• Phone: (712) 662-4530
• Email: jmeredith@saccountyiowa.gov

Reiff Park Campground in Early, Iowa, is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals seeking a blend of affordability, natural beauty, and well-maintained facilities for their outdoor adventures. For Iowans, this campground offers a genuine opportunity to connect with the state's picturesque landscapes and enjoy a refreshing escape without the need for extensive travel or a significant financial outlay.

Its primary appeal to locals lies in its status as a "very well kept" campground, a testament to the dedication of the Sac County Conservation Board. This ensures a clean, pleasant, and orderly environment that enhances the camping experience. The availability of 7 shaded campsites with 50 amp electrical and water hookups provides modern convenience, making it ideal for RVers seeking comfort, while the option for primitive camping caters to those who prefer a more traditional tent experience. The affordability of public park camping rates further solidifies its appeal, making outdoor recreation accessible to a wide range of Iowans.

Beyond the campsites themselves, Reiff Park offers a wealth of recreational opportunities that resonate with local interests. The playground makes it family-friendly, while the small pond and access to the Boyer River provide excellent fishing prospects. Extensive hiking trails within the 120-acre park, along with the chance for seasonal hunting and trapping in the undeveloped areas, cater to diverse outdoor pursuits. The enclosed shelterhouse with indoor restrooms is a valuable amenity, especially for group gatherings or unexpected weather changes. For Iowans desiring a peaceful retreat that combines essential camping comforts with ample opportunities for nature-based activities in a beautifully maintained setting, Reiff Park Campground is an outstanding choice for a memorable local getaway.