Riverview Campground

- 402 Woodland St, Marshalltown, IA 50158

For Iowans seeking an accessible and enjoyable outdoor escape, whether for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, campgrounds offer a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with nature without venturing too far from home. Riverview Campground in Marshalltown, Iowa, presents itself as a prime destination for campers of all kinds. Situated along the scenic Iowa River, this municipal campground combines the tranquility of a natural setting with the convenience of being close to urban amenities, making it a suitable choice for families, individuals, and groups looking to experience the best of Iowa's outdoors.

Riverview Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to a larger recreational area. Being part of Riverview Park, campers have immediate access to a variety of activities and facilities that enhance the camping experience. This blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities is what truly sets it apart for local users in Iowa. Whether you're an avid trail user, a disc golf enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful spot by the river, Riverview Campground aims to provide a memorable and convenient stay.

Understanding the specific offerings of Riverview Campground, from its types of sites to its adjacent park features, is essential for planning your next Iowa adventure. This article will delve into the campground's location and accessibility, the various services it provides, its unique highlights, and why it's an excellent option for Iowans looking for a local camping destination that offers both relaxation and recreation.

Riverview Campground is ideally located at 402 Woodland St, Marshalltown, IA 50158, USA. This address places it on the northern edge of Marshalltown, a vibrant city in central Iowa, right along Highway 14 and adjacent to the picturesque Iowa River. Its position within Riverview Park offers a unique blend of natural surroundings and urban convenience.

The accessibility of Riverview Campground is a significant advantage for Iowa residents. Marshalltown is easily reachable from various parts of the state, making it a convenient destination for a weekend trip or a longer vacation without extensive travel. Being located just off a major highway ensures straightforward navigation for campers arriving with RVs or trailers.

A key highlight of its location is the direct access to the hard-surfaced Linn Creek Recreational Trail. This trail system extends for miles, connecting to the Iowa River's Edge Trail and offering fantastic opportunities for walking, running, biking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area right from your campsite. The campground is also situated within easy reach of Marshalltown's downtown area, providing convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and other city amenities. While a past review mentioned a temporary sewer smell upon arrival, which might have been an isolated incident or resolved quickly, the overall feedback points to a clean campground that offers a pleasant environment. The combination of riverside tranquility and urban proximity makes Riverview Campground a highly accessible and attractive choice for Iowans seeking an outdoor retreat.

Riverview Campground provides a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to accommodate various camping preferences, from large RVs to traditional tents. While it operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations, its offerings aim to ensure a comfortable stay:

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground features 10 full hookup sites (water, sewer, and 50-amp electricity), 60 electrical hookup sites (50 amp, 30 amp, 20 amp), and numerous non-electric / tent sites. This variety ensures there's a spot suitable for almost any type of camping unit.
• Shower House with Hot Water and Flush Toilets: A modern shower house is available, providing hot water and flush toilets for campers' convenience. (Note: A past review mentioned bathrooms being closed due to COVID-19, but typically these facilities are open and operational during the camping season).
• Dump Station: A complimentary dump station is located at the east end of Woodland Street, making it easy for RV and pull-behind campers to dispose of waste.
• Water Hydrants: Two water hydrants are strategically placed within the campground for filling water tanks. Campers are advised to disconnect from hydrants after use.
• Self-Registration Kiosk: As sites are first-come, first-served, a self-registration kiosk at the entrance with envelopes and a deposit box allows campers to easily register and pay fees upon arrival.
• Campground Host: A campground host is typically available on-site to assist with site availability, provide shower house and restroom codes, offer firewood, and provide other assistance.
• Firewood Sales: Bundles of wood are available for purchase to fuel your campfire, ensuring you can enjoy evenings around the fire ring.
• Pet-Friendly Environment: Pets are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and pet waste is properly picked up and disposed of in designated trash dumpsters.
• Free Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available to campers, allowing for connectivity if needed, even while enjoying the outdoors.

Beyond its essential services, Riverview Campground offers several key features and highlights that enhance the overall camping and recreational experience, particularly due to its integration within the larger Riverview Park:

• Prime Riverside Location: Situated directly along the Iowa River, the campground offers a scenic backdrop and potential for riverside activities and views.
• Direct Trail Access: A major highlight is immediate access to the hard-surfaced Linn Creek Recreational Trail, which connects to the Iowa River's Edge Trail, providing over 18 miles of paved trails for walking, running, and biking.
• 18-Hole Disc Golf Course: Located within Riverview Park, an expansive 18-hole disc golf course provides a popular recreational activity for campers and park visitors alike.
• Dog Park: For campers traveling with their furry companions, a dedicated dog park within Riverview Park offers a safe and open space for pets to play off-leash.
• Multiple Playgrounds: Three distinct playground areas are available within Riverview Park, ensuring plenty of space and diverse equipment for children to enjoy.
• Sports Courts: The park boasts tennis courts, basketball courts, and pickleball courts, offering opportunities for various sports activities.
• Open-Air Picnic Shelters: Two open-air picnic shelters are available within the campground for first-come, first-served use, or by contacting the campground host for larger groups.
• Mature Trees and Green Space: The campground features mature trees that provide shade and a pleasant, natural atmosphere, enhancing the outdoor experience.
• Proximity to Marshalltown Amenities: Beyond the park, campers are close to Marshalltown's city center, offering access to grocery stores, restaurants, and other services.

As a public, city-run campground, Riverview Campground typically adheres to set pricing structures and does not frequently offer promotional discounts in the way a private business might. Their focus is on providing affordable and accessible camping for the community. However, for Iowa locals, the "special offer" often comes in the form of transparent and competitive daily rates, designed to be budget-friendly for various camping setups:

• Affordable Daily Rates:
  • Full hookup sites: $30 per night
  • Electric sites (30 & 50 amp): $25 per night
  • Non-Electric / Tent sites: $20 per night
• Inclusion of Essential Services: These rates include access to the shower house, dump station, water hydrants, and on-site host assistance, providing good value.
• Seasonal Availability: The campground is open as weather permits, generally from mid-April through the end of October, ensuring a long season for enjoying the Iowa outdoors.
• First-Come, First-Served Simplicity: While some campers prefer reservations, the first-come, first-served policy can be a benefit for spontaneous trips or those who appreciate avoiding booking fees and rigid schedules. Campers are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot.
• 14-Day Limit of Stay: A city ordinance limits stays to 7 nights, with an extension of 7 additional nights possible, up to 14 consecutive nights. After this, campers must exit for 24 hours before returning. This policy helps ensure site availability for a wider range of visitors.

For specific inquiries about fees or operational dates, directly contacting the Marshalltown Parks and Recreation Department or the campground host is the best approach.

To get in touch with Riverview Campground or the Marshalltown Parks and Recreation Department for assistance, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 402 Woodland St, Marshalltown, IA 50158, USA
• Campground Host Phone: (641) 754-5715 Ext. 1 (if no host is available)
• Marshalltown Parks & Recreation Department: (641) 754-5715 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM)
• After hours, weekends, or holidays, you can try: (641) 754-5725

It is always recommended to call the campground host or Parks & Recreation Department for up-to-date information on site availability, especially if you are traveling a long distance, as sites are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

For Iowa locals, Riverview Campground in Marshalltown offers an exceptionally suitable and convenient option for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Its strategic location along the Iowa River and within Riverview Park provides campers with immediate access to a wealth of activities and amenities that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're an avid RVer, a tent camping enthusiast, or simply looking for a pleasant spot to spend a few nights, the variety of site options ensures there’s a place for everyone.

The direct connection to the Linn Creek Recreational Trail is a significant draw, offering miles of paved pathways for walking, biking, and enjoying the natural scenery right from your campsite. The inclusion of an 18-hole disc golf course, multiple playgrounds, a dog park, and various sports courts within the park adds immense value, making it an ideal destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and pet owners. Even with the occasional challenge like a temporary odor mentioned in one review, the overwhelming feedback points to a clean and well-maintained campground that focuses on providing essential services and recreational opportunities.

The affordability of the sites, combined with the first-come, first-served policy, makes it a flexible choice for spontaneous trips. Its proximity to Marshalltown's city amenities means campers can easily access supplies, dining, and other services. In essence, Riverview Campground is a testament to Iowa's commitment to providing accessible and enjoyable outdoor spaces. It’s a perfect local escape where Iowans can embrace nature, stay active, and create lasting memories without straying far from the comforts of home.

Riverview Campground

402 Woodland St, Marshalltown, IA 50158, USA