Saulsbury Bridge Campground

- 2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761

Hello, fellow Iowans and outdoor enthusiasts! If you're yearning for a genuine escape into the heart of nature, a place where childhood memories are made and peaceful moments are abundant, then Saulsbury Bridge Campground in Muscatine County is a destination you simply must discover. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park your RV; it's a sprawling 675-acre multi-use recreation area, managed by the Muscatine County Conservation Board, offering diverse landscapes and a true immersion in Iowa's natural beauty. It's the kind of place that sticks with you, creating happy memories that last a lifetime.

For many of us, the call of the wild is strong, and Saulsbury Bridge Campground answers it beautifully. Imagine waking up to the sounds of the Cedar River, surrounded by floodplain forest, open fields, creeks, and wetlands. This diverse habitat not only provides a picturesque setting but also teems with wildlife, offering incredible opportunities for nature study and observation. While some long-time visitors might recall past features like a nature center or an aviary, the core experience of Saulsbury Bridge – its fantastic campgrounds, natural beauty, and well-maintained facilities – remains strong and continues to draw campers seeking peace and outdoor adventure.

The dedicated groundskeeper and friendly staff ensure that the campground is well-maintained, contributing to a clean and enjoyable experience for all. Whether you're an experienced camper with fond childhood memories of the area or a new adventurer looking to explore Iowa's great outdoors, Saulsbury Bridge Campground offers a welcoming and enriching environment. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, natural beauty and well-managed recreational spaces right here in our beloved Iowa.

Saulsbury Bridge Campground is located within the Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area at 2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA. This expansive 675-acre multi-use park is situated adjacent to the scenic Cedar River, right in the heart of Muscatine County. Its location offers a perfect balance of accessible wilderness and proximity to the city of Muscatine, making it convenient for Iowans across the region.

Accessing Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area is relatively straightforward. From Highway 61 in Muscatine, you would travel approximately 2.5 miles north on Mulberry Rd., then turn 4 miles west on Saulsbury Rd. This route guides you through picturesque rural landscapes, preparing you for the tranquil environment that awaits. The location by the Cedar River and Chicken Creek provides exceptional opportunities for water-based activities, enhancing the overall appeal.

The park's diverse mix of flood plain forest, open fields, creeks, and wetlands means that regardless of where you set up camp, you're surrounded by nature. While it feels wonderfully secluded, you're still within a reasonable distance from the amenities and services available in Muscatine. This convenient accessibility, combined with the extensive natural habitat for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, makes Saulsbury Bridge Campground an ideal choice for Iowans seeking a genuine outdoor experience without having to travel too far from home. It's a place where you can easily connect with nature and enjoy the peace of rural Iowa.

• Multiple Campground Options:
  • Main Campground: Offers 20-30-50-amp electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, and on-site parking. This is where the modern shower house and firewood shed are located. Reservable online via MyCountyParks.com (at least 3 days in advance) or available first-come, first-served if not reserved.
  • River Campground: Features 9 camping spurs without electricity, offering nearby access to the Cedar River. This campground is first-come, first-served with a self-pay kiosk. Vault toilets are available, with modern showers in the Main Campground within walking distance.
  • Primitive Tent Camping (Area A): Walk-in sites along Chicken Creek, designed for tents only. Primitive, with limited picnic tables and fire rings. Vehicle parking is in the main campground parking lot, not at individual sites. First-come, first-served with a self-pay kiosk. Modern restrooms and showers are available in the Main Campground.
• Modern Restrooms & Showers: Located in the Main Campground, featuring private door lock shower rooms, described as fantastic and clean by visitors.
• Firewood for Purchase: Available for a fee at the firewood shed in the Main Campground, ensuring easy access to campfire wood (no out-of-state firewood allowed).
• Drinking Water: Available within the campgrounds, particularly in the Main Campground.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV waste disposal.
• Campground Host: A campground host is on-site to assist campers.
• Picnic Shelters: Reservable picnic shelters are available for group gatherings.
• Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are present within the recreation area, providing entertainment for children.
• Handicapped Accessible Fishing Dock: Ensures accessibility for all visitors who wish to fish.
• Boat Ramps: Access points to the Cedar River and Chicken Creek for boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
• Canoe/Kayak Rentals: Available through the Muscatine County Conservation office, making it easy to get on the water without owning equipment.
• Hiking & Equestrian Trails: Extensive trail networks for various outdoor activities.
• Hunting/Trapping: Permitted in designated areas following Iowa hunting laws.
• Geocaching: Opportunities for this modern treasure hunt activity.
• Trash Disposal: Dumpsters are provided for trash disposal.

• Diverse Camping Experiences: Offers a wide range of camping styles, from full-hookup electric sites for RVs in the Main Campground to rustic, primitive tent sites along Chicken Creek and non-electric sites by the Cedar River, catering to all preferences.
• Exceptional Restroom Facilities: Reviews specifically praise the "decent restrooms" and "private door lock shower rooms" as "fantastic," highlighting cleanliness and comfort.
• Scenic Riverside Location: Situated directly on the Cedar River with access to Chicken Creek, providing beautiful views and prime opportunities for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.
• Abundant Wildlife & Nature Study: The 675-acre park features a mix of flood plain forest, wetlands, reconstructed prairie, and food plots, attracting a variety of wildlife. Visitors have spotted deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and endangered bird species, making it ideal for nature observation and photography.
• Multi-Use Recreation Area: Beyond camping, the park offers extensive amenities for day-use visitors including hiking trails, horseback riding, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a sand volleyball court.
• Friendly and Helpful Staff: The groundskeeper is frequently mentioned as "a great guy," contributing to a positive and welcoming atmosphere for campers.
• Affordable & Value-Oriented: With competitive nightly rates and options like "FREE Wednesdays" (historically), Saulsbury Bridge Campground offers excellent value for a nature-filled getaway.
• Historical Significance: Named for the old Saulsbury Bridge, with the last two spans open to foot traffic offering scenic river views and fishing access, adding a unique historical element.

Saulsbury Bridge Campground, managed by the Muscatine County Conservation Board, has historically offered popular promotions to enhance the camping experience and encourage visits. While specific dates and availability should always be confirmed directly with the Muscatine County Conservation Board, here are examples of offers that have been available:

• FREE Wednesdays: Camp for FREE any Wednesday from April through October. This is a fantastic ongoing offer that allows campers to enjoy a midweek escape at no cost for the site.
• 2-for-1 Weekends: Historically, the campground has offered a "camp one night, get the next night free" deal on specific weekends (e.g., camp Friday at the regular price and stay Saturday for FREE). Check with the campground for current dates if this promotion is still active.
• Online Reservation Convenience: While not a discount, the ability to reserve Main Campground sites online via MyCountyParks.com at least 3 days in advance provides a significant convenience, ensuring your spot for planned trips.
• Youth/Conservation Group Discounts: Youth and conservation groups may qualify for a discount on Saulsbury Lodge rentals (e.g., $30 off).

Please note that reservations for the Main Campground typically have a maximum stay of 14 days in any one spot, and a $4 fee is added for online reservations to maintain the MyCountyParks.com website. All sales are generally final with no refunds given. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current rates, promotions, and reservation policies, it is highly recommended to contact the Muscatine County Conservation Board directly.

Ready to plan your unforgettable outdoor adventure at Saulsbury Bridge Campground? Here’s how you can get in touch:

• Address: 2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA
• Phone: (563) 264-5922
• Mobile Phone: +1 563-264-5922

For detailed information on camping availability, current rates, specific campground rules, and any active promotions, your best resource is to call the Muscatine County Conservation Board directly during their business hours. They manage the Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area and can provide all the necessary details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

For Iowans seeking a genuine connection with our state's natural beauty and a versatile outdoor experience, Saulsbury Bridge Campground is an outstanding choice. It perfectly embodies the spirit of Iowa's conservation efforts, offering a vast 675-acre multi-use park that caters to a wide array of outdoor activities right in our own backyard.

The diverse camping options, from full-hookup electric sites for those who prefer modern conveniences to primitive tent sites for true adventurers, mean there’s a perfect spot for every local camper. The consistently praised clean restrooms and private shower rooms are a significant comfort, ensuring that even a rustic escape doesn't mean sacrificing essential amenities. This attention to detail reflects a dedication to providing a quality experience for all visitors.

What truly sets Saulsbury Bridge apart for Iowans is its rich natural environment. The abundant wildlife, the scenic Cedar River, and the extensive network of hiking and equestrian trails offer endless opportunities for nature study, fishing, boating, and simple relaxation. It’s a place where families can create new traditions, where anglers can find their quiet spot by the river, and where anyone can decompress from the stresses of daily life, all without traveling far from home. The friendly staff and the sense of nostalgia it evokes for many who grew up visiting further solidify its status as a beloved local gem. For an authentic, accessible, and deeply satisfying outdoor adventure, Saulsbury Bridge Campground is an ideal destination for any Iowan looking to embrace the beauty of our state.

Saulsbury Bridge Campground

2007 Saulsbury Rd, Muscatine, IA 52761, USA