Sherman Park Campground And RV Park

For those of us living in Iowa, the call of the great outdoors is a familiar one. Whether it’s the quiet calm of a riverside spot or the rustle of leaves in a wooded area, finding that perfect campground for a weekend escape or a longer vacation is always a priority. Today, we're casting our gaze upon a local favorite in Clinton County: Sherman Park Campground And RV Park. This article is crafted with you, our fellow Iowans, in mind, to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of this inviting camping destination near Calamus, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your next adventure.

Iowa's county park systems are often treasure troves of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, and Sherman Park is a shining example. Nestled along the scenic Wapsipinicon River, it offers a blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it suitable for a variety of camping styles. From RV enthusiasts to tent campers, and even those with a penchant for local legends, Sherman Park has something to pique your interest. Let’s explore what makes this county-run campground a notable spot in our beautiful state.

Sherman Park Campground And RV Park is conveniently located at 2776 160th Ave, Calamus, IA 52729, USA. Situated in Clinton County, this park benefits from its picturesque setting along the Wapsipinicon River, offering beautiful views and direct river access. Calamus itself is a small town, providing a tranquil, rural atmosphere that many campers seek for a true escape from city life. However, its accessibility is still a significant advantage for Iowans.

For those traveling from larger urban centers in Iowa, Sherman Park is approximately 28 minutes from Davenport, 52 minutes from Cedar Rapids, 55 minutes from Iowa City, and just over an hour's drive from Dubuque. This makes it an ideal destination for weekend trips or extended stays for residents across Eastern Iowa. The park has both a south entrance, used for the boat ramp, camping, and hiking, and a north entrance for hiking, hunting, and the observatory, ensuring clear guidance for visitors. Its location, while offering a sense of seclusion, is not so remote as to be difficult to reach, striking a desirable balance for local adventurers.

As a county-run campground, Sherman Park Campground And RV Park provides a range of essential services designed to accommodate various camping preferences. The park has undergone significant upgrades, ensuring a more comfortable experience for visitors. Key services available include:

• Camping Sites: The park offers a diverse selection of camping sites to suit different needs:
  • Electrical Sites: There are 8 electrical sites available at a rate of $25 per night. These sites are typically gravel pads and offer electrical hookups (30/20/15 amp) and water. These sites are well-suited for RVs and trailers.
  • Primitive Sites: For those seeking a more rustic experience, there are 8 primitive sites available at a rate of $15 per night. These grass sites are often located along the river and are ideal for tent camping. It's noted that primitive sites can occasionally be prone to flooding from the river.
• Modern Restrooms: The campground boasts modern restroom facilities, which have been praised by visitors for being "the nicest & cleanest" they've seen.
• Shower House: A clean and well-maintained shower house is available, providing hot showers for campers.
• Dump Station: A convenient sanitary dump station is on-site for RV waste disposal.
• Picnic Shelters: The park includes picnic shelters, which can be useful for group gatherings or escaping the elements.
• Park Ranger/Camp Host: There is a campground host or park ranger available on-site for assistance and to answer questions, ensuring a safe and helpful environment.

While Wi-Fi is not explicitly advertised as a primary service, some reviews indicate usable, though perhaps not strong, connectivity, and generally good cell phone coverage (especially AT&T). This allows for a balance of unplugging and staying connected if needed.

Sherman Park Campground And RV Park stands out with several unique features and highlights that contribute to its appeal for Iowans:

• Riverside Location: The park's position along the Wapsipinicon River is a major draw, offering beautiful views and direct access to water activities. Reviewers specifically mention "enjoyable view along the Wapsi River" and "fantastic spot next to the river."
• Boating and Fishing: A basic boat ramp provides easy access to the Wapsipinicon River, making it excellent for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and even tubing. It's part of the Iowa Water Trails system.
• Playground Equipment: For families with younger children, a "set of playground equipment" is available in the campground, helping kids burn off energy. There are also newer playgrounds.
• Hiking Trails: The park features nature trails and hiking opportunities through its 233 acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands.
• Astronomical Observatory: A unique feature is the on-site astronomical observatory, which hosts events throughout the year, offering stargazing opportunities.
• Public Hunting: Portions of the park are open for public hunting, appealing to sportsmen and women.
• Well-Maintained and Upgraded: Recent reviews highlight significant improvements, noting a "huge upgrade from when I was last out here" and "meticulous" grounds.
• Haunted History: One intriguing and quirky highlight mentioned by a reviewer is the belief that the park is "super super haunted by Wapsi Willy." While not for everyone, this local legend adds a unique, perhaps spooky, charm for the adventurous.
• Spacious Sites: Especially in the primitive area, campers note "plenty of room between sites" and "even more room along the river," providing a sense of privacy and space.
• Nearby Nature Center: The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center is located across the river (though a few miles away), offering additional educational exhibits, including live raptors, snakes, and turtles.

These features create a diverse outdoor experience, catering to relaxation, adventure, and even a touch of local folklore.

Based on the available public information, Sherman Park Campground And RV Park, as a county-run facility, primarily relies on its competitive standard rates rather than specific, widely advertised promotions. The daily rates of $25 for electrical sites and $15 for primitive sites are already considered very affordable for the amenities offered, especially given the park's upgrades and maintenance.

County parks often have consistent pricing structures throughout the season. However, it is always a good practice for potential visitors to contact the Clinton County Conservation Board directly before their visit. They may be able to provide information on any unadvertised discounts for extended stays, off-peak season rates, or special passes that might benefit frequent visitors to the county's parks.

To confirm availability, current rates, or to inquire about any specific details regarding Sherman Park Campground And RV Park, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: 2776 160th Ave, Calamus, IA 52729, USA
• Phone: (563) 847-7202 (Clinton County Conservation Board Office)
• Park Ranger Cell: (563) 357-4134

Calling the park ranger's cell or the conservation board office is recommended for the most up-to-date information, especially concerning site availability, as many sites are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

For us Iowans, Sherman Park Campground And RV Park offers an ideal blend of accessibility, affordability, and diverse outdoor activities, making it a highly suitable choice for a local escape. Its convenient location near Calamus means less travel time and more time enjoying the beautiful Wapsipinicon River. The ongoing upgrades and meticulous maintenance ensure a comfortable experience, contrasting sharply with any outdated perceptions of smaller county parks. The availability of both electric RV sites and spacious primitive tent sites caters to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring that everyone, from families with big rigs to solo adventurers seeking a quiet riverside spot, can find their niche.

Beyond the practical amenities, Sherman Park's charm lies in its unique highlights: the direct river access for fishing and paddling, the family-friendly playgrounds, the extensive hiking trails, and even the intriguing local lore of "Wapsi Willy." It provides an authentic Iowa outdoor experience, allowing us to connect with nature and our community without venturing far from home. This county-run gem truly represents the value and quality that Iowa's park systems offer, making it a fantastic and reliable choice for your next local camping adventure.