Twin Bridges Park

Iowa, with its rolling hills, scenic river valleys, and abundant natural beauty, offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. For those seeking a refreshing escape into nature, a well-maintained campground can be the perfect destination. Today, we invite you to explore Twin Bridges Park, a beloved recreational area nestled in Colesburg, Iowa. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you, our fellow Iowans, with all the factual information you need to plan your next outdoor adventure at this fantastic local spot.

Twin Bridges Park is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a 144-acre haven that combines the tranquility of nature with a variety of recreational activities. Whether you’re an avid angler, a seasoned camper, or simply looking for a peaceful picnic spot, Twin Bridges Park offers something for everyone. Its reputation as a place where visitors "had good time" speaks to the positive experiences awaiting you. We’ll delve into its prime location, the diverse services it offers, unique features that set it apart, and how you can get in touch to plan your visit.

Our aim is to be your trusted resource, providing clear, engaging, and factual insights into Twin Bridges Park from a local Iowa perspective. So, pack your bags, prepare your gear, and get ready to discover the natural charm of Colesburg!

Twin Bridges Park is conveniently located at 2638 IA-3, Colesburg, IA 52035, USA. This address places it squarely within Delaware County, a region of Iowa known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Colesburg itself is a small, welcoming community, offering a quiet and rural setting that is ideal for escaping the everyday hustle.

The park’s location along Iowa Highway 3 ensures excellent accessibility for visitors traveling from various parts of the state. It’s approximately 5 miles west of Colesburg, making it easily reachable by car. The straightforward drive on a major state highway means less time navigating complicated routes and more time enjoying your destination. For those coming from larger nearby cities in Iowa, the drive to Colesburg is manageable, allowing for weekend trips or even day visits.

Nestled within the scenic Driftless Area, a region spared by the last glaciation, Twin Bridges Park benefits from unique geological features, including limestone bluffs and winding streams. This geographical advantage contributes to the park’s natural beauty and the diverse recreational activities it can support. Its proximity to other regional attractions and towns like Manchester, Edgewood, and Guttenberg means that visitors can easily combine their camping trip with visits to local shops, eateries, and other points of interest. The serene, natural setting, coupled with convenient road access, makes Twin Bridges Park an ideal spot for Iowans seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Twin Bridges Park, managed by the Delaware County Conservation Board, provides a range of services and facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience. These services cater to various types of outdoor activities and comfort needs:

• Camping Areas: The park offers dedicated camping areas suitable for both RVs and tents. There are 44 total sites, with 29 providing electric and water hookups, and 15 offering electric-only hookups. Sites are generally spacious and offer shade.
• Picnic Shelters: Three picnic shelters are available for use, perfect for family gatherings, group outings, or simply enjoying a meal outdoors. These shelters include:
  • Eastbrook Shelter: 20' x 32' (640 sq. ft.) with 6 tables under roof, electric outlets, grill, and water service available. Accommodates approximately 48 people.
  • Northwood Shelter: 20' x 32' (640 sq. ft.) with 7 tables under roof (plus 1 open-air), electric outlets, grill, and water service available. Accommodates approximately 56 people.
  • Westview Shelter: 20' x 32' (640 sq. ft.) with 6 tables under roof (plus 1 open-air), electric outlets, and a grill (no water at this specific shelter). Accommodates approximately 48 people.
  • Shelter reservations are available for a fee.
• Restroom Facilities: The park provides toilet facilities, including vault toilets, and a shower/restroom building for campers. Reviews indicate bathrooms are older but clean, though showers may have low water pressure.
• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RVs, making it easy for campers to manage their waste.
• Water Access: Potable water is generally available throughout the park, including at many campsites and some shelters.
• Public Hunting: Portions of the 144-acre park are designated for public hunting, offering opportunities for local hunters.
• Well Water: A well is available within the park for water access.
• Ice Sales: A camp host may sell ice at a very reasonable price, as noted by a previous camper.

Twin Bridges Park is particularly celebrated for several key features that draw visitors from across Iowa and beyond:

• Exceptional Trout Fishing: One of the foremost attractions of Twin Bridges Park is its excellent trout fishing opportunities. Elk Creek, a stocked trout stream, flows through the property, making it a prime spot for anglers. The Iowa DNR regularly stocks trout in streams like Elk Creek from April through October, ensuring a good fishing experience.
• Scenic Natural Beauty: The park spans 144 acres, encompassing a diverse landscape of upland timber, planted trees, and a stream bottom. The north-facing slope of the wildlife area provides a unique environment for various plant species, including some endangered ones, contributing to the park's natural appeal and making it one of Delaware County's more unique areas.
• Hiking Trails: Twin Bridges Park features hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its natural environment. Be prepared for some elevation changes as the trails traverse hills and valleys, offering a good workout and scenic views.
• Playground Equipment: For families with children, the presence of playground equipment ensures that younger visitors have their own space for fun and play.
• Horseshoe Courts: The park offers horseshoe courts, providing a classic outdoor game for recreation and friendly competition.
• Picnic Amenities: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, grill, and fire pit/fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor cooking and dining experiences.
• Quiet and Stream-side Camping: Many campsites are located along Elk Creek, offering a tranquil and shaded setting. The overall atmosphere is often described as quiet, providing a peaceful retreat.
• Pet-Friendly: Twin Bridges Park welcomes pets, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for your outdoor adventures.

Based on the available public information, there are no specific ongoing promotions or special offers explicitly listed for Twin Bridges Park. County parks generally operate on a standardized fee schedule for camping and shelter reservations, with rates determined by the Delaware County Conservation Board.

Daily camping rates for Twin Bridges Park have been noted to range from $12.00 to $20.00, depending on the type of site (electric/water or electric only). Shelter reservation fees are typically around $40.00 to $50.00, depending on the specific shelter.

For the most accurate and current information on rates, availability, and any potential seasonal discounts or promotions, it is always recommended to contact the Delaware County Conservation Board directly, or visit their official website. They would be able to provide the most up-to-date details for your planned visit.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or inquire about specific details regarding Twin Bridges Park, you can use the following contact information:

• Address: 2638 IA-3, Colesburg, IA 52035, USA
• Phone: (563) 927-3410 (This is often the contact number for the Delaware County Conservation Board, which manages the park.)
• Email: While a direct email for Twin Bridges Park isn't explicitly listed, the Delaware County Conservation Board may have a general contact email, such as dboss@delawarecountyia.com, for inquiries related to their parks.
• Website: For more detailed information, including maps, updated rates, and reservation procedures, it’s advisable to visit the Delaware County Conservation Board’s official website, which oversees Twin Bridges Park.

It is always a good idea to contact the park or relevant conservation authority in advance, especially during peak season, to check on campsite availability and any specific operational details.

For Iowans across the state, Twin Bridges Park in Colesburg stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, its accessibility within Delaware County on a state highway makes it an easy drive for a weekend getaway or even a spontaneous day trip, without requiring extensive travel time. This convenience is a major plus for busy individuals and families looking to maximize their leisure time outdoors.

The park’s natural environment is a significant draw. With 144 acres of diverse landscape, including the picturesque Elk Creek, Twin Bridges Park offers a genuine connection to Iowa's natural beauty. The prime trout fishing opportunities are a huge advantage for local anglers, providing a consistent chance to enjoy their hobby close to home. This focus on outdoor recreation aligns perfectly with the active lifestyles many Iowans cherish.

Furthermore, the range of facilities available—from well-equipped camping sites with electrical and water hookups to multiple picnic shelters with amenities like grills and electricity—makes it versatile. Whether you’re planning a multi-day camping trip, a family reunion, or just a simple picnic, the park provides the necessary infrastructure to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The presence of a playground and horseshoe courts also means there are activities for all ages, catering to the diverse needs of local families.

The consistent feedback of visitors "having a good time" underscores the positive atmosphere and enjoyable experiences common at Twin Bridges Park. Its designation as a "safe area of town" by local conservation efforts further enhances its appeal as a worry-free outdoor destination. For residents of Colesburg and surrounding communities in Iowa, Twin Bridges Park isn't just a campground; it’s a readily available natural escape that offers a blend of relaxation, recreation, and community connection, making it an ideal choice for quality outdoor time right here in our beloved Iowa.