Linn County Conservation Campgrounds to Open April 10

LINN COUNTY, IA -March 31, 2025- Modern campgrounds managed by the Linn County Conservation Board will open for the season on April 10 by 8 a.m. Camping continues to be one of the fastest growing outdoor recreational activities, inviting all ages to discover the simple magic of the outdoors, a timeless experience for all.

Campgrounds to open include those at Buffalo Creek, Morgan Creek, Pinicon Ridge, and Wanatee Parks. Campsites at these parks will have water and electric hook-ups, and a dump station available for registered campers (weather permitting). A firewood bundle is available for purchase at each modern campground. A majority of campground sites are first come-first servedwith self-registration (cash or check). Only the A-loops at Buffalo Creek Park and Wanatee Parks can be reserved online in advance at this time. The new Firefly Campground at Pinicon Ridge Park is currently under construction, with an opening to be determined later this summer.

Another campground opening for the season includes the primitive (no water or electricity) Matsell Bridge Equestrian Campground. The nearby Matsell Bridge Primitive Campground is open year-round, as is primitive camping at the Wakpicada Natural Area. Group camping opportunities are available at Morgan Creek Park, Pinicon Ridge Park, and the Wickiup Hill Learning Center.

Before heading out, campers are encouraged to check out the rules and regulations, as well as other available amenities. To learn more, visit the camping page at LinnCountyIowa.gov/Conservation. The modern campgrounds typically close for the season October 15.

Linn County Conservation camping areas:

Buffalo Creek Park, 1812 Coggon Road, Coggon. Modern camping, including limited reservable sites

Morgan Creek Park, 7287 Worcester Road, Palo. Modern and group camping

Pinicon Ridge Park, 4900 block of Valley Farm Road, Central City. Modern, primitive, and group camping

Wanatee Park, 1700 Bald Drive, Marion. Modern camping, including limited reservable sites

Matsell Bridge Natural Area, 3734 Matsell Park Road, Central City. Primitive equestrian campground

3699 Matsell Park Road, Central City. Primitive campground

Wakpicada Natural Area, 300 block of Central City Road, behind the Linn County Fairgrounds. Primitive and equestrian camping

Wickiup Hill Learning Center, 10260 Morris Hills Road, Toddville. Primitive pack-in campsite.