Beach Campround

For our fellow Iowans looking for a quintessential lakeside camping experience, where the splash of water and the warmth of the sun create lasting memories, we invite you to discover Beach Campground at Nelson Park in Dow City. While the name might conjure images of ocean shores, rest assured, this is our very own Iowa version of a "beach" getaway, centered around the beautiful Stern Lake within the expansive Nelson Park. It’s a beloved local spot that promises refreshing fun and peaceful moments for families, friends, and solo adventurers alike.

Nelson Park is one of Crawford County's oldest and most cherished parks, offering a wide array of amenities that cater to diverse outdoor interests. While one brief review humorously notes, "It isn’t a real beach," this comment speaks to the expectations set by the name, rather than the quality of the park itself. In reality, the "Beach Campground" refers to its prime location near Stern Lake, which features an actual beach area for swimming and provides a focal point for water-based activities. The park is well-regarded for its "beautiful lake and well-maintained campgrounds," offering "ample opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking." It's a versatile destination that combines the joy of lakeside recreation with comfortable camping facilities, making it a popular choice for anyone in Iowa seeking a relaxing and fun outdoor escape.

Beach Campground is located within Nelson Park, at 1450 Nelson Park Rd, Dow City, IA 51528, USA. This places it in Crawford County, approximately four miles west of Dow City. For Iowans, especially those in the western and central parts of the state, accessing Nelson Park is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for convenient weekend trips or longer family vacations.

The park's location offers a tranquil rural setting while remaining within a reasonable driving distance of larger towns for any necessary supplies. Access to the park is generally good, via well-maintained county roads leading directly to the entrance. Once inside Nelson Park, the Beach Campground is situated near Stern Lake, which is the heart of the park's water-based recreation. This prime lakeside positioning means campers have immediate access to the "beach" area and the lake for swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding area of Crawford County provides a classic Iowa landscape of rolling hills and agricultural beauty, offering a peaceful backdrop for your outdoor adventure. Nelson Park's accessibility from major Iowa routes allows for easy planning, ensuring that more of your precious time is spent enjoying the great outdoors rather than navigating complicated travel.

Beach Campground at Nelson Park offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities, making it a well-equipped destination for campers of all kinds. The park is designed to provide convenience and comfort while maintaining an immersive outdoor experience.

• Diverse Camping Sites: Nelson Park, where Beach Campground is located, offers a total of 90 campsites. These include both electric and non-electric sites, catering to a variety of camping needs, from RVs requiring hookups to traditional tent campers.

• Primitive Cabins for Rent: For those seeking a more rustic yet comfortable experience, the park offers four primitive cabins for rent. Two of these are in the Modern Hill Campground area, and two are located by the boat ramp, providing a cozy retreat without requiring personal camping gear.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Visitors appreciate the "clean facilities, including restrooms and showers," enhancing the overall camping experience and providing essential comfort.

• Swimming Beach Area: As the name "Beach Campground" implies, there is a designated beach area on Stern Lake for swimming, offering a refreshing way to cool off during warmer months.

• Boating Facilities: Stern Lake allows for boating (electric motors only), and a boat ramp is available, making it easy for visitors to launch their watercraft for fishing or leisurely cruises.

• Picnic Areas and Shelters: The park features numerous picnic tables at campsites and four shelter houses available for rent. These are ideal for day-use picnics, family gatherings, or group events, with both large and small options.

• Fishing Opportunities: Stern Lake is stocked with various fish species, providing ample opportunities for fishing. Common species include Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Crappie.

• Playgrounds: Families with children will appreciate the multiple playgrounds available within the park, offering a safe and fun space for kids to play.

Beach Campground at Nelson Park stands out with several key features and highlights that make it a premier choice for outdoor recreation in Iowa.

• Lakeside Recreation Hub: The centerpiece of the park is Stern Lake, an 11-acre lake that serves as a hub for a variety of water-based activities. This includes swimming at the designated beach area, kayaking, and boating (electric motors only), providing endless opportunities for aquatic fun.

• Excellent Fishing Destination: Stern Lake is renowned for its fishing. Anglers can expect to find Largemouth Bass (with good numbers and decent sizes), Bluegill (known for being "monster" sized from the dam in early spring), Crappie, and regularly stocked Channel Catfish. This makes it a fantastic spot for both casual and serious fishing enthusiasts.

• Well-Maintained and Diverse Campgrounds: With 90 campsites that include both electric and non-electric options, the park caters to a wide array of camping preferences. The "well-maintained campgrounds" ensure a pleasant stay for RVs and tents alike.

• Primitive Cabin Rentals: The availability of four primitive cabins offers a unique glamping-like experience. These cabins provide a cozy retreat amidst nature, perfect for those who want an outdoor experience without pitching a tent.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: Multiple playgrounds, picnic tables, and open spaces make Nelson Park an ideal destination for families. The emphasis on recreational activities ensures that there's something for everyone, from young children to adults.

• Hiking Trails: The park boasts "numerous trails winding through tree-covered paths," perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. These trails offer opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more vigorous walks.

• Affordable Camping Rates: With camping fees typically at $17 per night for electric sites and $12 for non-electric, Nelson Park offers an accessible and budget-friendly outdoor escape for Iowans.

• Managed by Crawford County Conservation: Being managed by the Crawford County Conservation Board ensures that the park is well-maintained and dedicated to preserving its natural resources for public enjoyment.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Beach Campground at Nelson Park, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1450 Nelson Park Rd, Dow City, IA 51528, USA

• Phone for general inquiries: (712) 643-5426

• Phone for cabin rentals: (712) 263-2748

• Email: crawfco@frontiernet.net (for Crawford County Conservation, which manages the park)

It is advisable to contact the Crawford County Conservation Board directly for the most current information on camping availability, fees, and any specific rules or seasonal updates for Beach Campground and Nelson Park.

For Iowans seeking a fulfilling and accessible outdoor experience, Beach Campground at Nelson Park in Dow City stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice. Its location in Crawford County offers a perfect balance of rural tranquility and convenient access, meaning a refreshing getaway is never too far from home. This allows local families to maximize their time enjoying nature and minimize travel stress.

The park's diverse amenities are perfectly tailored to the preferences of Iowa residents. The centerpiece, Stern Lake, provides a genuine opportunity for lakeside recreation – from swimming at the beach area to productive fishing and leisurely boating. For those who love to cast a line, the lake’s reputation for various fish species, including "monster bluegill," makes it a highly attractive destination. This focus on water-based activities truly embodies a popular aspect of Iowa's outdoor leisure.

Furthermore, the flexibility of camping options, with both electric and non-electric sites, as well as charming primitive cabins, ensures that Nelson Park can accommodate a wide range of budgets and comfort levels. This versatility is ideal for local families planning a quick weekend trip or a longer summer vacation. The presence of clean facilities, playgrounds, and hiking trails further enhances the appeal, promising a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for all ages.

In essence, Beach Campground at Nelson Park is more than just a place to stay; it's a beloved community resource that embodies the spirit of Iowa's outdoor charm. It offers a chance to create cherished memories, reconnect with loved ones, and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of our state, all within an easy and affordable reach for any local resident. It's a true slice of Iowa paradise, inviting you to come and make it your own.