Boehner Pond Campground

For Iowans seeking a uniquely accessible and charming camping experience, Boehner Pond Campground in Malvern is truly a hidden gem. This city-run campground offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal spot for a quick overnight stay or a longer exploration of southwest Iowa. Nestled beside its namesake pond, and with direct access to a beloved state trail, it provides a simple yet comfortable base for all your local adventures.

We understand that local campers appreciate both convenience and a touch of character. Boehner Pond Campground excels on both fronts. As many visitors have discovered, finding this "gem" can be a delightful surprise, especially when other area campgrounds are full. Its well-maintained, level sites and direct connection to the famous Wabash Trace bike trail make it a highly desirable destination for cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and families alike.

The allure of Boehner Pond lies in its straightforward approach to camping, combined with unexpected perks. It's a place where you can park your RV with ease, enjoy the tranquility of a small pond, and then, in a matter of minutes, be in the heart of Malvern's downtown area. This seamless transition from nature to local shops and eateries adds a distinct charm that sets it apart. As Iowans, we appreciate such thoughtful integration of recreational spaces within our communities, making it incredibly easy to enjoy the best of both worlds.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Boehner Pond Campground, detailing its unique location, the essential services it offers, and the special features that make it a highly recommended spot for anyone looking to experience the quaint charm of Malvern, Iowa, and its surrounding natural treasures.

Boehner Pond Campground is conveniently located on an Unnamed Road, Malvern, IA 51551, USA. This address places it squarely within the city limits of Malvern, a welcoming town in Mills County, Iowa. Its most significant locational advantage is its direct adjacency to the renowned Wabash Trace Nature Trail, a premier rail-to-trail path spanning over 62 miles through southwest Iowa.

The campground's proximity to downtown Malvern is another major highlight. Visitors can easily walk from their campsite to the city center, allowing for quick access to local shops, cafes, and restaurants, including the Classic Cafe and The Salty Heifer, which are popular local eateries. This walkability offers a unique convenience for campers who wish to explore local culture without needing to drive.

For those traveling by RV, the campground is designed for ease of access. Sites one through seven are back-in and generously sized at 60 feet in length, while sites eight through 13 are 70-foot pull-throughs, accommodating even large Class A motorhomes. All sites are noted as being level, simplifying setup. While the dump station is located off-site at another city park (specifically at W First St & Fifth Ave, a few blocks away), its availability still ensures full functionality for RVers.

This blend of direct trail access, walking distance to downtown amenities, and well-designed campsites makes Boehner Pond Campground an exceptionally accessible and convenient choice for Iowans looking for an urban-natural hybrid camping experience.

• Electric Hookups: All sites offer 50-amp electric service, catering to various RV needs.
• Water Hookups: Sites one through seven (back-in sites next to the pond) have water hookups directly at the site. Other sites may have shared or no direct water access, with a communal water faucet available.
• Level Sites: All campsites are described as level, ensuring easy setup for RVs and tents.
• Back-in and Pull-through Sites: Features a mix of 60-foot back-in sites (1-7) and 70-foot pull-through sites (8-13), accommodating diverse vehicle sizes.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are available at campsites for campfires.
• Off-site Dump Station: A dump station is conveniently located a few blocks away at another city park (W First St & Fifth Ave).
• Wabash Trace Bike Trail Access: Direct access to the renowned Wabash Trace Nature Trail from the campground.
• Pond Access: Provides access to Boehner Pond for fishing and canoeing.
• Reservations: Reservations can be made by calling Malvern City Hall, offering a simple booking process.
• Fishing and Canoeing: Opportunities for fishing and canoeing in Boehner Pond.
• Play Area: A small play area for kids is available, making it family-friendly.

• Direct Wabash Trace Access: A major highlight is the ability to "Jump on the Wabash Trace bike trail right from the campground," making it ideal for cyclists and hikers.
• Walking Distance to Downtown: Uniquely positioned within walking distance to Malvern's downtown area, offering easy access to local shops, restaurants, and town amenities.
• Level & Well-Maintained Sites: Campers praise the "level" and "well maintained" sites, ensuring a comfortable and easy setup.
• Convenient Hookups: Offers 50-amp electric service at all sites, and water hookups on specific sites, providing essential RV amenities.
• "What a Gem!": Consistently described as a "gem" or "good location" by visitors, reflecting a high level of satisfaction and pleasant surprise.
• Small Pond & Natural Setting: The presence of Boehner Pond provides a scenic backdrop for camping, with opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
• City Campground Management: Being a city campground often implies a focus on community and accessibility, with the benefit of local municipality support.
• Family Friendly: The small play area for kids and the overall safe, welcoming atmosphere make it suitable for families.

Address: Unnamed Road, Malvern, IA 51551, USA

For reservations and inquiries, the primary contact point is Malvern City Hall.

Phone for Reservations (Malvern City Hall): (712) 624-8282

Email for Malvern City Hall: cityofmalvern@qwestoffice.net OR malverncityhall@qwestoffice.net

It is highly recommended to call Malvern City Hall directly to confirm availability, especially as this is a relatively small campground and can fill up quickly. They can provide the most current information regarding site conditions and local park rules.

Boehner Pond Campground in Malvern is an exceptionally suitable destination for Iowans seeking a convenient, comfortable, and charming camping experience. Its unique blend of direct access to the renowned Wabash Trace bike trail and walking-distance proximity to downtown Malvern makes it an urban-natural hybrid that is hard to find elsewhere. For cyclists, it's a dream come true, allowing seamless transitions from trail adventures to a restful night's sleep.

The campground's well-maintained, level sites with 50-amp electric service, and water hookups on many, ensure a hassle-free stay for RVers, even those with large motorhomes. While the dump station is off-site, its close proximity still offers full functionality. The small, peaceful pond provides a lovely natural backdrop for fishing and canoeing, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

What truly makes Boehner Pond a "gem" for locals is its ability to integrate outdoor recreation with small-town charm. The option to easily walk to Malvern's downtown for a meal or to explore local shops adds a significant dimension to the camping trip, making it more than just a place to stay. For Iowans, this campground offers an accessible, affordable, and highly engaging escape that perfectly captures the essence of community and outdoor enjoyment in our beloved state. It's a testament to how local initiatives can create truly special places for residents to relax and explore.