Prairie Ridge Camping

Howdy, fellow Iowans! When you’re planning your next adventure in our beautiful state, whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a longer vacation, finding a campground that truly offers something for everyone can make all the difference. For those seeking a blend of relaxation, fun activities, and exceptional hospitality, Prairie Ridge Camping in Murray is quickly becoming a top-tier destination that you simply must experience.

Prairie Ridge Camping isn't just a place to park your RV; it's a vibrant, activity-rich environment where "Beautiful, Fun, and extremely helpful owners" create an atmosphere that feels like a true getaway. Reviewers consistently rave about the "clean campground, pull through sites, quiet with beautiful boathouse and laundry facilities." What truly sets it apart, however, is the abundance of "fun activities for the children once the weather warms up," making it a hit with families. As locals, we appreciate finding those hidden gems that offer both comfort and excitement right here in our backyard.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll take you on a detailed tour of Prairie Ridge Camping. We’ll delve into its convenient location in Murray, discuss its easy accessibility for folks from all corners of our state, outline the impressive array of services and amenities it provides, and highlight the standout features that contribute to its growing popularity. We’ll even share insights from real visitors, giving you an authentic glimpse into the memorable experiences that await you and your loved ones.

From splashing in the water to trying your hand at the golf range or simply enjoying a peaceful evening under the Iowa stars, Prairie Ridge Camping offers a diverse range of possibilities. So, if you're ready to discover your next favorite Iowa vacation spot, read on to learn all about this fantastic campground in Murray!

Location and Accessibility

Prairie Ridge Camping is conveniently located at 2004 130th Ave, Murray, IA 50174, USA. This address places it in Clarke County, in the southern part of Iowa. Murray is a small, welcoming town that offers a peaceful rural setting, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while remaining easily accessible.

The campground's location provides straightforward accessibility for residents across Iowa. Murray is situated near major routes, including U.S. Highway 34, a primary east-west corridor across southern Iowa, and Interstate 35, which runs north-south through the state. Travelers from Des Moines, Omaha, or other parts of Iowa can typically reach the campground via well-maintained state and county roads, making the drive relatively easy even for those towing RVs. One reviewer noted it's "50 min from Des Moines," indicating a manageable drive from a major population center.

While providing a quiet and serene environment, Prairie Ridge Camping is not overly remote. It's nestled amidst farmlands, offering that quintessential Iowa landscape. Its proximity to nearby towns like Osceola (home to amenities like a casino, restaurants, and hotels) means that additional supplies or dining options are within a reasonable drive if needed. The campground is also described as being near Rathbun Lake, providing access to additional regional attractions and outdoor activities, which enhances the overall appeal of its location. This combination of peaceful seclusion and convenient access makes Prairie Ridge Camping an excellent choice for Iowans seeking a quality outdoor experience.

Services Offered

Prairie Ridge Camping offers a comprehensive array of services and amenities, focusing on comfort, convenience, and a wide range of activities for all ages. Here's a detailed look:

• Full Hook-Up RV Sites: The campground features 10 full hookup sites (water, sewer, and 50/30 amp electric), allowing for a comfortable stay for RVs. Some sites (5 & 6) have water & electric hookup only. Sites are described as "pull through sites" and have "level gravel pads," a fire ring, and a picnic table. Seasonal, monthly, weekly, and nightly rates are available. Certain sites (1, 2 & 4) are metered for extended stays.
• Tent Camping Area: New in 2024, there's a designated tent camping area located near the shower house, offering electric access and fire rings.
• Waterfront Camper Rental: For those without an RV, a camper rental is available. It includes water, electric, and sewer hookups, a walk-out deck, waterfront access, 4 bunks, 1 queen bed, and 1 full bed. Linens are available for an extra charge.
• Waterside Cabin Rental: Also new in 2024, a cabin rental that sleeps 6 comfortably is available. This includes a bathroom, attached shower house, waterfront access, TV, Wi-Fi, mini bar, 1 king bed, 1 queen bed, and 2 twin beds with a loft. Linens are available for an extra charge.
• Beautiful Shower/Restroom Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the "beyond beautiful" shower/restroom facilities, highlighting their cleanliness. These facilities are new (as of 2022).
• Laundry Facilities: A "clean and nice" "small self-serve laundromat" is available, with machines that "do the job," providing a crucial convenience for longer stays.
• Automated Golf Driving Range: A unique amenity, the campground offers a 100% self-serve automated golf driving range. It's open 7 days a week, sunrise to sunset, for $5.00 for 25-30 golf balls. Guests need to bring their own golf clubs and it's available to non-campers as well.
• Beach Area and Swimming: There is a "beautiful boathouse" and a designated "beach area" that is open for campers only. A "swimming area" provides a place to cool off.
• Water Slide: A fun "water slide" is available for recreation, particularly enjoyed by children.
• Paddle Boat Rentals: "Paddle boats" are available for rent, allowing guests to enjoy the water.
• Fishing Opportunities: The campground has "4 fully stocked ponds" for fishing, including species like Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Perch, Crappie, Bluegills, and large Catfish. Catch and release policy for certain species is encouraged to maintain fish quality.
• Boat Access: Electric motor only boat access is available on their small lake. A 2-person fishing boat is also available for rental.
• Playground: A dedicated "playground" provides fun for younger campers.
• Walking Trail: A "mowed walking trail" around their large pond offers scenic, peaceful walks.
• Archery Area, Volleyball Court: Additional recreational areas for varied interests.
• Front Office/Store: A "really nice" store offers food items, snacks, sweets, ice cream, and fun gift items/souvenirs.
• Accessibility Features: The campground has made efforts to be accessible; one reviewer noted that as a "disabled person it was accessible" and having "beach access to the water made it easy for me to go into the water with assistance." While some challenges exist, overall accessibility is considered good for a camping environment.
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi connectivity is available.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome (must be leashed and picked up after).

Features / Highlights

Prairie Ridge Camping stands out as a premier Iowa campground due to a multitude of impressive features and highlights that enhance the guest experience:

• Exceptional Cleanliness and Facilities: Reviewers consistently praise the "clean campground" and the "beautiful boathouse and laundry facilities." The "shower/restroom facilities were beyond beautiful," indicating a high standard of maintenance and a commitment to guest comfort.
• Abundance of Activities for All Ages: This campground truly excels in offering "tons of fun activities for the children" and "so much to do" for everyone. Highlights include a "water slide," "beach access to the water," "paddle boats," "fishing opportunities in our 4 fully stocked ponds," an "automated golf driving range," a playground, and various sports courts. This ensures constant entertainment and fun for the whole family.
• Extremely Helpful and Friendly Owners/Staff: The "Beautiful, Fun, and extremely helpful owners" and "friendly and helpful staff" create a welcoming and positive atmosphere, making guests feel valued and ensuring a pleasant stay.
• Variety of Accommodation Options: Beyond traditional RV and tent sites, the availability of a waterfront camper rental and a waterside cabin rental offers flexible choices for different preferences and group sizes, complete with modern amenities.
• Accessibility Considerations: For a camping environment, the efforts made towards accessibility are highly commendable. The reviewer's positive experience with "beach access to the water" and overall "accessible" facilities for a disabled person is a significant highlight, demonstrating inclusivity.
• Peaceful and Scenic Setting: Despite the activities, the campground maintains a "quiet" atmosphere, set amidst beautiful Iowa landscapes, allowing for both lively fun and peaceful relaxation. The "mowed walking trail" provides an opportunity to enjoy nature.
• On-Site Convenience Store: A "really nice" store with food items, snacks, sweets, ice cream, and souvenirs adds a layer of convenience, ensuring guests have access to essentials and treats without leaving the property.

Contact Information

To plan your fun-filled getaway, inquire about specific activities, or make a reservation at Prairie Ridge Camping, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 2004 130th Ave, Murray, IA 50174, USA

Phone: (641) 414-4449

Mobile Phone: +1 641-414-4449

Email: info@prairieridgecamping.com

For the most up-to-date information on rates, availability, specific amenity details, and to book your stay, it is highly recommended to visit their official website:

www.prairieridgecamping.com

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents of Iowa, Prairie Ridge Camping in Murray is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination that truly encapsulates what many of us look for in a local outdoor escape. Its blend of high-quality facilities, a vast array of activities, and genuinely friendly service makes it a top choice for families and individuals alike.

Firstly, its convenient location in southern Iowa, easily accessible from various parts of the state via major highways, means that a fantastic and amenity-rich camping experience is always within comfortable reach. This accessibility allows for effortless weekend trips or longer vacations without the stress of extensive travel, making it a practical choice for Iowans.

Secondly, the sheer volume and quality of activities offered are a significant draw. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, "we were so pleasantly surprised about all the fun activities and possibilities to do." From the exciting "water slide" and "paddle boats" to the well-stocked fishing ponds and even an "automated golf driving range," there's truly something to engage every member of the family, regardless of age or interest. This ensures that boredom is never an option and that every day is packed with potential for new adventures.

Furthermore, the emphasis on cleanliness and comfort, with "beautiful" shower and restroom facilities and "clean campground" overall, provides a level of peace of mind that locals highly value. The owners' and staff's "extremely helpful" and "friendly" demeanor fosters a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits, making campers feel like part of the Prairie Ridge family. The added benefit of accessibility features, as highlighted by a disabled camper, demonstrates an inclusive approach that makes the experience enjoyable for an even wider range of visitors.

By choosing Prairie Ridge Camping, Iowans are not just booking a campsite; they are securing a comprehensive and memorable outdoor experience. It's a place where children can create cherished memories, adults can relax and engage in their favorite pastimes, and the beauty of Iowa's natural landscape can be fully appreciated, all supported by exceptional amenities and warm hospitality. It's truly a local gem that keeps visitors eagerly planning their "next trip out."