Reiff Park Campground

Hello, fellow Iowans! If you’re searching for a peaceful and meticulously maintained spot to connect with nature, whether you're in an RV or prefer the simplicity of a tent, Reiff Park Campground in Early, Iowa, is a local treasure worth exploring. Tucked away in Sac County, this campground offers a serene environment, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate a quiet, well-kept outdoor experience right here in our beautiful state.

Reiff Park Campground distinguishes itself through its dedication to upkeep and its tranquil atmosphere. As one recent visitor noted, "Campground is very well kept! Enjoying it here." This sentiment reflects a common appreciation for facilities that prioritize cleanliness and order, allowing campers to focus purely on relaxation and enjoyment. Even the simple act of leaving payment, as described by another guest who "didn't have a pen to fill out the paperwork but put cash in the drop envelope," highlights the trust and laid-back nature of this community-oriented park.

This 120-acre park, split by the Boyer River, provides a unique blend of developed camping areas and undeveloped natural spaces. The eastern side offers recreational amenities like shaded campsites, a large enclosed shelterhouse, a playground, and a small pond, while the western side is managed as a wildlife area, featuring evergreen and hardwood plantings and native grass plots. This dual nature ensures that whether you're looking for family-friendly facilities or a spot for hunting and fishing, Reiff Park has something to offer.

This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to Reiff Park Campground. We'll delve into its specific location and how easily accessible it is for Iowans, outline the various services and amenities designed to enhance your stay, and highlight the key features that make it a cherished spot among locals. We'll also provide essential contact information to help you plan your next peaceful Iowa adventure. Get ready to discover why Reiff Park Campground is not just a place to camp, but a true asset for local Iowans seeking a quiet, well-maintained, and nature-rich outdoor experience.

Reiff Park Campground is located in Early, Iowa, at the address CVQ2+VJ. More specifically, it's situated about 1.5 miles south of Early on Highway 471 (also referenced as Highway 71 in some older listings). This places it within Sac County, making it a highly accessible destination for many Iowans, particularly those in the western and central parts of the state. Cities like Sac City, Odebolt, Lake View, and even Sioux City are within a reasonable driving distance, allowing for convenient weekend trips or longer stays.

The accessibility is a significant advantage. Highway 471 (or 71) is a well-maintained state highway, ensuring smooth travel for all types of vehicles, including RVs and those towing trailers. This straightforward route minimizes travel stress, allowing campers to quickly settle in and begin enjoying their outdoor experience.

While Reiff Park offers a tranquil, natural setting, its proximity to the town of Early means that essential amenities are never far away. Campers can easily access local services such as gas stations, convenience stores, and perhaps small eateries for any forgotten supplies or a quick bite to eat. The balance between a serene camping environment and convenient access to town resources is a key benefit for visitors.

Furthermore, the park's location along the Boyer River provides unique opportunities for fishing (home to bullheads and channel catfish). The fact that the park is split by the river, with a developed recreational area on one side and a managed wildlife area on the other, truly leverages the natural landscape. This dual-use design, combined with its easy accessibility, makes Reiff Park Campground a practical and attractive choice for Iowans seeking a diverse outdoor experience without having to venture too far from home.

• RV Campsites with Hookups: Features 7 shaded campsites equipped with water and electric hookups (both 30 amp and 50 amp are available), providing essential amenities for RV campers.

• Primitive/Tent Camping: Allows for primitive or tent camping, accommodating those who prefer a more rustic experience.

• Restrooms: Restroom facilities are located near the campground, ensuring basic comfort for all visitors. (Note: Sac County Conservation states modern conveniences like flush toilets are closed in winter months, check for seasonal availability).

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available for RV waste disposal.

• Enclosed Shelterhouse: A large enclosed shelterhouse with a fireplace and indoor restrooms is available for public use, and can be reserved for events. It includes outdoor grills and seats approximately 100 people.

• Open Air Shelters: Two small open-air shelters are also available for picnics and gatherings.

• Playground Equipment: A playground is located within the developed area of the park, providing entertainment for children.

• Small Pond: Features a small pond for recreational use, possibly for fishing or observation.

• Hiking Trail: Offers a hiking trail for exploring the park's natural features.

• Fishing Access: Provides fishing opportunities in the Boyer River (home to bullheads and channel catfish).

• Wildlife Area Access: The western two-thirds of the park is managed as a wildlife area, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, and seasonal hunting and trapping (check specific regulations with Sac County Conservation Board).

• Picnic Areas: Dedicated areas for picnicking, with picnic tables available.

• Operating Season: Open from May 1 through mid-October, weather permitting, allowing for camping during the warmer months.

• Very Well-Kept Grounds: Consistently praised for being "very well kept," ensuring a clean, tidy, and pleasant environment for all campers.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a serene and tranquil camping experience, ideal for those looking to relax and escape the noise of urban areas. "Campground is very well kept! Enjoying it here."

• Shaded Campsites: The 7 RV sites are shaded, providing comfort and protection from the sun during warmer months.

• Dual-Purpose Park Design: Uniquely split by the Boyer River, offering a developed recreational area with camping and a playground on one side, and a managed wildlife area on the other, providing diverse experiences.

• Direct River Access for Fishing: The Boyer River, known for bullheads and channel catfish, runs through the park, offering excellent fishing opportunities directly on-site.

• Wildlife Viewing and Hunting Opportunities: The undeveloped western portion, managed as a wildlife area, allows for observing local wildlife and seasonal hunting/trapping (check with SCCB for regulations).

• Enclosed Shelterhouse for Events: A large, reservable shelterhouse with a fireplace and indoor restrooms makes it suitable for family reunions, group gatherings, and community events.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: Features like the playground and small pond cater to families, ensuring children have engaging activities.

• Hiking Trail: Provides a dedicated trail for exploring the park's natural beauty and getting some exercise.

• Easy Self-Registration Process: While a pen might be needed for paperwork, the option to put cash in a drop envelope suggests a flexible and trusting system for payment. "put cash in the drop envelope. Campground is very well kept!"

• Affordable Local Option: As a county park, it typically offers reasonable rates, making it an accessible and budget-friendly choice for local Iowans.

Address: Reiff Park, 2441 Highway 71, Early, IA 50535, USA (The provided CVQ2+VJ, Early, IA 50535 corresponds to this location.)

Phone: (712) 662-4530 (This number is for the Sac County Conservation Board, who manages Reiff Park.)

Email: jmeredith@saccountyiowa.gov (Email for Sac County Conservation)

For the most current information regarding camping availability, reservations (if applicable), park rules, or details about the shelterhouse, it is highly recommended to contact the Sac County Conservation Board directly via the provided phone number or email. You can also visit their website (sacconservation.wixsite.com/sccb/reiff-park) for more details.

For Iowans, Reiff Park Campground in Early stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for outdoor recreation, embodying the best of what local county parks offer. Its combination of tranquility, accessibility, and well-maintained facilities makes it an ideal retreat for a diverse range of local campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Firstly, the consistent praise for its "very well kept" grounds and quiet atmosphere directly addresses a common desire among Iowans for peaceful and clean camping experiences. This ensures a relaxing stay where visitors can truly unwind, free from the noise and distractions often found elsewhere. For those seeking a genuine escape into nature without sacrificing comfort, Reiff Park offers a perfect balance.

Secondly, the park's dual nature – with developed recreational facilities on one side and a managed wildlife area on the other – provides versatile options for engagement. Families can enjoy the playground and open spaces, while anglers can take advantage of fishing opportunities in the Boyer River. The presence of a hiking trail also caters to those looking for exercise and exploration. This adaptability makes it suitable for a wide array of local interests, from a casual picnic to more active outdoor pursuits.

Furthermore, its convenient location just south of Early, with easy access via Highway 471/71, makes it a highly practical choice for Iowans across the region. This minimized travel time is a significant advantage, particularly for weekend trips, allowing more time to be spent enjoying the park and less time on the road. The proximity to the small town of Early also ensures that basic necessities are easily within reach, blending the rustic charm of camping with essential conveniences.

In conclusion, Reiff Park Campground is a true local gem for Iowans. It provides an accessible, peaceful, and amenity-rich environment that perfectly encapsulates the simple joys of outdoor living in our state. Whether you're an RVer, a tent camper, a fishing enthusiast, a hiker, or simply a family looking for a clean and serene place to gather, Reiff Park offers an ideal and highly suitable option for creating lasting memories right here in Iowa.