Wilson Island State Recreation Area is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and campers seeking an adventurous yet relaxing experience in the great outdoors. Located at 32801 Camp Ground Ln, Missouri Valley, IA 51555, this beautiful recreation area offers a wide range of facilities and services tailored to meet the needs of both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Wilson Island provides easy access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities while maintaining a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for all visitors.
Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, Wilson Island State Recreation Area offers something for everyone. The park is open daily from 4:00 AM to 10:30 PM, making it a convenient choice for travelers on the go. With plenty of space for tent camping and modern amenities like warm showers, this recreation area ensures a comfortable stay even in the great outdoors.
In addition to its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Wilson Island State Recreation Area is conveniently located near major highways like I-29, making it an ideal pit stop for road trippers. The park's proximity to DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge further enhances its appeal, offering visitors a chance to explore additional outdoor activities and scenic vistas.
Customers who have stayed at Wilson Island State Recreation Area often highlight the warm showers and spacious campsites as standout features. Many appreciate the opportunity to disconnect from daily life and immerse themselves in nature. While some guests noted minor issues with facilities, overall feedback emphasizes the park's charm and the sense of peace it offers.
Picnics
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Hiking
Barbecue grill
Picnic tables
Public restroom
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Playground
Dogs allowed
I camped here the last weekend before they shut down for the season, so, it was full. Plenty of space for tent camping. Shower was good enough with perfect temp, for non adjustable. There is Magneese in the water, do not injest. This apparently causes yellow water stains. The toilets and sink look disgusting, but are probably as clean as they can get. I29 is near by with road construction. They work all night. Check that for next season. Plenty of hiking trails and DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge right there.
I enjoyed my stay. It was a nice break on my road trip. Warm showers. Spacious camp sites. Perfect weather
Nice and quiet except from the quarry across the river who were blasting while we were there! Also the water is orange (apparently due to high iron levels). I drank it though and I'm still here to tell the tale!
No entrance fee. There are a few miles of groomed trails to walk/run. Some had been recently mowed and others had some growth. Recommend pants. An easy hike with minimal branches and roots on trails, with the exception of one fallen tree which one must climb over. Ground is pretty level. Office was closed. Did not see any bathrooms.
Spacious camp sites with tent camping. Shallow part of the river that makes for snagless fishing and easy boat access ramp. We like how close to council bluffs it is. Bathrooms are clean.