Wilson Island State Recreation Area
00 review32801 Campground Lane, Missouri Valley, Iowa, 51555, United States
Wilson Island State Recreation Area
$0.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$5.00
Free camping as per user reviews. Food storage lockers fee mentioned as $5.
About this campground
Where the mighty Missouri River carved its path through Iowa's landscape, Wilson Island State Recreation Area emerges as a 544-acre sanctuary of natural wonder. What began as a humble sandbar at the dawn of the 20th century has transformed into a premier outdoor destination, named in honor of former Governor George Wilson. Here, spacious campsites nestle beneath towering cottonwood canopies, while winding trails beckon adventurers through pristine floodplain forests. In the crisp autumn air, thousands of snow geese paint the sky in living clouds, and lucky visitors might spot the majestic silhouette of a bald eagle surveying its domain. This peaceful retreat offers the perfect blend of accessible wilderness and modern camping amenities, where families can picnic by day and fall asleep to nature's symphony by night.
Wilson Island State Recreation Area supports a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, group camping, and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceLong before Wilson Island became a beloved recreation area, these waters witnessed one of America's greatest adventures. In 1804, the Lewis and Clark expedition camped along this very stretch of the Missouri River, documenting their voyage of discovery that would shape a nation. The explorers' journals speak of the river's power and the abundant wildlife that still calls this region home today. This sacred waterway has served as a lifeline for countless generations, from indigenous peoples to pioneer settlers, each leaving their mark on the landscape while the river continued its eternal flow.
Weather and SeasonsWilson Island reveals its charm across the seasons, with prime camping conditions greeting visitors when temperatures hover between a comfortable 55-68°F. During these golden weeks, clear skies dominate about 70% of the time, while gentle precipitation remains minimal at just 5-10%. Nature paints its most spectacular show as cottonwoods burst into autumn gold and migrating waterfowl fill the skies. While winter occasionally flexes its muscles with freezing temperatures and brisk winds, and spring rains can make their presence known, the majority of the camping season offers idyllic conditions for outdoor adventures. Savvy campers know to pack layers and embrace the dynamic Missouri River valley weather that keeps each visit unique.
ElevationThe campground rests at the Missouri River's natural elevation, where the convergence of water and land creates a dynamic ecosystem that shifts subtly with the seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living gallery where massive cottonwoods create natural cathedrals, their leaves whispering ancient river stories in the breeze. The Missouri River floodplain spreads before you, a fertile tapestry of wetlands and forests that burst with life. Rising dramatically from this river valley, the legendary loess hills showcase nature's artistry - these wind-sculpted formations exist in only three places on Earth: here in Iowa, neighboring Missouri, and halfway around the globe in China. Wildlife thrives in this diverse habitat, where white-tailed deer browse at forest edges, massive flocks of snow geese create spectacular aerial displays during migration, and bald eagles perch regally in riverside snags, their keen eyes scanning the waters below.
Geological RegionWilson Island occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where the Missouri River floodplain meets one of Earth's rarest landforms. The surrounding loess hills, composed of wind-blown glacial silt deposited over millennia, create a rugged backdrop found nowhere else in North America outside of western Iowa and Missouri. These ancient hills, sharing their geological DNA only with similar formations in China, tell a story written by ice age winds. The dynamic floodplain below continues to evolve with each season, as the Missouri River deposits rich sediments that nourish the cottonwood forests and create the perfect habitat for the area's abundant wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes handicap-accessible facilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and well-shaded, making them suitable for both tent camping and group camping.
Sites PrivacySites offer a fair level of privacy, with reviewers stating that the campsites are not clustered close together.
Total Campsites544 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite-specific mentions include electric-only site 14 and recommendations to fill water at the dump station due to hard-to-access faucets.
Best CampsitesSite 14 mentioned in reviews. Three large youth group campsites.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Varies
Check-out
Varies
Stay Limit
Varies
Guests Allowed Per Site
Varies
Groups
The campground has three large youth group campsites that can be reserved in advance.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSpacious layout with sites not close to one another, per user reviews. Mention of group sites and playgrounds.
Open and Closed SeasonReviews indicate seasonal closure, like 'last weekend before they shut down for the season' (user review by Rosanne Thompson).
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyNull
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Food storage lockers
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wilson Island State Recreation Area offers a diverse range of activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, wildlife viewing, and river activities. The nearby Missouri River is a major attraction for anglers and boaters. The surrounding trails are multi-use, supporting hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Hunting is permitted in certain areas during the season, while the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge nearby provides additional opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts.
Hiking
The recreation area offers six miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and even snowmobiling. Some trails provide access to the Missouri River and backwater chute, while others run through dense cottonwood stands. User reviews have highlighted the trails as enjoyable, with one stating, 'The hiking trails are quite enjoyable.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in the campground, particularly on the Missouri River. Anglers have reported catching species like blue catfish, including one user who landed a 42 and 56 lb blue catfish. However, an Iowa or Nebraska fishing license is required.Biking
Biking is allowed on the trails, which are categorized as multi-use.Boating
The Missouri River and the backwater chute offer opportunities for boating. Boat ramps are available for easy access to these water bodies.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant in the area. Visitors may spot deer, snow geese, and bald eagles depending on the season. The nearby DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge also enhances opportunities for observing migratory waterfowl and other species.Winter Activities
The trails support winter activities like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are implied but not explicitly mentioned in the materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Null
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsYellow water stains and manganese in the water (multiple user reviews). Construction on nearby roads. Hunting seasons require caution for non-hunters.
Active alertsRoad construction near I-29 and surrounding areas. Seasonal closures noted in user reviews.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Greater than 10 miles distance includes a hospital and medical clinic.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresNear the Missouri River with accessible boat ramps and a shallow section for snag-free fishing.
Common complaintsWater quality issues due to manganese. Toilets and sinks described as 'disgusting' by multiple reviews. Grass not well-maintained, per reviews. Seasonal road construction challenges.
HostHosts are available but reviews indicate inconsistent maintenance and support.
Campground Map
32801 Campground Lane, Missouri Valley, Iowa, 51555, United States
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 29, take exit 72. Go west on DeSoto Avenue six miles. Wilson Island is on the left. From Hwy 30, take County Road L16 south five miles to DeSoto Avenue. Go west 2 miles. Wilson Island is on left.
Wilson Island is accessible by paved roads but construction on I-29 and surrounding areas may cause navigation challenges. Review by Margaret Singletary mentions "you need to go down a couple of long dusty roads to get there" due to construction.Nearby places
Missouri Valley is located 11 miles northeast
Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area is 25 miles south.
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: fuel, bait, tackle, drinks, ice. Greater than 10 miles: ATM, church, and grocery store.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Wilson Island State Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present a mixed picture of Wilson Island State Recreation Area. Positive reviews highlight the spacious campsites, peaceful environment, and enjoyable hiking trails. Concerns include water quality issues due to manganese, inconsistent maintenance, and accessibility challenges caused by nearby road construction. Some users specifically praised the fishing and clean bathrooms.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Spacious campsites, peaceful setting, enjoyable hiking trails, and good fishing opportunities. Proximity to the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge and accommodating camp hosts were also noted positively.
Common Concerns
Water quality issues (yellow water and manganese content causing stains), limited maintenance (e.g., unmowed grass), lack of check-in staff, and infrastructure problems such as construction-related...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water due to manganese concerns. Fill up at the dump station as campsites do not have water hookups. Plan for potential detours caused by road construction. Visit the DeSoto...
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Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight the presence of bald eagles and ample opportunities for snow-based activities. Spring is popular for mushroom hunting and observing migratory birds. Summer reviews focus on...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Spacious camp sites with tent camping.' 2. 'The hiking trails are quite enjoyable.' 3. 'Bathrooms and showers were clean and in good condition.' 4. 'Water was yellow and I was afraid to wash my...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention issues such as uneven ground at certain campsites (e.g., electric-only Site 14) and highlight the advantages of spacious and shaded locations.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility could be improved, particularly given the lack of check-in staff and construction-related detours making access difficult.
Last updated August 10, 2025