How much does camping cost at Springbrook State Park?

Camping fees at Springbrook State Park range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Springbrook State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Springbrook State Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Null

Can I see photos of campsites at Springbrook State Park before I book?

Yes! Springbrook State Park has 2 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Springbrook State Park?

Springbrook State Park is open Null. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Springbrook State Park?

Yes, Springbrook State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Springbrook State Park?

Fire policies at Springbrook State Park: Null. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Springbrook State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Springbrook State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Springbrook State Park?

Springbrook State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Springbrook State Park?

Popular activities at Springbrook State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Springbrook State Park

4.40

85 reviews

2437 160th Road, Guthrie Center, Iowa, 50115, United States

StargazingSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Iowa Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Iowa Swimming Camping Iowa

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,168 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Null

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Ranger Station Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,168 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

Varies

Season

Null

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on Ranger Station Official Website

Get Directions

Springbrook State Park

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No specific fees mentioned for campsites or shelters.

No paid fee categories listed.

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I manage this campground

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Campground Map

2437 160th Road, Guthrie Center, Iowa, 50115, United States

Springbrook State Park

2437 160th Road, Guthrie Center, Iowa, 50115, United States

Nearby places

Guthrie Center - 8 miles south, Panora - 12 miles east, Bagley - 8 miles north, Des Moines - 1 hour drive east.

Nearby supplies

Grocery store within 10 miles.

Driving directionsFrom Hwy 25 turn east on county road F25. Drive approximately 1.5 miles to park entrance. We are located approximately 9 miles north of Guthrie Center, Iowa. From Hwy 4, turn west on county road F25. Drive approximately 5 miles (and past the Education Center entrance) to the park entrance. We are approximately 6 miles west of Yale, Iowa, 12 miles northeast of Panora, Iowa, and 8 miles north of Guthrie Center.

Access is straightforward via paved county roads. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.

Weather at Springbrook State Park

Best Time to Camp at Springbrook State Park

Fall delivers the best camping experience, with daytime temperatures between 50 and 70°F in September and October. Oak and hickory color peaks during this window, and wildlife activity increases as animals prepare for winter. Trails are at their most photogenic for hiking and mountain biking. Cooler air and water temperatures make fishing more comfortable than the humid summer months. Crowds thin out after Labor Day, especially midweek, though expect steady weekend traffic during peak foliage. Summer brings swimming and beach activities, but Iowa humidity can make it less pleasant. Winter opens the park to snowmobilers when snow depth allows. Spring wildflowers and fresh green canopies attract visitors in April and May.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Described as best season: 50–70°F, peak oak/hickory colors and increased wildlife activity.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Null

About Springbrook State Park

Springbrook State Park's campground sits on 930 acres of rolling hills and timber near Guthrie Center, offering tent, RV, primitive, group, and cabin options. The park has electric hookups, modern restrooms with showers, and a dump station. Cell service is nonexistent for most carriers, so plan accordingly.

Springbrook State Park provides camping options for tents, RVs, groups, and cabin lodging.

Historical Significance

The Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the park's stone structures and facilities during the 1930s. The park was established in 1926, making it nearly a century old. These CCC-era buildings remain in use today.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best camping experience, with daytime temperatures between 50 and 70°F in September and October. Oak and hickory color peaks during this window, and wildlife activity increases as animals prepare for winter. Trails are at their most photogenic for hiking and mountain biking. Cooler air and water temperatures make fishing more comfortable than the humid summer months. Crowds thin out after Labor Day, especially midweek, though expect steady weekend traffic during peak foliage. Summer brings swimming and beach activities, but Iowa humidity can make it less pleasant. Winter opens the park to snowmobilers when snow depth allows. Spring wildflowers and fresh green canopies attract visitors in April and May.

ElevationThe park's gently varied terrain creates an accessible outdoor experience perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park occupies a transitional zone where eastern woodlands meet western grasslands, creating diverse habitat across gentle hills and valleys. A 17-acre lake sits at the heart of the landscape, surrounded by mature oak and hickory forests. The terrain supports white-tailed deer, songbirds, and other wildlife visible from the trail network. Rolling hills offer elevation changes uncommon in much of Iowa, though the park sits at 1,168 feet. Some campsites near the bridge lack shade, according to visitor reports. The lake and surrounding timber provide the most scenic backdrop for tent camping.

Geological RegionSpringbrook State Park preserves 930 acres of Iowa's characteristic landscape, where ancient geological forces sculpted gentle hills and valleys now clothed in a rich tapestry of timber and prairie. This remarkable terrain showcases the transitional zone where eastern woodlands meet western grasslands, creating a unique ecological crossroads. The park's small lake, cradled within these rolling hills, adds a sparkling jewel to the diverse habitat that supports abundant wildlife and offers visitors a authentic taste of Iowa's natural heritage.

Scenic ViewsSome reviews highlight beautiful lake views and wooded areas. Isaac Hillaker mentions the lack of nearby cities contributes to dark night skies perfect for stargazing.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe Sherburne House is available for year-round reservations. This cabin has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living rooms, a full kitchen, and sleeps up to 12 people. It is described as 'a perfect place for a reunion or family weekend retreat.'

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null

Check-out

Null

Stay Limit

Null

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

The organized youth group camping area is adjacent to the main campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSites tend to be close together, according to multiple reviews. The layout is generally well-maintained, but don't expect much buffer between neighbors in some loops.

Reservation PlatformsNull

Walk-in AvailabilityNull

Cancellation PolicyNull

AccessibilityThe park has handicap access and accessible hiking trails. One reviewer mentioned the youth campsite as lacking a water spigot but still accessible.

Site SizeCampsites are described as 'spacious' by some reviewers, though another mentioned that 'sites tend to be close together.

PrivacyUser reviews suggest varying levels of privacy. One reviewer shared, 'Sites tend to be close together,' while another user highlighted the lack of shade near the bridge.

Recommended SitesNull

Best CampsitesNull

Amenities available

Springbrook State Park offers a broad range of amenities that cater to campers, picnickers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park provides modern restrooms, showers, a sanitary dump station, and both electric and non-electric campsites. Specific recreational facilities include sand volleyball and basketball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground, and picnic shelters. As one user noted, 'Wonderful campground with many nice hiking trails. There is no cell service as it is located in a valley.' There is a camp store open during weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day, which offers camping supplies, food, firewood, and ice, though recent reviewers have mentioned that the store may be closed permanently.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Springbrook State Park offers a wide variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. The park's 12 miles of trails and its 17-acre lake provide ample recreational opportunities.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome user reviews mention bugs as an issue, and raccoons are noted to be abundant.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

85 reviews

Recommended

Springbrook State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, range of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Common themes include well-maintained facilities and limited cell service.

Review Summaries

Based on 85 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the park's scenic trails, wildlife, and overall cleanliness. One user noted, 'Such a beautiful place to camp,' while another described the lake as 'gorgeous.'

Based on 85 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users criticized the lack of cell service, closed amenities like the camp store, and occasional maintenance issues with restrooms and showers.

Based on 85 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Avoid campsites near the bridge due to lack of shade. Users recommend the youth campsite for groups.

Based on 85 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bleach for cleaning showers and planning for no cell service. One user suggested avoiding campsites near the bridge due to lack of shade.

Based on 85 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that the park is popular in fall for its vibrant foliage and in summer for water activities. Winter campers appreciate the quiet but note limited amenities.

Based on 85 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Great park with a lot of things to do packed into a small area.' - 'The lack of major cities nearby means that the night sky is very dark, so stargazing by the lake is a must!' - 'Sites tend to be...

Based on 85 reviews

Accessibility Features

The park is generally accessible, but the youth campsite lacks a water spigot. Handicap access is available.

Based on 85 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but no specific user feedback on pet-related features.

Based on 85 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Families and anglers who want a low-cost lakeside weekend in the Midwest. The lake trail is flat enough for kids and strollers, crappie and bass are biting regularly, and fall weekends after Labor Day offer the best foliage without peak-summer crowds or humidity.

Skip if

No cell service is total for most carriers, so remote work or staying reachable is off the table. The camp store may be permanently closed, showers get mixed reviews on cleanliness, and sites near the bridge are exposed with little shade.

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