Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

4.58

36 reviews

2802 Brushy Creek Rd., Lehigh, Iowa, 50557, United States

Peace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Iowa RV Camping Iowa Hiking Camping Iowa +4 more

Quick Facts

1,086 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6500 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Brushy Creek State Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,086 ft

Price

$25 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6500 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Brushy Creek State Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

$25.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee structure ranges from $25 to $35 for campsites. Additional costs may apply for specific amenities.

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$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.58

Top-Rated

Based on 36 reviews

30 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersrestroomsspacious

"Overall, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is highly praised for its cleanliness, range of activities, and family-friendly environment. The campground is generally quiet and spacious."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

2802 Brushy Creek Rd., Lehigh, Iowa, 50557, United States

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

2802 Brushy Creek Rd., Lehigh, Iowa, 50557, United States

Driving directionsVisitors from the North: From Hwy 20, go south on P73. For the West Entrance, go east on Lake View Dr.; for South Entrance, continue on P73 and go east on D46. Visitors from the South: Get on D46. The South Campground and South Day Use Area are located off of this road. For all other facilities, go north on Brushy Creek Rd., which curves and becomes Lakeview Dr. Trap Shooting Range can be reached by taking 250th from County Rd P73, then turn right onto Taylor Ave.

The park is accessible through paved roads, with detailed directions provided for both northern and southern approaches. There are no explicit mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.

Nearby places

Lehigh (5 miles west), Duncombe (5 miles north), Fort Dodge (15 miles northwest), Webster City (15 miles northeast).

Nearby supplies

Retail for firewood and ice is available greater than 1 mile away. Other essentials like bait and tackle are less than 1 mile away. Fuel and vehicles are available greater than 1 mile away, and town centers are more than 10 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

Experience the full drama of Iowa's changing seasons at Brushy Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in distinctive colors and moods. Winter transforms the area into a serene wonderland, with gentle snowfall creating perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and peaceful wildlife watching. As spring awakens the prairie grasses and wildflowers, the trails come alive with birdsong and fresh possibilities. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for water activities on the lake, while autumn delivers a spectacular show of colors across the timbered hillsides.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in IA

Beach, swimming, boating, fishing and hiking are all at their peak in summer; reviewers praise beach.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall colors, wildlife viewing and trails make autumn attractive; reviewers note wildlife abundance.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring offers abundant wildlife viewing and trails coming alive; good for migratory birds and blooms.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with snowmobiling and XC-skiing on trails, but some facilities (restrooms) may close.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are not explicitly provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground operates year-round, but certain facilities like restrooms may be seasonally closed.
Current Alerts: Trail closures are frequent during wet conditions. Seasonal restroom closures are mentioned in reviews.

About Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

Spanning an impressive 6,500 acres across the heart of Iowa, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area stands as the state's largest public recreation wonderland. Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts flock here year-round to explore the renowned trail systems that wind through diverse landscapes, offering everything from leisurely strolls to challenging backcountry expeditions. This outdoor paradise has earned its reputation as one of Iowa's most beloved destinations, where families create lasting memories and outdoor athletes find their perfect playground.

Brushy Creek caters to a variety of campers, including equestrian, RV, and tent campers. The campground also offers full hookup sites and well-spaced campsites.

Historical SignificanceWhile Brushy Creek's story is primarily written by the natural forces that shaped its rolling hills and waterways, the area represents Iowa's commitment to preserving wild spaces for future generations. This protected landscape serves as a living classroom where visitors can connect with the prairie heritage that once dominated the Midwest.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Iowa's changing seasons at Brushy Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in distinctive colors and moods. Winter transforms the area into a serene wonderland, with gentle snowfall creating perfect conditions for cross-country skiing and peaceful wildlife watching. As spring awakens the prairie grasses and wildflowers, the trails come alive with birdsong and fresh possibilities. Summer brings warm, humid days ideal for water activities on the lake, while autumn delivers a spectacular show of colors across the timbered hillsides.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Brushy Creek creates a dynamic landscape that keeps hikers engaged and mountain bikers coming back for more. These natural undulations provide scenic overlooks across the lake and surrounding habitats, offering photographers endless opportunities to capture Iowa's understated beauty.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a stunning tapestry of ecosystems where native prairie grasses wave in the breeze alongside ancient timber stands. The crown jewel of Brushy Creek is its magnificent 690-acre lake—Iowa's deepest artificial reservoir—whose crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding woodlands and open skies. Riparian corridors trace silver threads through the landscape, creating vital wildlife highways where deer, wild turkey, and countless bird species thrive. This remarkable diversity of habitats makes every visit a new discovery, whether you're paddling the lake's hidden coves or exploring the oak-hickory forests.

Geological RegionCarved by ancient glaciers and shaped by centuries of prairie winds and waters, Brushy Creek's 6,500 acres showcase the best of Iowa's natural heritage. This vast recreation area weaves together native prairie expanses, mature timber groves, winding riparian corridors, and grasslands around the centerpiece 690-acre lake—Iowa's deepest permanent artificial pool. The result is a geological and ecological masterpiece that tells the story of Iowa's landscape evolution while providing unmatched recreational opportunities.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limits are not detailed.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Specific guest limits are not described.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground layout includes equestrian-specific areas and day-use zones, but further details are not provided.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online, as noted for shelters and cabanas.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo information is given on walk-up or first-come, first-served availability.

Cancellation PolicyRules and deadlines for canceling a reservation without penalty are not detailed.

AccessibilityThe campground includes universally accessible fishing piers and modern restroom facilities.

Site SizeUser reviews describe the campsites as spacious, with plenty of room for setup.

PrivacyCampsites are noted to offer a good amount of privacy and space, with spots not feeling cramped.

Total Campsites6500 campsites

Recommended SitesNo specific sites are recommended based on privacy, shade, or views.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

The Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is a hub for diverse recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, and more. Activities are well-supported by the facility's infrastructure, such as trails, fishing jetties, and a sandy beach.

HikingApproximately 35 miles of multi-use trails are available for activities such as horseback riding, hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Maps of these trails are provided at campground kiosks.

FishingFishing is a popular activity with species such as bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, walleye, and more available. The lake has 21 miles of shoreline, four boat ramps, and eight fishing jetties.

SwimmingA large sandy beach is located on the west side of the lake, where swimming is permitted only in the designated area.

BikingTrails suitable for mountain biking are part of the 35 miles of multi-use trails.

BoatingBoating is permitted on the 690-acre lake, which is a 'no-wake' lake. Four boat ramps are available.

Wildlife viewingThe area features a range of habitats, making it ideal for bird watching and wildlife viewing. Users often report spotting various species while exploring the grounds.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wet trail conditions, requiring equestrians to call ahead. Wildlife and proximity to water may pose risks.

Active AlertsTrail closures are frequent during wet conditions. Seasonal restroom closures are mentioned in reviews.

Fire PolicySeasonal restrictions and guidelines on campfires are not detailed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Scheduled quiet hours are not mentioned.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are located greater than 10 miles away, including hospitals and medical clinics.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the facility for waste disposal.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to a 690-acre artificial lake with 21 miles of shoreline.

Camp HostNo information is provided about campground hosts.

Weather at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.6

36 reviews

Top-Rated

Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is highly praised for its cleanliness, range of activities, and family-friendly environment. The campground is generally quiet and spacious.

Review Summaries

Based on 36 reviews

What Campers Love

Users commonly mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, the spacious campsites, and the variety of activities available. The beach and hiking trails are particular favorites.

Based on 36 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted that water hookups are not directly available at campsites but are located nearby. A specific reviewer mentioned an unpleasant personal experience with park staff.

Based on 36 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing extended water hoses for easier access to water hookups and exploring the trails and beach areas. Families particularly appreciate the playground facilities.

Based on 36 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight that restrooms may be closed in off-peak seasons, with porta-potties provided instead. Wildlife viewing is noted to be particularly abundant during certain times of the year.

Based on 36 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campsite was nice and quiet with a friendly atmosphere. I would return and spend some time out here again." - Footprints In The Sand. "Nice level campground, close to the water and a nice...

Based on 36 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific site reviews are not provided in the available data.

Based on 36 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews addressing accessibility features were provided, but the campground includes universally accessible amenities such as fishing piers.

Based on 36 reviews