Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

4.67

23 reviews

4530 McClintock Rd, Palo, Iowa, 52324-0242, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping Iowa Swimming Camping Iowa Fall Camping Iowa

Quick Facts

814 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

814 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area site

Official Website

Get Directions

Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Electric sites are $25 per night, no mention of additional fees or discounts.

Standard Site Fee$25.00

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

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 23 reviews

17 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanhikingfriendlysites

"User reviews highlight a clean, well-maintained campground with a variety of activities and amenities. Positive aspects include large, level sites and friendly camp hosts. However, some concerns were raised about lack of water hookups and limited shade."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

4530 McClintock Rd, Palo, Iowa, 52324-0242, United States

Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

4530 McClintock Rd, Palo, Iowa, 52324-0242, United States

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 380, take the Center Point Exit 35. Go southwest on Highway W36, also called Lewis Bottoms Rd., for five miles to McClintock Rd. Turn right/west onto McClintock Rd., drive for one half mile, and enter the park's main entrance.

The campground is accessible via Interstate 380 and well-maintained roads. There are no mentions of seasonal closures or difficult terrain.

Nearby places

Cedar Rapids (15 miles southeast), Waterloo-Cedar Falls metropolitan area (40 miles northwest), Palo (5 miles south).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and retail options for ice, bait, and tackle are available within 10 miles.

Best Time to Camp at Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

Experience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasons at Pleasant Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and water sports, with comfortable dry air that makes camping a pleasure. As autumn arrives, the prairie grasses turn golden and the hunting season begins. Winter transforms the area into a serene wonderland with crisp, cold air ideal for wildlife watching. Spring awakens the prairie with wildflower blooms and mild temperatures. The moderate precipitation throughout the year keeps the landscape lush without dampening outdoor adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer ideal for swimming, kayaking and beach use; users note busy but enjoyable summers.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Seasonal color and milder weather expected; park open year-round but fewer specifics on fall events.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring noted as ideal; good water clarity for paddling/SCUBA and pleasant weather for activities.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round with trails used for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling; lake activities limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Information unavailable.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round for camping.
Current Alerts: No active alerts noted.

About Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

Discover a hidden gem in the heart of Linn County where 410 acres of pristine lake waters meet rolling prairie landscapes. Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water recreation, wilderness exploration, and camping adventures. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, hiking through restored prairies, or cooling off at the sandy swimming beach, this versatile outdoor playground offers something for every nature lover. The expansive public hunting grounds and well-maintained campgrounds make it an ideal basecamp for those seeking authentic Iowa outdoor experiences.

The campground at Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area caters to various camping preferences. It offers both electric and non-electric sites for RV and tent camping. Seasonal rustic cabins provide an alternative for those seeking more comfort.

Historical SignificancePleasant Creek has evolved into a cherished gathering place where athletic tradition meets natural heritage. Home to the exhilarating Pigman Sprint Triathlon, athletes from across the region test their limits against the backdrop of prairie and lake. The Pleasant Creek Trail Runners race has become a beloved annual tradition, drawing participants who appreciate the challenging terrain and stunning scenery. Beyond these marquee events, the recreation area stands as a testament to Iowa's commitment to preserving natural spaces while creating opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an integral part of the state's conservation legacy.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasons at Pleasant Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and water sports, with comfortable dry air that makes camping a pleasure. As autumn arrives, the prairie grasses turn golden and the hunting season begins. Winter transforms the area into a serene wonderland with crisp, cold air ideal for wildlife watching. Spring awakens the prairie with wildflower blooms and mild temperatures. The moderate precipitation throughout the year keeps the landscape lush without dampening outdoor adventures.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Pleasant Creek creates natural vantage points throughout the recreation area, offering varied perspectives of the lake and surrounding prairies. These subtle changes in topography add interest to hiking trails and provide diverse habitats for local wildlife.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where water meets prairie in spectacular fashion. The centerpiece 410-acre no-wake lake mirrors the sky, creating a peaceful haven for paddlers and anglers while providing a stunning backdrop for shoreline activities. Surrounding this aquatic jewel, vast restored prairies wave in the breeze, showcasing native grasses and wildflowers that paint the hillsides with seasonal color. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, from waterfowl gliding across the lake to deer grazing in prairie clearings. During designated seasons, hunters and trappers can pursue game in carefully managed areas, ensuring sustainable outdoor traditions continue for generations.

Geological RegionNestled in the diverse terrain of Linn County, Iowa, Pleasant Creek showcases the region's natural beauty through its impressive 410-acre lake carved into the landscape. The surrounding restored prairies represent a remarkable conservation success story, where native ecosystems have been carefully recreated to mirror the vast grasslands that once dominated this part of Iowa. This unique combination of aquatic and prairie environments creates an ecological crossroads where multiple habitats converge, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into Iowa's natural heritage.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Unknown

Check-out

Unknown

Stay Limit

Unknown

Guests Allowed Per Site

Unknown

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutIncludes three campgrounds with options for electric and non-electric sites. Rustic cabins are also available.

Reservation PlatformsReservations for cabins and campgrounds can be made online.

Walk-in AvailabilityInformation unavailable.

Cancellation PolicyUnknown

AccessibilityHandicap access is available on-site, but no further details are provided.

Site SizeSites are described as large by users, with one reviewer stating, 'Nice large sites.

PrivacyNo specific privacy details are provided, but one user wished there was 'a little more shade,' suggesting some openness.

Recommended SitesInformation unavailable.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Pleasant Creek can enjoy a multitude of recreational activities. The area features an 8.5-mile trail system for hiking, running, snowmobiling, mountain biking, fat-tire biking, cross-country skiing, and equestrian riding. The 410-acre Pleasant Creek Lake offers fishing opportunities for various species, including channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Swimmers can enjoy a spacious beach area with amenities like showers and volleyball courts. Boating is allowed at 'no-wake' speeds, and the lake is also popular for windsurfing, kayaking, and SCUBA diving. Hunting is permitted in designated seasons, with popular game including rabbits, pheasants, and quail.

HikingThe park includes 8.5 miles of trails, accessible for multiple activities such as hiking, running, and equestrian riding. Trails offer scenic overlooks and connect to other facilities.

FishingPleasant Creek Lake provides opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers. Common catches include channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie. Fishing tournaments are held regularly.

SwimmingThe campground includes a spacious beach area on the north shore, complete with showers, restrooms, and volleyball courts.

BikingThe trails can accommodate mountain and fat-tire biking. Specific details about trail difficulty are not given.

BoatingBoating activities are popular on the no-wake Pleasant Creek Lake, including windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, and pontoon boating. SCUBA diving is also available.

Wildlife viewingPleasant Creek has areas for observing field dog trials and natural habitats. Specific details about wildlife species are not provided.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTypical outdoor hazards include wildlife and water-related risks. Hunters should be cautious during hunting seasons.

Active AlertsNo active alerts noted.

Fire PolicyFire policies are not explicitly mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Information unavailable.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available within 10 miles, including a medical clinic. Nearest full-service hospitals are likely in Cedar Rapids.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to a 410-acre lake suitable for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.

Camp HostUser reviews praise the camp hosts for being helpful and friendly.

Weather at Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.7

23 reviews

Top-Rated

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

User reviews highlight a clean, well-maintained campground with a variety of activities and amenities. Positive aspects include large, level sites and friendly camp hosts. However, some concerns were raised about lack of water hookups and limited shade.

Review Summaries

Based on 23 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the clean facilities, large sites, friendly camp hosts, and availability of diverse activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing.

Based on 23 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of water hookups, limited shade at campsites, and the condition of some picnic tables.

Based on 23 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water supply due to no water hookups at sites. Consider additional shade solutions if camping during sunny periods.

Based on 23 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and summer are described as ideal seasons due to the pleasant weather and water clarity for activities like SCUBA diving and kayaking. Users also report a busy but enjoyable atmosphere during...

Based on 23 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful campground. Clean well maintained. Views, views, views.' 2. 'Wonderful place to fish, camp, or just have a picnic.' 3. 'Nice camping, 30 or 50amp electric no water on site.'

Based on 23 reviews