Lake Macbride State Park

4.20

12 reviews

3525 Hwy 382 NE , Solon, Iowa, 52333, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:RV Camping Iowa

Quick Facts

781 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Lake Macbride State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

781 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Lake Macbride State Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Lake Macbride State Park

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees for campsites (modern and primitive) are not explicitly stated in the source materials.

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

4.20

Satisfactory

Based on 12 reviews

7 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanwell-maintained

"User reviews highlight the park's well-rounded amenities and activities. Positives include the cleanliness of the park, range of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some concerns were raised about the close spacing of campsites and the uneven terrain in the primitive area."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

3525 Hwy 382 NE , Solon, Iowa, 52333, United States

Lake Macbride State Park

3525 Hwy 382 NE , Solon, Iowa, 52333, United States

Driving directionsDirections from the main entrance to the modern campground: From Solon take County Road F16 west out of town for 5 miles, when entering the park follow the signs to the campground. Directions to the Primitive campground: From Solon, take 5th St. west out of town for 3 miles. As you enter the park follow the sign to the campground.

The campground is accessible via paved county roads. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was provided.

Nearby places

Solon (5 miles), Coralville Lake (immediately adjacent), Cedar Rapids/Iowa City area (distances not specified)

Nearby supplies

"Grocery Store" is listed as being within greater than 1 mile. For camping supplies and essentials, the source notes "firewood" sales within the facility.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Macbride State Park

Experience four distinct seasons at Lake Macbride, each painting the landscape with its own unique palette. Bundle up for crisp winter days when temperatures dip to 7°F and snow blankets the trails in pristine white. Watch spring awaken the forest with wildflowers and warming breezes. Embrace summer's embrace as temperatures climb to a comfortable 84°F, perfect for swimming and water sports on those occasionally humid afternoons. Then witness autumn's spectacular show as the oak and hickory forests burst into flames of gold and crimson.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, boating, rentals and wildlife viewing; Memorial-Labor Day focus.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall offers scenic foliage, migratory birdwatching and good hiking.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers trails, migrating birds and re-opening of seasonal services; variable weather.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Park open year-round; winter sports like cross-country and snowmobiling occur but limited services.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season services and activities are available from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground facilities operate year-round, but some services (e.g., boat rental) are seasonal from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Current Alerts: No current warnings or advisories are provided.

About Lake Macbride State Park

Discover Iowa's crown jewel of state parks at Lake Macbride, where 2,180 acres of pristine wilderness await your next adventure. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across the sparkling waters, or setting up camp under a canopy of ancient oaks, this expansive natural playground offers endless possibilities. From refreshing summer swims to peaceful picnics and scenic hikes through rolling hills, Lake Macbride has become a beloved escape for generations of outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Lake Macbride State Park offers varied camping accommodations. The modern campground is equipped with full hookups, while the non-modern campground provides a more primitive experience.

Historical SignificanceWhile the specific stories of this land await discovery by curious visitors, Lake Macbride stands as a testament to Iowa's commitment to preserving natural spaces for future generations to explore and cherish.

Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Lake Macbride, each painting the landscape with its own unique palette. Bundle up for crisp winter days when temperatures dip to 7°F and snow blankets the trails in pristine white. Watch spring awaken the forest with wildflowers and warming breezes. Embrace summer's embrace as temperatures climb to a comfortable 84°F, perfect for swimming and water sports on those occasionally humid afternoons. Then witness autumn's spectacular show as the oak and hickory forests burst into flames of gold and crimson.

ElevationThe park's gentle topography creates an accessible outdoor experience, with terrain that welcomes hikers of all skill levels to explore its diverse landscapes.

Natural Features and SceneryNestled within the enchanting wooded valleys carved by Mill and Jordan Creeks, Lake Macbride showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The centerpiece 812-acre lake mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, creating picture-perfect moments throughout the day. Wander through majestic oak and hickory forests where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, or explore meticulously restored prairie lands that whisper stories of Iowa's natural heritage. This harmonious blend of water, woodland, and grassland creates a diverse ecosystem that captivates photographers, naturalists, and anyone seeking scenic beauty.

Geological RegionLake Macbride's landscape tells a fascinating geological story, carved over millennia by the patient work of Mill and Jordan Creeks. These wooded valleys cradle the park's stunning 812-acre artificial lake, while the surrounding terrain showcases a remarkable tapestry of oak and hickory forests interwoven with restored Iowa prairie. This unique geological setting creates diverse habitats and stunning vistas that change with every season, offering visitors a true immersion in Iowa's natural splendor.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Groups

No details provided on group camping options.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe source mentions two campgrounds: a modern campground with electric and full-hookup sites and a primitive campground in a shaded setting near the lake.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online for shelters and lodges through an unspecified platform.

Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability for campsites is not provided.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not mentioned.

AccessibilityUniversal accessibility features include fishing piers. Detailed accessibility reviews are not provided.

Site SizeNo specific data on site sizes available.

PrivacySome users mention that the sites are close together, particularly in the tent camping areas, which may compromise privacy.

Recommended SitesNo site-specific recommendations are provided.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Lake Macbride State Park is a hub for a variety of outdoor activities. From its extensive hiking and biking trails to its artificial lake offering fishing, swimming, and boating, the park caters to diverse interests. Winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are also available.

HikingThe park features over 12 miles of hiking trails, including a five-mile crushed limestone trail connecting to Solon and a 1.5-mile scenic path between the beach and the lake's dam. Trails pass through oak/hickory forests and restored prairies.

FishingFishing opportunities include catching walleye, channel catfish, muskie, and even Kentucky spotted bass. Facilities include fishing jetties, a cleaning station, and 24-hour accessible shoreline areas.

SwimmingA designated beach area is available for swimming during the summer. Swimming is restricted to this specific area, ensuring safety.

BikingBiking is popular along the park's trails, especially the multi-use trail that runs along the lake's shoreline and through forests.

BoatingBoating activities include rentals of pontoons, motorboats, and canoes. A 10-horsepower motor limit applies during peak season.

Wildlife viewingBird watchers will enjoy the presence of songbirds, ospreys, and waterfowl, especially during migration seasons.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention dead limbs falling from old trees during windy conditions in the primitive campground.

Active AlertsNo current warnings or advisories are provided.

Fire PolicyCampfire policies are not explicitly detailed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not mentioned.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available. However, no specific details on recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located near Lake Macbride and Coralville Lake, offering easy access to water activities.

Camp HostNo information about campground hosts is available.

Weather at Lake Macbride State Park

Reviews

4.2

12 reviews

Satisfactory

Lake Macbride State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the park's well-rounded amenities and activities. Positives include the cleanliness of the park, range of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some concerns were raised about the close spacing of campsites and the uneven terrain in the primitive area.

Review Summaries

Based on 12 reviews

What Campers Love

The park's cleanliness, variety of trails, fishing opportunities, and well-maintained facilities are frequently praised.

Based on 12 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback revolves around the close proximity of campsites in the tent areas and the uneven terrain in the primitive campground.

Based on 12 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Consider the modern campground for better amenities if privacy isn't a concern. Primitive camping offers more natural settings but may require leveling adjustments due to sloped terrain.

Based on 12 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is popular for water activities and wildlife viewing, while winter attracts visitors for snowmobiling and skiing.

Based on 12 reviews

Camper Quotes

Peter Shaw: 'Lake Macbride is a great campground with lots of things to do for the family.' Tim O: 'Good with functioning utilities, bathrooms, and showers. Not very tent-friendly, and sites are...

Based on 12 reviews