Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
4.469 reviews4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732
Quick Facts
Price
$14/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$14/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
23 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsBulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for standard nonelectric sites during the camping season (May 15 - October 14) is $14. Additional reservation service fees apply...
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Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$14.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider815-259-3628mvrodmn13@usace.army.mil
What Campers Say
4.46
Recommended
Based on 9 reviews
53 Google reviews
Most mentioned
peaceful
Some mention
noisetrain
"User reviews for Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area highlight its serene environment, scenic views of the Mississippi River, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Several reviews emphasize the quiet nature of the campground and its suitability for relaxation."
Fees & Passes at Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
$14/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Campers have a 14-day camping limit within a 30-day period.
Cancellation: This Scan & Pay campground does not offer refunds, modifications, cancellations, or fee changes. Pay...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official US Army Corps of Engineers website.
Best Time to Camp at Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
From May through October, Bulger's Hollow transforms into an outdoor paradise where warm summer days invite endless adventures on the water. While the Mississippi Valley's signature humidity occasionally makes its presence known, gentle river breezes provide natural air conditioning. These ideal months bring perfect conditions for everything from early morning fishing expeditions to starlit evenings around the campfire, making every visit memorable regardless of the season.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 15 - October 14.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open for camping from May 15 to October 15. The boat ramp and day-use areas remain accessible year-round.
About Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
Tucked away along the mighty Mississippi River, Bulger's Hollow remains one of the region's best-kept secrets for outdoor enthusiasts. This tranquil riverside retreat beckons adventurers with its pristine primitive camping sites, where the gentle lapping of river waves provides nature's soundtrack. Whether you're casting a line into the productive waters, launching your boat for a day of exploration, or simply soaking in the picturesque river views from your campsite, Bulger's Hollow offers an authentic back-to-nature experience that feels worlds away from the everyday hustle.
Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area offers primitive camping with a mix of RV and tent sites. Sites are non-reservable and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Bulger's Hollow transforms into an outdoor paradise where warm summer days invite endless adventures on the water. While the Mississippi Valley's signature humidity occasionally makes its presence known, gentle river breezes provide natural air conditioning. These ideal months bring perfect conditions for everything from early morning fishing expeditions to starlit evenings around the campfire, making every visit memorable regardless of the season.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched along the scenic Pool 13 of the Mississippi River, Bulger's Hollow showcases nature's artistry at every turn. Expansive lily pad fields create emerald carpets across quiet backwater sloughs, serving as both stunning photo opportunities and prime fishing spots where bass and panfish thrive. Towering cypress trees stand sentinel along the shoreline, their knobby knees and graceful branches creating a distinctive Southern riverscape. Wildlife enthusiasts will discover a living gallery here – from great blue herons stalking the shallows to eagles soaring overhead, while deer, raccoons, and countless songbirds make regular appearances throughout the diverse riverside ecosystem.
Geological RegionBulger's Hollow occupies a fascinating stretch of Pool 13 on the Mississippi River, where dynamic riverside ecosystems create a mosaic of natural habitats. This unique geological setting has fostered an environment where expansive lily pad fields flourish in protected backwaters, while diverse tree species including majestic cypress have adapted to the river's seasonal rhythms. The interplay between flowing river channels and quiet sloughs has shaped a landscape that's as productive for anglers as it is beautiful for nature lovers.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeSite sizes are not specified, but the campground includes 17 RV sites and 9 tent sites.
Sites PrivacyNo specific description of site layout in terms of privacy, though reviews indicate a quiet environment.
Total Campsites23 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWaterfront sites are highly recommended for their views and proximity to the Mississippi River.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Campers have a 14-day camping limit within a 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of 6 campers are allowed per site.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 23 non-reservable sites, divided into 17 RV sites and 9 tent camping sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for camping from May 15 to October 15. The boat ramp and day-use areas remain accessible year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through the Recreation.gov mobile app only, using a QR code on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll 23 campsites are first-come, first-served. Visitors must arrive at the campground to claim a site and process payment via the app.
Cancellation PolicyThis Scan & Pay campground does not offer refunds, modifications, cancellations, or fee changes. Payments are final after processing via Recreation.gov mobile app.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities, particularly for those who enjoy fishing, boating, and connecting with nature. Popular activities include camping, birding, and using the playground facilities. The location's proximity to the Mississippi River enhances its appeal for water-based activities.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with a gravel boat launch providing access to Pool 13 of the Mississippi River. Scenic lily pad fields and calm backwater sloughs make it an excellent destination for anglers.Boating
Boating is facilitated by a gravel boat launch, making it a popular activity for visitors. Specific details on types of boats allowed are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground is noted for its natural features, which offer great opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
The campground is closed for winter camping but the boat ramp and day-use areas remain open year-round.Water Sports
Activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddling are supported, as noted in the description.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with designated campfire rings provided.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are mentioned as a major annoyance by some users, particularly during summer months. Boaters are warned about shallow spots with vegetation.
Weather at Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area
16
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Thomson Ranger Station can be contacted at 815-259-3628 for urgent issues. Clinton, IA, approximately 7.5 miles away, has emergency services including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - October 14.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned explicitly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along Pool 13 of the Mississippi River, the campground is adjacent to a gravel boat launch and lily pad fields.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations are a recurring issue. Train tracks nearby may cause occasional noise disturbances.
Campground Map
4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732
Driving directionsFrom Clinton, IA: Take Highway 67 North for 6.5 miles, turn right onto 170th Street, travel 1 mile and the entrance to Bulger's Hollow will be straight ahead.
Traveling to the campground involves about 1 mile on a gravel road after turning off Highway 67. The gravel road is described as worth the effort but may pose challenges for low-clearance vehicles.Nearby places
Clinton, IA - 7.5 miles, approximately 15 minutes
Fulton, IL - approximately 10 miles, 20 minutes.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping essentials can be found in Clinton, IA, approximately 7.5 miles from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
9 reviews
Bulger'S Hollow Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area highlight its serene environment, scenic views of the Mississippi River, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Several reviews emphasize the quiet nature of the campground and its suitability for relaxation.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers enjoyed the peaceful environment and scenic beauty, especially the sunrise and moonrise reflections on the river. Many appreciated the variety of activities, including kayaking, fishing, and...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some concerns included the presence of mosquitoes, shallow waters for boating, and occasional noise from nearby train tracks. One user reported, 'So quiet! Almost nobody was camping...but we were...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing insect repellent due to mosquito issues, and one advised caution when boating due to shallow waters in some areas.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is noted to be less crowded, especially outside peak summer months. The boat ramp and day-use areas remain accessible year-round, appealing to off-season visitors.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Amazing sunrise reflecting over the Mississippi, campfires and cooking every night.' 2. 'Used to camp there as a kid. Used to be great fishing off shore.' 3. 'Great quiet place to camp, fish, or...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews are provided in the source material.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are mentioned.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but dogs must be on a 6-foot leash. No specific user reviews addressing pet-related experiences are noted.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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