Tailwater East Campground

4.37

213 reviews

2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240

Featured in:Swimming Camping Iowa Best Campgrounds Iowa Boating Camping Iowa

Quick Facts

751 ft

Price

$14 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

751 ft

Price

$14 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Tailwater East Campground

$14.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Nightly fees range from $14.00 for walk-to tent sites to $26.00 for premium standard electric sites during peak season. Additional service fees apply...

Standard Site Fee$24.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(319) 338-3543 x.6300coralville.lake@usace.army.mil

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What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 213 reviews

69 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanlocation

"User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, scenic location near the Iowa River, and excellent fishing opportunities. However, privacy and the close proximity of campsites are recurring concerns."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240

Tailwater East Campground

2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE, Iowa City, IA 52240

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 80 (Iowa City, Iowa), take Exit 244 towards Dubuque St./North Liberty. Travel north on Dubuque St. for 3 miles and turn right onto West Overlook Rd. NE. Travel on West Overlook Rd. NE for 1.1 miles. At the second stop sign, turn right onto Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE. Travel east on Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE for 0.7 miles, across the Coralville Lake Dam. The entrance to the Tailwater East Campground will be located on the right side of the road. Alternatively, for Interstate 380 (North Liberty, Iowa), take Exit 4 towards North Liberty. Travel east on W. Penn St. for 2 miles and turn right onto N. Dubuque St. Travel south on N. Dubuque St. for 1.9 miles, at the traffic circle, continue straight onto Dubuque St. NE. Continue traveling south on Dubuque St. NE for 1.9 miles. Turn left onto West Overlook Rd. NE and travel east for 1.1 miles. At the second stop sign, turn right onto Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE. Travel east on Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE for 0.7 miles, across the Coralville Lake Dam. The entrance to the Tailwater East Campground will be located on the right side of the road.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, but user reviews frequently mention navigation challenges due to hilly terrain and curvy roads, particularly when towing larger trailers. "Make sure you have good brakes for the road into the East unit," one reviewer advises.

Nearby places

Iowa City (approx. 3 miles), North Liberty (approx. 5.9 miles), Coralville (approx. 3.5 miles), Cedar Rapids (approx. 35 miles), West Branch (approx. 10 miles), Amana Colonies (approx. 20 miles).

Nearby supplies

The nearby city of Coralville offers multiple supply options including Hy-Vee grocery store (approx. 2 miles away), a bait and tackle shop, and an ice cream shop. Additional shopping and restaurants are available in Iowa City.

Best Time to Camp at Tailwater East Campground

Experience the gentle rhythm of Iowa's seasons at Tailwater East, where each time of year paints the landscape in new colors. Winter brings crisp, clear days with light dustings of snow that transform the forest into a quiet wonderland. As spring awakens the hardwoods, moderate humidity and warming temperatures create ideal conditions for camping adventures. Summer arrives with balmy days perfect for water activities, though afternoon showers occasionally refresh the landscape. The camping sweet spot stretches from late spring's wildflower displays through early fall's spectacular foliage show, offering months of perfect outdoor weather.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Peak season offers boating/fishing but is busier with some noise/privacy concerns.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is quieter, cooler, and ideal for fishing and hiking per description and reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 1 for reservations; spring offers warming weather and spring fishing/hiking opportunities.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground reservations closed Nov–Apr; only partial walk-in access other months, limited winter use.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season pricing applies from May 1 through October 18.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 1 to October 18 annually for reservations. The campground operates partially during other months for walk-ins.
Current Alerts: User reviews from specific dates note issues with restroom closures and disruptive noise from party-goers.

About Tailwater East Campground

Nestled along the serene east bank of the Iowa River, Tailwater East Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to discover a hidden gem within the Coralville Lake Dam Complex. This tranquil retreat offers 28 thoughtfully designed campsites that welcome both RV adventurers and tent campers alike. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with nature here—refreshing hot showers await after a day of exploration, while the convenient fish cleaning station and boat ramp make it easy to enjoy the bounty of the river. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend escape or an extended stay in nature's embrace, this riverside sanctuary provides the perfect basecamp for your Iowa outdoor adventure.

Tailwater East Campground offers diverse camping options, including full-hookup RV sites, standard electric campsites, and non-electric walk-to tent sites. Group camping specifics are not mentioned, and there are no cabin or glamping accommodations.

Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia at this remarkable crossroads of natural and human history. Just moments from your campsite lies the extraordinary Devonian Fossil Gorge, where flooding has revealed an ancient seafloor frozen in time for 375 million years. Run your fingers across the fossilized remains of creatures that swam these lands when Iowa was covered by a tropical sea. History buffs will delight in the proximity to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library, offering insights into America's 31st president, while the nearby Amana Colonies invite you to experience the enduring legacy of German communal living through authentic crafts, cuisine, and culture.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of Iowa's seasons at Tailwater East, where each time of year paints the landscape in new colors. Winter brings crisp, clear days with light dustings of snow that transform the forest into a quiet wonderland. As spring awakens the hardwoods, moderate humidity and warming temperatures create ideal conditions for camping adventures. Summer arrives with balmy days perfect for water activities, though afternoon showers occasionally refresh the landscape. The camping sweet spot stretches from late spring's wildflower displays through early fall's spectacular foliage show, offering months of perfect outdoor weather.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of towering hardwoods where nature puts on a daily show. The dense canopy of oak, maple, and hickory creates a natural amphitheater for wildlife watching that rivals any nature documentary. Early risers are rewarded with the sight of majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, while patient observers might spot graceful cranes and herons stalking the riverbanks. As dusk falls, white-tailed deer emerge from the forest shadows, and clever raccoons begin their nightly adventures. One enchanted visitor captured it perfectly: 'Lots of wildlife, including eagles, vultures, cranes, herons, deer, and raccoons'—a testament to the vibrant ecosystem that thrives in this protected riverside haven.

Geological RegionCarved by ancient forces and shaped by the meandering Iowa River, this campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads in the Iowa River Valley. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in stone and soil, where dense forests of native hardwoods have reclaimed the rich river bottomlands. Originally engineered for flood control and water management, this area has evolved into a recreational paradise where human ingenuity and natural beauty coexist. The mixed hardwood forest creates a lush, green buffer between campers and the outside world, while the river valley's unique topography offers both protected camping areas and easy access to water-based adventures.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

14 nights maximum stay within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 occupants per campsite.

Groups

No details are provided about group camping sites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is a small loop layout with concrete and gravel pads.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via website, mobile app, or contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-up availability during off-season periods when reservations are not active. First-come-first-served users are advised to arrive early to secure sites.

Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for changes or cancellations made more than one day prior to the check-in date. Late cancellation fees include forfeiture of the first night's use fee.

AccessibilityThe campground includes barrier-free trails like the Veterans Trail within the Dam Complex, but no specific information on campsite accessibility or features for campers with disabilities is provided.

Site SizeThe campsites vary in size, including full-hookup RV sites and non-electric walk-to tent sites. Multiple reviews mention the concrete pads as a positive feature, although some users noted that the pads were not always level.

PrivacyPrivacy appears limited, with several users commenting on how close the sites are to each other. One user remarked that the tent sites are all located in a field with 'zero privacy,' while RV spots are also described as tight.

Total Campsites28 campsites

Recommended SitesCampsites near the river offer the best views but may lack privacy due to close spacing. Tent sites are level but clustered together. "Avoid sites with dips if towing large vehicles," advises one user.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Tailwater East Campground provides a wide array of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to the Iowa River makes it a great spot for water-based activities, while nearby trails and the Devonian Fossil Gorge offer additional exploration opportunities.

HikingHiking opportunities include trails within the Dam Complex such as the Squire Point, Woodpecker Trail, Tailwater Riverwalk, and the barrier-free Veterans Trail. One review mentions that there are no trails directly connected to the camping area, but nearby trails can be accessed with a short walk.

FishingFishing is a highlight, with the Iowa River providing opportunities to catch large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish. Reviews frequently praise the fishing conditions, with one user mentioning it as 'some of the best catfishing' in the area.

SwimmingSwimming is available as part of the recreation options at Coralville Lake, but there are no specific details about designated swimming areas or facilities at Tailwater East Campground itself.

BikingMountain biking opportunities are part of the recreational offerings at Coralville Lake, although no specific details about biking trails near Tailwater East are provided.

BoatingThe campground has a boat ramp for accessing the Iowa River. This makes it convenient for activities like kayaking and other boating experiences.

Wildlife viewingThe campground is situated in a heavily wooded area abundant with wildlife such as whitetail deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and songbirds. Multiple reviews also note sightings of raccoons, eagles, vultures, and herons.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRaccoons are frequent nuisances; they are "notoriously bad" and "will get into anything," as per one reviewer. Navigation challenges are noted due to curvy and hilly roads.

Active AlertsUser reviews from specific dates note issues with restroom closures and disruptive noise from party-goers.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated rings. Firewood must be purchased locally.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM

Emergency ServicesThe closest emergency services are located in Iowa City/Coralville, which hosts the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, and local police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection and recycling are available on-site, but one review mentioned that the dumpster was 'extremely stinky,' suggesting potential maintenance issues.

Water FeaturesLocated on the Iowa River, with a boat ramp directly accessible from the campground. The Coralville Lake Dam is nearby.

Camp HostHosts are reported as "friendly and helpful" with regular rounds for cleaning and security checks.

Weather at Tailwater East Campground

Reviews

4.4

213 reviews

Recommended

Tailwater East Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, scenic location near the Iowa River, and excellent fishing opportunities. However, privacy and the close proximity of campsites are recurring concerns.

Review Summaries

Based on 213 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews frequently mention clean facilities, the campground's scenic location, and great fishing. Several users also appreciated the concrete pads for RVs and the proximity to the Iowa River.

Based on 213 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the close proximity of campsites, occasional maintenance issues such as stinky dumpsters and out-of-order bathrooms, and the lack of privacy, especially in the tent area.

Based on 213 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing dry firewood and securing your campsite to avoid raccoon issues. Many suggest checking in early if possible, as the check-in booth is located at another campground. Another...

Based on 213 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During peak summer months, the campground is noted to be busier, with some noise concerns. Fall sees quieter conditions and cooler weather, making it ideal for fishing and hiking.

Based on 213 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Hot clean showers and bathrooms. There's a utility sink and fish cleaning station.' 2. 'The tent sites are all on one field with zero privacy.' 3. 'Tailwater East was the best $20 dollar...

Based on 213 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site E10 receives frequent praise for its view and proximity to the river. Site E18 is appreciated for its quietness. Some users note that site E14 is difficult to level.

Based on 213 reviews