Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area
Open for the 2026 camping season. Campground 3 sites 61-69 are closed through November 15, 2026 due to renovations. The campground closes November 16 through March 31 annually. All sites are reservable through the Iowa State Parks reservation system.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 1 at 2:27PM CDT until July 1 at 10:00PM CDT by NWS Quad Cities IA IL
* WHAT...Dangerously hot and humid conditions with continued heat index values of 100 to 110 expected today, along with nighttime lows not falling below the mid to upper 70s. * WHERE...In Illinois, Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson Counties. In Iowa, Benton, Jackson, Jones, Linn, Buchanan, Delaware, and Dubuque Counties. * WHEN...Until 10 PM CDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events.
About
Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area encompasses 1,927 acres surrounding a 410-acre reservoir in Linn County, Iowa. The campground features 79 total sites spread across multiple loops: 63 standard electric sites with 20/30/50 amp service, 6 non-electric primitive sites, and 3 full hookup sites with electric, water, and sewer connections. Pull-through sites range from 50 to 100 feet in length. Two modern shower and restroom buildings serve the camping areas, and a dump station is available. The lake supports a diverse fishery including muskellunge, channel catfish, largemouth bass, white bass, and panfish. Four boat ramp areas with seven total ramps provide access for anglers and recreational boaters. A swimming beach with volleyball courts offers warm-weather recreation. The trail system includes 8.5 miles of multi-use paths for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. Four rustic camping cabins provide an alternative to tent or RV camping, each equipped with electricity, microwave, refrigerator, and a covered porch. Three large picnic shelters accommodate group gatherings. The recreation area operates seasonally from April through mid-November, with peak season rates in effect May 1 through October 15.
Directions
Located at 4530 McClintock Lane, Palo, IA 52324. From Cedar Rapids, take US-151 north approximately 10 miles to Palo, then follow signs to the recreation area.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | Yes |
| Sewer Hookups | Yes |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $23 - $60 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 100ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | Yes |
Contact
| Pleasant_Creek@dnr.iowa.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (319) 436-7716 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
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