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Coralville Lake - COE/Sandy Beach
Overview
Coralville Lake – Sandy Beach is a popular Army Corps of Engineers (COE) destination nestled along the eastern shores of Coralville Lake near Solon, Iowa. This campground is well-regarded for its scenic lakeside views and direct access to recreational water activities. It provides a peaceful setting where the sounds of the water and the rustle of prairie grasses create a classic Midwestern camping experience. This park offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and managed convenience for travelers passing through the heartland.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just a few miles from the charming town of Solon, the park sits within a lush landscape characterized by rolling hills and mature timber. The campground is positioned on a peninsula jutting into the Iowa River reservoir, offering campers a sense of seclusion while remaining close to the amenities of the Iowa City corridor. Its location on the Coralville Reservoir makes it a prime spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without traveling too far from paved roads and urban services.
Amenities & Park Features
The facility features numerous campsites equipped with 30 and 50-amp electrical hookups, catering to various RV sizes and setups. While the sites maintain a natural feel, the park provides essential comforts including a modern shower house, flush toilets, and a convenient dump station. Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring for traditional campfires. Families will appreciate the on-site playground, while the large boat ramp and designated swimming beach serve as the park's primary social hubs during the summer months.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from boating and fishing on the lake to exploring the multi-use trails at the nearby Lake Macbride State Park. For a change of pace, the town of Solon offers locally-owned eateries and craft breweries. History buffs should not miss the Devonian Fossil Gorge, which provides a unique look at prehistoric ocean floors. Additionally, the cultural attractions and sporting events of Iowa City are only a short twenty-minute drive to the south.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for active families and water sports enthusiasts who prioritize location and natural beauty over luxury resort-style amenities. It is a fantastic choice for RVers who enjoy fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding right from their home base. If you appreciate a quiet, well-maintained environment with easy access to both water recreation and small-town charm, Sandy Beach is a perfect fit for your next Iowa RV adventure.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Erica Lautner
We live close but wanted to test out our remodeled pop up with the dog so Sandy Beach was a great option. We had site 9 for one night. It was overlooking the water. The campground had some good options for spots and a few different sections as well. The bathroom house in our area was nice, clean and had showers available. Boat ramp and small beach in walking distance to the campgrounds. If you are looking to come to the corridor area and camp, this is a nice spot to reside!
Scott Niles
Nice, small, quite campground. It's not a nice beach. And I wouldn't advise putting anything bigger than a fishing boat in on the ramp. A lot of rocks and debris.
Esther Moore
Nice level gravel campsite, very clean, attentive, friendly campsite host! He helps with registration on your mobile device. Clean restroom, HOT wonderful shower, all accessible, well lit, good parking. A little traffic noise from close country road, o/w very quiet. Friendly guests,walking their friendly dogs. Mature trees,beautiful park. Beautiful lake. Nice to walk around. Nice kiddy playground. Use your America the Beautiful National Parks pass for $10/night. Highly recommended.
Jessie S
Great campground near the lake! Pros: the camping spots are huge and pretty level!! Had plenty of room to park our 32ft camper and big ol truck. Gravel spot that seems much wider and longer than ehat you'd normally see at an average campground. The campground is very clean and well maintained. The park is in good shape and safe for kids. Lots of shade, too! Cons: Most of the spots do not have a water hookup, they only have a few spots that are full hookup. Most people don't mind that, but wanted to mention. The bathroom/showers were in decent shape but very dirty compared to Sugar Bottom campground. They look about the same but I noticed these hadn't been cleaned in awhile. But atleast the showers are hot and stalls are stocked with TP! We had a great time and will be back!
Momster siko
We had to make an abrupt change due to the shootings at Maquoketa Caves. 😔 You can't go anywhere nowadays.... Needless to say... Great place and hidden gem. Grounds crew are super nice and helpful. Plenty of firewood. More importantly, it's super close to Lake Macbride Boat 🛥 Rentals. We went kayaking and rented a pontoon both days. Showers are hot 🔥 and good pressure. I highly recommend this place! 🔥 💪🏾 💯 ❤️