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Lake Macbride
Overview
Lake Macbride State Park is a premier outdoor destination located just outside Solon, Iowa. Spanning over 2,000 acres, this park offers a scenic retreat centered around an 812-acre lake. It is widely recognized for its natural beauty and extensive trail systems that wind through lush forests and restored prairies. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer summer vacation, the park provides a tranquil environment for RVers to reconnect with nature while staying close to modern conveniences.
Location & Surroundings
Nestled in the heart of Johnson County, the park is conveniently located near the Coralville Reservoir and the charming town of Solon. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, limestone outcroppings, and dense woodlands. Its proximity to both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City makes it an ideal base for exploring Eastern Iowa. The surroundings offer a distinct sense of seclusion, yet the local amenities of Solon, including popular breweries and local shops, are only a short drive from the park entrance.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features two distinct camping areas, with the modern North Campground being the primary choice for RV travelers. This section offers several sites with full hookups and 50-amp electrical service to accommodate larger rigs. Essential facilities available to guests include:
- Modern restrooms and shower buildings
- A convenient sanitary dump station
- Large playground areas for families
For lake recreation, visitors have access to a designated swimming beach, multiple boat ramps, and a concession stand that offers seasonal boat rentals and snacks.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Anglers frequent the lake for its excellent fishing, particularly for walleye and muskies. For those who prefer land-based activities, the park boasts a multi-use trail that connects directly to the Solon community. Just a few miles away, visitors can explore several popular spots:
- The Devonian Fossil Gorge
- The University of Iowa campus
- Sugar Bottom mountain biking trails
These nearby attractions ensure that there is a diverse range of activities for every member of the family, from history buffs to high-energy mountain bikers.
Who This Park Is Best For
Lake Macbride is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize activities like hiking, fishing, and paddling over resort-style commercial amenities. It is a fantastic choice for families seeking a safe, natural playground for children. Additionally, its quiet atmosphere and spacious sites make it a preferred spot for University of Iowa fans or visiting parents who want to avoid the hustle of the city while remaining within a short 20-minute drive of the campus and stadium area.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Brandon Kostrzewa
South campground is very nice was only one other camper. Couldn't find firewood locally. Would definitely come back.
Pamela Tapert
Not Big Rig Friendly first of all, our site signage for first spot #4 warned No Big Rig , the turns in park are very narrow if not possible for Big rigs turn around. The Campground is perfect size for small campers and centers, but there aren't public bathrooms in the areas As of 10/14/25 water is turned off throughout park for freezing prevention. There is a lovely hike one rocky loose grave and another mostly welk groomed grass to Lake area and dam which is beautiful. Dogs on leash and of corse pick up after your pets The sites offer electricity only as well as electricity, sewer and water based on season for water Reservations ahead of time of corse but beware, sites 1-6 Are Not Rig Friendly Due to narrow,trees,turn ability. We only fit on 30 bus we parked Ocer the fire ring in back of site. Site read 45 ft,we are 40ft but it was a extremely narrow tight fit
Terry Teeters
Really nice state park, I love coming here. Excellent for watching bird migrations. I once saw an absolute unit of an American White Pelican here. Also seems like the heron are helpful to the fishermen in the area.
Wesley Farnsworth
beautiful park to go hiking in. We had fun exploring and watching the boats down at the beach front.
Daniel Kitchen
Google doesn't know how to get here, and you should be very careful about your destination if trying to use GPS. We camped at the North campground. It is very different than the South campground and on the other side of the lake itself. It is very difficult to get between various areas of the park by vehicle. Signage was poor in that area and there was no indication in the area near the South campground how to get to other parts of the park. It is a lovely area. The spillway is a very fun little hike, and there are several pleasant trails. The lake is a very popular fishing area and has nice hiking trails. We did not use the beach but it has a beach and boathouse with concessions on the north side of the lake.