Sites

Water

20 Amp

30 Amp

50 Amp

Sewer

WiFi

Cable TV

Facilities

Club House

Laundry Room

Swimming Pool

Hot Tub

Fitness Center

Game Room

Rec Hall

Pavilion

Exercise Room

Restroom/Shower

Restroom Only

Shower Only

Restaurant

Groceries

RV Supplies

ATM Machine

Dog Park

Cocktail Lounge

Dog Washing Station

Pit Toilet

Snack Bar

Play Ground

Services

Escort to Site

Self-Service RV Wash

Metered LP Gas

Firewood

Fishing Supplies

Pet Supplies

Onsite Rentals

Worship Services

Golf Carts

Fishing Guides

Onsite RV Service

Staffed RV Wash

Fishing Licenses

Complimentary Breakfast

Policies

RV Age Restrictions

Pets Welcome

Pet Restrictions

Pet Restriction on Quantity

Pet Restriction on Breed

Pet Restriction on Size

No Pets

Tent Camping Allowed

Folding Tent Campers Allowed

No Tents

No Overnight Guests

Recreational activities in or near the park

Recreational Activities

Archery Range

ATV Riding

Biking

Boating

Body Of Water

Casino

Climbing

Dock

Driving Range

Fishing

Golf

Heated Pool

Hiking

Horseback Riding

Horseshoes

Kayaking

Lawn Bowling

Mini Golf

Paddle Boats

Pickle Ball

Putting Green

Ramp

Sauna

Shuffleboard

Snow Sports

Splash Pad

Swimming

Tennis

Wading Pool

Water Slide

Water Sports

Water Umbrella

Whitewater Rafting

<h2>Overview</h2><p>McFarlane Park offers a serene escape within the Black Hawk County Park system, serving as a peaceful haven for travelers exploring the Iowa landscape. Situated on 120 acres of lush, rolling terrain, this destination provides a tranquil setting for RVers looking to reconnect with nature. The park is characterized by its <strong>wooded campgrounds</strong> and scenic river views, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a slower pace of life. Whether you are passing through or staying for a week, the quiet atmosphere provides a refreshing break from the hum of the highway.</p><h2>Location & Surroundings</h2><p>Nestled on the banks of the <strong>Cedar River</strong>, the park is located just southeast of La Porte City, Iowa. The surrounding area is defined by fertile farmland and dense riparian forests that change beautifully with the seasons. A standout feature of this location is its direct access to the <strong>Cedar Valley Nature Trail</strong>, a premier destination for long-distance cycling and walking that stretches across the region. The setting feels secluded and private, yet it remains conveniently accessible for those traveling through eastern Iowa.</p><h2>Amenities & Park Features</h2><p>The campground features sites equipped with <strong>50-amp electrical hookups</strong>, catering to modern RV needs while maintaining a rustic, natural charm. Visitors have access to a modern shower house, a convenient boat ramp for river excursions, and several well-maintained picnic shelters for group gatherings. For those traveling with friends who may not have an RV, the park also offers <strong>year-round cabins</strong> that provide a cozy alternative. The presence of a playground and expansive green spaces makes it easy for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors.</p><h2>Nearby Attractions & Things to Do</h2><p>Outdoor recreation is the primary draw at this park, with the <strong>Cedar River</strong> providing excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and paddling. The adjacent nature trail is a massive draw for birdwatchers and hikers looking to log some miles under a canopy of trees. Just a short drive away, you can visit the <strong>Iowa Firefighters Memorial</strong> or head into nearby Waterloo for a wider variety of dining and shopping options. Many visitors find that the simple pleasure of watching the river flow is the ultimate highlight of their stay.</p><h2>Who This Park Is Best For</h2><p>This park is a perfect match for <strong>active retirees</strong> and families who enjoy cycling and water-based activities. If you prefer the sound of wind through the trees over the noise of a commercial resort, McFarlane Park will suit your travel style perfectly. It is especially ideal for <strong>trail enthusiasts</strong> who want to step out of their RV and immediately onto a world-class trail system for a day of exploration and photography in a quiet, riverside setting.</p>



McFarlane Park is a Black Hawk County Park located in La Porte City, Iowa. The park is situated on the banks of the Cedar River and offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The park features a playground, picnic areas, a fishing pier, a boat ramp, and a nature trail. The park also offers camping, with both primitive and modern sites available. The park is open year-round and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

McFarlane Park (Black Hawk County Park)

Experience peaceful riverside RV camping at McFarlane Park in La Porte City, IA. Enjoy direct access to the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and electric hookups.

McFarlane Park RV Camping | La Porte City, IA

Cute little park in a cute little town. Excellent bike trail

Very impressed with this county campground. Large shower house and FREE WiFi.

Not what we were looking for in a campground. Tried fishing with no luck. Playground couldn't keep grandchildren interested.

Neat little park with lots of floodplain, cedar prairie, ephemeral ponds. Have seen muskrat, turkeys, deer, squirrels, hawks, vultures, and many other species. Beautiful during spring when bluebells are in bloom.

Also an excellently maintained camping are with playground, shelter, modern bathrooms, and public boat access. Directly adjacent to the cedar valley nature trail, along which only a 10 minute ride to La Porte City.

Love camping there.  Free wifi and laid back atmosphere. Little buggy during peak mosquito season, but worth the bug juice.

Update!  They started spraying for bugs and bug juice is only needed slightly now.  Thanks to the park rangers!

McFarlane Park is a very pretty and peaceful park that is close to the Cedar River and Cedar River Nature Trail.  It is easy to get to and the facilities are well kept.  There is free wifi and lots of play areas for kids and adults.  Make sure to bring your own grill as the firepits are pretty basic.  And other than the nature trail, the park trails are pretty limited.

Windy roads through mature woods lead you to a simple secluded and picturesque camp ground. Located along the Cedar Valley Nature trail, you can easily hop on a bike and coast for miles along easy riding trails. The trail also contains many micro habitats for an array of migratory and local birds, seeing Bluebirds, Orioles, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Indigo Buntings, and Red-headed Woodpeckers are very common.

Reviews

McFarlane Park (Black Hawk County Park)

User Reviews