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Squaw Creek Park (Linn County Park)
Overview
Squaw Creek Park, now officially known as Wanatee Park, offers a peaceful retreat within the expansive Linn County Park system. Spanning over 700 scenic acres, this destination combines natural Iowa beauty with suburban accessibility. It serves as a vital green oasis just outside the urban hustle of Cedar Rapids, providing a balanced experience for travelers who appreciate high-quality conservation areas and diverse prairie landscapes. Whether you are passing through the Midwest or planning a multi-day exploration of Eastern Iowa, this park provides a serene backdrop for your RV adventures.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Marion, Iowa, the park sits perfectly on the edge of the Cedar Rapids metropolitan area. The local landscape features rolling hills and diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense hardwood forests to vibrant tallgrass prairies. Its convenient location near Highway 13 and Highway 151 makes it an easy, accessible stop for those traveling through the region while maintaining a remarkably quiet, secluded atmosphere. The surrounding area offers a blend of small-town charm in Marion and the broader cultural amenities of the second-largest city in the state.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground provides well-maintained facilities designed for a comfortable stay. The park features spacious electric campsites that accommodate various RV sizes, offering both 30 and 50-amp service. Key features include:
- Modern shower house and climate-controlled restroom facilities
- Sanitary dump station and central fresh water fill station
- A comprehensive trail system for hikers and mountain bikers
- Dedicated off-leash dog park and expansive playground areas
Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, allowing guests to enjoy the traditional camping experience within a professionally managed county park setting.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Visitors have no shortage of activities both inside and outside the park boundaries. Just a short drive away, you can explore the Indian Creek Nature Center or enjoy local flavors at the NewBo City Market in Cedar Rapids. For those staying on-site, the park is a hub for recreation and local history:
- Miles of mountain biking trails ranging from easy to technical
- The historic A-Frame Lodge and multiple picnic shelters
- Close proximity to the Brucemore historic estate
- Winter activities including groomed cross-country skiing trails
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an ideal match for outdoor enthusiasts and active families who prefer a rustic, natural setting over a traditional commercial RV resort. It is a perfect fit for cyclists looking for high-quality trails or travelers visiting the Cedar Rapids area who want a scenic, affordable basecamp. If you value peaceful evenings and wooded privacy, this county gem offers one of the best camping experiences in the region, providing enough space to breathe while keeping modern conveniences within reach.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Alinga Godber
Excellent place for hiking, walking your dog, riding your bike and enjoying nature trails!!
Laura Kucharik
We have stayed at many dozens of campgrounds all over the country, and this campground had the most spacious and well-kept sites we’ve ever seen. The bathhouse was what you’d expect at a county park, nothing special. The location was beautiful with bunnies and the most fireflies we’d ever seen, and it was quiet considering how close you are to civilization.
Heather Haessler NE-Omaha
We arrived at 10pm due to vehicle troubles. Site was easy to locate and hookups easy to find. The next day we departed but again had vehicle troubles. We were able to get our camper towed back to a FCFS spot. I paid for 3 days but later found out our vehicle would be done in the morning. The park ranger was able to change our reservation and refund the extra. My teen children then decided they wanted to shower. They are both picky but gave the showers 5 ⭐️. This park is clean, quiet, relaxing and very serene. Will visit again.
Shirley Amthauer
Excellent off leash dog exercise area that is separate from the dog park. My dog loves going here. This area is for well behaved dogs as it is not fenced in. Photos are from late fall & middle of summer. There are other trails for hiking but dogs must be on leash on the trails. The park has a very nice, unique playground at the campground.
Kathy San Miguel
Beautiful park! Picnic areas are spread out. Grill was clean. Very clean bathroom. Enjoyed the bicyclists passing thru, everyone is so friendly! Rangers drove by few times while we were there. Would come back often if I lived here.