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Baileys Ford Park (Delaware County Park)

Overview

Baileys Ford Park offers a peaceful escape in Delaware County, Iowa, providing a balanced mix of open meadows and shaded timber. Spanning 165 acres along the banks of the **Maquoketa River**, this destination combines a natural woodland setting with essential conveniences for RV travelers. It serves as a premier destination for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of the Iowa countryside and want direct access to high-quality water recreation and **scenic landscapes**.

Location & Surroundings

Situated just three miles southeast of Manchester, the park features a diverse landscape characterized by **rolling hills and limestone bluffs**. The centerpiece of the area is the spring-fed trout stream that meanders through the park before merging with the river. Its location near Highway 13 and Highway 20 makes it a convenient stop for travelers, yet the dense foliage and river valley setting provide a deep sense of **seclusion and tranquility**.

Amenities & Park Features

The park is well-equipped for RVers, offering **48 campsites with electrical hookups** that accommodate a variety of rig sizes. Guests have access to modern facilities and services including:

  • A central shower house and flush toilets
  • A convenient **RV dump station**
  • Several enclosed and open picnic shelters
  • Multiple playgrounds for children

The well-maintained gravel pads provide a level surface for easy setup and **camping comfort** throughout the season.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Anglers are drawn to the park for its **consistently stocked trout stream**, which offers excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. Hikers can explore several miles of trails that weave through the woods, offering glimpses of local wildlife and vibrant wildflowers. For those looking for more adventure, the **Manchester Whitewater Park** is located nearby, offering six drops for kayakers and tubers to navigate on the river.

Who This Park Is Best For

This park is an ideal choice for **anglers and outdoor enthusiasts** who prioritize access to water and woods over resort-style commercial pools. It is a fantastic destination for families seeking a safe environment where children can play and explore the natural world. Because of its quiet, rustic charm, it is also highly recommended for **wildlife photographers and birdwatchers** looking for a serene base camp in the heart of eastern Iowa.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• River
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Body Of Water (Maquoketa River)
• Horseshoes
• Playground
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Other Amenities & Services

• Pit Toilets

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Fishing
• Hiking
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Boating

- Facility

• Type (Public Park)
• Partial Handicap Access

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (71)
• Gravel Sites (71)
• Water (33)
• Electric (65)
• No Hookups (16)
• Fire Rings

User Reviews

John Beary

August 30, 2025

Large park w 72 campsites with a mix of primitive and RV, picnic areas, an official iowa trout stream and access to the maquoketa river. Delaware county conservation office w natuee dsiplay bitterfly garden, and showers and plimbed restrooms. Great park

Fernando Ramos

August 13, 2025

Beautiful trails to hike next to stream filled with beautiful fish

Preston Poppe

June 09, 2025

Very nice place to visit and walk around, beautiful nature preserve area.

Therese Tran

July 06, 2024

One of our favorite camp grounds, we keep coming back every year. Well maintained. Spacious tent camping sites, nice trails and love the proximity to the trout stream.

Nicole Hotz

June 24, 2023

Just a short drive from Cedar Rapids. No phone service which helps you reconnect with nature and get away from life's busyness. Trout are always just a good rooster tail away!

Ronald Butler

May 29, 2023

This is hands down the best state (county) park we have been too in Iowa. Not only were all shower houses and bathroom spotless, but the trout stream, river access, playgrounds, trails, and conservation center male $20 a night more than worth it!!

kayeleena wallace

July 26, 2019

Great hiking experience, was kind of difficult to find the cave, but eventually found it, and it was great! Beautiful park and nature was pretty. We also went to the beach area and used the paddle boats, it was fun but the water was kinda gross! Still had fun though!

Cassie Ellis

May 28, 2019

Great family campground. Very clean and nice shower house. They have 3 playgrounds though out campgrounds. Also have nice hiking trails and a beautiful trout stream. River access to the maquoketa river and boat parking. The lower camping area by the river does get flooded so be prepared to move. The only reason I didn't give bailey's 5 stars is because of the "tent popping". Where people, mostly locals pop small tents to save spots. This make it extremely hard to get into Bailey's. It seems to be a little out of control and I wish the campground would only allow this in the lower campgrounds by the river since it tend to flood. This would allow more out of town folks to be able to enjoy this campgrounds.

Map for Baileys Ford Park (Delaware County Park)

Contact information