Linn County’s modern campgrounds—Buffalo Creek Park, Morgan Creek Park, Pinicon Ridge Park and Wanatee Park—are set to open at 8 a.m. on April 10. According to a county announcement, visitors will find water and electric hookups, along with a dump station for registered guests.
Park staff note that most campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, although Buffalo Creek and Wanatee both offer a limited number of spots that can be reserved in advance. Self-registration kiosks are available, and campers often have access to firewood bundles for purchase at these grounds.
Officials also highlight the availability of more rustic options at Matsell Bridge Equestrian Campground and Wakpicada Natural Area, which remain open year-round. These sites cater to campers seeking a more minimal-amenity experience.
Guidelines for safe and responsible camping are traditionally shared through official county channels. Families or larger groups can often reserve group sites in selected locations, especially during peak season.
Meanwhile, the Union County Conservation Board has been finalizing repairs at the Three Mile Recreation Area lodge following last year’s storm damage. This progress was detailed recently in a county release, which noted partial reopenings for upcoming events.
Union County Conservation Director Mike Hilger remarked that the lodge repairs are “pretty much 100% done,” pending some final electrical checks. The lodge regularly hosts gatherings and features multiple rental packages.
Revised rates within Three Mile Recreation Area include an additional $2 for full-service campsites, bringing the cost to $32 per night. Electric-only sites increased by the same margin to $22, while cabin rentals now range from $75 to $110 per day.
Pet fees at the cabins have doubled to $20 per day, and a weekend package at the lodge rose by $400 to a total of $1,400. Nonprofits pay $150 per day when booking the lodge, and a new online reservation platform is expected to improve the overall booking workflow.
Many industry-wide best practices encourage flexible payment methods and clear cancellation policies. Automated confirmations also help reduce oversights and give staff clearer insights into daily campsite availability.
By offering a user-friendly reservation system, campgrounds can streamline planning for both visitors and administrators. Reminders sent to campers may further decrease the likelihood of last-minute cancellations, improving overall efficiency.
Linn County’s partial reservable layout and Union County’s updated digital process both reflect a broader move toward modernized booking solutions. Well-structured online tools are often seen as a way to enhance visitor satisfaction during the busy camping season.
For campgrounds adjusting rates, clearly communicating improvements such as upgraded restrooms, new amenities or enhanced services can help visitors understand the value. Transparent messaging, along with small perks, fosters confidence in the changes and maintains a welcoming environment for outdoor enthusiasts.