Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, a key destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Iowa, is set for extensive upgrades totaling more than $2 million.
These enhancements aim to modernize the facilities to better serve the current demands of campers and visitors. The announcement was made at a recent public open house hosted by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) at the park’s Prairie Resource Center.
Jacob Schaben, the northwest district supervisor for the DNR’s Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau, highlighted the diversity of activities available at Brushy Creek, from fishing and hunting to equestrian and mountain bike riding. He emphasized the strategic location of the park, which makes it accessible to a large number of Iowans.
The focus of the renovations will be on the park’s three public campgrounds, including two designated for equestrian use and one non-equestrian site near the beach area. Sherry Arntzen, chief of Parks, Forests and Preserves for the DNR, detailed the funding for the project. The upgrades will be financed through the Parks Infrastructure Fund and supplemented by the federal Land and Water Conservation Funds.
Significant improvements are planned for the north equestrian campground, where 60 campsites will receive electrical upgrades to 50-amp service. The campground will also see enhancements to gravel pads, parking areas, and roads, along with the addition of new water lines and updated sanitary and water hookups.
Additional infrastructure enhancements include new fire rings, grills, picnic tables, and increased visitor parking to accommodate more guests. These improvements reflect a response to the needs expressed by today’s campers for more modern amenities such as electricity and water hook-ups.
The non-equestrian beach campground will not only upgrade existing sites but will also construct new full hookup sites in the eastern cul-de-sac of the main campground area. The host site will be relocated, and a new 40-space concrete parking lot will be built to improve accessibility and convenience for visitors.
Design modifications at the beach and south equestrian campgrounds are intended to provide more space for campers, encouraging more frequent use outside of just holiday periods. By enhancing the infrastructure, Brushy Creek aims to attract more visitors year-round, boosting local tourism and contributing to the economic vitality of the area.
As per a Freeman Journal report, the construction schedule is set to start on November 1, 2024, with completion aimed for May 30, 2025. The DNR plans for minimal disruption to campground availability, with the hope of reopening in time for the busy Memorial Day weekend in 2025. However, contingencies are in place to account for potential delays due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Unlike many state campgrounds, Brushy Creek remains open during the winter months, catering to a niche of hardy campers and contractors who appreciate the year-round availability. This unique feature will continue to be a draw, particularly for those interested in the park’s robust fishery, even as facilities are upgraded.
The renovation of Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is a significant investment in Iowa’s outdoor recreation infrastructure. By upgrading facilities and expanding services, the DNR aims to enhance the experience for all visitors, ensuring the park remains a preferred destination for both traditional camping and modern outdoor activities. This project not only promises to improve the usability and appeal of the park but also underscores the state’s commitment to supporting and expanding its outdoor recreational assets.