Iowa Department of Natural Resources awarded The City of Sioux City over $104,000 to build a campground on the north side of the Sioux City Railroad Museum.
According to a report from Sioux City Journal, the City Council will be asked to approve a resolution that authorizes the Parks and Recreation Department to accept a Resource Enhancement and Protection Fund grant amounting to $104,998 to fund the Big Sioux River Campground development project.
As per city documents, the funding will be used to acquire 16.14 acres of land.
The RV campground will feature 79 motorhome and trailer campsites, potentially serving between 316 and 474 campers. The campsite pads will also accommodate motorhomes, toy haulers, teardrop campers, campervans, fifth-wheel trailers, and popup campers.
Overnight tent camping will be available via the Sioux Railroad Museum’s 5-acre green space between the riverbend and the historical railroad zone.
The documents stated that the City of Sioux City and the Sioux City Railroad Museum would enter into a development agreement due to the funding.
The documents also indicated that the City Council would be presented, for consideration, a (capital improvement program) FY 2024 budget request for $320,000 to be allocated towards the remaining funding for the property acquisition.
Per the document, the campground development will help instill pride in the community and increase and improve outdoor recreation opportunities for locals and tourists as it draws more visitors and become an ideal destination for families and individuals.
According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources website, Iowa’s state parks, recreation areas, and forests have over 4,400 campsites for overnight visitors ranging from hike-in primitive sites to full hook-ups (sewer, water, and electricity).
For more information, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.