Pioneer Ridge Nature Area in Iowa is poised for expansion upgrades, according to Wapello County Iowa. Scheduled to commence in March, the campground will undergo improvements, necessitating its closure throughout the summer of 2024.
“We have thousands of acres here at Pioneer Ridge. A lot of people like to come out here to walk and hike, but their stay was often shortened if they camped out here because we didn’t have a septic system. Now that we will, they can stay longer, and enjoy the park a lot more, and we think it’s a great growth aspect for us to enjoy Pioneer Ridge and Wapello County,” Wapello County Conservation Director Rick Tebbs said, as quoted in a KTVO report.
The expansion of the campground will increase its capacity from nine to twenty sites. It introduces full hook-up sites and a septic system, enhancements aimed at enriching the camping experience by enabling extended stays amidst nature.
Despite the temporary closure of the campgrounds, the nature reserve remains accessible to the public for hiking and walking.
According to its website, the campground is well-equipped with amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. These include a half-mile paved trail accessible to individuals with disabilities, two open shelters complete with picnic tables, grills, water, and restrooms, and over 12 miles of multi-use trails that invite guests to explore the area on foot, bike, or horseback. Additionally, four fishing ponds and a bird observation blind are available for those interested in wildlife observation and angling.
Recreational activities at Pioneer Ridge Nature Area are diverse, catering to a wide range of interests. Beyond camping, the area offers environmental education programming, picnicking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the serene environment of the four ponds.
Wildlife viewing and photography are also popular activities, with the area’s natural beauty offering countless opportunities for capturing memorable moments and observing local fauna in their natural habitat.
For more information about the Pioneer Ridge Nature Area, click here.