Sugar Bottom Campground
4.58354 reviews2192 MEHAFFEY BRIDGE ROAD, SOLON, IA, 52333-9208, USA
Sugar Bottom Campground
$14.00 - $240.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees vary depending on site type and hookups. Full hookup sites cost up to $30 per night, walk-to tent sites cost $14 per night, and group standard...
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Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00
Group Site Fee$240.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$314.00
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(319) 624-2102 (May 1-Sept 30); (319) 338-3543 x.6300 (Oct 1-April 30)kathryn.s.atkinson@usace.army.mil
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Coralville Lake, Sugar Bottom Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. Wake up to the gentle lapping of lake waters before launching into a day filled with adventure—cast your line for the day's catch, glide across the sparkling waters by boat, or cool off with a refreshing swim. Land lovers can explore miles of scenic trails by bike or on foot, all while enjoying the convenience of modern restrooms, hot showers, and full hookup sites equipped with electricity and water.
Sugar Bottom Campground offers a range of camping options including primitive tent sites, electric and full hookup RV sites, and group camping areas. Some sites are waterfront, providing scenic views.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time 375 million years at the nearby Devonian Fossil Gorge, where ancient seas once covered Iowa. This remarkable geological treasure trove reveals perfectly preserved fossils embedded in the exposed sea floor, offering campers a unique opportunity to literally walk on prehistoric ocean beds and discover the creatures that inhabited Earth's ancient waters. It's a humbling reminder that long before tents and RVs dotted these shores, this land told a very different story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of Iowa's seasons at Sugar Bottom, where each time of year paints a different picture. Summer transforms the campground into an aquatic playground, with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for splashing in the lake and balmy evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into spectacular color. Winter brings its own quiet magic, blanketing the landscape in snow and creating a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude, though visitors should come prepared for freezing temperatures and winter conditions.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details aren't available, the campground's position in the river valley creates a naturally sheltered environment that enhances both comfort and scenic beauty throughout your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the lush embrace of the Iowa River Valley, where Sugar Bottom Campground sits like a jewel among towering mixed hardwood forests. This verdant canopy creates a living cathedral overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Wildlife thrives in this protected habitat—keep your camera ready for encounters with graceful white-tailed deer browsing at forest edges, wild turkeys strutting through clearings, ring-necked pheasants bursting from undergrowth, and a symphony of songbirds providing nature's soundtrack from dawn to dusk.
Geological RegionCarved into the heart of the Iowa River Valley, Sugar Bottom Campground occupies prime real estate along Coralville Lake, a masterfully engineered flood control reservoir that serves multiple recreational purposes. The surrounding landscape tells a story of both natural forces and human ingenuity, where dense forests of oak, hickory, and maple create a buffer between civilization and wilderness. This carefully managed ecosystem demonstrates how flood control infrastructure can harmoniously coexist with outdoor recreation, creating an oasis that serves both practical needs and the human spirit's yearning for natural beauty.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityBarrier-free trails, clean private shower/toilet combos, and accessible sites are noted, though one user experienced issues regarding staff enforcing handicap status.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with options for large, spacious spots accommodating RVs up to 45 feet, and smaller tent-specific areas. Several campers noted uneven parking pads at certain sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground, with some sites offering separation via bushes or trees, while others are described as closer together.
Total Campsites232 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 30 and 31 for campers requiring level areas. Site 54 has water hookups but is far from the beach. Site 178 offers proximity to beach activities.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include 31, offering lake views; and 178, waterfront and near the beach.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay periods are 14 nights within a rolling 30 calendar days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 occupants are permitted per site.
Groups
Group sites accommodate large gatherings, with pricing tiers ranging from $80 to $240 per night depending on group size and amenities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is divided into loops with sites featuring varying levels of privacy, shade, and proximity to amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 1 to September 29. Reservations start June 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; all sites must be reserved online or via the contact center.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fee is $10. Late cancellations (less than 1 day for individual sites or less than 14 days for group sites) will result in forfeiting the first night's fee. No-show fee is $20.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Sugar Bottom Campground are diverse and cater to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and solo travelers. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, mountain biking, disc golfing, swimming, boating, and wildlife viewing. The campground also features trails, beaches, and water access.
Hiking
Several trails within the Sugar Bottom area attract hikers, including the Cedar Valley Nature Trail and Sugar Bottom Mountain Bike Trail. Trails vary in difficulty from beginner to expert, and many users praised the scenic nature of the hikes.Fishing
Anglers can expect to catch bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish in Coralville Lake and nearby rivers. Reviews highlight the fishing opportunities as a key draw for the campground.Swimming
The campground features designated swimming areas with sand beaches. Some users found the beaches clean and well-maintained, while others commented on muddy sand and goose droppings.Biking
The Sugar Bottom Mountain Bike Trail offers routes suited for all skill levels, ranging from beginner to expert. Positive user reviews praised the well-maintained trails and the unique biking experience.Boating
Coralville Lake provides excellent boating opportunities, though some users noted issues with boat ramp closures and limited overnight docking facilities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with whitetail deer, turkeys, pheasants, waterfowl, and songbirds frequently spotted. Many users enjoyed the quiet natural environment for birdwatching and wildlife observation.Beach activities
The campground features multiple beaches that provide opportunities for sunbathing and swimming. Some users appreciated the clean sand and amenities, while others noted maintenance issues such as muddy sand and debris.Winter Activities
Limited information available on winter activities. Seasonal closures may affect usability.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are mentioned positively. Coralville Lake provides ample space for non-motorized water sports.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated rings only.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsUsers reported wildlife like raccoons entering campsites and steep hills within the campground road system.
Active alertsNo active alerts were noted.
Weather forecast
52
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 91%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the University of Iowa hospital and clinics are located in nearby Iowa City, approximately 11 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 29.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are concentrated at the entrance and dump station, which some users found inconvenient for extended stays. Recycling is appreciated by environmentally-conscious campers.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Coralville Lake, many sites include waterfront access or views.
Common complaintsNoise issues during holidays and weekends, lack of garbage cans, and uneven terrain at some campsites were frequently mentioned.
HostCampground hosts are frequently noted as friendly and helpful—"Camp hosts were extremely helpful and knowledgeable."
Campground Map
2192 MEHAFFEY BRIDGE ROAD, SOLON, IA, 52333-9208, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 380 (North Liberty, Iowa), take Exit 4 towards North Liberty. Travel east on W. Penn St. for 2.2 miles. At the four-way stop sign, turn left onto N. Front St./Mehaffey Bridge Rd. NE. Continue traveling on Mehaffey Bridge Rd. NE for 2.9 miles. Right after crossing the Mehaffey Bridge, take a right-hand turn onto the Sugar Bottom Campground Access Rd. Continue for 1.1 miles to reach the entrance. From Highway 1 (Solon, IA), turn west onto 180th St. NE/E 5th St. Travel west for 2.3 miles. The road becomes Mehaffey Bridge Rd. NE. Continue for 2.4 miles. Before the Mehaffey Bridge, take a left-hand turn onto Sugar Bottom Campground Access Rd. Continue for 1.1 miles to reach the entrance.
Access to the campground involves paved roads, but reviews noted challenges such as steep hills, blind turns, and speeding drivers. "First of all there were no signs or warnings about the major hills and 90° turns just to get in. People were flying and we almost got hit several times." Some users found it manageable, with comments like "The road in is a bit steep with some tight blind turns... we did it in a 33' Class A with a toad. Not hard at all."Nearby places
North Liberty, IA - approximately 6 miles
Solon, IA - approximately 4 miles
Iowa City, IA - approximately 11 miles
Cedar Rapids, IA - approximately 31 miles
West Branch, IA - approximately 18 miles
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, restaurants, and fuel are conveniently located in Solon (approximately 4 miles) and North Liberty (approximately 6 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.6
354 reviews
Sugar Bottom Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sugar Bottom Campground is widely praised for its clean and spacious sites, well-maintained facilities, and beautiful natural surroundings. However, issues such as noisy neighbors, lack of enforcement of rules, and uneven parking pads at some sites were raised.
Review Summaries
Based on 354 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlighted the campground's cleanliness, helpful staff, beautiful views, and variety of activities including hiking, fishing, and boating. Many appreciated the private bathroom/shower combos...
Based on 354 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise disturbances from campers on weekends, uneven campsite pads, lack of trash cans throughout the campground, and limited Wi-Fi/cell service were common complaints. Some users expressed...
Based on 354 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking waterfront sites for scenic views, arriving during weekdays for a quieter stay, and bringing long hoses for water hookups. Avoid sites known for uneven pads such as 30, 31,...
Based on 354 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Weekdays and off-season periods are recommended for peaceful experiences, while holiday weekends attract rowdy crowds. Seasonal closures limit accessibility.
Based on 354 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground, clean restroom/showers.' - Barbara M
2. 'Wide spacious sites, super clean fire rings, and restrooms.' - Renee P
3. 'We love Sugar Bottom Campground. Restrooms and showers...
Based on 354 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 54: Quiet with facilities nearby but distant from the beach. Site 178: Waterfront and close to the beach but far from showers. Site 31: Beautiful view but uneven pad and damaged electrical box....
Based on 354 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Mixed reviews on accessibility. Barrier-free trails and private bathroom/shower combos are valued, but enforcement of handicap policies has caused discomfort for some users.
Based on 354 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies are appreciated, although issues with unleashed dogs and barking were noted. Several campers urged better control of pets to enhance the experience.
Based on 354 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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