Lake Macbride State Park
00 review3525 Hwy 382 NE , Solon, Iowa, 52333, United States
Lake Macbride State Park
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees for campsites (modern and primitive) are not explicitly stated in the source materials.
About this campground
Discover Iowa's crown jewel of state parks at Lake Macbride, where 2,180 acres of pristine wilderness await your next adventure. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, paddling across the sparkling waters, or setting up camp under a canopy of ancient oaks, this expansive natural playground offers endless possibilities. From refreshing summer swims to peaceful picnics and scenic hikes through rolling hills, Lake Macbride has become a beloved escape for generations of outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Lake Macbride State Park offers varied camping accommodations. The modern campground is equipped with full hookups, while the non-modern campground provides a more primitive experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the specific stories of this land await discovery by curious visitors, Lake Macbride stands as a testament to Iowa's commitment to preserving natural spaces for future generations to explore and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at Lake Macbride, each painting the landscape with its own unique palette. Bundle up for crisp winter days when temperatures dip to 7°F and snow blankets the trails in pristine white. Watch spring awaken the forest with wildflowers and warming breezes. Embrace summer's embrace as temperatures climb to a comfortable 84°F, perfect for swimming and water sports on those occasionally humid afternoons. Then witness autumn's spectacular show as the oak and hickory forests burst into flames of gold and crimson.
ElevationThe park's gentle topography creates an accessible outdoor experience, with terrain that welcomes hikers of all skill levels to explore its diverse landscapes.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within the enchanting wooded valleys carved by Mill and Jordan Creeks, Lake Macbride showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The centerpiece 812-acre lake mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, creating picture-perfect moments throughout the day. Wander through majestic oak and hickory forests where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy, or explore meticulously restored prairie lands that whisper stories of Iowa's natural heritage. This harmonious blend of water, woodland, and grassland creates a diverse ecosystem that captivates photographers, naturalists, and anyone seeking scenic beauty.
Geological RegionLake Macbride's landscape tells a fascinating geological story, carved over millennia by the patient work of Mill and Jordan Creeks. These wooded valleys cradle the park's stunning 812-acre artificial lake, while the surrounding terrain showcases a remarkable tapestry of oak and hickory forests interwoven with restored Iowa prairie. This unique geological setting creates diverse habitats and stunning vistas that change with every season, offering visitors a true immersion in Iowa's natural splendor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityUniversal accessibility features include fishing piers. Detailed accessibility reviews are not provided.
Sites SizeNo specific data on site sizes available.
Sites PrivacySome users mention that the sites are close together, particularly in the tent camping areas, which may compromise privacy.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo site-specific recommendations are provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are highlighted as the best.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No details provided on group camping options.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe source mentions two campgrounds: a modern campground with electric and full-hookup sites and a primitive campground in a shaded setting near the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground facilities operate year-round, but some services (e.g., boat rental) are seasonal from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online for shelters and lodges through an unspecified platform.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation on walk-up availability for campsites is not provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not mentioned.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Lake Macbride State Park is a hub for a variety of outdoor activities. From its extensive hiking and biking trails to its artificial lake offering fishing, swimming, and boating, the park caters to diverse interests. Winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are also available.
Hiking
The park features over 12 miles of hiking trails, including a five-mile crushed limestone trail connecting to Solon and a 1.5-mile scenic path between the beach and the lake's dam. Trails pass through oak/hickory forests and restored prairies.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catching walleye, channel catfish, muskie, and even Kentucky spotted bass. Facilities include fishing jetties, a cleaning station, and 24-hour accessible shoreline areas.Swimming
A designated beach area is available for swimming during the summer. Swimming is restricted to this specific area, ensuring safety.Biking
Biking is popular along the park's trails, especially the multi-use trail that runs along the lake's shoreline and through forests.Boating
Boating activities include rentals of pontoons, motorboats, and canoes. A 10-horsepower motor limit applies during peak season.Wildlife viewing
Bird watchers will enjoy the presence of songbirds, ospreys, and waterfowl, especially during migration seasons.Beach activities
The beach area offers a relaxing space for sunbathing and is near food concessions and boat rentals.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are available through rentals.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire policies are not explicitly detailed.
- Quiet hours are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention dead limbs falling from old trees during windy conditions in the primitive campground.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories are provided.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season services and activities are available from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available. However, no specific details on recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Lake Macbride and Coralville Lake, offering easy access to water activities.
Common complaintsSome user reviews highlight the lack of tent-friendly sites and the close proximity of campsites in the modern campground.
HostNo information about campground hosts is available.
Campground Map
3525 Hwy 382 NE , Solon, Iowa, 52333, United States
Driving directionsDirections from the main entrance to the modern campground: From Solon take County Road F16 west out of town for 5 miles, when entering the park follow the signs to the campground. Directions to the Primitive campground: From Solon, take 5th St. west out of town for 3 miles. As you enter the park follow the sign to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved county roads. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain was provided.Nearby places
Solon (5 miles), Coralville Lake (immediately adjacent), Cedar Rapids/Iowa City area (distances not specified)
Nearby supplies
"Grocery Store" is listed as being within greater than 1 mile. For camping supplies and essentials, the source notes "firewood" sales within the facility.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Macbride State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's well-rounded amenities and activities. Positives include the cleanliness of the park, range of activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Some concerns were raised about the close spacing of campsites and the uneven terrain in the primitive area.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The park's cleanliness, variety of trails, fishing opportunities, and well-maintained facilities are frequently praised.
Common Concerns
Negative feedback revolves around the close proximity of campsites in the tent areas and the uneven terrain in the primitive campground.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Consider the modern campground for better amenities if privacy isn't a concern. Primitive camping offers more natural settings but may require leveling adjustments due to sloped terrain.
Seasonal Insights
Summer is popular for water activities and wildlife viewing, while winter attracts visitors for snowmobiling and skiing.
Camper Quotes
Peter Shaw: 'Lake Macbride is a great campground with lots of things to do for the family.' Tim O: 'Good with functioning utilities, bathrooms, and showers. Not very tent-friendly, and sites are...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Some users recommend the modern campground for its amenities but note that the primitive campground's uneven terrain can be challenging.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address pet-related features.
Last updated August 10, 2025