George Wyth State Park
00 review3659 Wyth Rd, Waterloo, Iowa, 50703, United States
George Wyth State Park
$20.00 - $30.00 / 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 range from $20 to $30 per night depending on the type of site chosen (electric or non-electric).
About this campground
Discover your personal wilderness retreat at George Wyth Memorial State Park, where nature thrives just minutes from the city's edge. This remarkable urban wildlife sanctuary seamlessly blends the convenience of modern amenities with the tranquility of lakeside and riverside camping. Wander through miles of scenic trails, refresh in spotless restroom facilities, and experience how 'getting away from it all' doesn't require going far at all.
The park accommodates campers with electric and non-electric sites, offers options for primitive camping, and provides access to a day-use lodge for group events.
Historical SignificanceBeyond its natural beauty, George Wyth Memorial State Park pulses with athletic energy throughout the summer. Challenge yourself alongside hundreds of competitors at the exhilarating Accel Triathlon each July, or test your endurance on rugged terrain during the George Wyth Mountain Bike Race every August. These signature events have transformed the park into a premier destination for outdoor athletes and spectators alike.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons that transform this park into an ever-changing canvas. Winter brings crisp, frosty mornings perfect for peaceful solitude, while summer welcomes you with warm days reaching the mid-80s – ideal for swimming and water activities. Spring awakens the landscape with gentle breezes and blooming wildflowers, while autumn paints the trails in brilliant golds and crimsons, accompanied by refreshing moderate winds.
ElevationThe park's gentle terrain makes it accessible to adventurers of all abilities, with minimal elevation changes throughout the grounds.
Natural Features and SceneryFour distinct lakes create a water lover's paradise, each with its own personality and purpose. Feel the thrill of power-boating across Brinker Lake, cast your line in the peaceful no-wake waters of George Wyth Lake (which also offers refreshing swimming), explore the pristine natural oxbow of Fisher Lake as it curves alongside the Cedar River, or enjoy serene electric motor cruising on Alice Wyth Lake. This aquatic wonderland attracts over 200 bird species, creating exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities where herons wade through shallows, eagles soar overhead, and countless other creatures call this sanctuary home.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Black Hawk County, this metropolitan oasis showcases Iowa's diverse natural heritage. Ancient oxbow lakes tell the story of the Cedar River's meandering past, while modern trails wind through varied ecosystems that prove wilderness and civilization can coexist beautifully. Here, urban convenience meets natural splendor in a unique geological tapestry of waterways, wetlands, and wooded havens.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers universally accessible fishing piers and jetties. There is also handicap access to various facilities within the park.
Sites Privacynull
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSeek primitive tent sites near the river for shade and proximity to water activities. Modern restroom facilities are well-maintained.
Best CampsitesPrimitive tent sites near the river are favored by reviewers.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day consecutive maximum stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per site is not stated.
Groups
Null
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNo specific layout information available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, concessions operational from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for shelters and lodges can be made through an online system. Specific website for campsites is unclear.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific mention of walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified.
Amenities available
Showers
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
George Wyth State Park provides a rich variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, biking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The trails at the park are connected to a larger trail system that runs for 100 miles, linking parks, lakes, and neighborhoods in the Waterloo and Cedar Falls area. The park also offers unique water activities such as access to the Cedar Valley Paddlers Trail.
Hiking
The park offers 3.5 miles of paved multi-purpose trails and 10 miles of soft trails. These trails are also linked to a 100-mile network of trails within the Waterloo and Cedar Falls area. Reviewers have described the trails as 'great for enjoying some fresh air connecting with nature.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the park's lakes and the Cedar River, with anglers trying their luck for crappie, bluegill, walleye, northern, bass, and channel catfish. There are boat ramps at each lake and three universally accessible jetties around George Wyth Lake.Swimming
A beach on George Wyth Lake is one of the most popular swimming spots in the area. Wind surfing is also a popular activity here.Biking
The park has 3.5 miles of paved trails that are great for biking. These trails connect to a larger 100-mile network of biking trails across the surrounding urban areas.Boating
George Wyth has four lakes: Brinker Lake (for power boating), George Wyth Lake (a 'no-wake' lake), Fisher Lake, and Alice Wyth Lake (electric motors only). Boat ramps are available at all lakes.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to a bird blind where over 200 bird species have been spotted, including rare species. Other wildlife can also be observed from this blind.Beach activities
The beach at George Wyth Lake supports activities like swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing.Winter Activities
Popular winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing along the park's trails.Water Sports
Water sports include kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing, with rentals available during the summer months.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention strong sulfur smells near water and mosquitoes described as 'The Hunger Games outside.'
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.2 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
Hospital: Greater than 1 mile from the campground; Ranger Station: 3192325505.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend is the peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpster facilities are available within the park for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground has direct access to Brinker Lake, George Wyth Lake, Fisher Lake, Alice Wyth Lake, and the Cedar River.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight clean and modern facilities but mention strong sulfur smells and high mosquito activity. Positive reviews emphasize the shaded campsites, trails, and cleanliness.
HostCampground host information is not available.
Campground Map
3659 Wyth Rd, Waterloo, Iowa, 50703, United States
Driving directionsLocated off of Hwy 218. Coming from the south follow Hwy 218 north and take Broadway Street/Waterloo Airport Exit and follow the signs. Coming from the north, follow Hwy 218 south and take the Broadway St./Waterloo Airport Exit, then turn right at the stoplight. The park is on the right. Coming from the west, take Hwy 20 east to Hwy 58 north, to Hwy 218 south, then take the Broadway St./Waterloo Airport exit, turn right at stoplight, and the park will be on the right. Coming from the east, take Hwy 20 west to Hwy 218 north, then take the Broadway St./Waterloo Airport exit and follow the signs.
The park is accessible via major highways (Hwy 20 and Hwy 218). Roads are paved and navigable year-round, with no seasonal closures noted.Nearby places
Cedar Falls (less than 5 miles), Waterloo (less than 5 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, firewood, snacks, bait & tackle, and ice are available less than 1 mile away from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
George Wyth State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park as a well-maintained and enjoyable camping destination, with the shaded campsites and trails being particularly appreciated. However, some negative experiences include occasional issues such as a strong sulfur odor in the water and heavy mosquito presence.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean and well-maintained facilities, the accessible trails for walking and biking, and the camping options close to the river.
Common Concerns
Some users noted a strong sulfur smell in the water and heavy mosquito activity. As one reviewer stated, 'The sulfur smell is so strong it made me gag,' and another described the mosquitoes as 'like...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring mosquito repellent, especially during the summer. Using the trails during early morning hours is recommended to avoid peak crowd times.
Seasonal Insights
The summer months receive the most positive feedback for activities like swimming and hiking, whereas winter is praised for snowshoeing and skiing. However, mosquito activity is a significant...
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Camper Quotes
- 'Enjoy camping here. I particularly enjoy the primitive tent sites close to the river.' - 'The walking/biking trails are great for enjoying some fresh air connecting with nature.' - 'The sulfur...
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Site-Specific Reviews
One reviewer praised the primitive tent sites close to the river as being particularly enjoyable. Sites with shade were also highlighted positively.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as universally accessible fishing piers and jetties are praised.
Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025