image

Sugar Bottom Campground Iowa (IA) RV Rentals

RV Rentals Dates
Home / National & State Park Guides / State Parks /  Sugar Bottom Campground

Looking for RV rentals, camper van rentals or travel trailer rentals near Sugar Bottom Campground?


Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Sugar Bottom Campground is an RV enthusiast’s dream destination. The park’s history dates back to the 1800s when it was used as a sugar maple forest by early settlers. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The unique feature of the park is its location in the Coralville Lake floodplain, which is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and wetlands. The park’s terrain was shaped by glacial activity, which created the Coralville Reservoir and the surrounding landscape.

The park’s weather is characterized by hot summers and cold winters, making it an ideal destination for RV camping during the spring and fall seasons. RV renters should take precautions to protect their vehicles from extreme temperatures, as well as from potential hazards such as wildlife and insects.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Sugar Bottom Campground. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Sugar Bottom Campground.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

View more RV Rentals

Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

Getting to Sugar Bottom Campground is easy with several transportation options available for visitors. The park is located just a few miles from Interstate 80 making it accessible by car or RV. There are no restrictions on rig sizes so visitors can bring RVs of any size. The park has several entrances including the main entrance off of Sugar Bottom Road as well as additional entrances from the Coralville Lake Dam and the Hawkeye Wildlife Management Area. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on transportation options and entrance locations.

  • Parking area

Recreational vehicles are welcome at the campground with designated RV parking areas available. However overnight parking outside of these designated sites is not permitted. RV camping is a great way to experience the park and using alternative transportation methods for exploration is highly recommended.

  • Public Transportation

Visitors to the park can take advantage of the shuttle bus service which makes stops at various locations throughout the grounds. Additionally there are walking paths that provide a scenic and leisurely way to get around.

Top Campsites in Sugar Bottom Campground

  • Reservations camping

The most popular campsites near Sugar Bottom Campground that require reservations are

Lake Macbride State Park Campground

Located just a few miles from Sugar Bottom this campground features 148 sites including 47 with electric hookups. With a beautiful lake view visitors can enjoy swimming boating fishing and hiking. The campground is pet-friendly and open from April to October. RVs and trailers up to 60 feet are permitted.

Coralville Lake Campground

This campground located about 20 miles from Sugar Bottom offers 521 sites with electric hookups showers and a dump station. Visitors can enjoy fishing boating hiking and biking. The campground is open year-round and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 110 feet are permitted.

West Overlook Campground

Situated in the nearby Wildcat Den State Park this campground features 26 sites with electric hookups. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails historic sites and beautiful scenery. The campground is pet-friendly and open from April to October. RVs and trailers up to 50 feet are permitted.

Pine Lake Campground

Located about 30 miles from Sugar Bottom this campground offers 99 sites with electric hookups and modern restrooms. Visitors can enjoy swimming boating fishing and hiking. The campground is open from April to October and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 40 feet are permitted.

  • First-come first-served

First-come-first-served campgrounds near Sugar Bottom Campground include

Sugar Bottom Campground – Walk-in Sites

These 12 walk-in sites are located in the Sugar Bottom Recreation Area and offer a more secluded camping experience. The sites are open from April to October and can accommodate tents only. Pets are welcome.

Terrace Park Campground

Located about 10 miles from Sugar Bottom this campground offers 10 first-come-first-served sites with no hookups. The campground is open from April to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 25 feet. Pets are welcome.

Sand Lake Park Campground

This campground located about 20 miles from Sugar Bottom offers 15 first-come-first-served sites with no hookups. The campground is open from April to October and can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. Pets are welcome.

  • Alternate camping

Alternative camping options near Sugar Bottom Campground include

Private Campgrounds

There are several private campgrounds in the area such as Scales Pointe Campground and Lazy River Campground which offer a variety of amenities including full hookups Wi-Fi and recreational activities.

Backcountry Camping

For those looking for a more rustic camping experience the nearby Hoover Trail offers backcountry camping opportunities. Campers must obtain a permit from the park office and follow all backcountry camping regulations.

  • General activities

The most popular recreational activities for outdoorsy RV Campers at Sugar Bottom Campground include

Hiking

With over 8 miles of trails Sugar Bottom Campground offers a variety of hiking options for all skill levels. The trails wind through the lush forest and offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The most popular trail is the Sugar Bottom Trail which takes hikers to the top of a bluff for breathtaking views of the campground and lake.

Biking

The campground’s paved roads and trails offer a great opportunity for biking enthusiasts to explore the area. The 3-mile Lake Trail loop is a popular choice for cyclists as it offers scenic views of the lake and forest.

Fishing

Sugar Bottom Lake is a popular destination for anglers as it is stocked with a variety of fish including largemouth bass crappie and bluegill. The lake is also home to several species of catfish making it a great spot for fishing year-round.

Boating

The campground has a boat ramp and offers boat rentals making it easy for campers to get out on the water. The lake is a popular spot for kayaking canoeing and paddleboarding as well as motorized boating.

Nature Watching

The campground is home to a variety of wildlife including deer turkeys and a variety of bird species. The forest and lake provide ample opportunities for nature watching and photography.

  • Alternative activities

For RV Campers looking for alternative recreational activities Sugar Bottom Campground offers

Sightseeing

The campground is located near several popular landmarks and attractions including the Coralville Dam and the Devonian Fossil Gorge. The campground also offers scenic views of the lake and surrounding forest.

Nature Watching

The campground is home to a variety of wildlife including deer turkeys and a variety of bird species. The forest and lake provide ample opportunities for nature watching and photography.

Instagram-worthy Photo Opportunities

The campground’s scenic views landmarks and wildlife make it a great spot for photography. Popular photo spots include the top of the Sugar Bottom Trail the Coralville Dam and the Devonian Fossil Gorge.

Picnicking

The campground has several picnic areas with tables and grills making it easy for campers to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors.

Stargazing

The campground’s remote location makes it a great spot for stargazing. On clear nights campers can see a variety of stars planets and constellations.

Season-specific experiences in Sugar Bottom Campground

  • Spring activities

For RV campers visiting Sugar Bottom Campground in the spring there are numerous recreational activities landmarks and famous historical places to explore. One popular activity is hiking the Lake Macbride Trail which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests. The trail is easily accessible from the campground and is suitable for all skill levels.

Another must-see landmark is the historic Coralville Dam which was constructed in the 1950s and is now a popular spot for fishing and boating. Visitors can learn about the dam’s history and engineering feats at the nearby visitor center.

For those interested in birdwatching the nearby Otter Creek Marsh Wildlife Area is a prime spot for observing a variety of bird species including great blue herons and sandhill cranes.

History buffs will enjoy visiting the nearby Amana Colonies a group of seven German settlements that date back to the 1800s. Visitors can tour the historic buildings sample traditional German cuisine and shop for handmade crafts.

Lastly the Sugar Bottom Disc Golf Course is a popular destination for disc golf enthusiasts with 18 challenging holes that wind through the scenic forest.

  • Summer activities

As the weather warms up Sugar Bottom Campground becomes an even more popular destination for RV campers. In the summer months there are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy including swimming boating and fishing on Lake Macbride. The lake is also a popular spot for water skiing and wakeboarding and there are several boat rental options available.

For those who prefer to stay on land there are several hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and wetlands. One popular trail is the Squire Point Trail which winds along the lake shore and offers several scenic overlooks.

Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the nearby Devonian Fossil Gorge which was formed during the flood of 1993 and is now a popular spot for fossil hunting. Visitors can see a variety of marine fossils including brachiopods and crinoids.

For a taste of local culture the Iowa City Farmer’s Market is a must-visit destination on Saturdays. The market features a variety of fresh produce baked goods and crafts from local vendors.

Lastly the nearby Wilson’s Orchard offers a variety of family-friendly activities including apple picking hayrides and a petting zoo. The orchard also has a farm-to-table restaurant that serves delicious locally-sourced meals.

  • Fall activities

Fall is a beautiful time of year at Sugar Bottom Campground with the leaves changing colors and the air turning crisp. Here are five popular activities that attract RV campers

Hiking the Squire Pope Trail

This 3.5-mile trail winds through the beautiful Iowa forest and offers stunning views of the changing leaves. It’s a moderate hike that’s suitable for all skill levels and the trailhead is located right in the campground.

Visiting the Coralville Dam

Just a short drive from Sugar Bottom Campground the Coralville Dam offers breathtaking views of the Iowa River and the surrounding area. It’s a popular spot for picnics and photography.

Fishing on Lake Macbride

Lake Macbride is a favorite spot for fishing and fall is the perfect time to catch bass crappie and catfish. The lake is located right next to Sugar Bottom Campground so it’s easy to access.

Exploring the Amana Colonies

The Amana Colonies are a group of seven historic villages that are just a short drive from Sugar Bottom Campground. Visitors can learn about the area’s German heritage shop for handmade crafts and enjoy delicious food.

Taking a scenic drive

The Iowa countryside is beautiful in the fall and there are plenty of scenic drives in the area. One popular route is the Iowa Valley Scenic Byway which winds through rolling hills and picturesque small towns.

  • Winter activities

Winter is a magical time at Sugar Bottom Campground with snow-covered trees and frozen lakes. Here are five popular activities that attract RV campers

Ice fishing on Lake Macbride

When the lake freezes over it becomes a popular spot for ice fishing. Anglers can catch a variety of fish including bluegill crappie and perch.

Cross-country skiing

Sugar Bottom Campground has several miles of groomed cross-country ski trails that wind through the forest. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the winter scenery.

Snowshoeing

If you prefer a slower pace snowshoeing is a great way to explore the campground and the surrounding area. It’s a peaceful and relaxing activity that’s suitable for all skill levels.

Visiting the Old Capitol Museum

The Old Capitol Museum is located in nearby Iowa City and offers a fascinating look at Iowa’s history. Visitors can explore exhibits on everything from politics to natural history.

Taking a winter hike

Even in the winter there are plenty of hiking trails to explore in the area. One popular option is the Devonian Fossil Gorge which is located just a short drive from Sugar Bottom Campground. The gorge was formed by the floodwaters of the Coralville Dam and it’s a great place to see fossils and learn about geology.

View more RV Rentals
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*