A Season of Fun Begins: Linn County Campgrounds About to Open

The first day of Spring has come and gone, and while the weather hasn't exactly stayed consistently "spring-like" so far, it soon will. I promise. Are you like me, itching to get out in nature for some fun in the sun, given how cooped up we've been? We have great news from the Linn County Conservation Department.

Via a media release, they have set the season-opening of several of their popular campgrounds. These sites will open for the season at 8 a.m. on April 15:

• Buffalo Creek Park: 5034 Buffalo Creek Park, Coggon (modern camping)

• Morgan Creek Park: 7287 Worcester Rd., Palo (modern and group camping)

• Pinicon Ridge Park: 4900 block of Valley Farm Rd., Central City (modern, primitive, and group camping)

• Wanatee Park: 1700 Bald Dr., Marion (modern camping, including limited reservable sites)

• Matsell Bridge Natural Area: 3745 Matsell Park Road, Central City (a primitive campground and a primitive equestrian campground)

• Mount Hope: Stone City Rd, Central City (primitive camping)

• Wakpicada Natural Area: 300 block of Central City Rd., behind the Linn County Fairgrounds (primitive and equestrian camping)

A majority of the sites have water and electric hook-ups and visitors can purchase a firewood bundle for $6 each. Most are available on a first-come, first-served basis, according to the Linn County Conservation release, with self-registration.  Only A-loop at Wanatee Park can be reserved online in advance, as well as group camps at Morgan Creek Park and Pinicon Ridge Park.

Experts say that despite rising travel costs, RVs and camping gear are still in high demand. It's perhaps because camping can offer a fun getaway without having to travel too far, while keeping social distancing in mind.

A season of fun awaits you, with most of the above sites open until October 15. If you're ready to pack up and head out, you can find out about campground policies, fees, and other information at the Linn County Conservation website.