Crawford County

One of Crawford County’s unique natural areas, this 165
acre park is located four miles west of Dow City and
provides picnicking, hiking, swimming, boating, fishing
and camping. Developed in 1963, it has provided
thousands of hours of enjoyment to young and old alike.
Four separate campgrounds are available for the camper,
with a total of 90 sites. Four shelter houses are available
on a first come – first served basis or by calling the
Conservation Office in the Courthouse at 712-263-2748
for reservations.
Traveling west on Highway 30, take the Nelson Park Road
two miles west of Dow City, then follow the signs 4 miles
to the park.
Camping Rates:
Electric – $15.00
Non-Electric – $12.00
(Sorry, We Do Not Take Reservations For Overnight Camping)
Shelter Rates:
Large Shelters (Upper & Lower) -$40.00
Small Shelter (By The Lake) – $20.00
$100 Deposit on shelters
Can be reserved up to 12 months in advance.
Call 712-263-2748 For Reservations
(We do not accept reservations by email at this time)
(If not reserved, they are on a first come-first served basis)
Shelter Photos & Info

You can do crafts with stencils on the weekends.

2 Cabins are now available at Nelson
Park for $30/night
Call 712-263-2748 to reserve

Nelson Park

Notice To Fisherman
Minimum Legal Length For Bass
15 Inches
This is to:
1. Prevent Overharvest of Bass
2. Provide more Bass fishing
3. Increase Quality of Bass & Bluegill
4. Maintain Preditors to Control Small Bluegill
Legal Limits
Largemouth Bass: 3
Channel Catfish: 8
Crappie: 25
Bluegill: 25
Illegal Bass Must Be Returned To The Water
Unharmed Immediately After Being Taken

We’d like to thank Stairlifts Long Island for their unwavering support for our campground. Their family has been enjoying this site for decades.