Tailwater West Campground

Tailwater West offers camping in a total of 22 sites. Pricing varies depending on whether you require a primitive area, electrical connections, or a combination of plumbing and electric. The base rates listed are for the primitive, walk-to sites and offer no amenities, save for the traditional items like a campfire ring and picnic table. Modern bathrooms and coin-operated showers are both offered here and can be found near the center of the campground. Overnight visitors with a canine along for the trip should be sure to keep their dog on a leash, as well as indoors overnight.  

If you're looking to explore the area surrounding Tailwater West on foot, you'll have a plethora of options to choose from. You might try the Devonian Fossil Gorge, which is a footpath that showcases some relics from the area's ancient past, complete with informational stops and interactive areas. There's also the Woodpecker Trail, a roughly 2-mile loop that showcases the plants and animals that populate the region. 

For guests looking to challenge themselves, they can also try the Cedar Valley Trail, an over 4-mile long path that pits visitors against several uphill climbs and varied terrain. Maps and information for these trails can be found by visiting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineer's official website. Dogs are urged to follow their owners onto these trails, provided they're kept on a leash and all messes are taken care of.

The adjacent Coralville Lake Dam makes Tailwater West a great spot for fishing, with several fishing piers available to guests. Make sure you pack your rod and reel, as the area only hosts day-use areas for the sport and doesn't offer any rental services.

Overnight guests can also access a public swimming area on the dam's shoreline, provided free with camping admission fees. This area isn't staffed during the warmer months, so guests looking to have a splash do so at their risks. If you've brought Fido, they can hang out on the shore but are barred from the waters themselves.

Any costs outlined here pertain to the campground and may not reflects prices for surrounding attractions.