It was one of those perfect October Sundays - the kind where the sun illuminates the golden maple leaves against a background of endless blue sky. The air was crisp and clean. Dried leaves crunched beneath our feet as we navigated the trail. How did we get so lucky to find this place? This hidden gem surrounded by Iowa countryside offers so much more than we could have expected.
Bailey's Ford Park may only be 170 acres but it has the feel of a state park. Amenities abound here - from a large, modern nature center to wooden teepees for educational purposes. The campground spans across the entire park, with countless private sites nestled into groves of pines. Had we brought our camping gear, we'd have had a hard time choosing which site was best.
The babbling brook can be seen or heard from the majority of these sites and offers anglers a chance to catch trout, which are stocked weekly. A dirt trail follows along the water, with a paved section for two handicap access points. Limestone outcroppings and mossy boulders along the trail make for a peaceful fishing experience where nature's beauty is sure to be appreciated.
There is no shortage of opportunities for recreation here. Aside from hiking and fishing, kids and adults alike can play ball at the park diamond, get competitive at the volleyball and horseshoe courts, go boating, bike, cross-country ski, or play at one of three great playgrounds - one of which has an incredible wooden train curving around the equipment. There's a picnic shelter and public stone fire pit nearby, making it the perfect spot for a family reunion.
Our afternoon was spent hiking along the Woodland Nature Trail. This short hike only takes about 30 minutes, but has informative signs along the way that are sure to make it a fun learning experience for children. We tried reading them to our 5 month old, but he appeared to be a little busy taking in the sights and sounds of the woods so we won't quiz him just yet.
Overall, we loved this park. It made for a great day trip and we are set on coming back in the spring or summer for an overnight. This time around, we took a picnic lunch but maybe on the next trip we'll grab some local food. You'll have to send your recommendations our way.
Location:
Bailey's Ford is located three miles southeast of Manchester, Iowa.
Distance from Cedar Falls, Iowa: 58 minutes
Distance from Cedar Rapids, Iowa: 54 minutes
Distance from Des Moines, Iowa: 2 hours, 37 minutes
Tips:
- If visiting in the fall, plan to stop by Sherman's Pumpkin Farm and Corn Maze in Manchester. This family was so friendly and they even host a Halloween Trunk or Treat! The mazes they have done in the past are incredible - it is clear these people are passionate about what they do.
Happy *local* travels, my friends.
Jen
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