Tailwater East Campground

We didn’t realize that a reservation was necessary and the website didn’t allow a same day reservation and the phone was a forever hold. We “squatted” for the night hoping our site wasn’t reserved and figured we’d settle up in the morning. Bathroom has flush toilets and 2 showers. Sites are both gravel and paved and reasonably level.

The main West Overlook campsite was full when we tried to online book 4 hrs prior to arrival so found a spot here. Arrived at 10pm and pretty dark arrival road, but all good. Our site was gravel and pretty close to the other sites in the first loop. Back loop more spacious with flat concrete pads. Back loop also quieter. Front loop more night fishing activity and partying. Clean bathroom with showers. Electric and water at sites. Best part of Army Corp sites is they have recycling!!! Thank you! Used dump station at West Overlook.

This is our second one night stay. Both times we have had 10E which is paved and level. Site is small but all we need and right on the water. Both stays have been to visit a patient at University of Iowa Hospital with is only 15 minutes away. 20 bucks get a 50 amp electro site with a view, clean restrooms and a clean shower. I suspect the fishing is good as well, by the amount of fishing boats on the small body of water.

The dozen or so other ACOE campgrounds I've stayed in were spotless, squared away, spacious, and pleasant—if spare.

Here, you are packed like sardines, with grass too tall, uncontrolled weeds, trash, nonexistent signage, no potable water spigot other than the one directly at the dump (!), and no visible staff to deal with problems.

A disappointment.