Matsell Bridge Natural Area contains 1624 acres of diverse terrain and vegetation, characteristic of the land along the Wapsipinicon River. Various nomadic Indian tribes common to eastern Iowa made this a favorite camping area until the late 1800's. From the mid-1800's until its acquisition by the Linn County Conservation Board in 1967, it had been farmed in one manner or another. The area has been managed since that time primarily for multi-purpose recreation. The road system is limited and peripheral in nature - most access to the area is gained by hiking in on one of the trails. White tailed deer, raccoons, and squirrel are among the woodland mammals common to this region. Wild turkey, introduced for the first time in 1976, are also becoming more abundant.
Throughout the rolling croplands, the rock bluffs and wooded ridges bounding the river, one finds almost 8.5 miles of trail on the Red Oak and Pine & Prairie trails. Matsell Bridge Natural Area is opent to hunting in season. CAUTION: No hunting is allowed in any developed or maintained areas designated as campgrounds, picnic area or public use areas.
A very unique feature to this area is the shooting range which offers both a 100 yd. and 200 yd. range, as well as a location for shooting clay pidgeons. The range is open from sunrise to sunset and has a small shelter with shooting stations at each the 100 and 200 yard ranges.
Primitive campsites are available in five different locations - many located along the Wapsipinicon River. An overnight cabin is also available and is reservable up to one year in advance of the date of use.
Check out the links below for additional information on the various attractions and facilites in this park.
