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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area

Andover, Illinois · Clinton County · Campground

Overview Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is a hidden gem located on the Mississippi River. Whether you like camping, fishing, boating, or just taking in nature, Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is the perfect place. Recreation If you are looking for a few nights of good old fashioned camping, then Bulger’s Hollow Recrea…

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41.93513, -90.18422
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About Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area

Overview Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is a hidden gem located on the Mississippi River. Whether you like camping, fishing, boating, or just taking in nature, Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is the perfect place. Recreation If you are looking for a few nights of good old fashioned camping, then Bulger’s Hollow Recreation Area is your stop. With 23 non-reservable campsites, 17 RV sites and 9 tent camping sites, this park is small in size but offers one of the best views of the Mississippi. This campground offers primitive amenities, such as drinking water, vault toilets, and a dump station. As a reminder, campers have a 14-day camping limit, within a 30-day period. The camping area is open from May 15-October 15. The boat ramp and day use areas are open year-round. Camping is not the only attraction to the area. Bulger’s Hollow also offers a boat ramp, playground equipment and picnic sites for a great way to spend an afternoon with the family. Fishing Opportunities: Bulger’s Hollow offers a gravel boat launch for access to Pool 13 of the Mississippi River. A popular launching site for local fishermen, you can easily find a honey hole for an afternoon of fishing. Directly in front of the campground is a field of lily pads that are ideal for fishing. You can also take a short trip up or down river to a find a calm backwater slough for hours of casting. Facilities Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area offers 23 non-reservable campsites, 14 RV sites and 9 tent camping sites, primitive amenities, such as drinking water, vault toilets, and a dump station. Other facilities in the park include a boat ramp, playground, and picnic shelter. Natural Features Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is a great place to view wildlife, boat, fish, and camp. It sits along the Mississippi River, 7.5 miles North of Clinton, IA off Highway 67. You'll have to travel about 1 mile on a gravel road to get here, but it's well worth it. Nearby Attractions Lock and Dam 13, Fulton, IL Eagle Point Park, Cli

How to Get There

The address to Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is 4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732 From Clinton, IA: Take Highway 67 North for 6.5 miles Turn right onto 170th Street Travel 1 mile and the entrance to Bulger's Hollow will be straight ahead.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area

Heading to Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area?

No central reservation system listed for Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10172129) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area?

The address to Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area is 4686 170th Street, Clinton, IA 52732 From Clinton, IA: Take Highway 67 North for 6.5 miles Turn right onto 170th Street Travel 1 mile and the entrance to Bulger's Hollow will be straight ahead.

How do I contact Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area?

You can reach the park at phone: 815-259-3628 or email: mvrodmn13@usace.army.mil.