CAMPGROUND DEVELOPMENT STATEGIES FOR CLINTON, IOWA - HANNAH GALKIN M.Arch and M.UP Capstone Student
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CAMPGROUND DEVELOPMENT STATEGIES FOR CLINTON, IOWA HANNAH GALKIN M.Arch and M.UP Capstone Student 2021 University of Illinois Master of Urban Planning Capstone Project Image Curtesy of : Lab Photo
Abstract 3 Clinton, Iowa 4 Project Scope 5 Trends in Tent Camping 7 Eagle Point Park and Emma Young Park 9 Relevant Standards 12 Regional Trends for Campsites 15 Survey 18 Recommendations 20 Conclusion 22 Appendix 23 TABLE OF References 25 CONTENTS
B eginning in fall 2020 I have amenities as other campsites. For instance, if all
CLINTON, IOWA.
ABSTRACT.
been working with the Parks the campsites are located near a water feature,
and Recreation department at then the accessibility designated campsites also
the City of Clinton, Iowa to assist need to be located near the feature as well.
with the planning of new primitive
Regionally, tent campgrounds tend to not
campgrounds. Throughout the
have electricity and depending on if they are at
course of this project, I have
campgrounds with other camping conditions, they
worked to general camping
will have additional amenities. Many sites have
trends, evaluate standards, look
access to water, dumping stations, fire rings and
at regional camping trends, and
grills, and picnic tables. In addition to amenities Photo Curtesy of Google Street View
develop a community survey that
many of the tent camping accommodations
will assist in the final decision-
are around $14 per night and many tent-only
making process.
sites have either parking locations on site or
C
The project started by examining by lot where the tent camping location is walk- linton, Iowa started out as a small settlement to showing municipal lines
general trends in camping to. These regional trends provide multiple ways in 1836 and was called New York and was and boundaries, Figure 1 also
and recreation. Specifically, I that the Parks and Recreation department can later changed to Clinton in 1857 when the town shows how there are several
reviewed different reports and design their campgrounds and fit into the regional became incorporated.1 Eventually as the city key areas of greenspace located
literature that discussed the camping trends. grew it became the seat city of Clinton County, throughout the municipality.
reasons how and why people Iowa and has remained the most populous city One of which, located along
Finally, the survey designed for this project will
camp. I found that not only is in Clinton County since. Today, according to the the river, is currently being
eventually gather information about what types
camping seeing a rise in popularity, but that tent Census Bureau in 2019 the city had a projected revamped in the new Downtown
of amenities, preference for location, and price
camping has become more popular over the population of 25,093.2 In addition, as of 2010 the Clinton Master Plan which was
preferences the Clinton community prefer for
last year specifically because of the Covid-19 town had 35.15 sq mi of land with a population proposed in early fall 2020. The
the campgrounds. In addition to the information
pandemic. In addition, since the automobile density of 764.8 residents per sq mi.3 new Downtown Clinton Master
gathered regarding the upcoming campground
became more widely available, vehicular camping Plan exemplifies a lot of the
project there will also be a section collecting data Figure 1 shows how the city is located along
has remained a popular way of travel as campers attitude currently in Clinton. First
on the usage and attitudes towards the newly the boundary between Illinois and Iowa which is
can pack up and go to wherever they please. the plan discusses how the final
created RV campgrounds. defined by the Mississippi River. There are two
goal is to “improve business
Next, the project examined different recreational main bridges located along the eastern edge
Ultimately, the creation of new primitive opportunities, attract additional amenities and
facility standards that could affect the ultimate of the city of Clinton and cross the Mississippi
campgrounds in the city of Clinton will not only improve aesthetics as the area continues to
design of the campground facilities. Specifically, and both connect to Fulton, Illinois. The bridges
be a good investment for the city but also add attract residential growth, commercial investment,
this project consulted both American Barriers Act themselves are a part of the highway system
a great amenity for the community. In essence, strategic employers, institutional assets and
(ABA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are a part of Highway 30 and State Route
this capstone project will allow for the city to make retail development.”4 While this plan is meant to
for their standards. One of the key findings here 136 which both cross Highway 67 once they
informed decisions that can help them determine focus solely on the downtown district of Clinton
is that not only do campgrounds need to have run into Clinton. Specifically, Highway 67 runs
the final location and scope of the campground it also is expressive of a lot of projects occurring
accessible camping options, but they also need through the center of Clinton forming one of the
project. throughout Clinton. For instance, the Parks and
to ensure that regardless of whether a campsite main downtown streets (2nd st). While Clinton’s
Recreation department created a Recreational
is accessible that there are opportunities for boundary runs along the river it also occupies a
Vehicle Campground located along the riverfront
campers with mobility issues to have access large portion of Beaver Island which is located
so that campers and residents could go and
to the same environmental and physical
3 off Clinton’s southeastern riverbank. In addition
4
experience the Mississippi and enjoy one of the What does this say about the current climate
T he focus of this project is to assist Primitive camping is often defined as
PROJECT SCOPE.
prize amenities that Clinton has to offer. of Clinton? First, with many projects looking to the City of Clinton in their process camping with a tent with limited to no
expand the amenities, improve business, and of creating new campgrounds to add access to infrastructure resources (i.e.,
Not only is the community working to revitalize
enhance the built and natural environment the city into their current revitalization efforts. electricity, running water, etc.). As of now
downtown Clinton, but there are also regional
of Clinton, and the region that surrounds it, are Currently, the City of Clinton has RV the Parks and Recreation department
projects currently underway that are working
looking to put in the work to revitalize and restore Campgrounds which are located has been examining the viability of two
to restore and clean up the Mississippi River
the area. Focusing on this project, the creation of along the Clinton river front. These different parks it could build the primitive
environment. Specifically, as of 2018 is the Beaver
additional campgrounds by the Clinton Parks and campgrounds include 27 concrete pads camping grounds: Eagle Point Park and
Island Habitat Restoration and Enhancement
Recreation department speaks to much of the for RV and Car Parking with hookups for Emma Young Park. The goal for this
project, which has been funded by the Army
area-wide development occurring. Just like how water and electricity, a dumping station, capstone is to assist the Clinton Parks
Corps of Engineers as a part of their Mississippi
the Downtown Clinton Master Plan, the creation bathhouse, and picnic tables.1 To provide and Recreation department in their efforts
River Restoration Program, came to fruition and
of these campgrounds will expand the amenities a more diverse camping experience and to properly place these campgrounds
has been initiated. Originally slated in 2018, the
currently available in Clinton and hopefully draw add additional amenities in Clinton the and determine the conditions of the final
project is now expecting its construction timeline
not just residents but anyone who is interested in city’s Parks and Recreation department project. To accomplish this goal this
to finish sometime around November of 2022.5
camping in the Mississippi River region. working on creating a Primitive Camping capstone examined the criteria listed
This project is currently working to fix some of the
Ground within the city of Clinton, Iowa. below:
environmental alterations caused by the creation
Endnotes
of locks and dams in the 1930’s. Importantly this
1 Mike Kearney, “A Glimpse of Clinton in
island represents an important environmental, the Past,” 2013. 1. Reviewing relevant studies and academ- d. Accessibility listings
recreational and historical fixture and ultimately 2 U.S. Census Bureau, 2019 ic literature to determine recreational camp- e. Type of accommodation: Tent
3 U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 ing trends. This included looking at: camping or Other accommodations
the project is looking to preserve the history 4 The Master Plan Steering Committee,
a. Yearly camping and recreational re- 3. Found Relevant Design Standards set by
of the island and make sure that the important 2020, p. 5
5 Britton, E. (2021). ports. the ADA and ABA Referring to Ground Sur-
Mississippi River habitats are restored and 6 Britton, E. (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, b. Literature regarding historical face and Accessibility Standards for Camp-
preserved.6 February 25, 2019). camping trends. sites. These standards included:
c. Literature regarding current camp- a. Number of accessible campsites
ing trends both in the US and World- needed.
wide. b. Ground-cover
2. Evaluated Regional Camping Trends that c. Clearance for different amenities
are Specific to the Mississippi River Region d. Spatial relationships between ac-
focusing on Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. cessibility sites and rest of camp-
This section looked at the following infor- grounds
mation for 37 campgrounds: 4. Created a Survey for the Parks and Rec-
a. Grounds Cover for campsites reation department Looking at the following
b. Amenities: Including electricity, questions to gauge communal preferences
water, grills, dumping stations, play- for:
ground, parking, etc. a. Primitive (Tent) Camping
c. Price per night b. Current RV Campgrounds
Endnotes
1 Parks and Recreation Department,
“Riverview Recreation Vehicle Park,” (City
of Clinton, 2021).
Figure 3: Clinton Iowa Map View
5 Sources: Google Maps
6
went up in popularity to 64%.6 They further to a tent location means it could attract campers
explained that one of the things that could be who are more likely to camp in their vehicle or
appealing about tent camping is the ability to who decide to stop by on a road trip. Ultimately
social distance and stay separated from other this could be an opportunity for the campgrounds
people (i.e., enjoying the solitude of nature).7 In to attract spontaneous travelers as well as those
essence, not only has tent camping remained who planned previous trips. In addition to car
TRENDS IN TENT CAMPING.
popular for the public but has in fact increased in camping there is also research that focuses
popularity. on the mindset or reasons as to why campers
determine to camp in one location or the other.
Another interesting area of research is the
For instance, in a study found that campers at two
inclusion of the Automobile in primitive camping.
different parks in Australia had similar reasons
In the US after the invention of the automobile
for choosing to camp. Specifically, the reasons
and the inclusion of vacation time into a typical
where to: escape, disconnect, experience nature,
American work schedule, auto-camping became
confirming their self-identity, and the emotional
a large draw for many Americans. In his book,
T his section will look at two things. First, the
overall trends towards camping in general
(particularly because there has been a steady
primitive camping the percent change between
the two survey periods was 3.2. Significantly, this
shows the general trend for camping increasing
A History of American Camping, Terence Young
describes the different evolutions in camping
benefits (connecting to family and rest/relaxation)
from a camping experience.11 In essence, the
draw for these campers was to feel less tethered
history, specifically he discusses how the car
increase in camping interest in recent years) and over time.3 For the city of Clinton this is very to their life or to their typical lived experience.
became a tool for camping and thus the camping
specific trends regarding primitive camping (i.e., encouraging as this shows an increasing public Tent camping provides a great opportunity for this
industry was able to expand throughout the 20th
use of cars, tent usage, lack of amenities). interest in camping throughout the US. type of experience as it allows for the reduction of
century.8 In his section on car camping, Young
amenities like electricity and allows for people to
Starting in 2015 the Kampgrounds of America Another benefit to the town is the impact of describes how authors in the era encouraged
feel close to nature. For the parks and recreation
began sponsoring a report examining North Covid-19 on recreational travel. The 2021 North middle class Americans to take time and exit the
department this is good because regardless of
American camping trends (called the North American Camping Report expressed, “The city by describing the transformative experience of
the choice for where to place the campgrounds
American Camping Report). According to the proportion of first-time campers –-those who camping in the outdoors. He stated, “While motor-
the City of Clinton has access for campers who
North American Camping Report 2021, due to the went camping for the first time or started camping camping writers admitted that automobiles were
want to go on hikes or experience different parks
Covid-19 pandemic both the number of people again after having been away from the activity central to this form of leisure, they nevertheless
and natural spaces throughout town.
camping, and the number of planned trips has –-exploded in 2020 at a rate five times than went out of their way to emphasize that it was the
increased over the last year.1 This trend is not overserved in 2019.”4 In addition to examining camping, not the driving, that made the experience
necessarily new as the 2019 reports indicated general interest in camping the North American transformative.”9 This is key, the car allowed
that there was a large increase in first time Camping Report examines different microtrends. for campers within the last century the ability to
campers between 2014 and 2019 with the largest For instance, the report looks at everything from drive to the wilderness, pitch a tent and set up
jump occurring in 2018.2 Specifically there was demographic trends to type and use trends (i.e., shop. This kind of camping is still popular today,
an increase of 7 million new campers between RV, Glamping, Cabin and Tent Camping trends). for instance an article written about car camping
Endnotes
2014 and 2019. This trend reaches farther Particularly the analysis of preferred method of in South Korea, the author describes how car
1 Cairn Consulting Group, (2021)
back than just 2014. In his publication “Outdoor camping data shows a significant trend, in the camping focuses on just bringing the essentials 2 Cairn Consulting Group, (2019), Pg 1
3 Cordell (2010), pg 35-37
Recreation Trends and Futures,” H. Ken Cordell 2019 report the preferred conditions section and can aid in the spontaneity of being able to pick 4 Cairn Consulting Group, (2021), pg 11
5 Cairn Consulting Group, (2019), Pg 22
expresses that overall camping trends increased discussed how tent camping was listed as the up your things and park anywhere you please to 6 Cairn Consulting Group, (2021), pg 15
7 Cairn Consulting Group, (2021), pg 16
between survey years. For instance, developed most popular at 59% with RV being the second experience nature.10 While the Clinton parks and 8 Young (2017)
9 Young (2017), pg 104
camping had a 1.1 percent change from 1999- highest accommodation at 24%.5 In fact in the recreation department is looking to establish a tent 10 Kim, Dong-Hwan (2021)
7 2001 to the 2005-2009 survey years and for 2021 report it was noted that in 2020 tent camping camping location allowing cars to potentially drive 11 Hassel et al. (2015)
8
S outhwest of the main downtown is Emma developed northern side of the park,
EMMA YOUNG PARK.
Young Park. This park was named for the campgrounds could be located
Emma Young who established the trust fund within the more secluded tree lines
that allowed the city of Clinton to purchase along the south of the park which would
EAGLE POINT PARK AND the land and materials to create Emma Young
Park. The main building, Ericksen Community
allow for campers to still feel like they
could leave urban life and feel closer
EMMA YOUNG PARK.
Center was built in 1969.1 This park has to nature. The added benefit of having
many community amenities including a pond, the Parks and Recreation department
different sports fields, a playground, and the located on site means that it will be easy
community center also houses the Clinton to show campers where to set up, have
Currently the Parks and Recreation de- tiful scenery and could provide wonderful
Parks and Recreation department. Figure 2 them check in for reservations, etc. A
partment are most interested in the pos- camping locations. The following sections
shows an arial of where the park is located. downside is that if campers are more
sibility of locating the new Primitive Tent outline the two parks, their amenities and
Specifically, the park is near a residential interested in having hiking trails and
Campgrounds in either Eagle Point Park the strengths and weaknesses of choosing
neighborhood and neighboring fields. Looking lookout points Emma Young does not
or Emma Young Park as both have beau- each site could entail.
at the park as seen in Figure 2 there is a large have similar types of natural amenities
pond that stretches from the community center other and campers would need to then
and past the sports fields. When discussing drive to whatever trail they wanted to
the potential use of Emma Young as a location hike.
for the primitive camping one of the positives
about using the site was that depending on
how built out the amenities are for the camping Endnotes
facilities there are already many utilities that 1 Parks and Recreation Department, “Emma
Young Park,” (City of Clinton, 2021).
are run to the park. For instance, water and
electricity lines would be simple to
expand out to whatever location that
would be chosen. In addition, the
location of the pond means that unlike
Eagle Point Park which overlooks the
Mississippi River, campers at Emma
Young Park could have direct access
to the pond. In addition, because the
pond is large and goes past the more
Photos Curtesy of Hannah Galkin
9
Figure 2: Emma Young Park Aerial View
Sources: Google Maps Satellite View
10
L ocated north of the downtown area, Eagle the park extend into the dense tree canopy
EAGLE POINT PARK.
Point Park rests along the Mississippi River where the different trails, lookout points and
and is one of the largest city-owned parks in scenic driving routes are located. As such,
Iowa. The park itself was established in 1888 the natural beauty of the park would be a
under the name Joyce Park, the park had free large draw for primitive campers looking to
admission and a rail line that connected town to experience a beautiful location along the
RELEVANT STANDARDS.
the park, so it was accessible to the residents. Mississippi. However, while there are many
Ultimately the park was renamed Eagle Point natural amenities that would draw campers
Park in 1913 and during the Depression the there are some fundamental issues that would
WPA supplied around 3 million dollars for need to be worked out to allow for a camping
the beautification of Eagle Point Park Alone. location within the Park. For instance, the
These funds went into creating the distinctive first and largest issue is that Eagle Point
landmarks (i.e., the footbridge, stone tower, Park is that it is a gated park, and ultimately
and lodge) that are still in service at the park this means that campers who were staying
today.1 Currently, Eagle Point serves as a good
candidate for the primitive camping grounds as
it is not only a well-known destination, but the
at Eagle Point Park would need access
to the park and the keycode. In addition,
the park is located outside of the general
T his section will examine some of the
ADA (American Disabilities Act) and ABA
(Architectural Barriers Act) standards that can
Outdoor Developed Areas the standards outline
camping facilities. Table F244.2 (Figure 4) taken
from these standards depicts how many camping
park also has many trails and wonderful views downtown area and is not located as closely help to make decisions on how to set up the spaces are required to be accessible given a
of the river. This is seen in the arial image to the Parks and Recreation department campgrounds to be more inclusive. In addition certain number of units. For instance, in the case
provided in Figure 3 where the park is located where campers either must travel to get the to the ADA and ABA standards I will also include of Clinton, if the department were looking to create
north of the urban areas and directly next to passcode for the campgrounds or staff would some additional standards set by Iowa state 12 primitive tent camping spots, then they would
the River. In the image the park also appears need to travel to the park to let in campers. parks that could be useful to understanding some need to make two of those spaces accessible.
smaller than it is because the boundaries of Given the location of the park, if the Parks of the standards that are more specific to Iowa.
It is also included in these standards that if most of
and Recreation department decides The focus of this section will be on accessible
the units will be located near a body of water, then
to add communal amenities (i.e., a surfaces for people with mobility issues and how
there needs to be some of the mobility spaces
bathhouse, drinking water, etc.) then to designate these spaces and as such will not
also located in the same area. This is listed more
there is an additional cost of running include all standards
utilities, and if accessible spaces which need consulting
need to be added with packed earth but will call out certain
or concrete then there would also be relevant standards that
excavation costs to make sure that can assist in the design
the site was not impeding on historical process of the facilities.
artifacts.
First and foremost,
it is important to
determine how many
camping spaces
Endnotes
need to be designed
1 Parks and Recreation Department, “Eagle
Point Park,” (City of Clinton, 2021).
and designated as
Figure 3: Eagle Point Park Aerial View accessible. The ABA Figure 4:Table F244.2
11 Sources: Google Maps Satellite View
includes in Chapter 10
Sources: https://www.access-board.gov/aba/guides/chapter-10-outdoor/#camping-facilities-
and-camp-shelters 12
clearly in ABA standard F244.2.2. Ultimately pad as, “Tent Pads are areas of sand, cement, (read standard here:https://www.access-board.
the goal here is to make sure that the different gravel, or mulch where you can pitch your tent gov/aba/guides/chapter-10-outdoor/#floor-
campsite locations are treated as possible and on a level surface.”2 These types of spaces are height-10134).
that people who require the use of mobility spaces more ideal for mobility purposes as they allow
To gain a better understanding of accessible
are not deprived of their ability to access beautifulfor campers who need a more level surface to
surfaces, the ADA provides a clear example of
camping spaces. In addition, these spaces also navigate a distinct location to set up their tent
how to choose surfaces for camping purposes.
need to have access to accessible amenities. and access their campsite unencumbered. In
Within the ADA standards Chapter 3 outlines
This can include accessible space needed for fire addition, if the parks department so chose,
the guidelines for floor and ground surfaces.
rings and grills, access to picnic tables, or even including tent pads on all the sites would allow
Standard 302.1 (found here: https://www.access-
access to certain utility hookups. (To review these for the department to assign clear spaces and
board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-floor-and-
accessible standards for constructed features go to help to regulate where campers were setting up
ground-surfaces/#firmness-stability-and-slip-
the following link:https://www.access-board.gov/ tents to avoid undesirable camping conditions.
resistance) describes how accessible surfaces
aba/guides/chapter-10-outdoor/#size-101121) The ABA standards for tent pads, section 1013
need to be slip resistant and stable. It elaborates
Also included in these regulations is standard (found here:https://www.access-board.gov/aba/
that loose surfaces (i.e., gravel, mulch, or earth)
F244.3 which describes how at least 20 percent guides/chapter-10-outdoor/#tent-pads-and-
could potentially fulfill requirements if proper
or at least one of all common features (i.e. tent-platforms-1013), outlines that tent pads are
treatment has occurred (like compaction, bunders
water fountains, showers, toilets, etc.) need areas designated and designed for setting up
or consolidates) are added to the surface to
to be accessible in design. In the end, like the a tent. Standard 1013.2 of this section outlines
make it more stable and usable. Ultimately this
location of mobility units, there also needs to be that the slope of the pad cannot exceed a certain
means that if gravel is used it needs to be small
consideration as to the overall amenities included slope and must have 48 inches of clearance on
enough and compact enough to accommodate a
at the site or even communally so that visitors with all sides of the tent (unless the pad is bordered
wheelchair feasibly.
accessibility issues are not prevented from being by a natural feature). This section also indicates
able to use the facilities properly. This is further something important about the groundcover for
corroborated by Adaptive-Living Guide where these accessible tent pads. In addition to needing
Endnotes
they outline accessible camping conditions. The enough navigable space the pad should also be
1 AdapƟve Living Guide, (2021).
website states, “Adaptive campsites are usually “firm and stable, but must also accommodate the 2 Kampgrounds of America, (2021).
built near public areas, such as showers and use of the tent stakes or other devices to secure 3 U.S. Access Board, “Chapter 10: Outdoor De-
veloped Areas,” (2013).
bathrooms. These areas are likely to be paved the tent.”3 The next standard (1013.3) discusses
or well leveled, enabling people with wheelchairs slopes and how the slope cannot exceed 5% if
to easily traverse paths and go from place to not built using materials like asphalt or concrete
place.”1 This is telling as it also indicates that for specific drainage purposes, and if it is built
these mobility sites should also be located near of those materials, it cannot exceed 2%. To give
communal amenities so that people do not have more context, the tent pad should be as level as
to travel to far to reach a communal bathroom or possible (while still allowing for drainage to occur).
shower. In addition the 1013 section of the ABA standards
also describes how if the tent pad is elevated then
In addition to accessible locations and number
it cannot exceed the height of 19 inches so that
of units, the campgrounds The Kampgrounds
people can transfer from their mobility devices to
of America website outlines a guide for different
the tent pad surface
types of camping materials, equipment,
13 and setups. Specifically, they define a tent 14
Of these four campsites it is clear looking at campgrounds should not have electrical hookups
Table 1 that for the tent camping only sites at the campsite. Unlike electricity, these tent-only
they tended to be smaller scale (i.e., they had locations typically did have some type of Grill or
fewer designated camping locations than sites Fire ring at the campsite or on location in common
REGIONAL CAMPING FOR including tent camping and other conditions)
and they tended to have a smaller number of
areas. This indicates that this is more of a fluid
option and can be something that the city of
CAMPSITES.
amenities. For instance, these sites typically had Clinton uses their survey to make final decisions
no showers, or where not listed as accessible about the inclusion of this amenity. Furthermore,
by description or a playground. Something in this variation in campground condition is also
Table 1 that is universal is that all the tent-only similar for flushable toilets and showers. While
locations for each of the campgrounds offering the campgrounds with Tent-Only campsites
primitive sites did not have electricity hookups typically did not have showers, most of the other
for these locations. This is unlike Table 2 which campgrounds included communal bathhouses
depicts most of the campgrounds as having with flushable toilets and showers, meaning that
F or this project I utilized the Recreation.gov
and Army Corps of Engineers websites to
locate regional camping facilities and gather
1, which included tent only camping most had
a combination of inclusive RV/Tent campsites
with additional Tent-only locations. This means
electrical hookup options, while some of the
primitive sites have other conditions with these
hookups what is notable is that for the tent-only
primitive campers could have access to a shower
at these locations. In essence, this allows for the
survey conducted by the parks and recreation
useful data on different trends for these sites. that regionally these sites typically are larger camping type there is no situation where there department to make another decision utilizing
In total 37 campsites across Iowa, Illinois and campgrounds with more facilities located on the is an electrical hookup. This indicates that any the data gathered from the survey showing
Wisconsin were included in the study. Of these site. However, when looking at Graph 1, which tent-only conditions created at the new Clinton community preferences.
37 sites, most were comprised of campsites that depicts the number of tent camping sites to other
where usable for both RV and Tent camping with camping conditions for a given campground,
only 17 of the 37 sites including tent only camping a small number of primitive campgrounds are
conditions (Table 2). designated for tent camping only or the occasional
camper (in total 4) and do not include other
Looking at the 17 campgrounds, depicted in Table
conditions like the other locations.
Table 1: Amenities for Campgrounds with Tent-Only Camping
Sources: Recreation.gov and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
In addition to these conditions, Graph 2 shows was more of an even breakdown of tent-only
the parking condition of the tent-only camping locations either having parking lot or campsite
locations at the campgrounds. While most tent- parking. This means that the city of Clinton can
only conditions had vehicles not on site (instead use their discretion when deciding how campers
visitors would park in a lot and walk to their will use their vehicles for tent-camping.
Graph 1: Eagle Point Park Aerial View
Sources: Recreation.gov and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers designated space), the graph shows that there
15 16
SURVEY.
Graph 2: Parking Conditions
G C at Tent-Only
O Campsites
C
Sources: Recreation.gov and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
T he survey, located in the Appendix began
as a larger Parks and Recreation survey
asking about multiple projects currently underway
included in the plans for the campgrounds. The
next two questions focus on how often people will
use the campgrounds and how much they are
with the department but was narrowed down to willing to pay for tent camping. While there are
focus solely on these new campgrounds and the some general trends regionally for tent camping
current RV Campgrounds. Focusing solely on costs the Parks and Recreation department
the different campgrounds meant that the survey does want to understand where the community
could ask for more additional written feedback stands on pricing to better decide about how the
and gauge how much the community would want campgrounds will function.
Table 2: Regional Campground Amenities and use the space.
Sources: Recreation.gov and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers The following section focuses on the city of
Also included in the data was terrain type and that typically, campgrounds would charge a larger Starting with Question 1 it seeks to see what Clinton’s current RV campgrounds. These
accessibility, Table 2 shows that typically for a fee for other camping conditions as they included type of setting for primitive camping community campgrounds include 27 concrete pads with
campsite designated as accessible there was amenities like electrical hookups, or water members would most like to see. The question electrical and water hookups, bathhouses,
some type of variation in ground cover. For hookups and provided space for RV parking. mentions examples of the two main areas grills/fire rings, picnic tables, etc. The survey is
sites that included accessible locations and However, for the tent-only camping typically being considered and adds a location to add in looking to understand if residents have used the
had multiple ground cover types typically the the price was lower than other conditions and different locations to be considered so that the campgrounds and if so, how often community
accessible locations would not be located on rested somewhere around 14 dollars regionally minds of community members remain open to members use the space. In addition to finding out
grass as typically the grass locations where walk- with a small number of outliers. This means that different locations that could be suggested in general usage the campgrounds the department
to primitive sites. depending on feedback from residents, the city of the survey process. The next question shows also wants to ask citizens what they would rate
Clinton could either determine to follow regional different amenities that typical camping locations the campgrounds as being (i.e., from Very good
The survey prepared for the city of Clinton
trends and set the price for camping at $14/ include. While primitive camping often does not to poor). The last two questions also allow for
includes questions asking about pricing and what
night or they could follow community preference, have any amenities, the Parks and Recreation additional comments on what the community
the community was willing to pay for a primitive
which if the cost per night preference is lower department does want to make sure that the might want to add to the campgrounds.
camping condition. Table 2 includes pricing
than regional trends it could potentially make community feels comfortable using the grounds
both for other camping conditions and tent-only In the next phase of the project the distribution
the Clinton campgrounds more competitive than and if an overwhelming majority want access
camping conditions. The table indicates and collection of Survey information will
17 other campgrounds in the area. to Drinking water or Showers that they can be 18occur. To accomplish this task the Parks and survey and know how many people prefer one
Recreation department will utilize their previous thing over another, and it will then allow for the
techniques of sending out and collecting data on department to have more time to look through
survey. Specifically, the department will upload the qualitative data being collected for the current
the survey designed in this capstone project to RV campgrounds to gauge public reaction to the
Survey Monkey which will allow for the Parks newly created facilities.
RECOMMENDATIONS.
and Recreation department to email the link
to residents in the city. It is important with this
survey that it reflects the general sentiments of 1 U.S. Census Bureau, 2019
the community. As the Parks and Recreation 2 Israel, G.D. (2013). Pg, 5
department is planning to send out the email via
survey it means that they will be emailing many
Clinton residents and will be following a probability
sampling method to gather information about the
community. As the department is looking to send There are many ways for the city of Clinton to set trek over difficult terrain to reach their tent pad and
out this survey soon and have performed surveys up their primitive campgrounds. However, there the department can advertise the campgrounds
through Survey Monkey in the past it means they are some trends that indicate certain conditions more successfully to campers who prefer to camp
can expect a similar number of responses to that should be included at the campsites. using their vehicle, thus the campgrounds can be
those previous surveys. One way to measure the attractive to more types of campers.
The first recommendation focuses on the number
response rate would also be by population size to
of campsites designated as accessible. During In addition to the accessible tent pads and parking
determine the trends for community preferences.
discussions with the parks and recreation at the campsite, it is also recommended in ABA
The population of Clinton, Iowa is currently at
department the desired number of campsites and ADA standards that the campgrounds have
a population of around 25,000 however as it is
landed around 12 in total for the campgrounds. some type of accessible bathroom at minimum and
projected that only 74.8% of households have
This means that following ABA guidelines the other accessible amenities for things like drinking
a broadband internet subscription it can be
campgrounds will need to have 12 of those water, picnic tables and Grill/Fire Rings. Having
estimated that the population that can be surveyed
campsites designated as accessible. The second accessible bathrooms means that campers who
is actually around 18,770.1 In order to maintain a
recommendation is that for these accessible have lower mobility will have an easier time
confidence level of 95%, then you need at least
campsites a tent pad is provided to create a more navigating the campgrounds. While it could be
a response rate of 99-100 people with a ±10%
navigable terrain surface for visitors with mobility beneficial to include accessible bathrooms, it
precision rate (201 people with ±7%, 390 people
issues. Specifically, the use of compacted small might not be beneficial to include showers as they
with ±5%, and 1,034 people with ±3%).2 This
gravel/earth to make a more stable surface or would increase the number of amenities on the
could mean that if the response rate seems low
the use of something like concrete or another site and are not included as often on sites that are
the Parks and Recreation department could then
paving material to make the surface more limited to tent camping only.
send out another round of emails to get more
usable. Including these tent pads means that the
responses back. Once enough responses have For the selection of the campground location
campsites can be located closely to the other non/
been collected the department will be able to the ultimate decision will occur based upon
accessible campsites so that visitors are able to
utilize Survey Monkey’s platform to sift through the survey (indicating the number of amenities
experience similar natural conditions to the other
and collect data quickly. This means that it will desired and type of setting desired) therefore
locations. Another recommendation would be to
be easier for the department to see trends the following recommendations are not
have visitors drive directly to their campsite, this
as clear cut. For each location there are
19 in the quantitative data collected from the
way campers with mobility issues do not have to 20several site-specific recommendations that can is a gated park and the running of utilities to the
be made. Emma Young Park allows for a semi- site (which is less built out than Emma Young).
secluded camping situation with the potential for For this park it could be beneficial for the Parks
more amenities and more assistance from the Department to have reservable spaces where
Parks and Recreation department with issues. campers can sign up ahead of time and then
It is recommended that the campgrounds be receive the passcode to the gate for the park in
CONCLUSION.
in the southern half of the park away from the an email or over the phone. Then for campers
recreational fields and be closer to the pond in who do not reserve these campers could enter
the center of the park so that campers can have the park during business hours and then call
a stronger connection to the water. For Eagle- the department once they have reached the
Point Park the biggest concerns are the way that campground for space assignment and the
campers would access the campgrounds since it receiving of information like gate access.
Ultimately based on regional and national camping the survey attached in the appendix. After the
trends the creation of primitive campgrounds feedback has returned it should illuminate the city
will not only be a good project for the Parks and as to local preferences not only for the future site
Recreation department to continue work on, but location, but it also should assist with the process
it will also add to the city of Clinton’s amenities of determining the scope and the final design for
that residents and surrounding communities will the project. Once this has occurred there will not
enjoy. only be a better understanding of what it will entail
to build these campgrounds in terms of labor, but
While this capstone evaluated much of the
the final determination of the location will also
regional and national trends and standards there
dictate the final expenses associated with the
is still much to learn from the community. As
campground.
such, the next steps for the Parks and Recreation
department will be to work on sending out
Photo Curtesy of Hannah Galkin
21 22Clinton, Iowa Parks and Recreation Camping Survey Current RV Campgrounds:
APPENDIX. Primitive Camping 1. Have you or a member of your household used the current RV campgrounds before?
1. Currently, the city of Clinton is considering adding Primitive Tent Campgrounds. What
type of camping location would you be open to? 2. How often do you use the current RV Campground?
a. A Rural Setting (ex: a location like Eagle Point Park) a. Never
b. A Semi-Secluded Setting (ex: a location like Emma Young Park) b. 1-2 times a year
c. Other Park Locations you would be interested camping in: c. 3-4 times a year
_____________________ d. 5+ times a year
2. What amenities would you want located near Primitive Tent Campgrounds? Circle all that 3. How would you rate the current RV campgrounds?
apply: a. Very good
a. Toilets b. Good
b. showers c. Fair
c. Grill/Fire Rings d. Poor
d. Water e. Do not know
e. Electricity
f. Picnic Tables
g. Water feature (Ponds, Lake, Fountain, etc.) 4. What amenities would you like to see added to our RV Campground?
h. Hiking trails
i. Look out points. Write answer: ________________________________________
j. Other: _________________
____________________________________________________
3. If Clinton offered Primitive Tent Camping, how often would you use it?
a. Never ____________________________________________________
b. 1-2 times a year
c. 3-4 times a year
d. 5+ times a year 5. Do you have any additional comments about the current RV campgrounds?
4. If Clinton offered Primitive Tent Camping, what daily rate of pay would you be willing to Write answer: ________________________________________
pay?
a. 5-10 dollars ____________________________________________________
b. 10-15 dollars
c. 15-20 dollars ____________________________________________________
23 24Adaptive Living Guide. “Wheelchair Accessible Camping - Information and Resources.” Mobility, 2021. https://
RESOURCES. www.mobility-advisor.com/wheelchair-accessible-camping.html.
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underway-focuses-on-habitat-restoration/article_cd08ff46-5f38-11eb-ae45-07b5a7da1eaa.html.
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2021.
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Agriculture Forest Service, Southern Research Station. 167 p.
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