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Shelter - Wapsi Bluff

4729 Horseshoe Falls Rd
Central City , IA 52214

An open-air shelter and deck, which offers a fantastic view of the Wapsipinicon River, is located just beyond the South access entrance of Pinicon Ridge Park. The 250-person seated shelter includes plenty of counter space with electrical outlets, restrooms, and plenty of parking. The site was redeveloped from a former park shop and service yard into a scenic overlook for public gatherings and events. Future plans for this area includes a playground and a recreation trail connection to the park that also connects to Central City. The overlook concept was included in the 2015 Pinicon Ridge Park Master Plans. Pinicon Ridge Park is part of the Cedar-Wapsi Recreational Byway, along with Prospect Meadows and Indian Creek Nature Center, which received an Iowa Great Place designation in 2014. 

View Video from Iowa Arts Council in 2022 regarding Wapsi Bluff Shelter

Location

Wapsi Bluff Shelter is located in Pinicon Ridge Park on the south day-use side of the park. From Highway 13 turn onto Maine Ridge Drive, then right onto Horseshoe Falls Rd.

Amenities

9,500 sq. ft. venue total, including a 2,100 sq. ft. deck overlooking the river. 

  • Deck 56' x 35', except extension that is 20' x 6'
  • Patio 70' x 35' semi-circle
  • Main covered area 60' x 90'

Tables - 45 octagonal concrete-like tables (made from recyclable materials) seating up to 266 people - these cannot be moved. 41" wide. 4 ADA wheelchair accessible 

50 black folding chairs provided in storage room

15 8' beige tables provided in storage room. Seat 8 each.

Serving Counter - 36 feet long with six electrical receptacles that house 24 outlets.

10 additional receptacles. 

Modern flush restrooms (restrooms are closed when not reserved)

Six trash cans provided with liners when reserved

Two exterior water spigots available when reserved, two water spigots on inner walls. 

Two stationery pedestal grills.

Parking: Available for approximately 80 vehicles in hard surfaced area, overflow parking area adjacent for approximately 20 vehicles, additional parking near Alexander Wildlife area for approximately eight vehicles. NO PARKING in undesignated areas or along roadside.

Electricity
Handicap Accessible
Picnic Table
Pressurized water
Refuse cans
Restroom
Table with chairs

Fees

Monday -Thursday, $225

Friday - Sunday, $450 

Special Discount: For any reservations that are made on or after April 1, 2023, a 15% discount will be applied at time of rental purchase if you book three consecutive days. Must check out by 3 p.m. on third day.  MUST CALL CONSERVATION OFFICE at 319-892-6450 TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT AT INITIAL BOOKING. Discount not provided for existing or previous reservations. 

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Policies and Fees

Hours of Operation & Seasons

April 15 - October 15

Hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Closures

Closed October 16 - April 14

Permits

Beer Keg Permit - $25. (Beer kegs are not allowed in cabins, campgrounds, or park spaces. A permit for a beer keg for a lodge or shelter event must be purchased upon reservation checkout, or can be added after initial reservation by calling Conservation Headquarters at 319-892-6450). 

Special use permits and proof of liability insurance may be required for additional features, including large tents with stakes, extra portable restrooms, bounce houses,  etc. Special use permits are obtained by speaking with the park ranger at 319-438-6616.