FAQ

Camping

Can I reserve a site to camp at Central Park?

All camping sites are a "first come" basis.  No reservations are made in advance for camping.

Visit Camping Availability to find out what sites are available before you go to Central Park. Updates are provided Thursday-Sunday during the camping season.

How much does it cost to camp at Central Park?

Fully Modern Sites: 30 Amp electrical hook-up, sewer, water and wifi.  $30/night

Semi Modern Sites: 50 Amp electrical hook-up, water and wifi.  $25/night

Electrical Sites: 30 Amp electrical hook up. $22/night

Primitive Sites: $15 per night

General Questions

Is hunting allowed at the Hale Wildlife Area?

All hunting on Conservation Board lands and waters will be done in accordance with state and federal laws. Any structure built or placed for the purpose of hunting (stands, blinds, etc.) in the Hale Wildlife Area shall be removed daily within 1 hour after sunset.  The use by the public of firearms, explosives and weapons of all kinds is prohibited in all areas, except in those areas or parts thereof so designated as public hunting areas. Paint ball type guns are prohibited at the Hale Wildlife Area. The Board assumes no responsibility for death or injury as a result of persons using any type of firearms, explosives or weapons of any kind, in or on any area.

The area is walk in only - no motorized vehicles.

Hale Wildlife Area Rules and Regulations

When does the road close for the season at Pictured Rocks?

Due to the steep narrow road leading down into Pictured Rocks a gate is closed and locked at the beginning of the winter season.  Contact the Jones County Ranger at (563)487-5038 for more specific information on gate closure dates.  It reopens in the spring after the ice thaw.  Please call to inquire on the road closure and opening each season. 

How do I get information for rock climbing at Pictured Rocks?

Getting to know Pictured Rocks: Collin’s Wall is right at the parking lot. Gumby Wall is left of Collin’s Wall, it is the wall and detatched pillar which can be seen right before you take your left into the parking lot on the left side. Chicago Wall can be reached by going to the right instead of left. The rest of the walls are accessed from the main trail as you walk farther into the park.

 

Rock Climbing Walls

Can you hike at Whitewater Canyon?

Hiking at Whitewater Canyon is for the moderate hiker and nature lover.  There is a parking lot that you can park and then walk the trails that are mowed throughout the summer season.The main hiking loop is about 3 miles but several shorter loops or off shoots are available.  

 

Whitewater Canyon Trail Map and Points of Interest

Reserving a Facility

How much does it cost to reserve a cabin at Central Park?

$49.50 per night and a $4 processing fee for the online purchase.  Visit  Facility Reservations for the on-line reservations.  Reservations are non refundable and can be made after January 1st of the calendar year.

Can I bring a pet inside the cabins at Central Park?

Pets are not allowed inside the cabins.  Only one pet is permitted per reservation group.  Pets must be on a six foot leash at all times.  Groups with a pet kept outside are required to pick up and dispose of pet waste upon departure.

What time is check in and check out for the cabins?

Check in time is 4 pm on the date of arrival. Check out time is Noon on the date of departure.

Can I bring a tent to have outside of the cabins at Central Park?

One small tent (less than six person capacity) is permitted for each cabin.  The tent must be set up within 30 feet of the reserved cabin and be at least 30 feet away from the other rental cabin.

What is inside the cabins at Central Park?

Each cabin includes electricity, a ceiling fan, a futon sofa sleeper, single bunk bed above and queen bed below, table with bench seating, upright closet with shelves for storage, dorm sized refrigerator, small microwave, broom and dust pan, picnic table and fire pit with grill.  Users will need to provide their own bedding, personal items, service wear, cooking utensils and cleaning supplies.   A shower house with bathroom is near the cabins and within walking distance.  Both cabins have windows and heating and cooling units.  There is a water hydrant near the cabins for water.  Both cabins have a picnic table and fire ring.

How much does it cost to reserve the Enclosed Pavilion at Central Park?

The enclosed pavilion rental fee is $55 with a $4 processing fee for the online reservation.  Visit Facility Reservations for the on-line reservations. Reservations are non refundable and can be made after January 1st of the calendar year.

How do I reserve the cabins or enclosed pavilion at Central Park?

The cabins and enclosed pavilion at Central Park can be reserved after January 1st of each calendar year by visiting https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Jones/Facility/Search.aspx.  These facilities are only reserved on-line and require a credit card for payment. 

Rules

Can I use Recreational / ATV's at Central Park?

Registered off-highway vehicles may be operated at Central Park on designated roadways and parking lots only pursuant to the restrictions in Jones County's Chapter 16, Off-Highway Vehicle Ordinance, Title V-Public Order, Safety and Health, adopted December 2018.  Violations may constitute citations, vehicles being towed and/or eviction from Central Park.  Registered campers at Central Park are responsible for ensuring their visitors comply with all rules and regulations.

What kind of boat can you use on Central Park Lake?

No gas motors are allowed on Central Park Lake.  Simply tilt your motor up out of the water.  Trolling motors are allowed.