Rich in history, the Matsell Bridge Natural Area is the largest Linn County area at 1887 acres. Diverse in terrain and habitat, Matsell Bridge is home to many species of native Iowa wildlife and plants. The area contains numerous "one-of-a-kind" facilities within the Linn County Park system: shooting ranges, primitive year-round cabin, equestrian camping and unique historical features.
The first acquisition of public land occurred at Matsell Bridge in 1956 by the then Iowa Conservation Commission, but this part of Linn County has a rich history dating back hundreds, if not thousands of years. Matsell Bridge is named after George W. Matsell, a New York City chief of police from 1845-1857. At one time, his land holdings in Iowa included over 3,000 acres. Legend has it that Matsell befriended some American Indians visiting New York City. They appreciated his kindness and invited him to visit them in Iowa. When he arrived, Matsell fell in love with the land and eventually built a mansion near the present day equestrian campground. Matsell fashioned his home after George Washington's Mount Vernon home that overlooks the Potomac River. Additional buildings were added to the farmstead until there were a total of 11 buildings including livestock barns, grain storage, a gate-keeper's house and an ice house. Over time, the buildings fell into disrepair and were razed. Only the ice house and stone pillars of the entrance gate remain today - reminding us of the grand old history of Matsell Bridge.
Location
Matsell Bridge is located north of Viola, IA in eastern Linn County. East on County Home Road (E-34) to Stone City Road; north on Stone City Road to Matsell Park Road; continue north on Matsell Park Road to the park.
GOOGLE MAP LOCATION
Features
- Shooting Ranges with a new 50 yd. pistol range, 100 yd. range, and 200 yd. range (see facilities for additional information)
- Red Oak Cabin - Rustic overnight camping cabin (see facilities for additional information)
- 12.5 miles of trails - open for equestrian use, hiking & cross-country skiing
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- Red Oak Trail
- Pine & Prairie Trail
- Ruffed Grouse Trail
- Equestrian Campground
- 70 campsites in 4 primitive campgrounds
- Boat Ramp on Wapsipinicon River
- Mature conifer forests planted in the 1950s
- On-site resident Park Ranger
- Popular for hunting & trapping
Operating Hours & Seasons
- Area hours are 4:00 AM to 10:30 PM
- Shooting range(s) have various seasonal hours - please observe posted opening/closing times
- Some campgrounds are closed seasonally
- CAUTION: Area open to hunting during season(s)
Closures
- Some roads and parking areas closed during winter months
- Area closes at 10:30 PM daily