Campbells Island State Memorial

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Campbell's Island State Memorial is a historic site in Rock Island County, Iowa, that commemorates the Battle of Campbell's Island, which took place during the War of 1812.


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Summary

The island was named after Dr. Samuel Campbell, who was killed during the battle.

One of the main reasons to visit Campbell's Island State Memorial is to witness a significant piece of American history. There are several points of interest on the island, including a monument dedicated to Dr. Campbell, a replica of the fort that was built during the battle, and a museum that displays artifacts and information about the battle and the War of 1812.

Interesting facts about the area include that it was the site of the only significant military engagement in Iowa during the War of 1812, and that the battle played a crucial role in turning the tide of the war in favor of the United States. Additionally, the island has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

The best time of year to visit Campbell's Island State Memorial is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant and the museum is open to visitors. The island is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, schools, and families, and it offers a unique opportunity to learn about a lesser-known chapter of American history.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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