Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility

The Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility, located in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, has a rich and complex history. Originally established in 1861 as the Iowa State Insane Asylum, it was the first mental health institution in the state and one of the earliest west of the Mississippi River. The facility was designed following the Kirkbride Plan, emphasizing moral treatment and rehabilitation through structured environments and activities. At its peak, the institution housed over 1,500 patients, offering care for a wide range of mental health conditions.

By the mid-20th century, advancements in psychiatric medications and changing societal attitudes led to a decline in institutionalized mental health care. In 1976, the facility transitioned to a correctional institution, initially housing medium-security inmates.

Today, the Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility operates as a minimum-security prison, focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration programs. It accommodates approximately 1,000 inmates, offering educational and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and work-release opportunities.

The facility’s history reflects broader trends in mental health and corrections, showcasing shifts in societal priorities and care models. While the mental health component was phased out in 2015, the prison continues to play a vital role in Iowa’s correctional system.

As of March 2026, the latest visitation schedule are as follows:

In-Person Visiting Hours – Main Building

• Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
• Sunday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm

In-Person Visiting Hours – Minimum Live Out

• Saturday 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Sunday 8:00 am – 2:00 pm

Note: Reservations in Ameelio App ONLY

Note: Limited to 2 visitors per visit

For further information about the Mount Pleasant Correctional Facility, including inmate records search and visitation details, individuals can refer to the official website of the Iowa Department of Corrections or utilize online inmate search platforms specific to the state of Iowa.