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Top Campgrounds and RV Parks in Fort Dodge, Iowa

Fort Dodge is the county seat of Webster County, Iowa. This city is about 30 miles northwest of Des Moines, and many RV parks in the Fort Dodge, Iowa area are close to Iowa RV trip attractions like Blank Park Zoo and Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Central Iowa is known for its incredibly cold winters, but parking your RV at one of the RV campgrounds in Fort Dodge, Iowa, during the summer is a great way to enjoy classic Great Lakes region activities like boating and fishing. Here are 10 incredible options when it comes to places to camp in an RV near Fort Dodge.

Dolliver Memorial State Park

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Dolliver Memorial State Park is southeast of Fort Dodge. It is on the Des Moines River, and this park includes a small campground. Fishing is available on the river, and there is an amphitheater on-site.

Why You’ll Love Dolliver Memorial State Park

Unlike some options for RV camping in Fort Dodge, Dolliver Memorial State Park offers limited electrical hookups. There is a day-use lodge on-site, and there is also a free dump station. Popular activities at Dolliver Memorial State Park include birding, boating, and hiking.

What People Are Saying About Dolliver Memorial State Park

“There is no cell phone service in a quiet park far enough away from all the cards of the world to unplug from it all in the picturesque Des Moines River valley. See the sandstone formations and tive American burial mounds. There are also quiet paved secondary roads in the area perfect for bicycling.” – Jacob, Google Review

“Even in the middle of winter it’s fun to walk around and see the tracks in the snow and the wintery scenery. Plan to definitely go back when the snow goes away…I bet it’s beautiful.” – Carrissa, Google Review

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John F. Kennedy Memorial Park

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John F. Kennedy Memorial Park is a large park that is operated by Webster County. This park includes a medium-sized campground, and this Fort Dodge, Iowa campground offers full hookups. The rates charged at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park are reasoble, and there are six shelter houses on-site.

Why You’ll Love John F. Kennedy Memorial Park

Some of the amenities offered at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park include a volleyball court, a playground, and hiking trails. The sites at this campground are spacious, and they each feature a picnic table. In addition, there are fishing docks on-site at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park.

What People Are Saying About John F. Kennedy Memorial Park

“It is lovely with a nice mixture of grassy and Woody areas. A public golf course is adjacent. It is surprisingly hilly for this part of Iowa. The main driveway into the park is hard-surfaced, so even though I visited on a wet and rainy day, I didn’t have to worry about getting stuck in the mud.” – Keri, Google Review

“Had a nice time. Weather not bad, but first really nice camping weekend in this area so campground was packed. Cars parked in the road and kids running wild. Parks in good shape, just wet from the recent rains.” – Mark, Google Review

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Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

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Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is to the east of Fort Dodge. This park is located where Brushy Creek dumps into a large reservoir. Brushy Creek State Recreation Area features one of the largest RV parks in Fort Dodge, and this campground caters especially to equestrian campers.

Why You’ll Love Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

With dozens of miles of horse trails in the area, Brushy Creek State Recreation Area is one of the best places for equestrian camping in Iowa. There is a horse wash area on-site, and every site at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area includes a picnic table. Plus, there are fishing tourments on Brushy Creek almost every weekend in the summer.

What People Are Saying About Brushy Creek State Recreation Area

“Great little campground tucked in amongst the sprawling crop fields of Iowa! They had really nice showers and bathrooms and some really choice camping spots. We camped in one of the equestrian grounds and it was neat seeing people and their horses milling around. People seemed pretty respectful of the quiet hours and signing up to get a site was really easy. The park ranger on duty at the office was also super helpful!” – Katt, Google Review

“Nice clean campground, good rates ($19 for full service as of May 2018). Best to book ahead if you’re going on a weekend.” – Jeremiah, Google Review

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Whispering Oaks Campground

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Whispering Oaks Campground is a privately owned RV park in Story City, Iowa. This campground offers access to the Skunk River, which is a popular trout fishing location. In addition, free Wi-Fi is available throughout Whispering Oaks Campground.

Why You’ll Love Whispering Oaks Campground

The sites at Whispering Oaks Campground are level and shaded. Plus, there are large open spaces among the trees that are perfect for group activities. Best of all, there are multiple walking trails in the vicinity of Whispering Oaks Campground.

What People Are Saying About Whispering Oaks Campground

“Stayed there off and on May/June. Google maps took me directly there with no issues. Grounds were clean sites were big enough having room in between RV s. Owners very friendly. I was there due to death in my family. Owner was more than helpful to me even loaned me folding chairs for service. With raising her kids-school and sports they were there limited times and yes honor system in place.” – Bill, Google Review

“Fourth of July week. No management presence all week. Sites were ok. Night sign in with payment on the honor system. Showers were clean and semi lit. Grounds had equipment and trash lying around perimeters and among the tent camping sites. Sites were poorly marked. Was very quiet.” – Deborah, Google Review

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Oakwood RV Park

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Oakwood RV Park is located near the banks of Clear Lake. This RV park is medium-sized, and free Wi-Fi is offered on-site. Oakwood RV Park is equipped with state-of-the-art laundry facilities, and long-term rates are available upon request.

Why You’ll Love Oakwood RV Park

Oakwood RV Park’s best feature is its nearness to the lake. Clear Lake is a popular spot for boating, and fishing is also available in the summer. Best of all, Oakwood RV Park is only a mile or so away from Interstate 35, which makes this RV park highly accessible.

What People Are Saying About Oakwood RV Park

“A really nice, full hookup RV park. The camp hosts were very nice and helpful. We came for one night and stayed for 3! Payment is cash or check only. Owners live on property. Clean, green, and taken care of, the pull thru sites are long but are buddy sites-not really an issue because each side is so far forward. We had no problems and will definitely recommend to others.” – Lauri, Google Review

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Backyard RV Park

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Backyard RV Park is in the rural town of Harlan, Iowa. This RV park is about 20 miles to the west of Fort Dodge, and it is one of the smallest campgrounds in the area. Backyard RV Park is part of the Passport America network, and it was previously known as Nielsen’s RV Park.

Why You’ll Love Backyard RV Park

Since Backyard RV Park is so small, you won’t have to deal with many noisy neighbors. This RV park is family-owned, and it is next door to the Shelby County Community Golf Course. Plus, every site at Backyard RV Park features a campfire ring and a picnic table.

What People Are Saying About Backyard RV Park

“We’ve known about this little midwest gem for several years… best-kept secret! However there is rarely hot showers and they are rustic in nature but other than that..low cost, peaceful, large lots, green soft grass for doggies and very quiet. Totally beats those overrated chain parks by far!” – Lisa, Google Review

“This place is very beautiful and I loved staying here. It was the only place we could find that would be open September-January when we would be there. It is secluded and there is plenty of space between each RV.” – Maddy, Google Review

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Prairie Flower Campground

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Prairie Flower Campground is in Polk City, which is just outside of Des Moines. Prairie Flower Campground is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This campground is within walking distance of the Saylorville Lake, and there is a boat ramp right down the road

Why You’ll Love Prairie Flower Campground

Saylorville Lake is a great place to fish for walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, or northern pike. In addition, Prairie Flower Campground features laundry facilities and campfire rings. This rustic campground offers electrical hookups, but it is located in a quiet and serene setting.

What People Are Saying About Prairie Flower Campground

“A gem of a state park. Nicely kept park (vs our IL parks…ugh), clean, and level sites. Super clean and nice bathrooms/showers. Only wish it was closer to our home!” – Mike, Google Review

“We love this campsite. Workers always friendly and accommodating. It’s a beautiful place and we can see Saylorville Lake from almost every sight.” – Carol, Google Review

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Fieldstone RV Park

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Fieldstone RV Park is a large RV park in Arnolds Park, Iowa. This RV campground caters to retirees, but guests of any age are welcome at Fieldstone RV Park. Some of the facilities offered at Fieldstone RV Park include a kitchen, group dining room, and laundry machines.

Why You’ll Love Fieldstone RV Park

Fieldstone RV Park is a short distance away from both Okoboji Lake and Lower Gar Lake. In addition, Emerald Hills Golf Course is only a mile away. However, since Fieldstone RV Park offers free Wi-Fi access and six bathhouses, you might be tempted to never leave this RV park.

What People Are Saying About Fieldstone RV Park

“Love this place. Live here during the summer months. ” – Vicki, Google Review

“It is a good place to camp in the Iowa great lakes.” – John, Google Review

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Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground

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Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground is located southeast of Fort Dodge. This RV park is quite large, and you can refill your propane tanks at Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground. In addition, you can access Wi-Fi at this RV park for a small fee.

Why You’ll Love Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground

Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground is in a rural location, but it is still close to Des Moines’ many amenities. This RV park features a large playground for kids, and there is a decorative pond on-site. To top it off, recreational games and dining tables are available within this RV park’s lodge.

What People Are Saying About Griff’s Valley View RV Park & Campground

“The owners were extremely welcoming and kind. The campground was immaculately clean, and everything worked well as expected.” – Amanda, Google Review

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Don Williams Campground

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Originally constructed when Saylorville Lake was built, Don Williams Campground is the oldest campground in the Ames area. Challenge your friends to a round of golf on its 9-hole golf course before cooling off in the water that is reachable from this campground’s sandy beach

Why You’ll Love Don Williams Campground

While no Ames campsites are located within the city limits of Ames, this park is only about 13 miles away. The local wildlife is abundant, and the lake offers many scenic viewing opportunities. This campground also offers a special youth camping area.

What People Are Saying About Don Williams Campground

“Don Williams is an excellent camp ground. There are playgrounds at both the upper and lower sites. Each also has modern bathrooms that have always been clean. Recommend to anyone wanting to have a nice quiet get away for the weekend.” – Seth, Google Review

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Ledges State Park

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Splash your way through the low-water crossings near the Ledges State Park campground. Bring your rock climbing and rappelling gear along so that you can explore the cliffs from a different vantage point. This campground often books up months in advance, so make your reservations early.

Why You’ll Love Ledges State Park

If you’re looking for campgrounds near Ames, Iowa, this state park located about 20 miles away near Madrid, Iowa will serve as a great home base. You will love the large pull-through sites under well-established shade trees when you choose to bring a rental RV to this park near Ames. Walking through the creek at the end of a long day is a super way to beat the summer heat. There are many paths to hike, and the solitude can be great for those looking to reconnect with ture. In the fall, the leaves turn beautiful shades of orange and red here. There is a spacious restroom with shower facilities.

What People Are Saying About Ledges State Park

“never knew there was such beautiful scenery and elevation in Iowa. My daughter has been going to Iowa State for a few years now and she took me here to show me where she goes for peace and relaxation. What a beautiful hike!” – Duane, Google Review

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Smith Lake County Park

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Smith Lake County Park is a pleasant place for locals and visitors alike. Sitting beside the reservoir of Smith Lake, the park provides ample opportunities for exercise amongst the wonders of nature. Birdwatching and fishing enthusiasts find that this park is a dream come true for engaging in both hobbies.

Why You’ll Love Smith Lake County Park

Smith Lake County Park offers a brief interlude of peace in a life that can toss curveballs all day. Here, the kids can play safely at several different types of games, like volleyball and basketball, as well as do some fishing. You can spend some time at the park’s Nature Center, or rent a kayak and head out onto the lake. The camping sites are shaded from the summer sun, and they’re quiet during the dark of night, providing a great environment for you and your family to relax and get some restorative sleep at the end of the day.

What People Are Saying About Smith Lake County Park

“We live 500 miles away and visit relatives in the area every year always staying here. Local residents come out on the weekends. Staff is fantastic, friendly and helpful.” -Janet, Google Review

“The showers and bathrooms need an upgrade but I would definitely stay here again. The lake is beautiful and quiet because of no powered boats.” -Kathy, Facebook Review

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Swede Point Park

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This small campground is a great place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Yet, it is close to all that Ames and the Central Iowa region has to offer. Most campers staying here act like they are part of one big happy family, so pull your RV in and join them.

Why You’ll Love Swede Point Park

This small Ames campground was created when Saylorville Lake was first built. It offers a fabulous playground for the kids along with great picnic facilities. Two short trails lead within 1 mile of the tresses that can be easily followed to get to the High Trestle Trail. It is also easy to hike to scenic views overlooking the Des Moines River.

What People Are Saying About Swede Point Park

“Unusual regulations that worked for us. No reservations accepted and no time limits for staying…Some nice fellow campers, regulars for the most part, with a few seasonal campers. Electric only at site with water taps for filling bottles. Mostly oak trees and a long steep trail down to the Des Moines River.” – Johnny, Campendium Review

“A quiet little county park only 1/4 mile from the Des Moines river. Lots of hiking trails. A nice play area for kids and clean bathrooms with showers.” – Andrea, Facebook Review

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In Summary

When selecting from among these amazing Fort Dodge campgrounds, landing on a final decision can seem impossible. However, if being near the sights of Des Moines is a high priority for you, you’ll want to take your rental RV to campgrounds in Fort Dodge, Iowa, like Prairie Flower Campground. Conversely, if exploring the frequently overlooked rural expanse of this state is what you’re all about, you’ll fall in love with Backyard RV Park. After spending time in the Fort Dodge area, take your RV out on a statewide road trip to see what else Iowa has to offer.

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Explore other Campgrounds & RV Parks near Fort Dodge

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to camp in Fort Dodge, Iowa?

The top 10 campgrounds we selected all show daily, weekly and monthly rates for you. Pricing will vary.

How much does it cost to RV park in Fort Dodge, Iowa?

Pricing will vary. The top 10 RV Parks we selected all display daily, weekly and monthly rates for you.

How long can you stay at an RV Park in Fort Dodge, Iowa?

Staying at an RV Park for a long period of time will vary on the campground & RV Park you choose. View our post for more information.

Are there pet friendly RV Parks & Campgrounds in Fort Dodge, Iowa?

Yes. The majority of campgrounds we selected in this blog allow pets.