Top Campgrounds and RV Parks in Iowa

Nestled in the countryside of Ottumwa, IA, this welcoming community offers lovely homes with large bedrooms and move-in specials. 161 beautiful home sites surrounded by nature. Feel close to everything but hidden from the hustle and bustle of every-day life. RV sites are also available.

Why You’ll Love Inspire Communities Valley Village

Family-friendly community; just minutes away from the city, plus retail shops, restaurants, Indian Hills Community College and more.

What People Are Saying About Inspire Communities Valley Village

“Nice clean place to live. Very family friendly. I lived there when I was really little. My wife lives there now.” -David, Google Review

This Good Sam Club affiliated campground is without a doubt one of the most popular RV parks in all of Iowa- and for good reason! It provides all the modern amenities you need to have a comfortable stay; guests especially seem to appreciate the reliable wireless internet and clean, hot showers. Best of all, however, you’ll always be greeted by friendly faces.

Why You’ll Love On-Ur-Wa RV Park

Staying at On-Ur-Wa RV Park really allows you to get the best bang for your buck. The low daily and weekly rates will get you full hookup, big-rig friendly sites, free wireless internet, use of shower and laundry facilities, and a recreation area that includes things such as bocce ball, soccer, and horseshoes. The surrounding Owa area is also home to many museums, theatres, golf courses, and more; if you decide to spend a day on the town, you won’t be disappointed!

What People Are Saying About On-Ur-Wa RV Park

“Nice rates, good host(we showed up just minutes after they closed and they persolly came out and registered us anyway), clean facilities, reliable internet, and pretty landscaping. No complaints here!” – Kaylei, Google reviews

This park in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, opened in 2006 and was recently purchased by new owners in 2017. The owners ensure that every guest enjoys their stay, and they provide quality service and amenities to do so. Things like their book exchange and cable TV prove that they love to go the extra mile to make sure their campers an unforgettable vacation!

Why You’ll Love Crossroads RV Park

During a stay at Crossroads RV Park, you’ll be sure to have plenty to keep you busy. Play a round of horseshoes or corn hole, take the kids to the playground, try your hand at geocaching, or play board games with family and friends. And of course, this park provides top quality amenities to keep you comfortable as well- full hookup sites, clean, private bathrooms, and wireless internet are all available.

What People Are Saying About Crossroads RV Park

“The campground host was very nice, the grounds were adequate for our needs, easy to access. Nice little extra touches like lights on the electrical pole and American flags on each spot.” – Gisela, Google reviews

Amana Colonies RV Park & Event Center is located in the perfect spot for those who are looking to enjoy a bit of history. This park is right in the center of Iowa’s historic Amana Colonies- a national historic landmark! This large campground is also perfect for events, such as family reunions.

Why You’ll Love Amana Colonies RV Park & Event Center

During your stay at Amana Colonies RV park, you’ll be able to enjoy all the comforts of home- clean restrooms and hot showers, laundry facilities, and wireless internet. And of course, it’s in close proximity to plenty of restaurants, historic landmarks, shops, and museums- making it one of the best RV trips in all of Iowa! To top it all off, staying here is extremely affordable! This Iowa RV park’s daily, weekly, and monthly rates are some of the best in the state- and they offer a number of different discounts!

What People Are Saying About Amana Colonies RV Park & Event Center

“We phoned this park less than a day in advance and they accommodated us without any problem. While the park has very little shade at this point, it is clean, quiet, and well laid-out. The staff was very helpful and cheery!” – Ted, Google reviews

Located on the edges of Waukee, Iowa, this park is home to shady, peaceful campsites and clean, well-maintained facilities. Plus, since it’s only a few miles west of Des Moines, it’s the perfect spot for campers looking to stay close to the city while avoiding the buzz and noise that usually accompany it. Because of the immaculate services provided, Timberline Campground has been the highest rated park in Iowa by Trailer Life for five consecutive years!

Why You’ll Love Timberline Campground

Timberline provides everything you may need during your stay. You can pick up firewood, ice, groceries, and other supplies at the camp store, take Fido to the dog park for some furry fun, spend the day cooling off in the pool or try some of Iowa’s best wines. No matter what you’re looking for, Timberline has something for you to enjoy!

What People Are Saying About Timberline Campground

“Totally impressed by this place! Well maintained ground So! Very nice folks running the place! Close to the city but you don’t have any city noise!! If we’re back through this way, we’ll definitely stop in again.” – Katelyn, Google reviews

As another Good Sam affiliated park, you can be sure that everything you may want or need will be cared for during a stay at this Albia RV park. When you stay at this park, you get the numerous amenities of the campgrounds as well as the added bonus of all the facilities of the Indian Hills Inn- all for one low rate! It’s no surprise that this park makes the list as one of the best RV parks in Iowa.

Why You’ll Love Indian Hills Inn & RV Park

Every single camper at Indian Hills Inn & RV Park receives full hookup, pull-through sites, wireless internet, cable television, and even complimentary check-in cocktails! In addition to that, you’ll also have free use of the indoor pool and hot tub, so you can spend all day by the water. It’s truly the perfect place for those who are looking to relax.

What People Are Saying About Indian Hills Inn & RV Park

“If you’re not staying at this RV park, you don’t know what you’re missing! Paved roads, gravel pull-through sites, with grass in between. Free wi-fi. The kicker is…indoor pool with hot tub and spa. Restaurant and lounge on premises. Close to convenience and grocery stores, and other restaurants. Give it a try!” – G. Martens, Google reviews

Located in the city of Altoo, Griffs Valley View RV Park is the perfect spot for campers to escape everyday life and relax. The beautifully landscaped grounds are home to many amenities and activities, including exercise equipment and a fishing pond. The grounds also hold two storm shelters in case of an emergency, so campers can stay with peace of mind.

Why You’ll Love Griffs Valley View RV Park & Campground

If you’re looking for an Iowa campground that has top notch, high-quality camping sites- this is definitely the place for you. The large sites are able to accommodate even the largest of motorhomes, and the majority of them are paved. Plus, every single site provides full hookups as well as 30 and 50 AMP capabilities!

What People Are Saying About Griffs Valley View RV Park & Campground

“Fantastic RV park!!! Very clean. Very safe. Wonderful location, close to everything but yet in the country. Nice fishing pond with bridges. Well, lit at night. Nice level concrete pad sites for the most part. This is a 1st class site!” – T. Blackmore, Google reviews

Mason City, Iowa, is home to a number of different attractions, and this campground is right in the middle of it all! In fact, MacNider Campgrounds is right next door to the Mason City Family Aquatic Center and is only a short walk from downtown Mason City. It’s a popular place for those who are looking to stay somewhere with small town charm!

Why You’ll Love MacNider Campgrounds

MacNider Campgrounds is perfect for someone trying to stay on a budget without compromising quality. You can get a basic site with water and electricity for the low price of $17 per night, or have full hookups for only $26 per night! This low price also gives you access to showers, restrooms, fire rings and picnic tables, and a camp store. And, of course, downtown Mason City has plenty to explore!

What People Are Saying About MacNider Campgrounds

“We love it. Nice clean bathroom awesome walking path. The people were very nice. Would go back again and again. They have full hook up and very reasonable prices. Love it.” – Jackie, Google reviews

This RV park is part of a wide-spanning resort complex. Adventureland itself offers numerous rides, games, and stores. The Adventureland Campground, which is a couple of miles northeast of Des Moines, features spacious sites and well-kept accommodations.

Why You’ll Love Adventureland Campground

Adventureland Campground is a popular spot in the summer once the amusement park’s outdoor rides are open for business. Even in the winter, the indoor game room is available for your enjoyment. Those who are traveling on a budget will appreciate that Adventureland Campground offers discounted rates to large groups.

What People Are Saying About Adventureland Campground

“This is a very nice campground with generous sized sites. A pool is available during the season. Comfort stations are strategically placed throughout the grind with each one having restrooms and showers.” – Mark, Google Review

Newton/Des Moines East Koa is a medium-sized RV park only 30 minutes east of Des Moines, Iowa. Bring a lawn chair and cast a line in the campground’s fishing pond for bluegill, bass, and channel catfish. You’ll also find that firewood, ice, and groceries are offered at this RV park’s Kamp Store.

Why You’ll Love Newton/Des Moines East KOA

When you stay at Newton/Des Moines East KOA, you’ll be able to enjoy the adjoining 1 mile ture trail, pitch horseshoes or let your children enjoy the playground. Best of all, Wi-Fi is available throughout the campground.

What People Are Saying About Newton/Des Moines East KOA

“My first time staying at a KOA. We had a really great time. Staff was very friendly. My son loved the sandbox and the bounce pad. Admittedly, I had a pretty great time jumping with him. The facilities were immaculate! It feels so good to take a shower after a long day of travel in a well taken care of bathroom. Thank you for that! If ever we’re passing through this area again, we will definitely be back.” – Corissa, Google Review

Kellogg RV Park is home to a restaurant known as Iowa’s Best Burger Cafe. There is also a convenience store on-site, and you can fill up your tanks at the gas station. While this RV park is quite small, the diner and extra amenities more than make up for it.

Why You’ll Love Kellogg RV Park

Kellogg RV Park offers all of the amenities you need to fuel up and move on. The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, you can stock up on RV supplies at the convenience store. For added peace of mind, Kellogg RV Park includes an F-5 tornado shelter that can protect you from any storms.

What People Are Saying About Kellogg RV Park

“We stayed in the campground over 6 weeks while waiting on our home to be ready. Met some great people, ate at the burger cafe (many times) enjoying most of their menu and the ice cream… It was a great treat! Had a few campfires with other campers and that was a ton of fun!” – Toni, Google Review

The sandy beach at Hickory Grove Breezy Bay is a great place to beat the summer’s heat as you play in the cool water. This family-friendly campground also offers a good swimming pool, and lots of family activities are available nearby. When you camp here, you will build memories that last a lifetime.

Why You’ll Love Hickory Grove Breezy Bay

The short drive to Colo, Iowa, is worth the trip when you want to stay in an RV park near Ames. This park offers a sandy beach with easy access to the water. Hunters often choose this park near Ames, Iowa, because its southern boundary consists of two public hunting grounds. Others love to camp here because they can go fishing in the pond that is stocked with catfish, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie and grass carp. Pedal boats and canoes are available for rent on weekends and major holidays. Several spacious playgrounds make this the perfect place to spend a family camping trip.

What People Are Saying About Hickory Grove Breezy Bay

“A highlight of the park is its great beach area. We visit a few times early in the season and the kids love coming and playing with their friends in the sand. It is our local beach. There are numerous picnic tables and grills in this area and on a summer evening is a very busy place. There have a been a few times I haven’t been able to find a parking spot.” – Amy, Good Times and Sunshine

There are many reasons that you will love Twin Anchors Campground, starting with their level sites that offer plenty of room. The kids will adore the petting zoo that houses a pony, bunnies and other animals. Everyone will want some more of the great homemade ice cream for sale there, too.

Why You’ll Love Twin Anchors Campground

This is one of the best family-oriented RV parks in the Ames, Iowa, area. While there is plenty to do without leaving the campground, if you are looking for additional ideas, be sure to check out these top Iowa RV trips. Make sure to leave time to visit the well-stocked gift shop to pick up souvenirs for everyone who could not come camping with you.

What People Are Saying About Twin Anchors Campground

“People were very friendly, they helped me several times. We used full hookups and did not use the shower facilities. But they had a great little store. With soft serve ice cream. They are next to what appears to be a popular restaurant. And the campground is next to a public golf course.” – Radi0dude, TripAdvisor Review

You may not need to pack food into your RV when you head to Dakins Lake Campground as you will want to clean and eat the fish that you catch in their well-stocked lake. Children enjoy riding their bikes here, and you can challenge your family to a game of sand volleyball.

Why You’ll Love Dakins Lake Campground

This small campground is very friendly to families. The park is known for being well-maintained with clean restrooms and shower facilities. Dakins Lake Campground is located about 30 miles from Ames.

What People Are Saying About Dakins Lake Campground

“Great little county park and campgrounds. The fish are biting and the catfish and bluegill are keepers for sure! 1 1/2 to 3 lbs on the catfish. Bass are not yet quite keepers but will give you a tussle for sure! The grass is kept mowed and the baths and showers are kept nice and tidy.” – Rod, Facebook Review

River Oaks RV Park is a family-owned and pet-friendly campground located in Hartford, Iowa, just 20 minutes southeast of Des Moines. The park is full of fun things to do and is one of the premier campgrounds in Iowa.

Why You’ll Love River Oaks RV Park

You can spend your day biking and hiking the miles of trails carved through the woods or enjoy the serene atmosphere throughout the park. You'll enjoy mature hardwood trees and large RV sites during your stay. Also, take advantage of the one-acre stocked fishing pond or cast a line out on the Des Moines River!

The Iowa State Fair Campground is located slightly to the east of Des Moines. Since this campground is part of the Iowa State Fairgrounds, various events are held on the property throughout the year. The campground fills up quickly in the summer, but you can make reservations online ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love Iowa State Fair Campground

The biggest event presented at this property is the Iowa State Fair, which is held every August. If you plan to come back to the fair next year, you can reserve a spot that will be held for you every August in perpetuity. Amenities at the fair include rides, food stalls, and livestock competitions.

What People Are Saying About Iowa State Fair Campground

“Huge park, very few level sites. BIG bathhouse. Nice that livestock trailers park far away.” – Mardi, Google Review

Reconnecting with ture is easy when you stay at the Whispering Oaks Campground. Hike on the grassy trails running along the swimmable Skunk River, or enjoy the beautiful scenery of the sun setting over an Iowa cornfield.

Why You’ll Love Whispering Oaks Campground

People looking for an Ames, Iowa, campground often make their way 13.5 miles farther north to Whispering Oaks Campground because of its great amenities. This property is very secluded as it sits at the back of a farm under shade trees. There is lots of room between camping sites so that everyone can have their own space, and a fire ring accompanies most campsites. The owners live on the property and are very friendly. A modern restroom and shower facility makes it easy to clean up. There is no need to take home dirty clothes as a washer and dryer are provided at this campground.

What People Are Saying About Whispering Oaks Campground

“The owners are awesome people and the campground is clean and well maintained. One of the best and friendliest places I’ve ever stayed.” – Greg, Google Review

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

When you just need a break, check out Bob Shetler Campground. The scenic views of the Des Moines River will have you relaxing in no time. This campground offers some of the best fishing in the Ames region.

Why You’ll Love Bob Shetler Campground

This park is a great place for RV camping near Ames. Easy access to the Des Moines River makes it the perfect place to go fishing. Each campsite comes with its own fire ring, so it’s easy to cook a meal outside or cozy up to the fire on a chilly night.

What People Are Saying About Bob Shetler Campground

“It’s a nice place to go and to camp or fish or ride your bike it’s also nice need to see the spillway the water is really high right now so you might even get wet from it” – Rhonda, Google Review

If you are an angler, then you will love the easy access to Saylorville Lake from the Cherry Glen Campground. Several playgrounds make this a great place to relax with your children. Bring along the bikes for a fun family ride.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Glen Campground

Located on a wooded ridge, this is the oldest campground at Saylorville Lake. A boat ramp provides easy access to the lake where water skiing is a popular activity. Many families enjoy biking or running along the Neal Smith Trail connecting to the east side of the campground. Large shade trees make this a perfect spot to have a picnic or cook a meal outdoors.

What People Are Saying About Cherry Glen Campground

“This park was a dream for us. We had wonderful campground hosts, gorgeous tree shaded lots, 50 Amp electrical service (needed for a/c during heat of day), fire pits, quiet, proximity to fishing, wading Sayorville lake and, best of all, miles and miles of bike trails…There were lots of places to walk. Only 5 miles to the grocery store (with Starbucks) and, a bike trail to town…” – Azcrazy, Campendium Review

A nature center that opened in 2018 is a great way to introduce your children to the wonders of nature, and they will be amazed by the herds of bison that still roam here. Anglers adore the fishing, and long-term campers are warmly welcomed.

Why You’ll Love Jester Park Campground

The RV camping sites at Jester Park Campground are large, and most provide breathtaking views of the Iowa landscape. This long-term RV park near Ames, Iowa, also offers great fishing. Enjoy the large pull-through sites and the many places to picnic.

What People Are Saying About Jester Park Campground

“Our family camps a lot. Jester is where it all started. There are ample amounts of campsites and a mix of walk-up and reservable sites. Most of the sites are very large, and there are many tent sites near the water. Beautiful views and walking trails. If you have an RV, however, beware that the gravel here is very small and it can be messy.” – Heather, Google Review

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

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