Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mason City, IA has a lot to offer. Mason City is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Mason City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
Clear Lake State Park offers diverse activities on one of Iowa’s most popular lakes. The 3,000-acre lake is a draw for boating, fishing and windsurfing. The park features 50 acres of open spaces and mature oak trees along with a highly popular campground. Several acres of picnic grounds with tables and grilles are available for day-use. The nearby town of Clear Lake is a summer tourist destination with numerous stores and restaurants.
Camp in one of the most popular campgrounds in Iowa’s state park system. The campground contains two modern restrooms, shower facilities and two dump stations. A quarter of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and advanced reservations can be made online through the online reservation system for Clear Lake State Park.
Pilot Knob State Park, near Forest City, IA, is a gem for campers looking for a mix of nature and convenience. This campground offers a blend of tent and electric sites, making it a versatile spot for both traditional campers and those with RVs. The sites are arranged in several rows, and while some might find them a bit close together, the overall experience is quite pleasant, especially during off-peak times.
One of the standout features here is the clean bathhouse, which, although basic, gets the job done. Showers are available, and while there might not be hooks or shelves for toiletries, the facilities are generally well-maintained. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the park has plenty to offer. There are trails for hiking and horseback riding, and fishing opportunities abound. The observation tower, a short drive or walk from the campground, provides a fantastic view and is a must-visit.
Families will appreciate the playground and the various activities organized by the Friends of Pilot Knob, such as movie nights. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Fire pits and picnic tables are available at each site, making it easy to enjoy a cozy campfire or a meal outdoors.
Visitors have praised the park for its beautiful scenery, especially at sunset, and the friendly atmosphere. The park's proximity to Forest City means you’re never too far from supplies or a quick trip into town. Whether you're here for a night or a week, Pilot Knob State Park offers a peaceful and enjoyable camping experience.
$16 - $22 / night
White Fox Campground in Myre-Big Island State Park, near Albert Lea, MN, is a gem for those who love nature and tranquility. This place is open all year round and offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations. The campground is known for its quiet, private campsites, making it a great spot for a peaceful retreat.
One of the standout features here is the electric hookups for RVs, which come in handy for those longer stays. The showers are decent, with good water pressure and hot water, which is always a plus after a day of hiking or biking. Speaking of trails, the bike paths here are fantastic and well-maintained, perfect for a leisurely ride through the park's diverse landscapes.
The park itself is a blend of woodland, prairie, and wetland, offering a variety of scenery and wildlife. You might spot deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a plethora of birds during your stay. The bird songs in the morning are something to behold. If you're into hiking, the trails on Big Island are particularly beautiful and worth exploring.
For those with mobility issues, the park has a trek chair available, making the trails more accessible. While the lake isn't great for swimming, there's plenty of watercraft available for some fun on the water.
Overall, White Fox Campground is a fantastic spot for a quiet getaway with plenty of nature to enjoy. Just remember to bring some bug spray, especially if you're visiting in the warmer months!
This park has something for everyone. The trails take visitors around wet lowlands, oak savanna, and grasslands. Albert Lea Lake and park marshes draw hundreds of waterfowl during migration. Oak savanna and prairie landscape, including wetlands, dominate most of the park. One of the more unique aspects of the park is the 116-acre Big Island, covered with maple/basswood forest. Another is the glacial esker located in the northeast section of the park.
Private campground with in ground heated pool OPEN YEAR AROUND
$12 - $26 / night
Clear Lake State Park offers diverse activities on one of Iowa’s most popular lakes. The 3,000-acre lake is a draw for boating, fishing and windsurfing. The park features 50 acres of open spaces and mature oak trees along with a highly popular campground. Several acres of picnic grounds with tables and grilles are available for day-use. The nearby town of Clear Lake is a summer tourist destination with numerous stores and restaurants.
Camp in one of the most popular campgrounds in Iowa’s state park system. The campground contains two modern restrooms, shower facilities and two dump stations. A quarter of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and advanced reservations can be made online through the online reservation system for Clear Lake State Park.
Pilot Knob State Park, near Forest City, IA, is a gem for campers looking for a mix of nature and convenience. This campground offers a blend of tent and electric sites, making it a versatile spot for both traditional campers and those with RVs. The sites are arranged in several rows, and while some might find them a bit close together, the overall experience is quite pleasant, especially during off-peak times.
One of the standout features here is the clean bathhouse, which, although basic, gets the job done. Showers are available, and while there might not be hooks or shelves for toiletries, the facilities are generally well-maintained. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the park has plenty to offer. There are trails for hiking and horseback riding, and fishing opportunities abound. The observation tower, a short drive or walk from the campground, provides a fantastic view and is a must-visit.
Families will appreciate the playground and the various activities organized by the Friends of Pilot Knob, such as movie nights. The campground is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Fire pits and picnic tables are available at each site, making it easy to enjoy a cozy campfire or a meal outdoors.
Visitors have praised the park for its beautiful scenery, especially at sunset, and the friendly atmosphere. The park's proximity to Forest City means you’re never too far from supplies or a quick trip into town. Whether you're here for a night or a week, Pilot Knob State Park offers a peaceful and enjoyable camping experience.
$16 - $22 / night
White Fox Campground in Myre-Big Island State Park, near Albert Lea, MN, is a gem for those who love nature and tranquility. This place is open all year round and offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and glamping accommodations. The campground is known for its quiet, private campsites, making it a great spot for a peaceful retreat.
One of the standout features here is the electric hookups for RVs, which come in handy for those longer stays. The showers are decent, with good water pressure and hot water, which is always a plus after a day of hiking or biking. Speaking of trails, the bike paths here are fantastic and well-maintained, perfect for a leisurely ride through the park's diverse landscapes.
The park itself is a blend of woodland, prairie, and wetland, offering a variety of scenery and wildlife. You might spot deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and a plethora of birds during your stay. The bird songs in the morning are something to behold. If you're into hiking, the trails on Big Island are particularly beautiful and worth exploring.
For those with mobility issues, the park has a trek chair available, making the trails more accessible. While the lake isn't great for swimming, there's plenty of watercraft available for some fun on the water.
Overall, White Fox Campground is a fantastic spot for a quiet getaway with plenty of nature to enjoy. Just remember to bring some bug spray, especially if you're visiting in the warmer months!
This park has something for everyone. The trails take visitors around wet lowlands, oak savanna, and grasslands. Albert Lea Lake and park marshes draw hundreds of waterfowl during migration. Oak savanna and prairie landscape, including wetlands, dominate most of the park. One of the more unique aspects of the park is the 116-acre Big Island, covered with maple/basswood forest. Another is the glacial esker located in the northeast section of the park.
Private campground with in ground heated pool OPEN YEAR AROUND
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Mason City, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Mason City, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 91 campgrounds and RV parks near Mason City, IA and 6 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Mason City, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mason City, IA is Clear Lake State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 10 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mason City, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Mason City, IA.
What parks are near Mason City, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Mason City, IA that allow camping, notably Saylorville Lake and Lake Red Rock.
