Sitting on the south shore of Clear Lake in north-central Iowa, this state park campground puts campers within a short walk of the water, with a tree-lined path connecting the sites to the beach. The terrain mixes forested pockets with more open grassy areas, and the mix of shade depends heavily on which site you land. Reservations open well in advance, and popular summer weekends fill fast. Campers planning a summer stay should book two to three months out, particularly for end sites like Site 34, which reviewers note are noticeably larger than interior spots.
Sites vary more than the map suggests. Pads are gravel and uneven in places, and spacing between neighbors can be tight when the campground is at capacity. Victoria G. describes them as "sites not too level, but spacious," which holds especially true during shoulder season when the campground runs at lower occupancy. The paved internal roads are narrow and unmarked for one-way traffic, which causes some confusion with larger rigs. Full hookup sites are limited to just six, so RV campers needing sewer connections should reserve early. After heavy rain, low-lying sites can collect standing water.
Fishing and paddling are the main draws. The lake itself gets busy with motorized boats on summer weekends, though the campground stays relatively quiet even when full. Lee D. noted "the restrooms and showers were clean and had soap," which aligns with consistent feedback across reviews. Shower temperature can run hot and is difficult to regulate, something to keep in mind for families with young children. A playground, beach access, and proximity to downtown Clear Lake round out the amenities.
The campground runs April through December, with the quietest conditions in spring and fall. DNR staff patrol daily. Campers who want hookups without the summer crowds tend to fare better in May or October. Twin Oaks Campgrounds and Oakwood RV Park are both nearby for those seeking alternatives, and there are additional places to camp near Clear Lake State Park worth considering if this one is booked out. Nightly rates run $23 to $43 depending on hookup type.
Description
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.
Warning 4 Alerts are In Effect
There are 4 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 4 Alerts are In Effect
There are 4 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
The campground is closed each year from December 1 - March 31.
The south half of the campground has the following sites closed until further notice: 123 - 127, 131 - 132, 135 - 137, 140, 143 - 148, and 150. When these campsites reopen, the IA DNR will send an email. If you wish to be notified, fill out the following form: **Clear Lake Campground Google Form.** (Updated June 26, 2026)
The Clear Lake Lodge will be closed from May 1 - September 30, 2026 for repairs/renovation. DNR can notify you if the project is completed sooner and the closure is removed, allowing for rentals. If you wish to be notified when the lodge reopens, fill out the following form: **Clear Lake Lodge Google Form.** (Updated April 28, 2025)
This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations April 1 - November 30 until 10:00pm CST the day of arrival.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsClear Lake State Park Campground is located in Iowa near Clear Lake
Directions
**The address to the campground entrance is 6490 S Shore Drive.** Take exit 193 off of I-35. Head West on Hwy 106 until the first four-way stop. Take a left to the South on 8th Ave and follow for about a mile. Then take a right on 27th S. Follow until stop sign. Park entrance is right across the road.
Address
6490 S. Shore Dr.
Clear Lake, IA 50428
Coordinates
43.11131971 N
93.38868918 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 7/20/26
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 7/20/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 7 min from Ames, IA
- 1 hr 20 min from Waterloo, IA
- 1 hr 21 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 28 min from Mankato, MN
