Fishing, kayaking, and swimming on Clear Lake draw campers to McIntosh Woods State Park Campground in Ventura, Iowa, where the park sits directly on the lakeshore and gives anglers access to a dedicated fish-cleaning station and a boat ramp with docks for launching. The campground itself is set back slightly from the water, though reviewers describe it as a short walk to the lake and adjacent marsh. Sites are arranged in a circle around the shower house, and most are level with shade from surrounding trees. Sites sit close together, so expect limited separation from neighbors, particularly during peak season.
The campground has only two non-electric sites; the majority include electric, water, and sewer hookups, accommodating RVs up to 80 feet. Yurts are also available to rent. Reviewers consistently note that the restrooms and showers are kept clean and well-stocked. One practical note worth heeding: the beach can close due to water quality issues, and as Matt S. suggests, it's worth checking with locals about harmful algae before getting in the water. During waterfowl hunting season, expect gunshots near sunrise.
Cell coverage runs around three bars on T-Mobile. The campground sits near Ventura, with town accessible on foot for resupply or a meal. Campers interested in places to camp near Ventura will find additional options in the area, including Clear Lake State Park Campground to the east. The season runs April through December, making it a workable overnight stop for travelers near I-35.
Description
McIntosh Woods is home to the only two yurts in our state park system. It is also the "anchor" base for anglers trying their luck on beautiful Clear Lake anytime of the year. In winter, one may cross-country ski, snowshoe or ice fish. Whether you are here to fish, camp, swim, boat, sail, ski, snowshoe, paddle or just relax, we hope you enjoy your stay.
Yurts have no sanitary facilities but are located near a restroom/shower facility. Renters must provide their own bedding, pillows, towels and toiletry items.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Due to storm damage both Yurts are closed. (Posted 5/18/2026)
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsMcIntosh Woods State Park Campground is located in Iowa near Ventura
Directions
Take Exit 194 off of Interstate 35 and go west on Hwy 18 approximately five miles to McIntosh Rd. Turn south to the park entrance.
Address
1200 East Lake Street
Ventura, IA 50482
Coordinates
43.12568305 N
93.45874255 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 10/19/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 10/19/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Cabins
- Yurts
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 17 min from Ames, IA
- 1 hr 27 min from Rochester, MN
- 1 hr 30 min from Waterloo, IA
- 1 hr 33 min from Mankato, MN















