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Established Camping

Palisades-Kepler State Park

8 Reviews

Palisades-Kepler State Park, near Mount Vernon, Iowa, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some modern comforts. With a mix of tent sites, RV spots, and even cabins, there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned camper or just starting out.

The campground boasts clean and modern bathroom facilities, which visitors have praised for their upkeep. Many campers have enjoyed the spaciousness of the sites, especially those with ample shade, making it a great place to relax and unwind. One camper noted, “Super chill and plenty of space,” highlighting the peaceful vibe that many have experienced here.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the park offers excellent hiking trails that wind through beautiful wooded areas and alongside the Cedar River, perfect for fishing. Reviewers have mentioned the stunning views and the variety of trails available, making it a great place to explore. As one visitor put it, “Great hiking trails and views of the bluffs over the river.”

If you're planning a visit, keep in mind that the park is open from April to December, so there's plenty of time to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the fire or taking a leisurely stroll along the river, Palisades-Kepler State Park is a solid choice for your next camping adventure.

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Location

Palisades-Kepler State Park is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Cedar Rapids, travel east 10 miles. The Palisades entrance is well marked and is directly off of Highway 30. From Mount Vernon, travel west 4 miles on Highway 30 to the park entrance.

Address

700 Kepler Drive
Mount Vernon, IA 52314

Coordinates

41.90900048 N
91.508 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Fair
  • Verizon
    Poor
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

8 Reviews

Khenia F.
Reviewed Sep. 20, 2022

First time, one night

Super chill and plenty of space, especially for tents on site 39. Bathrooms are very nice and modern and clean, maintenance was very nice to let me shower before he could clean it. It was our only night there and we heard a lot of movements by the woods that it creeped us out but we were hearing haunted stories before arriving so the Halloween vibes was definitely there. Loads of shade and quiet nice neighbors.

Site39
Month of VisitSeptember
Danni J.
Reviewed Jun. 2, 2021

Good hiking & fishing!

Lots of intense trails to explore but some tree were in the way due to a past storm. Close to cedar river for awesome fishing!

Site013
Month of VisitMay
Carrie V.
Reviewed May. 15, 2021

Will stay again!

The park is reopened! We have stayed here and will stay again. One of our favorite places to camp.

Site39
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Palisades-Kepler State Park by Carrie V., May 15, 2021
R
Reviewed Feb. 20, 2021

Great park

Fun beginner hikes, As a local to the area it's a park i visit often

J
Reviewed Jan. 14, 2020

Really nice place

Very nice campground. Great walking trails through wooded areas near the river. Beautiful place.

LeAnn D.
Reviewed Sep. 16, 2019

Maybe we hit a bad weekend

We made a reservation for a nice summer weekend but when we arrived someone was in our site. Luckily there was one more site available where the ranger asked us to stay instead since the other group was set up already. People were listening to loud music and chopping down green trees to burn. Overall sites are nice and park is pretty. Just not sure if we will go back - at least not on a busy weekend.

Amber R.
Reviewed Jun. 16, 2019

Great view

Campsites kinda small and hilly. Great hiking trails and views of the bluffs over the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Palisades-Kepler State Park have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Palisades-Kepler State Park has 50 amp electric hookups, water hookups and sewer hookups.

  • What is the max vehicle length at Palisades-Kepler State Park?

    Palisades-Kepler State Park allows vehicles up to 91 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Palisades-Kepler State Park?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Palisades-Kepler State Park, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Palisades-Kepler State Park?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is poor, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is good.