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Map showing campground location near Garwin, Iowa
Camper submitted image from Union Grove State Park CampgroundView 25 Photos
FacilitiesMap showing campground location near Garwin, Iowa

Union Grove State Park Campground

3 ReviewsAdd Review

Fishing enthusiasts will find Union Grove State Park Campground positioned along a lake known for quality angling opportunities. The DNR-managed facility operates seasonally from May through September, accommodating RVs up to 50 feet with full hookups including electric, water, and sewer connections.

The campground maintains a quieter atmosphere with most sites designed for RVs, though several smaller tent sites occupy the back section. Site conditions vary significantly—some feature uneven terrain with sloped picnic tables and awkward trailer positioning due to inclines. Campers can access lake activities including swimming and paddling, while hiking trails provide land-based recreation. The facility includes shower and restroom combinations, with one ADA-accessible unit, plus amenities like a lending library and dump station.

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FACILITY CLOSURES: ALL modern restroom and shower facilities are closed for the season. RV dump station and water hydrants will remain on. Pit latrines are available in the campground. (POSTED 10/15/2026)

This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations year round until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival.

If you are unable to reserve a cabin online because the reservation window has closed, you must call the park office at 641-473-2556 regarding cabin availability. All last minute cabin rentals must be a minimum of 2 nights, are handled by park staff and must be done prior to arriving at the park.

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Map & DirectionsUnion Grove State Park Campground is located in Iowa near Garwin

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Drive 5 miles south of Gladbrook on county road T-47. Turn west on 220th St. and continue 1 mile to the park entrance.

Address

1215 220th Street
Gladbrook, IA 50635

Coordinates

42.12500053 N
92.72500075 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 11/14/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 11/14/25
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

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Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

For Vehicles

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

Drive Time

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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Union Grove State Park Campground

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the quiet atmosphere and quality facilities as highlights. Some concerns about site leveling and layout should be considered when selecting specific spots.

Reviewed Aug. 12, 2024

Loved it!

Loved this campground! We just stayed for one night, but wish it had been two. Small and quiet. A few trails to hike and a horse camp that I didn’t have time to explore. Nice lending library as well. Bathroom/shower combos are nice (1 is ADA). Not far off the interstate. Some sites are off with level & weird (ie stairs/door open on an incline and away from the table), and our picnic table was sloped. So pick your site carefully. 19E was ok - table not level and high stairs required from TT but good for Starlink connection and close water spigot (elec only at these sites)

Site19E
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Union Grove State Park Campground by Maggie C., August 12, 2024
  • Review photo of Union Grove State Park Campground by Maggie C., August 12, 2024
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2021

Campsite at a beautiful little Iowa lake

Union Grove is known for having good lake fishing. The lake is also a great place for kayaking or canoeing.

The campground has mostly RV sites, but there are a handful of smaller tent sites at the back, which are my favorite. The campground is quiet.

Amenities:

Showers and toilets

Dump station

Water

2 cabins

Things to do nearby:

Enjoy the lake

Matchstick Marvels in nearby Gladbrook

Month of VisitAugust
  • Quick view of the campground on a non-busy Saturday afternoon
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Union Grove State Park Campground by Kerry M., August 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Union Grove State Park Campground by Kerry M., August 29, 2021
  • (8) View All
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Union Grove State Park Campground?

Union Grove State Park Campground offers a range of amenities including showers and modern restrooms with ADA-accessible facilities. The campground features both RV sites and tent sites, with the smaller tent sites located toward the back of the camping area. Campers can enjoy a quiet atmosphere and access to a lending library. The park provides a mix of sites, some with lake views and others more secluded. Dump stations are available for RV campers. The well-maintained facilities make this a comfortable option for both weekend getaways and longer stays.

What recreational activities are available at Union Grove Lake?

Union Grove Lake is popular for fishing, with a reputation for good catches. The lake is ideal for paddling activities like kayaking and canoeing. Swimming is another favorite activity, making it a great spot for cooling off during warm weather. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering opportunities to explore the natural surroundings. The park also includes a designated horse camp area for equestrian enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for water recreation or land-based activities, Union Grove Lake provides varied options for outdoor enjoyment.

Where is Union Grove State Park located in Iowa?

Union Grove State Park is conveniently located in central Iowa, not far from Interstate access, making it easily reachable for weekend trips. The park sits in Tama County. Its accessible location makes it a popular destination for both local visitors and those traveling through the state. The convenient proximity to major roadways while maintaining a quiet, natural setting is one of the park's appealing features.

Are there cabins available at Union Grove State Park?

Union Grove State Park does not have rental cabins available. The park primarily offers camping accommodations with RV sites and tent camping options. Visitors seeking overnight stays should plan to bring their own camping equipment. For those interested in alternatives to traditional camping, check with the park office about any potential future development plans or nearby accommodation options.

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