RV campgrounds around Ackworth, Iowa sit within the rolling hills and farmland of central Iowa where elevations range from 800 to 950 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers that often exceed 85°F and cold winters that regularly dip below freezing. Most campgrounds in this region remain open from April through October, though several offer year-round access for winter camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground offers excellent fishing with minimal aquatic vegetation. "The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature! They have rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, etc, for a decent price!" reports Jennifer M.
Historical exploration: Visit the Native American burial mounds near Hickory Hills Park. "This is a great little park just east of New Virginia, Iowa... The hiking trails are pretty easy going through the forest and then opening up next to old Native American burial mounds," notes Matt S.
Biking trails: The Chichaqua Valley Trail runs for 25 miles near several campgrounds. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," explains Anthony W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of bathrooms and showers at Griffs Valley View RV Park. "Bathrooms are immaculate. Large community center, gym, and laundry facilities on site," writes Jo E.
Quiet environment: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful setting at River Oaks RV Park. "Made a quick trip here to see how the new puppy likes camping. Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought," says Jim C.
Good spacing: Shady Brook Camping provides adequate distance between sites. "We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn't hear a sound. It was really in a good perimeter of trees and lots of shade and level camp spots," mentions Lee D.
What you should know
Operating seasons: Several campgrounds remain open year-round, including Kellogg RV Park. "Open year around. Nice large sites and no need to unhook. Clean rv park with easy access to 1-80," states Carrie S.
Weather considerations: Winter camping requires preparation. "Spent the winter here, they are very good at keeping snow and ice under control," reports a camper at Griffs Valley View.
Reservation needs: Popular times fill quickly. "The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September. Good thing we got through because they found us a site for the night," explains Mike M. about availability at Griffs Valley View.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground provides family-friendly swimming. "They have a beautiful lake and a beach. The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature!" Jennifer M. writes.
Entertainment proximity: Staying near attractions saves travel time. "We stayed here to go to the Iowa State Fair. It was easy to park here and catch a shuttle to the fair," notes Brenda B. about River Oaks RV Park.
Trail difficulty: Most hiking trails suit children. "The hiking trails are pretty easy going through the forest and then opening up next to old Native American burial mounds. This is really a great place to pitch a tent," describes Matt S. about Hickory Hills Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check if your site requires leveling blocks. "Sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site. Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," advises Jim C. about River Oaks RV Park.
Hook-up configurations: Pay attention to utility placement. "The sites are a nice size and have hookups for everything. There is a recreational building and bathroom facilities to use as well," mentions Willy W. about Adventureland Campground.
Concrete pads: Several RV campgrounds near Ackworth feature concrete pads. "Campground is very well kept with spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups," explains a reviewer at Griffs Valley View.