Near the Iowa-Missouri border in south-central Iowa, Allerton sits in a region characterized by rolling hills, small lakes, and state forests. Most camping areas around Allerton remain open from April through October, with several state parks offering extended seasons through December. The region averages 30-40 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forest environments during summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Island View Campground on Lake Rathbun, anglers can catch crappie for meals. "Did some fishing while there and caught enough crappie for a nice dinner with some left over for breakfast the next morning," reports Mitch C. from Island View Campground.
Horseback riding: Several trails accommodate equestrians near Nine Eagles State Park. "Wonderful area for horses. Great trials," notes Dorothy H. The wide trails make this region particularly suitable for both hikers with dogs and those traveling on horseback.
Hiking with dogs: For those seeking dog friendly campgrounds near Allerton, Stephens State Forest provides excellent options. "About 1.5 mile hike to camp, nice moderate hike with wide trails," explains Jeff K. from Middle Area Campground regarding the Buck Stop Camp area.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many pet-friendly camping options near Allerton offer chances to observe local fauna. "Listened to deer rutting all night and coyotes howling. Can't wait to go again!" shares Jeff K. about his experience at Middle Area Campground.
Lake access: Little River Recreation Area features multiple fishing docks. "A bait shop onsite, closes early... Downside is a lot of flying bugs...not really biting just annoying. The lake has a lot of fish in it I hear," reports Eugene B. from Little River Recreation Area.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from crowds. "At a guess the basic sites aren't used much as they seemed less kept than the electric sites... No party atmosphere - which is what we happened to be looking for this trip," notes Uhura G. about her stay at Nine Eagles State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campsite conditions vary: Some campgrounds around Allerton need maintenance. "The campsites located near the entrance are pull-through but need maintenance. The campsites along the lake will support short to medium length RVs or trailers, and all are back in. As of this posting, all are not level and in poor condition," notes Daniel C. about Lakeside Co Park.
Limited facilities: Many pet-welcoming campgrounds have minimal amenities. "Mine Pond Campground" in Stephen's State Forest features "a small muddy pond without the most remote possibility of swimming. The pond kind of seems too small to fish but maybe," according to Jacob W.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate April through October, but some remain open longer. "Clean spacious bathrooms, nice playground for the kids and a really cool equestrian section. No store, no wood so get what you need before you get here," advises Lauri C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog-friendly camping areas include facilities for children. "Nice park, a little run down, but there's a new park ranger in town who is trying to fix it up. New rental cabin almost finished, clean beach, boat ramp and fishing. Clean spacious bathrooms, nice playground for the kids," shares Lauri C.
Swimming options: While not all lakes permit swimming, family-oriented alternatives exist. "Swimming is not allowed but there is a nice day-use area not far down the road with a nice beach and picnic area. There are also horseshoe pits and a small but very nice playground," explains Lee D. about Bridgeview Campground.
Group camping: Nine Eagles offers youth group camping areas. "Nine Eagles is near Lamoni, Iowa near the Iowa-Missouri border right off of Interstate 35. I camped here with my son and his Boy Scout troop in the youth group part of the campground," shares Matt S.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites cost slightly more but offer convenience. "After a short debate we opted to pay the extra money for an electric site - based solely on the fact that the water wasn't turned on in the basic site loop," notes Uhura G.
Campsite selection: When bringing pets to campgrounds near Allerton, choose sites carefully. "Most rv sites with power, walk in tent sites w/o. Rates are great $12/15. Showers and flush toilets onsite as well as cabin rentals, canoe rental and fire wood available," notes Eugene B.
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer this amenity. "First, there is no dump station! All sites have water and electricity with 20, 30, and 60 amp plugs. The sites are 20 dollars," warns Daniel C., important information for RVers traveling with pets to Red Haw State Park Campground.
Legend
