Campgrounds surrounding Elma, Iowa typically sit at elevations around 1,200 feet above sea level in the gently rolling hills of northeastern Iowa's Driftless Area. This region experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months and occasional thunderstorms. Most campgrounds in this area operate on gravel pads requiring some leveling, with several locations offering riverside camping along the Turkey and Cedar Rivers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Hendricks County Park offers fishing on a man-made lake with sites overlooking the water. According to a visitor, it's a "nice RV park on a man made lake, there are 2 levels, the upper being a bit more wooded with a few sites overlooking the lake."
Cave exploration: Travel 30 miles to Forestville Mystery Cave State Park for underground adventures. A camper shared, "I highly recommend going to the caves. They are very intriguing but bring a jacket because it is quite cold down there." Cave tours cost $15 for adults and $10 for children ages 5-12.
Biking access: Several campgrounds connect to local trail systems. One camper at Lake Louise State Park noted, "We got bikes from nearby LeRoy city hall ($5.00 donation) really great program. The bike path traverses through the campground (shooting star trail)."
Swimming options: Some quarry-adjacent sites permit swimming. At Chickasaw Park, a camper mentioned, "It is adjacent to an old quarry where swimming and fishing is currently allowed at your own risk." However, cliff jumping is prohibited due to safety concerns.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the river views at R Campground in Charles City. One reviewer noted, "Our favorite sites begin with 'OB' for out back. These all have a view of the river." The campground also offers convenient access to local attractions via "the walking/bike path that runs behind the campground."
Spacious lots: Airport Lake Park Campground receives praise for its generous site sizing. A camper observed, "Camper spots were huge with plenty of space between sites. Fire ring was on a cement slab." This provides more privacy than many county parks in the region.
Clean facilities: Newer shower houses are highly rated at several locations. One Airport Lake visitor highlighted the "exceptionally clean. New bathroom/shower house. Water electric at each site. Dump station on site."
Group camping options: Several parks offer dedicated group sites. Lake Louise State Park features two group camping areas: "Our site holds up to 30 and the neighboring site holds up to 50. Our site was a beautiful spot with large shade trees, three picnic tables and two fire pits."
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Unlike areas closer to major highways, some parks have limited connectivity. At Lake Louise State Park, campers report "little to no cell phone coverage for AT&T" and "no cell service (TMobile)."
Shower availability varies: Twins Campground offers basic facilities, with one camper noting, "Porta potty and shower water is hot." At other locations like Chickasaw Park, facilities may be more primitive with a camper stating, "I won't walk into the pit style restrooms let alone use them."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close after early October. Lake Louise State Park operates from "Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day," while Airport Lake Park remains open "April to October."
Self-registration common: Many county parks use honor systems for payment. At Chickasaw Park, a camper explained, "It's $10.00 per night last we stayed, placed into a self pay pole."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-friendly amenities enhance kid-friendly camping experiences. A visitor to Airport Lake Park noted, "The playground and lake was also fun for the kids too." Many county parks include similar recreation facilities.
Group site advantages: For larger family gatherings, consider dedicated group areas. At Airport Lake Park, a camper shared, "We camped with family in the group circle site. The circle group site has a nice big area for the kids to play."
Fishing without licenses: Some locations offer unique fishing privileges. At Lidtke Park & Campground, families can enjoy water recreation with "a nice playground, group picnic shelter, and a boat ramp" for easy water access.
Weekend crowds: Plan accordingly for busier periods. Many campgrounds fill quickly on weekends during summer months, particularly those with swimming access or playground facilities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Most sites require some adjustments. As one RV camper noted about R Campground, "Interior roads and sites are gravel, many with 50 amp full hook ups." Several campgrounds feature similar setups requiring leveling blocks.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have on-site dump facilities. At Lidtke Park, a camper advised, "No dump station on site and that is also at the Casey's [gas station]," requiring planning for longer stays.
Electric options: Most campgrounds offer varying levels of electrical service. Airport Lake Park has "water electric at each site" with newer pedestals at some locations providing both 30 and 50 amp options.
Site selection for large rigs: At R Campground, a camper with a large motorhome advised, "Not all of them will accommodate our 44" Blue Bird," suggesting calling ahead to confirm site dimensions for larger RVs.
