Best Camping near Alton, IA

Searching for the best camping near Alton, IA? Alton is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Alton camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Alton, Iowa (73)

    Camper-submitted photo at Willow Creek Campground near Le Mars, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Willow Creek Campground near Le Mars, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Willow Creek Campground near Le Mars, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Willow Creek Campground near Le Mars, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Willow Creek Campground near Le Mars, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Willow Creek Campground near Le Mars, IA

    1. Willow Creek Campground

    5 Reviews
    12 Photos
    16 Saves
    Le Mars, Iowa

    Situated in the scenic Le Mars Municipal Park, campers have access to all the park facilities including sand volleyball, tennis courts, shelter house, swimming beach, a 3.6 acre spring fed pond, and located next to the Willow Creek 27-Hole Golf Course.

    Campers can also enjoy the newly renovated Historic Campground Club House and Restroom/Shower Facility (see slideshow above).

    NOTE: Storm Shelter located in the Club House basement during inclement weather.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Sandy Hollow Park Campground near Sioux Center, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sandy Hollow Park Campground near Sioux Center, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sandy Hollow Park Campground near Sioux Center, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sandy Hollow Park Campground near Sioux Center, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sandy Hollow Park Campground near Sioux Center, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Sandy Hollow Park Campground near Sioux Center, IA

    2. Sandy Hollow Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    7 Photos
    4 Saves
    Sioux Center, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Alton Roadside Park near Alton, IA

    3. Alton Roadside Park

    2 Reviews
    3 Saves
    Alton, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park near Canton, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park near Canton, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park near Canton, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park near Canton, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park near Canton, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park near Canton, SD

    4. Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park

    11 Reviews
    20 Photos
    53 Saves
    Canton, South Dakota

    Newton Hills State Park's unique dark forest, amidst a vast open prairie, has prompted many legends, including buried gold, robbers' hideouts and horse thieves. But visitors today recognize it as a great place to camp, swim, hike and fish. The park also plays host to folk music concerts and the popular FestiFall in October. The Newton Hills Lodge, built in 1915, served as the historic caretaker's home in Canton, SD, and played an important role in serving the healthcare needs of a variety of patients before being opened to guests. It can sleep up to 12 people and has four bedrooms and two baths. Like the lodge, camping cabins are open year-round. Each cabin accommodates 4 people with a set of bunk beds and a double bed. Both RV and tent sites are available, as well as horse camp sites. A boat ramp, beach and fishing dock let you enjoy water activities at Newton Hills State Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux near Brandon, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux near Brandon, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux near Brandon, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux near Brandon, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux near Brandon, SD
    Camper-submitted photo at Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux near Brandon, SD

    5. Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

    34 Reviews
    62 Photos
    233 Saves
    Brandon, South Dakota
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Mill Creek State Park near Paullina, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mill Creek State Park near Paullina, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mill Creek State Park near Paullina, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mill Creek State Park near Paullina, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mill Creek State Park near Paullina, IA

    6. Mill Creek State Park

    3 Reviews
    4 Photos
    15 Saves
    Paullina, Iowa

    Mill Creek Park is one of the highlights of O'Brien County. The park offers a variety of activities for the whole family throughout the year! 48 campsites complete with 20/30/50 AMP service, water, internet, and cable connections

    2- modern 12 person camping cabins 2- Primitive 6-person camping cabins Concession Stand Lodge Hiking Biking Swimming Beach Year-round Handicap Fishing Platform Bird and Wildlife Watching Showers Modern Toilets Dump Site

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $17 - $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Rivers Bend Campground near Rock Valley, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Rivers Bend Campground near Rock Valley, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Rivers Bend Campground near Rock Valley, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Rivers Bend Campground near Rock Valley, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Rivers Bend Campground near Rock Valley, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Rivers Bend Campground near Rock Valley, IA

    7. Rivers Bend Campground

    4 Reviews
    12 Photos
    8 Saves
    Rock Valley, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Lazy H Campground near Akron, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lazy H Campground near Akron, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lazy H Campground near Akron, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lazy H Campground near Akron, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lazy H Campground near Akron, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lazy H Campground near Akron, IA

    8. Lazy H Campground

    7 Reviews
    19 Photos
    25 Saves
    Akron, Iowa

    The Lazy H Campground is a private campground where family and fun are a way of life. This new 235 acre campground is nestled between the Big Sioux River and the northern entrance of the scenic Loess Hills Byway in northwest Iowa. This picturesque campground features private cabins and spacious RV sites on Little Pearle Lake, a 50-acre fisherman’s haven stocked with freshwater fish, miles of hiking/biking trails, water activities and more.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $45 - $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Scenic Park near Sioux City, NE
    Camper-submitted photo at Scenic Park near Sioux City, NE
    Camper-submitted photo at Scenic Park near Sioux City, NE
    Camper-submitted photo at Scenic Park near Sioux City, NE
    Camper-submitted photo at Scenic Park near Sioux City, NE
    Camper-submitted photo at Scenic Park near Sioux City, NE

    9. Scenic Park

    16 Reviews
    29 Photos
    58 Saves
    Sioux City, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $18 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Island Park - Rock Rapids near Larchwood, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island Park - Rock Rapids near Larchwood, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island Park - Rock Rapids near Larchwood, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island Park - Rock Rapids near Larchwood, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island Park - Rock Rapids near Larchwood, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island Park - Rock Rapids near Larchwood, IA

    10. Island Park - Rock Rapids

    7 Reviews
    6 Photos
    26 Saves
    Larchwood, Iowa

    Island Park camping entrance is on North Boone Street and has 22 campsites with electrical hookups with water and sewer available. Each campsite has picnic table and fire pit. Restrooms are located in the park and also restroom/showers on the north end of the swimming pool bathouse. Island Park has the Rock River flowing though providing fishing, swimming and tubing; Rec Trail for walking and biking; playgounds; picnic shelters and Swimming Pool with 2 water slides, zero entrance and water toys.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $5 - $45 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 73 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Alton, Iowa

231 Reviews of 73 Alton Campgrounds


  • Pat V.
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Park
    Oct. 4, 2024

    Scenic Park

    Great spot close to everything

    We found the Scenic Park RV Campground when we were looking for a spot to stay close to Sioux City, IA for a sports event for our sons. We were extremely happy with this city run campground.

    The pads are in great shape. They offer full hookups. We did not have a full hookup site, but still had water, electric, and free cable tv. The view from our camper of the Missouri River and the Sioux City skyline was pretty great.

    The staff is friendly and welcoming. The location is quiet and everyone staying there seemed very nice as well. Will definitely be back when we’re up that way again next year.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Park Jefferson Campground & RV Park
    Sep. 11, 2024

    Park Jefferson Campground & RV Park

    A field around a lake near a speedway

    In another 4-5 years when the trees have grown and this is better maintained, it could be a nice campground.  Sadly, our trip there started with the Google directions leading us to the wrong side of the highway and a muddy, bumpy road.  I called and they gave me correct directions.  Once there, no office, no staff.  I called because the site I had reserved was occupied.  They said just pick any other.  We paid for lake side, but it was too muddy in the other available sites.  We were not offered a refund ($5).  We saw several dogs off leash and, while they were well-behaved, one never knows if they will stay where they belong.

    It was quiet at night.  We stayed on a Saturday night.

  • Jenni C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson City Park
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Olson City Park

    Great Spot

    Though we didn’t stay long, this campground was tidy, well marked, and a perfect stop for the night. The campsites were clean, facilities were top notch, and the park and walking path provided a great spot to wear kids out before continuing on.

  • Julia V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Stone State Park Campground
    Aug. 14, 2024

    Stone State Park Campground

    Great for a night

    Had a grassy & shady tent site. There were vault/pit toilets close and regular restrooms with showers a little walk away (showers needed to be cleaned). Water spigot was close by too. Wish we had more time to explore the park itself because there was lots of hiking/waking trails. Overall no complaints

  • E
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunderson Park
    Aug. 10, 2024

    Gunderson Park

    Great Simple Free Spot!

    I found this on Campendium and google maps. It's a great little free park where you basically just park wherever. No designated spots, just park in the grass. The grass was not overgrown or anything, and there's a great little paved path that leads into town. Verizon cell service was pretty good and the park itself wasn't too crowded either. I imagine that the local county maintains it. Also tons of mulberry trees around! And be sure to go into town and pick up a breakfast sandwich and some donuts in the morning, it's a lovely walk in.

  • Bibs O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Peder Larsen City Park
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Peder Larsen City Park

    Busy local drive-through.

    They have just recently added 4 more sites. Sites hVe 50 - 30 - 15 amp connections. Bathrooms ate across the playground. Showers at the swimming pool. Picnic house (open) has 15, 110 outlets. Site 3 offers most sun protection. The rest of the sites are sunny all day. Playground is very large for such a small village. Disk golf is also found here.

  • Dave K.
    Camper-submitted photo from Island Park - Rock Rapids
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Island Park - Rock Rapids

    Campground Currently Closed

    Drove over tonight excited for my stay at this neat looking park. Unfortunately it appears that the June 2024 flood damaged the campground and it’s currently closed for repair.

  • Nathan L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Jul. 18, 2024

    Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

    Nice little nook with lots of cover!

    This campsite was great! We had a tent site, number 24, and it was tucked into the woods but still close to the parking lot!

    The neighboring sites are far enough away where you still have privacy but if you had two next to each other with a large group it could still function as one. Beautiful hiking trails, play grounds, disc golf, volleyball net, and so much more. Also, the lady at the front was cute as a button!

    Highly recommend!

  • Jessie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Jul. 16, 2024

    Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

    Fun and relaxing

    We booked this site last minute as we needed a place to stop for the night. The website was pretty easy to use to book the site. The ranger at the station was super friendly and helpful. Our camp site is beautiful and there is plenty of room. There are lots of trails here, so I got a good run in. My husband biked over to Brandon to get a good ride. There is a sweet disc golf course too! I’m mad I didn’t bring my discs!

  • Bibs O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gunderson Park
    Jul. 2, 2024

    Gunderson Park

    Up to 14 days free camping

    CAMPING IS NOW ONLY ALLOWED BETWEEN MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY. NO WINTER CAMPING IS ALLOWED ANY LONGER.

    Gunderson Park is a nice little boondocking location just ½ mile from the downtown area of Centerville. They have 2 fire pit locations, but, after speaking with the official at city hall we found out you can camp pretty much anywhere in the park you would like.

    It is free to camp here, you can stay virtually as long as you wish to according to that same official. There are no hook-ups. No bathroom facilities. No picnic tables. No playground for children. You may fish with a South Dakota license in the lazy rolling Vermillion River that skirts the park on 3 sides. They have a cement boat ramp. I will say when we stayed there the river was so low you would have had great difficulties getting a boat launched. On the west side of the park there are park benches at the beginning (or end of the walk depending on your start location) with a cemented walk way along the road to the park and the Vermillion River. It runs close to a quarter mile long with benches about half way through the walk. The city keeps this park mowed during the summer months. This is an old old park dating back to 1800's. The trees are massive and just as old providing beautiful shade. There are remnants of old stone items remaing in the park, grape vine thingy, a stone fireplace and pillars. Our stay favored us with Bald Eagle sightings. 2 hung around the trees on the other side of the river in full view, it was wonderful.

    At the city park you can dump your tanks. We didn't need to so we didn't visit this location. At the four way stop sign located at the center of the town, turn west, travel one block and on the south side of the street you will find city hall. There they will tell you how to find the dump site.

    This seems to be a favorite location for locals to drive through. Sometimes we found traffic through the park on the heavy side but most of the time very quiet. People are small town friendly. Population is around 900 people. Town has a grocery store, convenience store, bank, medical clinic, pharmacy, restaurant, bowling alley, auto parts store, bakery and other businesses. We noticed 4 churches in our drive around the town. At the city park they have a community swimming pool, Frisbee golf, 2 ball diamonds, tennis courts, playground equipment, volleyball courts, 2 picnic house areas and a location for 4 RV campsites with electrical plug ins [2 50 amp and 2 30 amp) for $10.00 a night with limited stay.

  • Rich J.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Cove Park Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Cottonwood Cove Park Campground

    Nice

    Nice little city campground just a few miles off the interstate and right next to the Missouri River. Quiet large sites at a reasonable price. Picnic tables and fire rings. Water and electric only....there is a sewer dump near the bathrooms but not at the sites.

  • Elizabeth D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Park
    Jun. 16, 2024

    Scenic Park

    Close to river.

    Great place very dog friendly. Spots are spacious and on pavement. Close to the river for your fishing needs.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Park
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Scenic Park

    Beautiful city life in a park.

    Spacious site well cared for grounds. Close to everything in the city.

  • Joshua D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Silver Sioux Recreation Area
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Silver Sioux Recreation Area

    Hidden gem

    Was it expecting how nice this campground was compared to more primitive ones in the area. Beautiful site! Has tent camping, full rv hook ups, and a nice playground for the kids.

  • Joshua D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Stieneke Area Park
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Stieneke Area Park

    Small county park

    Small park, peaceful, river access for canoe/kayak. No designated camp sites but plenty of space for tent or camper.

  • Joshua D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ranney Knob Area
    Jun. 2, 2024

    Ranney Knob Area

    Small county park

    Small park, has some picnic tables, a toilet, and a trash can. Says you can pay to camp but no designated camp sites and limited parking. Does offer access for canoe/kayaking on the river. Camping is $10 a night, pay on site.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo from Lions Park
    May. 2, 2024

    Lions Park

    Good price

    I stopped here, May 1 of 2024. They have completely redone this park and it is open. There were two spots that had concrete pads. The pedestals look good. There were a couple that were just gravel when I was there. It was kind of muddy and I decided to continue on and go further that day, but I would gladly have stopped there. It was $10 for the night. There is water available. The lady said that there was a dump station. I did not see it, and only stay two nights

  • Renee H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Cove Park Campground
    May. 1, 2024

    Cottonwood Cove Park Campground

    City campground in quiet neighborhood

    Concrete pads, very little leveling needed. Plenty of space in between sites. Dappled shade. Easily accessible for any size rig. We didn’t use bath/shower facility; it required a code from the city. Portapotties were available in campground. Garbage dumpster, but no recycling. Dump station available, but area may be a bit tight for larger rigs to access. Camp host on site. No laundry. Some train noise. Excellent Verizon signal. Nice park with boat ramp and scenic overlook on the Missouri River. Campground is located about 5 minutes off the interstate.

  • Fabian S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Scenic Park
    Dec. 30, 2023

    Scenic Park

    Central Campground

    Very centrally located, well-kept complex, friendly and helpful staff, the restrooms and shower are very simple but clean.

  • Nicholas S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park
    Oct. 15, 2023

    Newton Hills Campground — Newton Hills State Park

    Perfect to relax and bring the kids!

    I had an amazing time at Newton Hills Campground in South Dakota with my family and young children. The spacious and clean facilities provided the perfect backdrop for our outdoor getaway, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation away from the city. The kids had a blast exploring the natural surroundings and participating in the family-friendly activities. This campground is a true gem for those seeking a wholesome outdoor experience.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo from Grand Falls Casino
    Oct. 10, 2023

    Grand Falls Casino

    Good stopover on way to Sturgis

    It’s a casino RV park. Basic amenities. They offer free dry parking in their main parking lot. FHU 30/50 available. $30 during week, $40 weekend, $50 holiday weekend. Also has nice looking golf course on property as well with reasonable rates. As for the casino, decent selection of slots and tables with a live poker room. The kind of restaurants you’d expect. Buffet open on weekend. Quick stop cafe open during the hours you’d expect and a steakhouse open for dinner. I stopped on the way to and back home from Sturgis, as it’s about a full day’s drive from the house. Will definitely plan on using every year from now on

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Willow Creek Campground
    Sep. 14, 2023

    Willow Creek Campground

    Enjoyed our stay

    Had a fishing derby going on but was still overall quiet. Shelter house was rented for our family reunion, was a great space.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux
    Sep. 13, 2023

    Big Sioux Recreation Area — Big Sioux

    Great choice

    We are on a e/w road trip. We knew absolutely nothing about this state park but it was on our route so took a chance. An excellent choice! Sites are big and roomy. We have two big dogs and were able to put them both on 30 foot leads. Lots of trails. Bathrooms exceptionally clean. Showers great. Park staff friendly and helpful. We liked it so much we stayed a second night. Definitely would return.


Guide to Alton

Camping near Alton, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to all types of campers.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Blue Mounds State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "We went on a couple trails and just enjoyed the beautiful fall colors."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Check out the bison at Blue Mounds State Park Campground. A camper shared, "We could hear the Bison, wasn't able to see them but we could hear them."
  • Disc Golf: Enjoy a round of disc golf at Big Sioux Recreation Area. One visitor noted, "The disc golf course really took this park to the next level."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Palisades State Park Campground stated, "Bathrooms are SUPER CLEAN and there are two different bathroom and shower buildings."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at Big Sioux Recreation Area. One reviewer said, "Sites are big and roomy."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families love the activities available at Sioux Falls Yogi Bear. A parent mentioned, "It was an absolute blast for our kids with plenty of activities to keep them entertained."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways. A visitor at Sioux Falls KOA commented, "Lots of noise since it’s off the highway."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have markets or stores nearby. A review for Shady Grove Campground mentioned, "Not a lot to do at the campground."
  • Reservation Issues: Be prepared for potential reservation mix-ups. One camper at Union Grove State Park Campground expressed frustration, saying, "The address is WRONG."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Sioux Falls Yogi Bear, which has lots of activities for kids. One family shared, "Large park, lots of trees for shade."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to pack games or outdoor activities. A camper at Newton Hills Campground noted, "The kids had a blast exploring the natural surroundings."
  • Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and clean facilities. A review for Union Grove State Park Campground highlighted, "Play equipment, horse trails, hiking trails, well maintained."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Big Rig Friendly Sites: Campgrounds like Big Sioux Recreation Area are accommodating for larger RVs. One reviewer said, "Level spots with electric."
  • Check for Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Palisades State Park Campground mentioned, "They have RV/Camper sites, tent only and adorable camper cabins."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: Some campgrounds can get windy or rainy. A visitor at Newton Hills Campground advised, "Great stargazing," indicating clear skies can be a plus.

Camping near Alton, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Alton, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Alton, IA is Willow Creek Campground with a 4.8-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What parks are near Alton, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 1 parks near Alton, IA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.