Best Campgrounds near Anita, IA

Camping near Anita, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Hiking: Explore scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Lake Anita State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "We loved staying there over the weekend... a big lake close by to fish."
• Playgrounds: Families can have fun at Hitchcock County Nature Center, where one reviewer said, "Camping here also gives you access to the playground and nature trails into some beautiful countryside."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Hitchcock County Nature Center. One happy camper noted, "Even the pit toilets were spotless and didn’t smell."
• Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Prairie Flower Recreation Area. A visitor remarked, "The whole campsite was paved and our site (#81) had a beautiful lake view."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff at Des Moines West KOA Holiday. One reviewer said, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know

• Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage at Ledges State Park Campground. A camper warned, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
• First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds, like Hitchcock County Nature Center, operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A reviewer reminded, "Friendly reminder to bring CASH."
• Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends at popular spots like Lake Anita State Park Campground. One visitor noted, "It was really busy when we did."

Tips for camping with families

• Playground Access: Choose campgrounds with playgrounds, like Hitchcock County Nature Center, where kids can enjoy outdoor fun. One parent said, "The hosts are so polite and helpful and they keep the place immaculate."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer various activities. At Jester County Park, a camper mentioned, "The campgrounds are great... snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and all."
• Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites, like Prairie Flower Recreation Area, which has "large and open with nice balance of trees for shade."

Tips from RVers

• Level Sites: Check for level sites at campgrounds like Des Moines West KOA Holiday. A reviewer noted, "Gravel sites require some leveling."
• Dump Stations: Ensure your campground has a dump station, like Bob Shelter Recreation Area, which has "dump station and water fill in the back."
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups, such as Walnut Woods State Park Campground, where one camper appreciated, "Most sites feature 20/30/50 electric, a fire ring and a picnic table."

Camping near Anita, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!