Camping spots near Anita, Iowa are scattered throughout the rolling hills of Cass and Adair counties, where the terrain varies from open prairie to wooded creek beds. The region sits at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level with moderate summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F from June through August. Most campgrounds in the area close for the winter season between late October and early April when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: At Elkhorn Creek Recreation Area, visitors can access secluded hiking paths through oak groves. One visitor noted, "It's beautiful and secluded with a small town not too far away," after exploring the trails.
Fishing opportunities: Prairie Rose State Park Campground offers multiple fishing spots around its large lake. A camper mentioned, "The park surrounds the whole lake and you can explore everything by trail or water. Lots of fishing and swimming, we went looking for wildflowers along the lake trails."
Water recreation: Canoes, kayaks, and small boats are welcome at many lakes. At Littlefield Rec Area, campers enjoy water activities on the lake. One reviewer reported, "Very quiet, zero traffic noise. Campsites spread out over 4 campgrounds."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers appreciate the layout at certain campgrounds that provide more privacy. At Littlefield Recreation Area, a visitor shared, "Love this place! Lots of space around your site. Fills up fast on weekends. Would recommend this park."
Affordable rates: Most campgrounds in the region maintain reasonable pricing. A visitor to Casey City Park wrote, "It was $10 a night, that's decent! Most places are more along this drive. It also had a magnificent playground."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local birds and animals. A Prairie Rose State Park visitor remarked, "We saw bald eagles and deer very close to the tent," highlighting the natural setting that attracts wildlife.
Quiet atmosphere: Many camping areas near Anita provide peaceful environments away from urban noise. One camper at Mormon Trail County Park described it as "absolutely beautiful" and noted, "It is a very small state park with only a couple tent sites/camper sites, so it is not over populated."
What you should know
Varying levels of amenities: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. At Mormon Trail County Park, a camper advised, "No showers/clean bathrooms, just 2 waterless restrooms," while other parks offer full facilities.
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty in rural areas. A visitor to Schildberg Recreation Area reported, "Excellent Verizon 5G," but other campgrounds have limited or no service.
Site selection considerations: Some parks have uneven distribution of shade and amenities. At Prairie Rose State Park, one camper advised, "Hard to choose a campsite, all had great views and little perks. Check out the cabins too."
Water quality notices: Lake conditions can change seasonally. A visitor to Littlefield Recreation Area noted, "Swimming beach was under watch for Blue Algae," indicating the importance of checking current conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Casey City Park, a camper shared, "My kids had been cooped up for two days and needed to run off some pent up energy and this was perfect. A few neighborhood kids joined them and they had a blast."
Kid-friendly trails: Look for paths suitable for younger hikers. Prairie Rose State Park offers "trails [that] are perfect for XC skiing in winter," according to one visitor who enjoyed outdoor activities with family.
Swimming options: Many parks feature designated swimming areas. At Mormon Trail County Park, a visitor described, "The lake has a very large, mostly shallow, swimming area, the water is absolutely perfect, along with a big sandy beach area."
Entertainment programming: Some parks offer activities during peak season. A camper mentioned that at Lake Anita State Park, "on Saturdays during the summer they do Disney movies and free popcorn."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campsites vary in size and proximity to neighbors. An RVer at Middle River Point commented, "A great spot for camping and RVing. Super friendly staff and great amenities."
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer options differ between campgrounds. At Schildberg Recreation Area, a camper noted, "Full hookups, shower house and huge dog park are also onsite making this a Cass County hidden gem."
Park layout navigation: Some parks require careful driving on narrow roads. A Prairie Rose State Park visitor warned, "It is 9 or so miles north of the highway so it was actually quiet," indicating the distance from main roads.
Budget-friendly options: For economical camping near Anita, several municipal parks offer basic facilities at lower costs. A visitor to CAB Campground stated, "There are no frills here just quiet and the essentials, elec, water and sewer for $25/night. Great communication. If you're traveling near it's an inexpensive place to get some rest."
