Lake Anita State Park sits at an elevation of about 1,200 feet in the rolling hills of southwest Iowa, about 15 miles east of Atlantic. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with limited winter camping options available at select locations.
What to do
Trail exploration: Lake Anita State Park offers a four-mile paved recreation trail that circles the 171-acre lake. "The best feature of this park, in my opinion, is the four-mile paved recreation trail that goes around the entire 171-acre lake. Good for walking, running, or biking," notes a visitor to Lake Anita State Park Campground.
Frisbee golf: Swan Lake State Park includes a disc golf course among its recreational amenities. A camper at Swan Lake State Park Campground shared, "There was a cute frisbee golf on property, a beautiful lake, and a nice paved walking path."
Kayak loops: Pammel County Park offers a unique water experience with its loop system. "We did kayak the loop one day-it took about an hour for the 1.9-mile loop and water levels were pretty low. It's pretty easy/convenient as far as letting in and taking out," reports a camper at Pammel County Park.
Weekend entertainment: Special events are common at many area campgrounds. "They have a park and on Saturdays during the summer they do Disney movies and free popcorn," notes a visitor about Lake Anita State Park, making it perfect for evening entertainment.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Many campgrounds near Atlantic offer reasonable prices. A visitor to Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds wrote, "It is a bargain at $20 for full hookups. They have tent sites also." Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds provides budget-friendly options just off I-80.
Wildlife viewing: Birdwatching opportunities abound in the area. "If you like birds there are bird houses built all around the park. The lake is beautiful and the campground is built all around the lake with great views," explains a camper about Lake Anita State Park.
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking alternative camping options, yurt camping near Atlantic, Iowa is available at Pammel County Park. These circular tent structures provide a middle ground between tent camping and cabin stays. "Pammel has both shaded and open spots, yurts, trails. There are lots of activities," notes a regular visitor.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "Bathroom and shower were clean. But old style, so small and well worn," mentions a visitor about Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds, highlighting the practical aspects of the facilities.
What you should know
Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds have more densely packed sites than others. "The campsites have you packed in like sardines," mentions one visitor about Lake Anita, while another notes about Green Valley State Park, "Space between sites are far enough you don't have to hear your neighbor, but close enough that you could have a conversation if you wanted to." Green Valley State Park Campground offers a good balance of privacy and community.
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise. "Besides the traffic noise because it's close to the hwy, the train passed at night like 4 or 5 times, so have that in mind if you light sleep," warns a camper at Missouri Valley City Park.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Green Valley State Park is open "April 1 to December 31," while others like Swan Lake close earlier in fall.
Yurt availability: Yurts and glamping structures around Atlantic, Iowa often book quickly, especially at Pammel County Park. Reservations should be made well in advance for these popular accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Missouri Valley City Park, "this is a place to come with your kids or grandkids. So much fun stuff to do. Water park. Playground. Open area."
Swimming options: Many area lakes offer designated swimming areas. At Swan Lake, visitors note the park has a "swim beach" along with "playgrounds" and other amenities perfect for families with children.
Campsite selection: Choose sites strategically when camping with children. At Lake Anita, one camper mentioned staying at "#70 which was a full hookup. It backed up the playground and bathrooms," making it convenient for families.
Rainy day contingencies: Consider the Des Moines West KOA for family trips with potential bad weather. "Looked to be lots of fun, kid oriented amenities," notes one camper, which can be valuable during inclement weather when outdoor activities aren't possible.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Hitchcock County Nature Center, it's noted that not all sites are "big-rig-friendly," so calling ahead to confirm appropriate space is advised.
Leveling considerations: Green Valley provides concrete pads at some sites. "The sites have a little concrete pad which makes it easier to level," mentions a camper, though they also note some hookup locations can be inconveniently placed: "I had to use 75 feet of hose to get to it. And the electric I had to use a 30 ft extension cord."
Self-check-in systems: Several campgrounds operate on honor systems or self-registration. At Missouri Valley City Park, "It's all on an honor system so make sure to bring some cash," while at the Des Moines West KOA, "Although we were arriving after 10pm, we could still check in without a reservation! They have an awesome 'self check in'. A board marked with available spaces we chose from."
