Lake Anita State Park Campground sits approximately 15 miles east of Audubon, Iowa, in a region characterized by gently rolling hills and prairie landscapes. The park surrounds a 171-acre artificial lake with elevations ranging from 1,250 to 1,300 feet above sea level. Camping options near Audubon function year-round with varying amenities, though most campgrounds operate with full services from April through October when average temperatures range from 45°F to 85°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Anita State Park offers productive fishing with multiple species. "The lake is beautiful, and we also saw people boating, kayaking, and fishing. Although swimming is also allowed, the beach was not the best for this activity," notes one visitor to Lake Anita State Park Campground.
Roller skating experiences: Spring Lake County Park provides unusual camping activities including an open-air roller skating rink. A camper shared, "Roller skating on the weekends," while another mentioned, "There is a roller rink and a concession stand. This is a very busy campground in the summer."
Disc golf courses: Multiple parks near Audubon feature disc golf courses for all skill levels. A Swan Lake State Park Campground visitor noted, "There was a cute frisbee golf on property, a beautiful lake, and a nice paved walking path."
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many campsites provide direct water access. At Spring Lake County Park, visitors appreciate that "there are campsites along the lake with easy access to shoreline" and that "you can pull your rig right up to the lake."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates. One camper at Casey City Park mentioned, "Best part, it was only $10," while another noted the park has "flush toilets and free showers" making it economical for overnight stays.
On-site food options: Some campgrounds feature food delivery or concession stands. A Spring Lake camper mentioned "Door to door ice and concession delivery" while another praised "Ice Cube Consessions and the skating rink from Memorial Day through Labor Day."
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: Some campgrounds have limited space between sites. A Lake Anita visitor remarked, "Nice state park with all the amenities, but, this State Park definitely needs to be updated to accommodate the bigger and wider campers. If you like to be on top of each other, this is your campground!"
Bathroom conditions vary: Facilities range from excellent to basic. One Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds camper noted, "Bathroom and shower were clean. But old style, so small and well worn."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad disturbances. A Lake Anita camper mentioned, "Nice campground, pretty spread out at a nice lake. Only downside is that it is close to the traintracks."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. A Des Moines West KOA Holiday visitor shared, "Decent playground, water pillow for bouncing, fishing pond, dog park, swimming pool. Well maintained, lots of planned activities."
Weekend activities: Some parks organize family events. A visitor noted, "On saturdays during the summer they do Disney movies and free popcorn" at Lake Anita, while another mentioned the "weekend activities like outdoor movie nights."
Multiple recreation options: Nelson Park Crawford County Park provides diverse activities in one location. A visitor shared, "It has a descent size lake good for kayaking and fishing."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds provide complete services. A Casey City Park visitor mentioned each site has "electricity and a grill at every site," which supplements the basic amenities for RVs.
Sanitary dump stations: Recent upgrades benefit RV campers. A Spring Lake camper noted the "Recently updated two-way fresh-fill/santiary dump station," making waste management more convenient.
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping in Audubon, Iowa area occurs between April and October. "Cabin was beautiful inside and out!" shared one Des Moines West KOA camper, while another mentioned, "Enjoy drifting& driving awesome cars" around University 40 during warmer months.
