Camping options near Davis City, Iowa range from primitive sites to full-service campgrounds across rolling prairie terrain at an elevation of approximately 1,100 feet. The region sits along the Grand River watershed, characterized by wooded ridges, open meadows, and several small lakes. Weather conditions vary significantly by season, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Nine Eagles State Park Campground provides excellent trails for equestrian enthusiasts. "Wonderful area for horses. Great trials," notes Dorothy H., who gave the park five stars.
Fishing opportunities: Little River Recreation Area offers abundant fishing. "The lake has a lot of fish in it I hear... Family friendly," reports Eugene B. The recreation area includes boat rentals and multiple fishing docks.
Dark sky viewing: Grand Trace State Forest provides exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. "Very nice view of the lake, lots of campsites around the lake. Not many lights around and no big cities and a low horizon so it's a good place to visit for a visual observation night with a telescope or binos," writes Greg B.
Day trip to casino: Campsites near Davis City allow easy access to nearby gaming. "If you are here to gamble, you will love it. If you are here to rest, you will love it," explains Vita M. about the nearby casino RV park, which offers full hookups and paved spaces.
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Nine Eagles State Park Campground provides a peaceful atmosphere. "We arrived on Thursday evening. After a short debate we opted to pay the extra money for an electric site," reports Uhura G., who appreciated that "Though it was definitely busier come Friday night not all the sites were full and most seemed to be retired or semi-so with grandkids. No party atmosphere."
Ease of access: Eagle Ridge RV Park offers convenience for travelers. "Close to the interstate but not noisy," mentions Patricia O., while another camper notes it's "far enough away you wouldn't know it."
Free camping options: Grand Trace State Forest provides no-cost sites with basic amenities. "The location is easy to find even at night. The road is well maintained, the grass is mowed and spots are flat. There are about 13 distinct spots, 8 tent spots, 4 small camper spots and one large parking lot area that could fit just about anything," explains Kyle K.
Off-grid experience: Campsites in the more remote areas offer a break from connectivity. "Safe place although I am a manly man so I do not worry. Safe for females I mean. About 30 minutes to Bethany proper where civilization is. 3 bar Verizon reception," reports Bobby B. about his five-day stay at Grand Trace State Forest.
What you should know
Seasonal facilities: Water availability varies by season and location at Nine Eagles State Park. "We later discovered it was also off at the swimming beach," notes Uhura G., adding "Finding a place to pitch a tent in the electric loop was a challenge but we did find one that had enough level grass."
Site conditions: Poe Hollow County Park maintains its grounds well. "Nice campground with mowed grass and picnic tables in the trees. Power hookups available and covered/enclosed group areas," reports Andrew T.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Grand Trace State Forest offers very basic facilities. "Very small camp area, only 4 sites. No toilets so bring a bucket. No pick nick benches. There are fire rings at each site," notes Terry F.
Reservation policies: Most county parks operate on a first-come basis. At Little River Recreation Area, one camper mentioned, "This small county park (16 electric, 14 tent sites plus three cabins) is not reservable which might be an issue on summer weekends but on a Sunday in April, was no problem."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Little River Recreation Area offers facilities for children. "There are also horseshoe pits and a small but very nice playground," notes Lee D., who also mentioned "There is also a small little free library."
Swimming options: Lakeside Casino RV Park provides a clean environment for families. "All the spaces are pulled through. It is very clean. There is full hook up for water, electric and sewer. All spaces are paved," reports Vita M.
Youth group camping: Nine Eagles State Park offers dedicated space for larger youth groups. "I camped here with my son and his Boy Scout troop in the youth group part of the campground. The youth group site is a large open space surrounded by tall trees. The grass is well maintained and the campsite is clean and beautiful," explains Matt S.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds accommodate visitors with mobility needs. "My wife and I feel safe in this park. I am in a wheelchair and this park allows me to move around freely," notes Vita M. about the level concrete pads.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling issues: Some campgrounds have uneven surfaces. "The concrete in our site was in poor condition, it had crumbled leaving a dip in the pad," notes Renee H.
Hookup reliability: Eagle Ridge RV Park maintains quality connections. "Full hookups and friendly staff. Good wifi. If you're looking for a beautiful park, this is it!" writes Sean & Holly H.
Site selection strategy: Little River Recreation Area requires careful site choice. "Each site has a generous-sized picnic table and fire ring. Some sites are better than others, however. Sites 2 and 3 (both electric) are sloped down and the driveway is a bit overgrown," advises Lee D.
Overnight convenience: Locations like Buffalo Run RV Park serve well for transit stops. "This campground is close to I35 and makes a great stop on road trips if you're heading south! Affordable and quiet," notes Tori K.
