Glamping options near Centerville, Iowa offer unique accommodations on lakes and rivers throughout the region. Sites are typically available from spring through fall, with most facilities closing between September and October. Temperatures in this south-central Iowa area typically range from the 20s in winter to 80s in summer, making late spring and early fall particularly comfortable for overnight stays.
What to do
Fishing at local ponds: Hickory Hills Park offers camping near fishing ponds where you can catch various species. "Looks to be about 10 sites, nicely spread apart. Big, clean fire pits with grills and a picnic table. Plenty of space to feel comfortable," notes Carrie C. about the Hickory Hills Park experience.
Boating on Rathbun Lake: Launch from multiple ramps at Island View for water recreation. "Rathbun Lake is a destination for boaters and campers in the State of Iowa. The Army Corps of Engineers operates and maintains several facilities around the lake. Island View campground has some really nice views of the lake," explains Matt S. about Island View Campground.
Hunting for geodes: The area near The Catfish Place Campground is known for geode hunting opportunities. "Close to geode hunting locations!! Quiet. There is also a restaurant on site," reports Amy W., who enjoyed the peaceful setting with fishing directly from their campsite.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: Many glamping locations offer privacy between campsites. "Campsites are well spaced, some have good views of the lake. Men's bathroom is clean, showers have good hot water but could use a deep cleaning," mentions Tom about Wallashuck campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campsites provide direct access to fishing. "My family stayed in our popup last September and it was great. Friendly staff, nice clean bathroom and showers. Spot on beautiful pond. It was great to be able to fish from our site," shares Amy W. about The Catfish Place.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower facilities. "We were able to camp in a tent near RVs without feeling crowded. The restrooms, showers, and playground were all close by…great for camping with kids," notes Amanda H. about her Wallashuck experience.
What you should know
Site reservations: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others are first-come, first-served. "Marion County is often overlooked by people in favor of the various Red Rock campgrounds that are nearby, but in my opinion, unless you have a boat, there is nothing that puts Red Rock above Marion County... it is almost always possible to get a walk up spot on the weekend even if you wait until Friday afternoon/evening," explains Rodney S. about Marion County Park.
Campground closures: Check seasonal availability before planning your trip. "The park is closed for camping indefinitely," warns Mansel J. about Otter Creek Park, highlighting the importance of verifying current status.
Terrain considerations: Some sites require leveling equipment. "The sites are somewhat unlevel so you'll likely need to block up tires (we've had to block one side of tires on two different past sites). For our current site (site 58 with a 2.8 degree incline), we had to angle in a bit otherwise our auto leveling would throw an error," shares Adam about Marion County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several glamping sites offer play areas for children. "Very nice campground, each sight has a fire ring and table, plus a lantern pole. It is in a city park like setting and on the lake. Fire wood for sale at the entrance, you have to get water at the entrance only electrical hook up. Showers are very clean and there is also a children's play ground," describes Michael W. about Wallashuck.
Educational opportunities: Some parks feature historical sites worth exploring. "This is a great little park just east of New Virginia, Iowa. I went to the park with my son and Boy Scout Troop for a night hike, that is why there are no pictures. This is a great little park. The hiking trails are pretty easy going through the forest and then opening up next to old Native American burial mounds," shares Matt S. about Hickory Hills Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for sites with easy bathroom access and water features. "There's a couple of parks onsite for kids- one with a zip line swing- plus a pond for fishing, areas to hike and bike. There's also a historic village onsite that's open for tours on weekends during the summer," explains Adam about Marion County Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many sites offer electric and water hookups with dump stations. "Cute little RV/tent campground. Very nice hosts. Only stayed 1 night. Definitely on the 'let's go back' list. Waubonsie trail behind park is a short hike to the covered bridge and Dutchman's Store. Perfect Way to stretch your legs after a long day on the road," reports Tracy J. about Waubonsie Trail Park.
Cell service: Coverage is generally good throughout the area. "Very nice corp park. Campsites were spaced well apart with plenty of room on pad around campsites, cell service was four bars and air tv 30 channels," notes Steve W. about Island View.
Supply access: Nearby towns offer shopping opportunities for camping supplies. "There are many stores within a 5-10 minute drive if you need supplies, but it still feels isolated while there. The hosts are always great and and on the rare occasion there is an issue, it is quickly resolved," explains Rodney S. about Marion County Park.
