Best Campgrounds near Brighton, IA

Camping near Brighton, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to explore.

What to do

• Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds, like Lake Macbride State Park Campground, are right next to trails. One visitor mentioned, “The park offers beautiful trails within walking distance, perfect for a nice hike.”
• Fishing and Water Activities: Campgrounds near lakes, such as Sugar Bottom Campground, provide great fishing spots. A reviewer noted, “The swim beach was a hot spot for the kids, and we enjoyed fishing from the shore.”
• Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Iowa Shady Creek are located near the Mississippi River, making it a great spot for bird watching. One camper shared, “It was awesome to watch the birds migrating close to the river.”

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at F. W. Kent Park said, “The bathrooms were clean, and the showers were decent.”
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A reviewer at Amana RV Park & Event Center mentioned, “The sites are wide open and generally level, making it easy to set up.”
• Friendly Staff: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. One camper at Clarks Ferry noted, “The hosts were warm and welcoming, always ready to help.”

What you should know

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wildcat Den State Park Campground, have fewer amenities. A camper mentioned, “It’s a rustic site without electricity, but it has a water station and toilets.”
• Noise Levels: Campgrounds near railroads, such as Clarks Ferry, can be noisy. One visitor said, “The trains were relentless, even during the night, which might bother some campers.”
• Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Sugar Bottom Campground can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A reviewer advised, “Make sure to book ahead if you want a good site.”

Tips for camping with families

• Play Areas: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds. A camper at F. W. Kent Park mentioned, “There’s a nice playground for kids, which kept them entertained.”
• Family-Friendly Activities: Choose campgrounds near lakes for swimming and fishing. One family at Lake Macbride State Park Campground enjoyed, “The beautiful lake was perfect for swimming and picnicking.”
• Pack Bug Spray: Some campgrounds can have bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Iowa Wildcat Den State Park warned, “Bring spray; there were lots of gnats and other flying bugs.”

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Size: Make sure your site can accommodate your RV. A camper at Sugar Bottom Campground noted, “Some sites are close together, so check the size before booking.”
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. A reviewer at Iowa Shady Creek mentioned, “The 50 amp sites were great for our RV.”
• Dump Stations: Choose campgrounds with dump stations for convenience. One camper at Buffalo Shores County Park appreciated, “The dump station was easy to access, which made our stay hassle-free.”

Camping around Brighton, IA, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to check the amenities and plan ahead for a great experience!