Camping near Burt, IA

Camping sites near Burt, Iowa generally stay open from April through October, with most sites closing for winter by early November. Nightly rates range from $6 for primitive tent sites to $20 for full-hookup RV sites. The area features several lakes and ponds for recreation, with campgrounds situated in the prairie landscape at elevations around 1,200 feet above sea level.

What to do

Fishing at multiple lakes: Crystal Lake Park offers excellent fishing opportunities in a spacious setting. "This campground is huge! Has a big open spot for fun and games. Great fishing lake. A beach for the kids. Great family campground," notes Lisa M., who gave the park a 5-star rating.

Frisbee golf courses: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground features disc golf among its recreational options. Joel S. mentions, "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course," making it a good option for active campers seeking variety.

Visit the Grotto: The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park provides camping access to this unique attraction. Gary H. shared, "The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free. Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes."

What campers like

Budget-friendly pricing: Smith Lake County Park receives praise for its affordable rates. Joel S. notes, "For $15 you get water/electric sites with access to bathrooms and showers. Dogs are allowed on leash. Pretty nice playground."

Multiple water recreation options: Siems County Park offers varied water activities. Kaylyn S. explains, "They have two different areas for camping. There is a few pond to kayak and fish also there's a beach area to swim."

Clean facilities: Burt Lake County Park maintains well-kept grounds. Larry K. reports, "Very clean quiet well maintained park. 2 levels. Upper level has about 8 spots w 30/50 amp. A pavilion. 1 water spigot. Garbage and a plastic biffy."

What you should know

Site levelness varies: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain, particularly at waterfront sites. Adam T. notes about Burt Lake County Park, "Upper area has a covered picnic area. Lower camp area is on the lakefront and very uneven by the power hookup's. $10/night!"

Train proximity: Some campgrounds are near railroad tracks. Regarding Grotto Campground, Pam H. mentions, "Next to train tracks but only one train came by and it wasn't loud."

Water access: At several sites, water spigots are shared between multiple campsites. Joel S. observes at Ambrose A. Call State Park that "sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared."

Tips for camping with families

Playground availability: Family-friendly options include designated play areas. About Smith Lake County Park, Abby F. explains, "There is a beach near the camping area and another one for the park. The tent area is nice and big for several tents, but could use a few more trees for shade."

Wildlife areas require preparation: For more primitive options like Devine Wildlife Area, Joel S. warns, "Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent."

Social camping atmosphere: Many campers report making connections with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Abby F. shares about Smith Lake, "Every time we go camping here we make a new friend, get some great camping recipes."

Tips from RVers

Extension cord requirements: Power hookups may be positioned far from parking pads. Amy K. advises, "The electric hook ups are really far from the pad so bring an extension."

Dump station availability: Most county parks provide dump stations, though not all sites offer full hookups. Gary H. notes at The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park, "Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided."

Cellular coverage information: Coverage varies by location and carrier. Larry K. reports about Burt Lake County Park, "1 bar of 4g at&t," while Richard & K. shares about The Grotto, "We had 2 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well."