Camping near Calmar, IA

Camping options near Calmar, Iowa offer experiences ranging from riverfront sites to lakeside retreats within a 20-mile radius. This region sits within the Driftless Area, characterized by steep limestone bluffs, cold water trout streams, and elevations ranging from 850-1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with cool evenings around 55-65°F, creating comfortable camping conditions throughout the main season.

What to do

Explore Upper Iowa River paddling routes: At Chimney Rock Canoe and Campground, visitors access canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle service. "This part of Iowa is a treasure. Deb and her crew are always helpful and accommodating. They run a great canoe/kayak/tube rental with shuttle service," notes camper Kelly D.

Bike the Trout Run Trail: The 11-mile paved loop connects to Pulpit Rock Campground, offering convenient access for cyclists. "The campground is situated next to the Trout Run Trail, providing quick and easy access to the 11-mile loop or in to the city center of Decorah," explains Travis P.

Fish local streams and lakes: Multiple campsites provide fishing opportunities, especially for trout. "Fishing was really great catching several fish for dinner including some really nice size rainbow trout," reports Mike G. from Pulpit Rock Campground.

What campers like

Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain good bathroom and shower facilities. "The facilities are nice, bathrooms were clean," states Travis P. about Pulpit Rock Campground, while a Lake Meyer County Park visitor notes, "The bathrooms aren't the best but they worked."

Riverside camping: Sites along waterways offer direct access to fishing and paddling. "My boyfriend and I stayed right on the river with our pups (pet friendly) and it was BEAUTIFUL. Easy access to restrooms but secluded and quiet too," shares Kari S.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bluffton Resort (formerly Randy's) and other sites offer chances to spot local wildlife. "Lake Meyer sits atop a hill above the Lake. Beautiful trails with lots of wild life. Even an eagles nest," reports Lourene M. about Lake Meyer County Park Campground.

What you should know

Highway noise affects certain sites: Some campgrounds have sites located near roadways. "Our site was 48 and it was noisy with the highway there. Will go back just move more in ward," advises Tiffany R. about Pulpit Rock.

Site spacing varies significantly: At many campgrounds, RV sites can be closely situated. "What I didn't enjoy was how close each RV site is. The sparks from our fire were making their way to our neighbors site," explains Travis P.

Water access limitations: Not all campgrounds provide full water hookups. At Pulpit Rock, "City water only available central locations otherwise a delight spot in a wonderful town," according to Robert T.

Seasonal considerations: The best places to camp near Calmar, Iowa typically operate from April through October. Skip-A-Way Resort runs "from April 15 thru Oct 15," according to Lourene M.

Tips for camping with families

Multiple activity options: Skip-A-Way Resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "They have a beach for swimming. Boats for renting... You can rent kayaks, bikes. They have mini golf... They have river rafting, a playground for little kids, and a mini horse for petting," shares jeremiah B.

Budget-friendly options: Lake Meyer provides affordable tent camping. "It was very inexpensive for tents ($10 I think) and the tent camping area was very nice with 3 giant pine trees and some picnic tables and fire rings," reports B B.

Weekend planning: Popular campsites near Calmar fill quickly, especially in summer. "We drive about 3.5hrs to stay and its definitely worth it! We enjoyed one day of kayaking and another day of cycling on the trout run trail," shares Reah E. about her experience at Bluffton Resort.

Tips from RVers

Site selection matters: At Bluffton Resort, site placement can affect your experience. "The camping sites also have large tall trees where a camper should be parked which causes you to park way to close to the fire pit," warns Tonya B.

Check amenities before booking: Campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups. At Goeken Co Park, facilities are more primitive: "Best for self-contained campers and tents if you don't mind roughing it," advises Carolyn M.

Extended stay options: Some Calmar area campgrounds cater to longer-term campers. Skip-A-Way Resort has "permanent sites and rentals. There is tent sites and rental campers also. Sewer, water and electric," according to Lourene M.