Southeast Iowa's camping options near Cantril extend beyond the immediate town limits, with several campgrounds located within 30-40 miles. Most accessible camping sites cluster along the Des Moines River valley, offering water-based recreation throughout the camping season. Winter camping remains limited to a few sites like Indian Lake Park, which maintains year-round access while most facilities close between December and April.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground features well-maintained pathways with historical significance. A visitor notes, "Don't miss the hiking trails and the Beach House and swimming lake. Don't miss lake Sugema, the Indian Mounds or the Ely Ford Mormon Trail crossing."
Historical exploration: Bentonsport offers camping near preserved 19th-century buildings. "Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers,toilets,30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property. Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, a Indian artifact museum and gift shops."
Water recreation: Battle of Athens State Park Campground provides Des Moines River access. "Battle of Athens sp is located in the northeast part of Missouri, a little out of way but worth the trip. We spent a good portion of the morning exploring the battle grounds and driving down by the Des Moines river."
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Many campgrounds in the area maintain reasonable rates. At Indian Lake Park, campers appreciate the value: "This park has something for everyone. They have primitive tent sites, electric only, electric+water, and fhu. They also have cabins for rent. All very reasonably priced."
Quiet weekday camping: The region sees reduced occupancy Monday through Thursday, even in summer. A camper at Indian Lake Park reported: "Almost empty during the week, but very busy on summer weekends. Hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, bird watching. There are many things to keep you busy here."
Dark skies for stargazing: Rural locations provide minimal light pollution. One visitor to Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground shared: "Quiet campground located away from the lights of big cities. This has been one of our favorite campgrounds for years."
What you should know
Seasonal wildlife viewing: Fall and spring offer optimal wildlife observation opportunities. A late-season camper reported: "Stayed for a week in mid November. Although we had a storm at the beginning and end the overall stay was great. Weather ranged from 50s to 70s during the day and 30s to 40s at night. Bonus: the deer came out each evening to forage."
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Eldon Wildlife Management Area provides primitive camping with few facilities. "Small lot for hunters to park and go. For a secluded spot, good enough to camp. As long as you don't need any utilities."
Shoulder season advantages: Spring and fall offer better availability and comfortable temperatures. At Lacey Keosauqua, one camper noted: "We visited over Labor Day weekend and the park was only two-thirds full. It was a variety of Tent campers and RV's."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Indian Lake Park, "They have a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach."
Short hiking options: Waubonsie Trail Park offers family-friendly paths. "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."
Swimming opportunities: Several parks maintain designated swimming areas through summer. A visitor to Lacey Keosauqua shared: "The bath house is nice, the staff friendly, and the views breathtaking. Great for the whole family. Well marked trails."
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup availability: Most established campgrounds offer electrical connections with varying amperage. At Bentonsport, an RVer noted: "Quite roomy on river the town by it is a craftsman village with quilting woodwork old inns painters there is a railroad car they made into a rental the camp ground has 30 and 50 amp elect there is no water or sewer on you're site but water is available in camp."
Dump station locations: Check availability before arrival as not all parks offer this service. At Lake Showme Campsites, "Great spot, $20 for RVs and campers. Free if primitive camping. All spots have power and water. Waste and sewage dump can be found on campgrounds."
Riverfront positioning: Premium sites often face water features. One RVer at Bentonsport observed: "Down the road from the sleepy little town of Bentonsport, IA is this small riverfront campground. On a Sunday afternoon in October, there were several RVs but almost all of the riverfront sites (which I would consider prime) were empty."
