RV parks near Cantril, Iowa primarily cluster along a 70-mile radius through southeast Iowa, northeast Missouri, and western Illinois. The region features rolling farmland with elevation ranging from 560 to 780 feet and experiences humid continental climate with summer highs reaching 85-90°F. Most campgrounds offer electric hookups for RVs with varying levels of shade protection that becomes critical during July and August when heat indexes regularly exceed 95°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Indian Lake Park features a clean lake with ample fishing spots. "There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach. Almost empty during the week, but very busy on summer weekends. Hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, bird watching," notes Dave N. at Indian Lake Park.
Historic exploration: Visit the historic walking bridge at Bentonsport, just 29 miles from Cantril. "Beautiful river views... Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, an Indian artifact museum and gift shops. Historical walking bridge that is amazing," shares Greg K. from Bentonsport.
Water recreation: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas during warmer months. At Lake Showme, located 50 miles southwest of Cantril, campers have multiple recreation options. "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. Even have a pistol and rifle range," reports Chunk S.
What campers like
Shade coverage: Many campers appreciate tree coverage during hot summer months. "Lots of trees for great shade in these hot days. Nice pond for some fun fishing. Very clean restrooms and showers," reports Joe M. about Updog RV & Camping.
Cleanliness: Well-maintained facilities rank high on camper satisfaction. "Great staff and RV park amenities. Camped for two nights and it was quiet," shares Sarah J. about Crossroads RV Park. Another camper notes, "Easy access and amazingly quiet despite the road nearby. Clean and new facilities."
Affordable rates: Most RV parks maintain competitive pricing. At Bentonsport Riverside Park, Greg K. reports: "$17 Bentonsport campground. Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers, toilets, 30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property." Eagle Lodge RV Park maintains reasonable rates with "owners very nice. Campground is clean and all sites are full hookups."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Several campgrounds close during winter months. Updog RV & Camping operates from April 15 through November 15, while others like Indian Lake Park remain open year-round.
Site size constraints: Many RV parks have tight spacing between units. One camper at Updog RV noted, "With slide out on each side, and not superslides either, I had EXACTLY 1 foot left on each side of my slides. I could not put out my awning as it would hit the camper next to me."
Noise factors: Train tracks near some campgrounds create noise disturbances. According to John C., "The issue is NOISE!! Constant train traffic all night! Horns blaring! The tracks are less than 1/4-mile away. And quite a bit of freeway noise, too!"
Tips for camping with families
Park amenities: Choose parks with dedicated family facilities. "Indian Lake 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," says Dave N., adding "A stone lodge for large parties. There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach."
Timing considerations: Mid-week visits offer quieter experiences. "Almost empty during the week, but very busy on summer weekends," notes Dave N. about Indian Lake Park's typical traffic patterns.
Connectivity challenges: Cell service varies significantly across campgrounds. Greg K. reports about Bentonsport: "No wifi, poor Internet although I did have one bar so could be worse. I have total by Verizon."
Tips from RVers
Access concerns: Some parks have challenging approach roads. For Camp Nauvoo, David B. warns, "If you are southbound on Illinois Hwy 96, the left turn off the highway is very sharp and steep. Might be easier to continue about a mile south and use the scenic turnout to turnaround. It is a pull-through turnout. Then, turn off the highway on the right."
Site selection: Check campground maps for utilities placement. "The site was a full hookup- electric, water and sewer. Utilities were located in different spots. 20A/30A/50A electric in the middle, water near the rear, and sewer near the front," details David B. about Camp Nauvoo.
Length limits: Confirm your RV size works with available sites. Melissa A. notes about Crossroads RV Park, "This was a nice spot for an overnight stay. The site was a full hookup- electric, water and sewer. I wouldn't stay longer than an overnight. The sites were close together and very close to a train track."
