Camping options near Carlisle, Iowa range from established county parks to state-operated facilities, with elevations typically between 800-900 feet above sea level. The region experiences average summer temperatures between 75-85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing. For campers seeking proximity to water features, several campgrounds provide direct river or lake access with fishing opportunities.
What to do
Explore burial mounds and trails: Yellow Banks County Park offers unique historical hiking opportunities. "There's a hiking trail that will take you to indian burial mounds. There is also fishing and boating. They have a fun playground also. There are a couple of backpacking sites as well," notes Derrick W. about Yellow Banks County Park.
Bike the Chichaqua Valley Trail: Access the 25-mile paved biking trail from Griffs Valley View RV Park. Anthony W. shared: "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office. During the summer months they are quite busy so definitely call ahead before making the trip out." Griffs Valley View RV Park provides easy trail access.
Paddle the Des Moines River: Several campgrounds offer river access for water recreation. "Nice quiet campground with the Des Moines river close by for fishing or kayaking. Most of the spots are shaded and well maintained," reports Kayla N. about her experiences at Yellow Banks County Park.
What campers like
Creek access for summer cooling: Thomas Mitchell County Park features popular water access points. Shannon G. reports, "The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water." Thomas Mitchell County Park combines water features with camping convenience.
Free camping options: Grant Park offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "There are 10 free sites. Well maintained and quiet. Pit toilet, paved fire ring area and picnic table at each site. Can stay up to 14 days. Beautiful trails," says Maria H. about Grant Park, providing an economical option for budget campers.
Spacious camping sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at certain campgrounds. Kelly notes about Yellow Banks: "Camp sites are best around, large flat white rock cinder size area with picnic table, fire ring. Sites are well spaced. Shaded. Double lane dump station."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect amenities: Most campgrounds operate with limited services during off-season. Lai La L. notes about Walnut Woods State Park Campground: "Sites Available in December. Full service flat sites!!" Despite winter availability, many facilities reduce services during colder months.
Insect activity varies by season: Ticks and mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly in wooded areas. Steve H. comments about Walnut Woods: "Beautiful river access and camping in the trees. However the mosquitos get crazy here!" Similarly, Abby M. warns about Grant Park: "During the 3 nights I stayed, I was constantly removing them from him, myself and within the inside of my van."
Site reservability differs: Some parks require advance planning while others offer first-come options. Kelly mentions Yellow Banks: "Close to home, can usually get site without reservation, IF you roll in on Wed. By Thurs night, it's full. Few reservables, 90% i'd say are first come."
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek play areas: Children enjoy water features at several campgrounds. Kimberly W. shared about Thomas Mitchell: "Perfect weather last weekend and loved the little creek to splash around in with the dogs. Loads of rock stairways to enter and exit the creek throughout the park."
Consider lakeside recreation: Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground offers multiple water activities. Jennifer M. notes, "This is one of my favorite places to go! They have a beautiful lake and a beach. The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature! They have rentals for paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, etc, for a decent price!"
Plan for campground noise levels: Some campgrounds experience higher noise levels, especially on weekends. Larissa C. mentions Lake Ahquabi: "Unfortunately, we felt like we were literally on top of surrounding campers. The campsites are all extremely packed in together, so you can really feel a part of other people's conversations and activities."
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads enhance setup ease: Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground provides solid foundations. Wendy H. shares: "We stayed at spot 20 which was extra wide, concrete pad with electric hook up. No water or sewer. Spot 20 is at the end which makes it very private with nice large grassy area adjacent to wooded area."
Check full hookup availability: Not all parks offer complete utility connections. Anthony W. notes about Griffs Valley View: "Concrete pads with full hook ups (30/50 amp, water and sewage) make setting up quick," while Tom D. reports about Walnut Woods: "Awesome site for campers. Very nice pass with table and fire pit. Utilities were top notch!"
Consider proximity to events and attractions: State Fairgrounds camping provides event access. Matt S. notes: "This is not your typical campground. The Fair generally begins the second Thursday in August and runs 11 days," offering a unique camping option during special events.
