Best RV Parks & Resorts near Carlisle, IA

Recent RV Reviews near Carlisle, Iowa

439 Reviews of 81 Carlisle Campgrounds

• 

  Jill R.

  Ranger

  

  Jul. 18, 2016

  Iowa State Fairgrounds

  Full hookups! And close to any events!

  It's no surprise that the fair grounds always have some sort of event going on throughout the year, my family and I stay in this campground a few times a year to hit up multiple days for certain events. The site is pretty standard, but it has full RV hook ups, and always seems to be full of happy and friendly people. Plus it's location is so close to the fair grounds, it's better and far more affordable than any hotel

• 

  Penny H.

  Traveler

  

  Oct. 6, 2021

  Riverview Park Campground

  Riverview Campground

  Site are level. Full hook up for reason price. Has electric and water sites, too. Bugs are bad this time of the year.

• B

  Billy K.

  Scout

  

  Sep. 4, 2018

  Swede Point Park

  Hidden Gem

  Small county park with clean showers and restrooms. Several short trails, mile mile and a half maybe. Tent camping is always available (literally - was just there over Labor day weekend and had no trouble getting a spot on Saturday), with maybe 20 electric sites, no reservations. New this year is firewood for purchase. Not far from the famous High Trestle Trail for you bicycle enthusiasts! My wife and I teardrop trailer camp here as often as we can.

• M

  Mia L.

  Guide

  

  Jul. 9, 2019

  Des Moines West KOA Holiday

  Well run, lots of activities

  Spots kind of level, lots of choices of pull thru or buddy sites. Decent playground, water pillow for bouncing, fishing pond, dog park, swimming pool. Well maintained, lots of planned activities. KOA, so not a lot of nature. But no traffic or train noise. Full hook ups, including TV.

• D

  Dave M.

  Guide

  

  Aug. 28, 2021

  Winterset City Park

  Nice Campground

  This is a city campground on the outskirts of town that does not feel that way. It sits right next to a park. White rock roads and pads. It has some full hook up sites as well as water and electric sites. Overall a nice place to say.

• M

  Mia L.

  Guide

  

  Jul. 9, 2019

  Timberline Campground

  Ok

  Some full hook ups, sites not very level, playground ok. Can hear shots from gun range next door. Dog park, pool, arcade. We have camped here a couple times, and stored our rig here for a while. Didn't find there was that much going on here to keep us busy. Not a lot of nature, no trails or biking accessible from campground.

• 

  Vita M.

  Scout

  

  Jul. 25, 2021

  Lakeside Casino RV Park

  No frills clean campground

  All the spaces are pulled through. It is very clean. There is full hook up for water, electric and sewer. All spaces are paved. There are picnic tables scattered throughout the park. If you are here to gamble, you will love it. If you are here to rest, you will love it. My wife and I feel safe in this park. I am in a wheelchair and this park allows me to move around freely.

• 

  Whitney S.

  Guide

  

  Apr. 15, 2022

  Griffs Valley View RV Park

  Multi-use facility

  I came here once for a baby shower and then check the place out for RV camping you can stay year round you can stay for a week a month or a day and they have full hookup propane they have so many interesting things there.

• 

  Daniel B.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 25, 2016

  Walnut Woods State Park Campground

  huge park, nice, clean, and great location for so many activities

  the land they have is substantial. There's a boat camp, a bird watching area, a playground, plany of park space with picnic tables and BBQ pits, hiking and biking trails, and even a lodge that I assume can be rented for events. There are roughly 25 campsites, and I recommend a reservation ahead of time. I camped on a Monday in late July and there were only 4 sites not reserved when I arrived. There are electrical and full hook up options. If you just car camp and don't need electric, unfortunately there is no lower price for tent-only camping. Translation: tent campers pay electric hook up prices. Enjoy charging your phone? If you have a dog, walking the grounds would be a good time. There's a lot to check out here and with the bike trails, bringing a bike to check out the area and surrounding lakes could be fun.

• A

  Anthony W.

  Guide

  

  Apr. 3, 2022

  Adventureland Campground

  Parking more than camping

  I stayed at Adventureland for the summer months and had no issues. The staff was very helpful, plenty of laundry/restrooms throughout the campground and pretty clean overall. Concrete pads with full hook ups (30/50 amp, water and sewage) make setting up quick. Tent camping is an option in the back of the campground. Nature is not really the draw of this campground, convenience is more the approach. With a theme park on one side and a casino on the other, both in walking distance. It’s more of a park and party place hahaha

• T

  Tom D.

  Traveler

  

  Nov. 20, 2020

  Lakeside Casino RV Park

  Good stop on the road

  If you are looking for a nice clean RV park on the road this is your place, if you are an outdoor enthusiasts looking for you adventure not for you. We stayed over night on our way down south. Very convenient off the free way. Good hookups and level pad. Photos are in fall almost winter so no leaves or green grass, not parks fault.

• 

  Elisha L.

  Guide

  

  Nov. 11, 2020

  Kellogg RV Park

  Nice spot for a day or 2

  We have a last minute change in plans so needed a place to stay for a couple of nights. 

  Level sites with full hookups

  Plenty of space to walk the dog

  Right next to a gas station with great burgers and tenderloins! 

  It was cold and windy so we didn't get out much to explore. It is right next to the interstate for easy on and off and it's very quiet.

• 

  Stuart K.

  Legend

  

  Jan. 1, 2024

  Kellogg RV Park

  Barren Campground Gem Just Off Highway

  I like this place, I really do. It certainly packs a punch with all of the amenities that Kellogg RV Park offers up, not least of which is partnering up with apparently the best burger joint in the whole of Iowa. Burgers and camping? Can it get any better? Well, while this location gets extra points for achieving EZ on- and off-again I80 highway access, that likely is also its downside, as you are so close to arguably the busiest of all thoroughfares here in the state of Iowa that it makes you wonder if you are really getting away from it all or just taking a quick pitstop. 

  As for the grounds themselves, they are very well organized and nearly everything on this property is either brand-spanking new or has a nice degree of ‘kitsch’ that just feels right where you are at in the middle of the Midwest. There’s a well-appointed separate laundry location on the NE corner of RV Park, with a community shower/ bathroom facility smack-dab in the middle of the place, making it central and convenient to get refreshed. There’s a simple little loop that will jog you around the place, where in all there’s some 38 spots perfectly carved out for RVs or 5th Wheelers. While the map for Kellogg RV Park indicates a playground behind the laundry, if it was there to begin with, it has been replaced by a chicken coop, which I have to admit is pretty dang awesome to be woken up by these fine-feathered friends each dawn. Plus, um, there’s fresh eggs for your brunch munching pleasure! 

  With amenities in mind, each pull-thru, gravel-strewn site (all 18’ wide with lengths ranging from 65’ to 85’) comes equipped with all of the typical hook-ups (20 / 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) along with plenty of in-ground fire rings, stand-up BBQ grills and plenty of brand new picnic tables along with complimentary WiFi. There’s solar panels on the for southwest corner of the campground, which sadly eliminates the vibe that you are out in nature. If there was just one bit of advice I would give this place it’s this(and it’s quite simple): plant some trees! That’s the one thing I noticed that felt incredibly weird… there’s just a few trees in this whole place. Granted, it is somewhat surrounded by corn fields, but here’s a hint: After mid-September when all that corn is harvested, the place feels like a barren desert, so how you compensate for that is by planting trees, shrubs, bush or anything that would make this place feel like it was planted in nature versus carved out of a watershed. 

  While the main office is up front where you would have seen that Iowa’s Best Burger Café sign, where there’s also an Amoco gas station along with a convenience market that has limited groceries and supplies. Bonus points to Kellogg RV Park for having an F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site, so while your RV might blow away, no worries, you and those you hold most precious will be protected in the event of a tornado, which is important because this state gets hit by them all the time. They’ll also sell you a bundle of firewood for$6 / bundle, which is fair, especially considering that they’ll deliver the bundles directly to your site. 

  Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best sites are those located as far east and north as possible (yes, right near the laundry facilities and chicken coop). Why? Well, because they will be furthest away from I80, so less noise, plus they are on the periphery, so this offers up better views of corn country, and additionally, more tranquility. Plus the shower / restroom facilities are centrally located, so not too far away; (2) If you are looking to get buzzed while out here at Kellogg RV Park, you are in luck as just nearby there’s Grinnell Craft Brewhouse, Buzzed Bee Meadery as well as Van Wijk Winery – all of which are absolutely worth the visit!; (3) Should your foodie vibes need to be tamed while here, head on over to nearby Maytag Blue Cheese for a slice or slab or head on over to Dayton Meat Products, which not only processes meat in case you are out and about with a bow & arrow, but will serve up some pretty outrageously awesome sausages, loins and particular cuts of meats that you just can’t find anywhere nearby. Oh, and if farmer’s markets are your thing, then check out nearby Grinnell Farmers Market or Jasper County Farmer’s Market – both just 10 minutes from here; and (4) Once you grow tired of pillaging your on-board mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler and are looking for some local fare, I will have to admit that Iowa’s Best Burger Café does live up to its boast – and while I didn’t have another burger while I was in the ‘Hawkeye State’ I do make it my business to check stuff out when I see ‘Best’ noted anywhere and there’s reasonable proof behind this claim here, so give the good folks here the better side of your discerning tastes and try them out. Oh, and there’s that little thing that there’s not too much competition in these parts, so unless you are up for a good drive, the only other joint is RJ’s Bar& Grill, which trust me, is much more Bar than Grill. 

  Happy Camping!

• 

  Matt S.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 14, 2016

  Iowa State Fairgrounds

  The Iowa State Fair - The BEST in the World!

  The Iowa State Fair is the best fair in the world with more than a million visitors every year! There is something for everyone in the family. The campground is really built for RV and Camper Trailers, personally I would not pitch a tent there. It has two large shower houses and flush toilets. It is contained inside the Iowa State Fairgrounds. This is an amazing event that showcases the best of Iowa agriculture and is fun for the family. This is not your typical campground. The Fair generally begins the second Thursday in August and runs 11 days. Enjoy the fun!

• 

  Willy W.

  Ranger

  

  Jun. 1, 2020

  Kellogg RV Park

  Best little RV park

  Kellogg RV Park

  This is a little fun RV park right off the interstate. It doesn’t have much but it’s a nice place to take a break.

  There is a gas/burger station right infringement of the RV park. You can get supplies and make your reservation there.

  It’s pretty quiet there, there is a cool antique farm tractor and old gas station across the street to look at. There is also a small garden to hang out in and relax.

  Overall if you are looking for a quick little place to stay in your RV this is it.

• 

  Matt S.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 20, 2017

  Walnut Woods State Park Campground

  Walnut Woods campground is small but the park is beautiful

  This is a beautiful State Park on the southwest side of the Des Moines metro. It is hidden from most of suburbia but very close to shopping, movies, restaurants, and the Des Moines night life.

  It is also a perfect place to escape all of those things and enjoy the huge walnut trees, green grass, and trails.

  The campground is clean but it is very small with very few amenities. Most of the campers had small RVs or camper trailers, but there were a few tents. This would be rated higher if it had larger facilities.

  All in all, this is a nice park to get away from the suburbs or enjoy them. It's up to you.

• C

  Carrie S.

  Traveler

  

  Oct. 13, 2019

  Kellogg RV Park

  1 night

  Open year around. Nice large sites and no need to unhook. Clean rv park with easy access to 1-80.

• 

  Willy W.

  Ranger

  

  May. 31, 2020

  Newton KOA

  KOA is OK

  Newton KOA

  This is the primary location for camping in Newton. It’s right off interstate I-80 and is very close to the Iowa Speedway.

  There are places to go tent camping but it’s primarily setup for rvs. The tent camping spots have a picnic table and fire pit.

  The RV sports are pretty nice, most have the usual hookups. This place can get pretty busy when there is a race going on.

  There is a creek in the back and some pretty easy hiking trails to explore. There is a fish cleaning station near the creek. They do also have a pond with bass and bluegill. They also have a pool by the office but it’s currently being painted.

  Overall this is a pretty nice KOA and it’s very clean and maintained. You can hear the interstate but you get used to it.

• D

  Darren G.

  Scout

  

  Aug. 8, 2021

  Kellogg RV Park

  Good One Night Stay

  This RV park is right off the interstate but far enough you won’t hear the noise. I can’t tell you if they are actually Iowa’s best burger because this is the only burger I’ve had in Iowa.

  Nice people, everything is clean. Spots are pull thru. No issues at all.

  It’s a one night because unless you’re in the area for something there isn’t much to see if do

  Would stay here again

• 

  Renee H.

  Ranger

  

  Oct. 31, 2023

  Lakeside Casino RV Park

  Decent place to spend the night

  RV park is relatively quiet and easy to get into. The concrete in our site was in poor condition, it had crumbled leaving a dip in the pad. The cable didn’t work, but electric and water had no issues. Easy on and off to the interstate. There is only one garbage dumpster near the entrance and we didn’t see a camp host on site or anybody to check in with. We stayed just one night on our way through the area and were comfortable.

• M

  Mia L.

  Guide

  

  Jul. 8, 2019

  Pammel County Park

  Decent trip

  Site 30.

  We couldn't find many spots for the busy holiday but this park had a few. Very helpful host. Fun splashing in the river catching minnows by hand. Pretty park. Easy turns with the trailer. The RV spots were a mixed bag. Some shady (higher numbers), some full sun. Playground was skimpy. If you are over 12 ft, make sure and take the detour around the tunnel.

  There are water hook ups, I just had to use 75 feet of hose to get to it. And the electric I had to use a 30 ft extension cord. Funny, I didn't have either and had to drive 24 miles to Walmart on a holiday to get them. I do think site 30 was probably the worst from what I saw. Wish that when I called to ask about the sites the county office would have mentioned some sites the hook ups are super far away. The sites have a little concrete pad which makes it easier to level.

• 

  Jo E.

  Traveler

  

  Jul. 11, 2018

  Griffs Valley View RV Park

  Very nice, well maintained

  This is likely the nicest rv park I have seen. No facilities (pool, playground) for kids. There is a nice pond with water fountain. Lovely landscaping and sculptures throughout park. Sites are spacious with great grass areas for each. Some shaded sites available. Spent the winter here, they are very good at keeping snow and ice under control. Bathrooms are immaculate. Large community center, gym, and laundry facilities on site.

• C

  Chuck G.

  Scout

  

  Oct. 4, 2021

  Newton KOA

  A Must Stay! An Oasis? Yup!!

  New Escapod owners! We’ve done the state parks and are winging back to PA. Saw Newton KOA made the call and it was perfect. Don’t let the “ industrial park”reference put you off. You drive past it down into an oasis of green, clean and friendly hosts! It’s October so busy but not summer, office staff was waiting for us at 6:40 PM ALL SMILES!! They parked us on a level site with water and electric about a 5 minute walk to sparkling clean bathrooms and showers. Grounds were well kept , people were friendly and it’s a must stay again on our way out west next season

• 

  Willy W.

  Ranger

  

  May. 31, 2020

  Adventureland Campground

  It’s an adventure.

  This is a great spot if you plan on staying in the area and want to go to Adventure Land or Prairie Meadows. There are lots of restaurants near by like Spectators and Jethro’s BBQ.

  As far as the RV park goes it’s pretty busy, mostly small families and older folks. The lots aren’t very big and you are kind of packed in there. They have a swimming pool and a fishing pond. The office also has a little store to buy goods.

  They do have a small area to tent camp in. I probably would stick go rv though. There are also comfort stations lol for showers and bathrooms.

  They do also sell firewood and during July 4th Adventure land puts on a really great fireworks show.

• A

  Anthony B.

  Guide

  

  Apr. 23, 2023

  Prairie Ridge Camping

  Good overnight

  This appears to be a new campground with full hookups and drive thru’s. Well leveled gravel. Good scenery. No evidence of out buildings, showers etc. Very quiet.

• C

  Camden O.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 28, 2018

  Roberts Creek West Campground

  Where's the lake? Over the highway and through the woods

  Unfortunately there's no lake view, but there's full hookups and a good mix of tent and RV sites. Be careful of low lying trees for taller campers.

• G

  GP

  Guide

  

  Sep. 26, 2022

  Timberline Campground

  Beautiful forested overnight stay

  We called ahead to see if they had sites available that night. Arrived just before the office closed at 7pm. They were ready for us and escorted us to our pull-through full-hookups site near the front of the campground. This is a huge property but laid out in different sections that each have their own flavor. The pull-throughs near the front are level, gravel pads with grass all around. Other areas are forested and some are hilly. Full-hookups worked fine. We stayed in site 121, which faces an open grassy area backed by a little forest that echoed with beautiful wildlife sounds in the evening. There are no campground lights except at the restrooms, so it’s great for stargazing! The restrooms were good.