Castana sits within Iowa's western Loess Hills region, a unique landform of wind-deposited silt that creates distinctive ridged topography. The area contains some of the thickest loess deposits in North America, reaching heights of 200 feet above the Missouri River floodplain. Winter camping near Castana requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below zero, while summer brings heat indexes regularly exceeding 90°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Loess Hills provide habitat for numerous species including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and foxes. At Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, visitors can experience diverse wildlife around Blue Lake. "It has a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark and their travels around the area," notes Timothy S.
Fishing access: Multiple water bodies offer fishing near Castana, with Blue Lake being the most accessible. "This place has great fishing and is very well maintained not to mention that they have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago," reports Katie S.
Hiking trails: The region's unique loess topography creates distinctive trail experiences. At Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, "the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America," according to Christopher S., who adds that hiking "through the hilled prairie trail which is the first right as you enter from the Eastside Boundary, and you'll know why you came."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept shower and restroom facilities. At Huff - Warner Access Area, campers appreciate the maintenance level. "Clean and mostly well-kept campground. Much nicer than I had expected," writes Tammy F., noting that "the bathroom/shower combination rooms in the bathhouse were clean and in good repair."
Family-friendly playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready or preparing a line to throw in the water," shares N K. about Lewis and Clark State Park.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Dog friendly campgrounds near Castana typically have designated pet areas. On-Ur-Wa RV Park offers "a small dog park for the pups," according to Maggie C., making it convenient for pet owners needing exercise space for their dogs.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds operate on restricted schedules. On-Ur-Wa RV Park and Onawa-Blue Lake KOA typically run from mid-April through mid-October, limiting winter camping options.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have water issues visitors should prepare for. At Huff-Warner, "the water, while potable (so we were told), has a very, very strong iron/metallic taste. To the point that, for us, it was undrinkable," reports Tammy F.
Insect populations: Proximity to water means bugs can be problematic. "You're camping by a river (i.e., water), so there are many, many flying insects. Be sure to have insect repellent, as they are merciless," warns one camper at Huff-Warner Access Area.
Variable site spacing: Site proximity differs significantly between campgrounds. Woodbury County Park Southwood Conservation Area offers more private camping with "nice quiet park" characteristics according to Josh G., while other locations feature more crowded layouts.
Tips for camping with families
Movie nights: Some campgrounds offer scheduled entertainment. Peters Park hosts "movie nights for kids on Fri and Sat," according to Adam's review, providing evening activities after a day outdoors.
Playground proximity: When booking with children, select sites near play areas. Lewis and Clark State Park features "a pretty big playground near all the sites" and hosts special events like "a little trick or treat night" in October, according to Morgan K.
Educational opportunities: The Lewis and Clark replica keelboat provides learning experiences for children. "They will also occasionally take it out and give rides. They also have a history museum to accompany the boat," notes Katie S., creating hands-on history lessons during your stay.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: Sunset at Blue Oasis RV Park accommodates larger rigs with minimal hassle. "The gravel site we were on fit our 40 ft fifth wheel without a problem but was slightly off level," reports Toni S., indicating good access for big rigs.
Full hookup pricing: Expect to pay around $20-45 for sites with full hookups in the Castana area. "Oh my the rate was 19.00 for full 50 amp hookup. Beautiful state park in the water nice level sites paved. Fire rings and tables," shares Kathy F. about Lewis and Clark State Park.
Leveling requirements: Come prepared with leveling blocks as some sites require adjustment. On-Ur-Wa provides "very nice campground, large spacious pull thru sites," according to Maureen A., though site levelness varies throughout the region.
