While equestrian facilities are limited near Cedar Falls, Iowa, several campgrounds offer outdoor recreational options within driving distance. Cedar Falls sits in the Cedar Valley region with rolling hills and river corridors connecting various state and county parks. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Riverside fishing: At Camp Comfort Recreation Area, campers can fish directly from the shoreline. "The river is off a smaller dam and has great fishing. Kids had a great time playing in the water, our site was about 20 ft from the waters edge," notes Chantal C.
Biking trail access: The Cedar Valley offers extensive paved trail systems connecting multiple parks. At Black Hawk County Park, Jeff A. mentions it's "Right on the bike trail.. Hot showers.. Good place to camp..." Travis R. adds there's "plenty of fishing access archery gun range. Boat access."
Water recreation: The Cedar River and multiple lakes provide kayaking and canoeing opportunities. At George Wyth State Park, Steve R. explains, "They rent kayaks & canoes. The campground is located along the Cedar river, for those who want to boat and fish on a river, as well as multiple lakes to fish and a lake to ski."
What campers like
Multi-use trail networks: The interconnected trails near Cedar Falls allow for extended trips between parks. "If you are a biker there is a wonderful bike path. It will take you all the way through Cedar Falls and Waterloo you could bike all day long," reports Stephanie J. about George Wyth State Park.
Peaceful wooded sites: Most area campgrounds feature mature tree coverage. Edward B. describes South Lake Campground as having "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available."
Affordable rates: Iowa state parks offer economical camping options. Mary S. points out, "Iowa state parks are a bargain! This one is $11 for a non-electric site, $16 for an electric site. Rates go down to $6 and $11 from 10/1-4/30. There is no separate park entry fee."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding: Many Cedar Valley campgrounds experience periodic flooding. Jennifer T. warns about George Wyth State Park: "Because it is so close to river anytime it rains heavily there is flooding in several areas of the park. And almost every year it rains enough to flood a good portion of the park."
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds balance accessibility with ambient noise. Heidi H. explains, "This is a clean and well kept campground. There are great paved trails, and it is close to the free John Deere Museum, and the Cedar Valley Arboretum."
Variable shower facilities: Bathroom quality varies between parks. Mary S. notes about push-button showers: "Just keep pushing that button and hopefully you'll be okay with the temperature that you can't control!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Backbone State Park offers family-friendly amenities throughout its campgrounds. Rachel H. shares, "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park. The campsites were simple to access and the grounds were easy to navigate."
Swimming options: Several parks offer designated swimming areas during summer months. Melanie Jo L. describes Backbone State Park as having a "Great scenery and views! Fun trails, great beach, lighthouse, boat docks, cabins, caves, and much more."
Group camping locations: Area campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. Emma N. reports, "Have camped here twice with large groups (12-25 people) of college age friends. Was a great time with plenty to keep everyone interested."
Tips from RVers
Electric service levels: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups with varying amperage. At South Lake Campground, Edward B. notes the availability of "30/50 power" but warns there are "no full hook ups."
Water fill-up protocol: Since full hookups are limited, RVers should plan accordingly. At South Lake Campground, campers "must fill water tanks before parking" according to Edward B.
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. Julie W. mentions Black Hawk County Park is her "favorite place to camp" with "always plenty to do," making it suitable for families with RVs seeking activities.
