Cedar Falls, Iowa camping options extend beyond the city limits, with locations ranging from river access points to lake-oriented facilities. The camping season typically runs May through October, though several campgrounds remain accessible year-round. Most campsites near Cedar Falls are situated within a 30-minute drive, providing convenient access to both natural settings and urban amenities.
What to do
Kayaking and paddleboarding on calm waters: Big Woods Lake Recreation Area provides excellent paddling opportunities with boat ramps and kayak launch spots. "A few nature trails, but nothing I would call hiking. Two vault toilets placed on the bike path... Two ramps for boats and two spots for kayaks or canoes. Nice paddling and usually pretty easy going," notes one visitor to Big Woods Lake.
Swimming at designated beaches: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during summer months. "There is a sand beach to swim, where they also 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," shares a camper at George Wyth State Park Campground.
Exploring extensive bike trail networks: The Cedar Valley Trail system connects multiple parks and camping areas. "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. Nice little cozy places to enjoy lunch along the bike trail," explains a visitor about George Wyth State Park.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Most campgrounds receive positive reviews for their upkeep. "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," mentions a camper at George Wyth State Park.
Waterfront camping options: Sites along rivers and lakes remain popular. At Cedar Bend Park, "There was a giant wood pile where you could grab wood for a donation in the box and a wheelbarrow was provided to use which was quite convenient. The trails and hiking was the best part though. We went for hours with our dogs and had so much fun."
Access to water recreation: Fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities enhance the camping experience. At Grundy County Lake and Campground, visitors appreciate the lake access, though note it's "a little walk or drive from camp ground."
What you should know
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Several campgrounds lack mature trees. "I was always hesitant to camp here with it being new with no mature trees. Surprisingly with it's location in relation to Hwy 20, it's actually pretty quiet," reports a camper at Grundy County Lake.
Highway noise affects some locations: Road noise impacts certain campgrounds. "It was kind of loud, but it was busy. The lake for swimming was a little gross but we did it anyway. The bike trails are excellent and same for hiking," explains a visitor to George Wyth State Park.
Seasonal mosquito populations: Insects can be prevalent, especially near water. "I'm not giving it a 5 star rating for two reasons: one there are a lot of mosquitoes (I get that it is their home), and two the showers are the type that don't allow you to mix your own water temperature," notes a camper at George Wyth State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA offers extensive family amenities. "Decent sites with full hook ups. Little shade with small trees next to about each site. Gas, propane, laundry room, beach area, small boat rentals, good sized convenience store with ice, beer, snacks, milkshake machine, etc. Enough to do for a day or two without going to the water park."
Water activities for children: Several campgrounds feature beaches and swimming areas. "There is a small beach at Wyth Lake," notes a visitor to George Wyth State Park, adding that the park offers "kayaks, canoes or pedal boats" for rent near the campground.
Camping near attractions: Consider proximity to local points of interest. "If you're looking for a wooded campground that offers you both quiet sites to relax but also offers a variety of activities for all ages, this is the place for you," shares a camper about George Wyth State Park, mentioning its "large sand playground area with slides and swings."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of privacy and space. At Siggelkov County Park, "Sigglekow Campground in Black Hawk County Iowa is one of a kind! Quite and secluded, if that's what you're looking for. To get out and decompress it's a great spot. Has electric sites and also places to tent camp right on the Wapsi River."
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups, though water and sewer access varies. "We had the RV and used the electric hookup. We found that it was quite a peaceful campground when we went," reports a visitor to Cedar Bend Park.
Payment methods: Some facilities require cash payment. At Deerwood Park, "Good place to camp. Seems safe and friendly. Only down side is that it's cash only. Who carries cash these days?!"
