George Wyth State Park Campground is situated on the Cedar River near Waterloo, Iowa, at an elevation of 850 feet. The park connects to over 100 miles of paved recreational trails through the Cedar Falls and Waterloo metropolitan area. Campsites at nearby parks typically close for winter between October 31 and April 1, though some offer year-round access with limited amenities during cold months.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing: George Wyth State Park Campground offers multiple lakes for water activities during summer months. Reviewer Steve R. notes, "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."
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. At Airport Lake Park Campground, campers appreciate the accessible water features with one reviewer stating, "Exceptionally clean. New bathroom/shower house. Water electric at each site. Dump station on site. Nice swimming beach and many fishing jetties."
Off-leash dog areas: Pinicon Ridge Park offers dedicated areas for pets. "The trail through the campground takes you across the river where you can find canoe and paddle boat rentals, and our favorite an off-leash dog area," mentions Brandon T., who stayed at the park.
Hiking trails: Many parks feature maintained trail systems. The 8-mile loop around Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area provides moderate terrain. According to Mitch C., "There is a nice hiking trail around the lake, about 8 miles complete loop. There is a bit of elevation change and not many opportunities to 'bail out' so take water and pace yourself."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds feature well-designed sites that offer privacy. At Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground, tent sites are arranged with natural barriers. Ann B. describes, "The tent sites are very nice and private. There are waist high prairie flowers between the sites to provide privacy and beauty."
Modern shower facilities: Several parks have updated their bathing facilities. At Pinicon Ridge Park, campers appreciate the quality amenities. "Clean shower house with storm shelter. Mixed sun and shade with generous grassy sites, fire pit and picnic table," reports David S., highlighting the amenities at The Plains camping area.
Fishing opportunities: Most parks offer shore fishing access and boat launches. At Bremer County Park Cedar Bend Park, visitors enjoy riverside fishing spots. Chantal C. shares, "The trails and hiking was the best part though. We went for hours with our dogs and had so much fun. Some right along the river, some grassy and along fields, others ran through the woods."
Playgrounds for children: Family-friendly campgrounds feature play areas for younger campers. Chelsea D. from Pinicon Ridge Park writes, "They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages, and they used a rubber composite on the ground at the playground so when kiddos fall, they aren't injured."
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience closure due to high water. At George Wyth State Park, Jennifer T. warns, "Because it is so close to river anytime it rains heavily there is flooding in several areas of the park. And almost every year (usually late summer, early fall) it rains enough to flood a good portion of the park."
Limited availability on weekends: Most glamping accommodations near Evansdale require advance booking, particularly during peak season. At Morgan Creek County Park, Terry M. notes, "Beautiful facilities. Pleasant camp hosts. The only problem is it's first come first serve. Hard to get a site."
Highway noise at some locations: Urban-adjacent parks may experience traffic sounds. Julie W. mentions about George Wyth, "bathrooms were clean and nice park but alot of highway noise," reflecting its proximity to major roads.
Two-vehicle restrictions: Some parks limit parking at campsites. David J. from Pleasant Creek explains, "The Ranger Man enforced a 2 car per campsite rule. He forced 3 over 65 couples to drive to a parking lots and I shuttled them back and forth."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming options: Several glamping spots near Evansdale offer safe water access for children. At Airport Lake Park, Dustin B. shares, "The playground and lake was also fun for the kids too," making it suitable for family outings.
Group camping circles: For family reunions, consider parks with flexible site arrangements. At Delaware County Coffins Grove Park, Elizabeth K. explains, "No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion). Newer playground that my kids love, sand so that's an extra play optional."
Educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs for children. At Pinicon Ridge Park, facilities include nature displays and seasonal activities for young campers, plus diverse playground equipment suitable for different age groups.
Proximity to attractions: When glamping near Evansdale with children, consider day trips to local sites. Heidi H. recommends, "it is close to the free John Deere Museum, and the Cedar Valley Arboretum," which provide family-friendly alternatives during rainy days.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup details: Most campgrounds offer 30-amp service, with some providing 50-amp options. At Bailey Ford Delaware County Park, full hookups are available for longer stays with sewer connections.
Level site availability: RVers should note terrain variations between parks. At Pinicon Ridge Park, Clint G. reports, "The site was a level rock pad which was very spacious with a fire ring and picnic table," indicating good conditions for larger units.
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds provide sanitary facilities at entrances or exits. At Airport Lake Park, Paul W. mentions, "Camper spots were huge with plenty of space between sites. Fire ring was on a cement slab," highlighting the practical layout.
Water access: Water connections vary by campground. Steve R. notes about George Wyth, "All sites have 50 amp service and the water provided is from the city of Waterloo. There is an onsite dump station," providing reliable utilities for extended stays.
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