Cedar Rapids' camping options sit within the region's humid continental climate zone at approximately 800 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer highs averaging in the mid-80s and winter lows dipping below 20°F. Most campgrounds near Cedar Rapids remain open from April through October, with a few offering year-round access despite Iowa's cold winters.
What to do
Explore Lake Macbride State Park: The park features multiple hiking trails and swimming areas. "This is a real family oriented campground. Although it is a primitive campground, it allows for fishing, boating and a playground," notes one camper at Lake Macbride State Park.
Visit the Amana Colonies: Located just a short drive from several campgrounds, the historic Amana Colonies offer cultural attractions. "Great place, 1 mile from Amana. Our second stay here, from Louisiana. Good food in Amana. Really nice folks, ground squirrels too," reports a visitor at Amana RV Park.
Hike around F.W. Kent Park: The park provides approximately two miles of trails around its lake. "There is about a two mile trail circumventing the entire lake. I was there in early October so the weather was too chilly to use the nice beach," shares a camper at F.W. Kent Park.
What campers like
Level, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-maintained camping areas. "Sites are level on a gravel pad with a grass yard," mentions a camper at Sugar Bottom, while another notes, "Very wide open, sites adjacent to one another. Utilities all worked fine, decently maintained."
Clean facilities: Shower houses and restrooms receive positive reviews at multiple locations. "The bathrooms and showers were very clean, and everyone was extremely friendly," states a tent camper at Amana RV Park & Event Center.
Natural surroundings: Despite being close to urban areas, many campgrounds maintain natural features. "Beautiful park with lots to do! Only thing keeping me from giving it 5 stars is how busy both campgrounds get on weekends and holidays giving you little to no privacy since sites are pretty close together," explains a visitor to Lake Macbride.
What you should know
Highway noise varies by location: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to major highways. "Near the highway but road noise is minimal," reports a camper at Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres, while another notes at a different location, "Very standard rv spots feet from the highway."
Weather considerations: Spring and fall camping comes with specific conditions. "The roads and pads are gravel so I could see it becoming an issue during weather but we didn't have much trouble leveling," explains one Amana RV Park visitor.
Tent options limited at some RV parks: Several RV campgrounds Cedar Rapids, Iowa offers limited tent camping areas. "This is an RV park with tent sites on the lawn around the perimeter. A bit of a walk to the bathroom and showers, but the sites were level with short grass," reports a tent camper.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer activities specifically for children. "Great owners, loads of stuff for kids (putt putt, paddle boats, horseshoes, basketball, Gaga, trampoline, playground)," writes a visitor at Beyonder Getaway.
Check playground conditions: Playgrounds vary in quality and maintenance. "There was a kid's playground with swingset and teeter-totters that had definitely seen better days," notes one camper, while another mentions, "We appreciated the small playground near the north campground."
Plan for wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy watching local wildlife. "Beautiful place... saw wild turkeys and deer almost every day walking the camp grounds," shares a visitor at Lake Macbride State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site surface varies: Most RV campgrounds Cedar Rapids area offers have either gravel or grass surfaces. "Little Bear Campground is located right off I-80 at the West Liberty exit. It had full hook ups with a fire ring and picnic table. The spot was good sized and clean," explains an RVer at Little Bear Campground.
Check maximum rig length: While many parks accommodate large RVs, site dimensions vary. "Great place for RVs and anybody who has a setup that doesn't rely on shaded areas," notes a camper at Amana RV Park, while another mentions, "The sites for RV/5th Wheelers are small rock/gravel."
Seasonal availability varies: Some RV parks operate on limited schedules. "One of the few places around Cedar Rapids that is open in winter. $35/night. Management is pleasant," reports a visitor at Sudbury Court Motel & RV Park, providing a winter camping option.
