RV parks near Chariton, Iowa provide a gateway to rural camping in the south-central region of the state. Located in Lucas County with elevations averaging around 1,000 feet above sea level, this agricultural area features rolling hills and moderate summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. The camping season generally runs from April through October, with some facilities maintaining year-round operations for winter travelers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Hickory Hills Park offers access to stocked ponds where visitors can catch various species. As one camper noted, "This is a great little park just east of New Virginia, Iowa... The hiking trails are pretty easy going through the forest and then opening up next to old Native American burial mounds."
Historical exploration: Visit the effigy mounds at Hickory Hills Park to experience archaeological sites. A visitor mentioned, "It is also known locally for its effigy mounds where native american artifact were buried. This is a great place if you like peace and quiet and local hiking trails."
Cycling access: The Chichaqua Valley Trail runs near several campgrounds in the region, providing 25 miles of paved trail. A guest at Griffs Valley View RV Park shared that the "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently praise the maintenance standards at area campgrounds. One camper at River Oaks RV Park commented, "Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site."
Quiet atmosphere: Many RV parks near Chariton maintain peaceful environments away from urban noise. A guest at Ted's RV Park appreciated the "Terrific small town RV park in Iowa. Long, level pull thru's and back ins, playground, dog walk, DELICIOUS on site restaurant."
Recreation amenities: Several campgrounds feature on-site recreational options. About Griffs Valley View RV Park, a visitor mentioned, "There is a really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean."
What you should know
Water access varies: Some parks have limited water recreation. At Honey Creek Resort, "The beach is just outside the hotel and has a huge water park which is a lot of fun to play on. They also have a really nice indoor water park with a slide."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. One visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park reported, "The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September. Good thing we got through because they found us a site for the night."
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality fluctuates between facilities. A camper at River Oaks RV Park noted, "Free WiFi was good; we streamed tv. It did freeze a few times but hard to tell if it was the WiFi or the provider."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor options for rainy days: Some resorts provide indoor recreation. A visitor to Honey Creek Resort shared, "When we were there it rained for an entire day so that was very handy. Snackbar that serves booze."
Age-appropriate water features: Water parks at certain locations cater to specific age groups. A visitor explained Honey Creek Resort's facilities are "Probably geared to the 4-10 crowd. Only one bigger slide, lazy river, hot tub, pool with some balance platforms and a rope and a basketball hoop."
Playground availability: Check for kid-friendly areas before booking. A camper at Lakeside Casino RV Park mentioned it's good for certain travelers: "If you are looking for a nice clean RV park on the road this is your place, if you are an outdoor enthusiasts looking for you adventure not for you."
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Some parks offer better access for those with mobility limitations. A Lakeside Casino RV Park visitor shared, "My wife and I feel safe in this park. I am in a wheelchair and this park allows me to move around freely."
Site conditions: Check concrete pad quality before setup. One RVer at Lakeside Casino RV Park noted, "The concrete in our site was in poor condition, it had crumbled leaving a dip in the pad. The cable didn't work, but electric and water had no issues."
Space between sites: Site spacing varies significantly between parks. A camper at Griffs Valley View RV Park observed, "Nice pads to ark on, however you are right on top of your neighbor. There is no WII-Fii so bring your own."