Camping options near Clarion, Iowa include several established sites within a 35-mile radius. The region features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 1,150 to 1,250 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer cooler conditions with average temperatures between 55-70°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Dolliver Memorial State Park offers scenic paths with varying difficulty levels. "We LOVE the hiking trails. Some can be a pretty good workout & steep for a 61 year old, but they are do-able & have resting benches a long the way. There are some beautiful old bridges if you get on the right trails," notes one visitor to Dolliver Memorial State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple bodies of water provide fishing access near Clarion. At Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, one camper mentioned, "I was surprised to see a school of muskie while fishing, but it appeared that they were spawning at the time. If you go camping in May, make sure to bring a slightly heavier fishing pole to handle the musky. They're worth it."
Water recreation: Clear Lake offers swimming and boating options about 30 minutes from Clarion. "Great campground. Family and friends get together a must here. Close to the beach, town and the lake has great fish. Reserve early!" writes a visitor to Clear Lake State Park Campground.
Historical sites: The Grotto of the Redemption features unique religious structures built with precious stones and minerals. A camper reports, "The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free. Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes."
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer quiet settings despite their proximity to towns. At Kennedy County Park, a camper observed, "This is a gigantic park with an amazing variety of activities. The park itself is gorgeous and beautifully maintained." Another mentioned, "Beautiful campground... I can't say enough about Kennedy Memorial County park in Fort Dodge Iowa."
Accessible waterfronts: Several campgrounds provide direct water access. At Beed's Lake State Park Campground, a visitor shared, "We stayed at #142 and it was the perfect tent location. Right on the water, distanced from our site neighbors, and a sandbar nearby for some fishing."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. One camper at Three Fingers Campground noted, "This is primarily a long-term RV site with a few transient sites. People are friendly, bathrooms and showers are well-maintained."
Reasonable pricing: Most campgrounds offer competitive rates. At Brushy Creek, a camper mentioned, "Open for off season camping. 14$/night for full hookups with pull thru RV sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Clear Lake State Park, one camper advised, "Reserve early! It being full more than a week before the holiday, shows how great it is."
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have limited privacy between sites. A visitor to Beed's Lake noted, "Over half of the campsites are parallel parking. That means if you don't know the person camping across from you, you'll be staring at a stranger just a few feet away during your stay."
Wi-Fi and cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Kennedy County Park, a camper reported, "No cell service provider functions in this park. The WIFI is shared between dozens of sites, speed averages right around 5mps."
Weather considerations: Spring camping may bring significant rainfall. One camper at Clear Lake State Park mentioned, "When there is heavy rain you will however have your own pond at most sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. A visitor to Oakwood RV Park noted, "Nice and quiet, many families around. Had a great overnight and a lazy morning before a 2 PM checkout."
Beach activities: Clear Lake State Park offers swimming options. One camper shared, "The campgrounds are always very well kept, bathrooms very clean! Easy access to the lake, and the town has so much to do during the summer months!"
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer room for family activities. At Brushy Creek, a camper mentioned, "Great for tent camping, very spacious and grassy sites, clean, grill/fire pit was really very nice. Very clean and modern bathrooms, easy access to water."
Biking opportunities: Paved roads in some parks create safe cycling spaces. A Clear Lake visitor noted, "Paved roads are great for bike riding. Great shaded spots. DNR cruises the park daily which is nice to see."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites are limited at most campgrounds. A visitor to The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park explained, "I counted (8) 50 amp and (16) 30 amp sites. Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided. The cost is $20 per night."
Site leveling: Many RV campgrounds near Clarion require minimal leveling. At Oakwood RV Park, a camper shared, "Guided right into the site, easy hookups. Water had a chlorine taste is the only drawback, but probably no worse than city water."
Seasonal accessibility: Most RV campgrounds near Clarion operate seasonally. Three Fingers Campground stays open from April through November, while Clear Lake State Park operates April 1 to December 31.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient pull-through sites. The Grotto of the Redemption features "grass, level, and reasonably well maintained" pull-through sites according to one visitor who also noted, "Only electrical hookups are available at the sites. This is in good condition. There is fresh water and a dump station available."
