Clear Lake sits at approximately 1,237 feet above sea level in north-central Iowa, surrounded by agricultural land and prairie ecosystems. The 3,684-acre natural lake features sandy and rocky shorelines with multiple state-managed camping areas that stay open from April through December. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting beach access and boat launching conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: Clear Lake State Park Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities directly from the shoreline. "Great campground for our overnight, would be a wonderful extended stay as well. Close to the beach, town and the lake has great fish. Reserve early!" notes one visitor who found the fishing particularly rewarding.
Swimming beaches: Several campgrounds offer beach access during summer months, though water quality can vary. "DNR cruises the park daily which is nice to see. Great shaded spots," reports a camper at Clear Lake State Park, noting the convenient "nice beach access" for families wanting to cool off.
Bird watching: The marshlands near McIntosh Woods State Park Campground attract numerous waterfowl species, especially during migration seasons. "Short walk to nice lake & marsh. Walking trails. Camped here during waterfowl hunting season, so there were several gunshots nearby at around sunrise," shares one visitor who observed the abundant wildlife.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer sites with adequate room between neighbors. "We love coming to Clear Lake! 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!" remarks one satisfied camper.
Cleanliness of facilities: Beed's Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its maintenance standards. "The campground was super clean and the bathrooms the cleanest I've seen at a state park," notes one visitor who stayed during a busy Labor Day weekend.
Proximity to town: Campers appreciate how close rv sites near Clear Lake, Iowa are to urban amenities. "Close to town and lots to do," mentions one camper about Clear Lake State Park, highlighting the convenient access to shopping and restaurants within a short drive.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Not all campsites are created equal, particularly regarding privacy and size. "Not all sites are level, and most do not have delineated parking pads. A fire pit and picnic table complete the site. Most of the sites are too close together for our liking," reports a visitor to Pilot Knob State Park Campground.
Water quality issues: Beach closures can occur, especially during warmer months. "The beach area was closed due to e-coli," noted one McIntosh Woods camper, suggesting checking conditions before planning swimming activities.
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill extremely quickly at most campgrounds in the area. "Sad that there were so many back up sites over the holiday weekend, would have liked to have been able to camp here. It being full more than a week before the holiday, shows how great it is," shares a would-be camper about Clear Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: MacNider Campground offers convenient play areas for children. "There is a nice playground on site plus the city pool is right next door. There are also awesome parks within walking distance," notes a family who enjoyed the kid-friendly amenities.
Safe swimming areas: Some campgrounds offer better swimming options than others. "Nice level sites with electric, picnic tables and fire rings. There is a beach for swimming but there is no lifeguard on duty," cautions a McIntosh Woods visitor.
Nature programs: Several parks offer educational opportunities for children. "The park has 20+ miles of hiking trails through prairies, woodlands, and along the lake too! Plus the park offers geocashing (and free GPS rental), as well as canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and a small fishing that can be rented!" shares an enthusiastic visitor about family activities.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through site availability: Oakwood RV Park receives positive feedback for its accessibility. "Easy access off I-35. Guided right into the site, easy hookups. Nice and quiet, many families around. Had a great overnight and a lazy morning before a 2 PM checkout," reports an RVer who appreciated the convenience.
Road conditions: Interior roads at some campgrounds pose challenges for larger vehicles. "The interior roads are dirt roads with a few potholes they are very narrow. We were able to drive through the campground with our 40 foot fifth wheel. But just barely, be careful!" warns one RVer about navigation difficulties.
Hookup reliability: Full-service rv camping near Clear Lake varies in quality and availability. "We have electric and water. The chlorine taste is the only drawback, but probably no worse than city water," notes one Oakwood RV Park visitor, suggesting bringing drinking water if sensitive to treatment chemicals.
