Tent camping opportunities near Clear Lake, Iowa include several wildlife management areas and county parks offering primitive camping experiences. Most sites are located within a 40-mile radius of Clear Lake, providing access to fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The region features a mix of prairie, woodland, and wetland environments with seasonal weather variations that affect camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area offers shoreline fishing opportunities, though water levels can affect conditions. One camper noted, "This place was really bad probably because of the low water levels. In very hot temperatures the lake would have a smell."
Cemetery exploration: Chickasaw Park features an old cemetery for history enthusiasts. A visitor shared, "If you're not afraid of ghosts, are respectful, and you follow the road ALL THE WAY BACK there is a very old cemetery which we thought was very intriguing."
Disc golf: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground maintains a disc golf course within the park boundaries. A camper mentioned the "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course."
What campers like
Quarry swimming: Chickasaw Park features a former quarry where swimming is permitted. A regular visitor explained, "It is adjacent to an old quarry where swimming and fishing is currently allowed at your own risk. Due to multiple accidents and or deaths jumping/diving and cliff jumping is no longer allowed."
Minimal development: Some campers prefer the lack of amenities at sites like River Ranch Camping. As one camper stated, "It dont have all the amenities like other camp grounds but that's what makes it a great place to camp. It is Back woods camping."
Free firewood: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground provides complimentary firewood to campers, as mentioned in a review: "Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees."
What you should know
Self-registration systems: Many sites operate with self-pay systems. At Chickasaw Park, "$10.00 per night last we stayed, placed into a self pay pole."
Pit toilet conditions: Maintenance of toilet facilities varies widely. A camper at Chickasaw Park remarked, "While the grounds are mowed that is about all that is done on the camping side of the river for maintenance. I won't walk into the pit style restrooms let alone use them."
Limited parking: Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area has restricted parking options. A visitor explained, "When you come in on the dirt road, it hooks to the right, and you'll come upon a dirt cul-de-sac. On the right, you'll see a grassy area set into the woods where you could camp. Other than that, your parking in the perimeter."
Shared water facilities: At several campgrounds, water sources are communal. A visitor to Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground noted, "Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared."
Tips for camping with families
Mosquito preparation: Bring insect repellent, especially for wetland areas. A camper at Devine Wildlife Area warned, "Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent."
Playground access: Some parks feature playgrounds for children. Chickasaw Park includes "a small park on the adjacent side that does have a shelter."
Water safety rules: Enforce safety guidelines with children at water features. At Chickasaw Park, cliff jumping is prohibited and "can be a misdemeanor charge if found doing so."
Overcrowding risks: During peak periods, small campgrounds can fill quickly. At Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, a visitor cautioned, "It's pretty quiet, but there aren't many spots to camp... if there are other people, that will really complicate your life."
Tips from RVers
Limited site preparation: Devine Wildlife Area can accommodate larger vehicles despite being primitive. A camper observed, "Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up."
Electric hookups without amenities: Some campgrounds offer electrical connections without other services. A visitor to Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground reported, "Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared. Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees. No privacy between sites. Pit toilets. No showers."
Overnight stopovers: Some areas work well for brief stays. Regarding Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, one RVer shared, "We stopped here when we drove from NY to CO and it was fine. We got here late and left early in the morning so we never saw the place in light. For what it was it worked for us."
