Best Campgrounds near Collins, IA

Camping near Collins, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Rock Creek State Park Campground. A camper shared, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing, it was fun watching the water come through the dam."
• Biking: Check out the nearby trails, like the High Trestle Trail, which is great for biking. One reviewer noted, "There are lots of cute bars to stop in along the way," making it a fun ride.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Prairie Flower Recreation Area. A visitor said, "Fantastically clean & well maintained facilities."
• Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the large sites at Cherry Glen Campground. One camper remarked, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming atmosphere. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area, a reviewer stated, "Friendly hosts & Rangers."

What you should know:

• Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be aware that some campgrounds have poor reception. A visitor at Ledges State Park Campground noted, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
• Busy Seasons: Expect crowds during peak summer months. One camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground area is clean... but the RV section of campground was nearly full."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Walnut Woods State Park Campground, may not have showers or markets nearby. A reviewer pointed out, "It is a very small camp but all sites have a concrete slab."

Tips for camping with families:

• Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Jester County Park has a playground, and one parent said, "Showers are hot every time; it’s a wonderful place to be."
• Nature Activities: Encourage kids to explore nature. At Swede Point Park, a camper noted, "Great place to stay... right off the river."
• Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings. A visitor at Yellow Banks County Park warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal."

Tips from RVers:

• Level Sites: Choose campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A reviewer at Timberline Campground mentioned, "The pull-throughs near the front are level, gravel pads with grass all around."
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds that offer electric hookups. At Cherry Glen Campground, one camper said, "The whole area around Saylorville Lake has camping."
• Dump Stations: Make sure the campground has a dump station. A visitor at Bob Shelter Recreation Area noted, "Dump station and water fill in the back."

Camping near Collins, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort.