The Collins area sits at an elevation of around 1,000 feet within central Iowa's prairie landscape. Campers find moderate seasonal temperatures with summer highs averaging in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Fall camping near Collins offers colorful foliage displays, particularly along the Chichaqua Valley Trail that runs through several camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: 5 minutes from Rock Creek State Park Campground where the lake has "lots of features like brush piles, vertical structures, mossy areas and you can go over by the bridge and fish the rocks. It's a great place if you have a boat or kayak/canoe." The park is "known for its crappie and large mouth bass fishing." During peak season, anglers should be aware of catch limits.
Biking trails: Access the 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail directly from several camping locations. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office." The trail connects multiple communities and provides a paved surface suitable for road bikes.
Wildlife viewing: Morning or evening visits provide the best opportunity for seeing native wildlife. "Buffalo ranch near by which is cool" at Jester County Park, which also features an elk viewing area. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars for spotting waterfowl around the lakes and wetland areas.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Campground bathrooms receive consistent positive reviews. At Jester County Park, campers note "The facilities are modern and clean and there is some real pride at this park." Another camper mentioned, "Clean bathroom with good showers" at Rock Creek State Park.
Quiet weekday camping: Most rv parks near Collins experience lower occupancy Monday through Thursday. "During the weekday it empties out" at Rock Creek State Park. Midweek visitors can often secure waterfront sites that are typically booked well in advance for weekends.
Waterfront sites: Several campgrounds offer premium sites directly adjacent to water. At Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt, "You can reserve some spots right on the water and fish from your tent." These sites typically fill first, especially during summer months, so advance planning is recommended.
What you should know
Seasonal operation differences: Many campgrounds in the Collins area have limited seasons. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt operates "April 1 to November 30" while Rock Creek State Park Campground runs "April 1 to December 31." One camper reported: "Drove 6 hours to find out the campground is closed (apparently for all of fall and winter) without any awareness of that being the case online."
Storm precautions: Severe weather can impact camping in the region. Kellogg RV Park notes the availability of an "F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site, so while your RV might blow away, no worries, you and those you hold most precious will be protected." Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some Collins area campgrounds feature spacious sites while others place units close together. "The sites are a nice size and have hookups for everything" at Adventureland Campground, while others note "you are right on top of your neighbor" at certain facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Lots of cool kid activities" at Jester County Park, which has recently updated equipment. One camper noted there is "A small playground" at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Swimming considerations: Water quality affects swimming options near Collins. At Adventureland Campground, "They have a swimming pool" that provides a controlled environment. However, at Rock Creek, "the amazing swimming beach with concession stand and changing rooms with showers is gone. Due to the large population of geese, ducks, and cranes, the water is not safe to swim in."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. Jester County Park features "a brand new Nature Center" where families can learn about local ecosystems. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt offers interpretive trails where children can identify native plants and animals.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Electrical and water connection locations vary between rv parks in Collins, Iowa. At River Oaks RV Park, "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." RVers should be prepared with extension cords and longer hoses at some locations.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require leveling blocks. "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks" at River Oaks RV Park, while Rock Creek has "large with nicely manicured lawns" but similar leveling needs.
Overnight convenience: For travelers passing through, Kellogg RV Park provides "level sites with full hookups" and "no need to unhook" making it ideal for single-night stays. The park offers "great for a quick little place to stay in your RV" with easy interstate access.
