Best Campgrounds near Coon Rapids, IA

Searching for the best camping near Coon Rapids, IA? Coon Rapids is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Iowa camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Coon Rapids, Iowa (78)

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Recent Reviews near Coon Rapids, IA

280 Reviews of 78 Coon Rapids Campgrounds



Guide to Coon Rapids

Camping near Coon Rapids, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One camper 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 Lake Anita State Park Campground. A visitor shared, "We loved staying there over the weekend... A big lake close by to fish which I'm guessing is the only thing to do here other than walk the trail."
  • Wildlife Watching: Check out Prairie Flower Recreation Area for wildlife. One reviewer noted, "The whole area around Saylorville Lake has camping. Lush green plots of land everywhere."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A review for Jester County Park stated, "Showers are hot every time; it’s a wonderful place to be."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Cherry Glen Campground. One camper said, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground hosts. A visitor at Des Moines West KOA Holiday remarked, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Iowa Ledges State Park noted, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
  • Busy During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get crowded in the summer. One reviewer at Lake Anita State Park mentioned, "It was really busy when we did."
  • No Showers at Some Campgrounds: Not all campgrounds have shower facilities. A visitor at Bob Shetler Recreation Area pointed out, "It’s just an old basic campground... No showers."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds Available: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. At Jester County Park, one camper said, "CG has a kids playground, hiking trails, Equestrian Center, golf course, and nature center."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. A family at Prairie Rose State Park enjoyed, "Plenty of picnic spots and a playground in front of the beach."
  • Choose a Secluded Spot: For a quieter experience, pick sites away from busy areas. A camper at Arrowhead Park Campground mentioned, "There were plenty of pit toilets around and they were very clean."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Walnut Woods State Park noted, "The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need water and sewer, check the campground features. A camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday appreciated, "Sites are paved and mostly level, although we did have to throw a couple of blocks under one side of our TT tires."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near playgrounds. A reviewer at Bob Shetler Recreation Area mentioned, "The public parking lot is also just a few feet from a lot of the campsites so it gets loud."

Camping around Coon Rapids, IA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions