Coralville Lake sits at approximately 683 feet above sea level and spans over 5,300 acres along the Iowa River. The area receives around 37 inches of annual rainfall, creating a humid climate that supports the dense hardwood forests surrounding many campsites. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through October, with off-season availability varying by location.
What to Do
Hiking the dam trail: At West Overlook Campground, visitors can access trails near the Coralville Dam. "This campground is close to the dam and the Devonian Fossil Gorge. Reservations are a must," notes Carolyn M., highlighting the popular geological features accessible from camp.
Fishing for multiple species: The reservoir supports bass, crappie, and catfish fishing year-round. "Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing. Near Iowa Raptor Project that conducts raptor programs and site with walking tour and live raptors," shares James M. about Sugar Bottom Campground.
Boating and paddling: Boat ramps at several locations provide direct lake access. "Great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers. Fantastic amenities including hot showers and nice bathrooms and a cleaning station with sink basin for camping dishes. Great beach swimming area," explains Steve T. about facilities at Sugar Bottom.
Fossil hunting: The Devonian Fossil Gorge contains 375-million-year-old marine fossils. "The recreation area also includes campgrounds and river recreation downstream of the dam, including a gorge of geologic interest that is filled with Devonian fossils exposed in the flood of 1993," explains Janet R. about activities near West Overlook.
What Campers Like
Lake views from strategic sites: F.W. Kent Park offers unique perspectives of water. "I had a large, private site that had a mowed path leading to the lake. The large lake is beautifully landscaped with walking bridges made from recycled iron and memorial trees of many varieties," shares Lisa S. about the thoughtful layout.
Modern bathhouse access: Clean facilities matter to campers. "Very nice and clean. It is right at the base of a dam on one side and calm backwater on the other. Also very nice place to find fossils among the back rocks," explains Nick B. about Tailwater West Campground.
Variety of camping loops: Different camping experiences exist within single parks. "This review is for the West Overlook campground located on the lakeside upstream of the dam. This is one of the larger campgrounds at Coralville Lake, and is popular due to the large sandy beach, the modern boatlaunch area, and options for a variety of kinds of campsites in separate loops," explains Janet R.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance camping experiences. "Beautiful place... saw wild turkeys and dear almost ever day walking the camp grounds," shares Terri R. about her extended stay at Lake Macbride State Park.
What You Should Know
Summer crowds impact privacy: Sites fill quickly during peak season. "Very quiet midweek in October which was great because there would be no privacy between the small sites. Nice walking access to nice beach to dam trail," reports Adam J. about Modern North Campground.
Distance between campground sections: Some parks have widely separated camping areas. "This campground has two campgrounds. The modern side on the north end of the park with full hookups, and the primitive side on the south side of the park with no electricity or water hookups," explains Jacob B., noting the significant separation between areas.
Site leveling challenges: Prepare with leveling equipment. "Very busy on the weekend. Bring a lot of leveling blocks. Most sites are slanted in both planes," warns Warren W. about terrain at Beyonder Getaway.
Gate closure timing: Evening access restrictions apply at some locations. "Only downfall is the gates are locked at 10pm so if you needed to come or go, you're stuck," notes Desiree R. about F.W. Kent Park's security procedures.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature equipment for children. "Fun beginner hikes, As a local to the area it's a park i visit often," shares Ryan about Palisades-Kepler State Park, which has trails suitable for young explorers.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation. "The park is huge and you could easily get lost. They currently have their lake drained. Estimated to be filled some time summer 2019," mentions Desiree R. about facilities at F.W. Kent Park.
Ice cream proximity: Near Linder Point Campground, families find sweet treats. "Near the campground within walking distance is a super cute old fashioned ice cream/food place called Funcrest Dairy and Grill. We had several root beer floats during our stay and enjoyed the fifties music," shares Stephanie S.
Educational opportunities: The Iowa Raptor Project near Sugar Bottom offers wildlife learning. "This is a real family oriented campground. Although it is a primative campground, it allows for fishing, boating and a playground," notes Jeannie B. about the south campground at Lake Macbride.
Tips from RVers
Dump station accessibility: Most campgrounds provide waste disposal. "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions. This large COE has a variety of sites, with the 300 loop being full hook-ups," reports MickandKarla W. about Sugar Bottom's facilities.
Senior pass discounts: Cost savings available at certain campgrounds. "This is a COE Park so you also can get a discount with your Senior Pass," notes Judith B. about Sugar Bottom pricing options.
Site selection strategy: Some spots offer more privacy. "As a tent camper I chose one of the loops in the woods as the sites are larger and quieter and more spacious. All of the loops seem family friendly and pretty quiet even though pretty full," explains Janet R. about West Overlook campground's layout.
Campground spacing: Primitive South Campground at Lake Macbride offers quieter options. "Primitive campground is isolated from the electric one, so it's much quieter. Right on the lake. Plenty of spots to choose from," shares Megan M., noting the benefits of the non-electric section for those seeking tranquility.
