Camping options near Coralville, Iowa range from county-managed parks with electric hookups to private RV resorts with comprehensive amenities. The area experiences four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching the high 80s and winters that can drop below freezing from December through February. Most campgrounds in the region sit at elevations between 650-800 feet above sea level, positioned among the rolling hills and waterways of eastern Iowa.
What to do
**Fishing access: At F.W. Kent Park, campers enjoy multiple fishing opportunities throughout the 1,052-acre park. "Beautiful park, spacious campsite, $20 for electric hookups. Love this park!!" reports one visitor. The park features newly restocked fishing areas following recent lake renovations.
**Water recreation: Paddlers can launch directly from Shady Creek campground for Mississippi River adventures. A camper notes, "Nice location to spend time fishing, watching sunsets, and paddle. Near Wild Cat Den State Park." The campground provides river access with boat launches convenient for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft.
**Hiking opportunities: Extensive trail systems connect many campgrounds to natural areas. "There is about a two mile trail circumventing the entire lake," writes a visitor about F.W. Kent Park. The region features prairie, woodland, and riparian habitats with seasonal wildflower displays from April through September.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Sugar Bottom Campground, the spaciousness of campsites receives frequent praise. "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," one camper shares about this Corps of Engineers property.
Accessibility to attractions: The Amana RV Park & Event Center provides easy access to the historic Amana Colonies. A visitor notes, "This is a great location right in the Amana Colonies to explore the area. There are sites for tents up to big rigs." The historical villages feature shops, restaurants, and cultural sites within walking or biking distance.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained restrooms and showers factor into positive experiences. According to a Sugar Bottom visitor, "Very nice COE campground north of Iowa City in the Lake Coralville area. Beautiful setting, lots of options for sites." Most campgrounds in the region are regularly serviced with upgraded facilities at the larger properties.
What you should know
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly across campgrounds. At Little Bear Campground, campers appreciate the level sites: "Very cute campground right off highway. I called while traveling and Mike was very accommodating. Full hookups and showers. Even got a pool."
Seasonal operation variations: Many campgrounds reduce services in winter months. While Sudbury Court Motel & RV Park remains open year-round, others close completely from November through March.
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential during peak season. "Make your reservations as early as you can, the spots go quick!" advises a camper at Shady Creek. Most campgrounds accept reservations 6 months ahead for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres stands out for family activities. A visitor reports, "Great place for kids. They had a little train ride, miniature golf course, catch and release fishing in their pond, splash pad, lots of cool things hand built structures to see as well."
Beach access: Water recreation opportunities provide entertainment for all ages. "It's a great place to just come relax and maybe swim," mentions a Sugar Bottom camper. Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas with varying levels of supervision.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds include play equipment. A Little Bear visitor notes, "There is a pool(closed for season), and a playground for kids." Equipment quality and safety features vary by location, with newer installations at county-operated facilities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Most rv parks near Coralville, Iowa accommodate big rigs, though accessibility varies. A camper at Amana RV Park & Event Center advises, "There are sites for tents up to big rigs. They have showers and laundry and the folks are very nice. Services work well and wifi is strong."
Connectivity information: Cell service quality differs throughout the Coralville camping area. "We got 2 bars on Verizon and could put out our Starlink," reports a Sugar Bottom visitor. Many campgrounds now offer WiFi hotspots near registration buildings.
Dump station accessibility: Plan your arrival and departure around potential lines. "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions," notes a Sugar Bottom camper, making the process more efficient during busy periods. Several Coralville area rv parks offer full hookups, eliminating the need for dump station visits.
