Camping sites near Creston, Iowa primarily cluster around three artificial lakes constructed for water management and recreation. Nestled in the gently rolling hills of southwest Iowa at approximately 1,300 feet above sea level, these camping areas contend with seasonal temperature fluctuations ranging from winter lows near 0°F to summer highs regularly exceeding 90°F. Waterfront camping locations often have limited cellular reception, with stronger signals typically available closer to Interstate 80 corridors.
What to do
Biking on lake trails: Green Valley State Park offers a comprehensive trail system for cyclists. "There is a nice trail to ride your bike around the lake and through the park. Don't leave your bike at home," advises camper Matt S. The paved paths connect multiple sections of the park, providing access to fishing spots and picnic areas.
Swimming options: Lake Icaria Co Park features a well-maintained swimming beach popular during summer months. One visitor notes, "Very nice place. Full hook up spots were very nice. Easy to get into, plenty of space, fire pit, picnic table, friendly & helpful park officers, lots of activities (hiking, boating, boat rentals, beach, bait shop, close to a race track in Corning, etc)."
Explore historic attractions: Winterset City Park serves as a convenient base for exploring Madison County's covered bridges. Located approximately 45 minutes from Creston, visitors mention, "The John Wayne museum and downtown are a 20 minute walk away. This is our second visit there and I would go back again." The park includes unique features like an edge maze within walking distance of camping areas.
What campers like
Clean restroom facilities: Three Mile Lake Recreation Area maintains well-kept shower buildings even during busy periods. "This park is clean with nice amenities and a beautiful lake. During the week you can almost have the place to yourself," reports one camper. The bathrooms include shower facilities with push-button water conservation systems.
Spacious campsites: Mormon Trail County Park offers camping spots with adequate room between neighbors. One visitor described the experience: "The sites are not very private but set up nice with parking for an RV, a fire ring, table and grassy area for a tent." The campground maintains a 15-dollar fee for non-electric sites.
Fishing opportunities: Pammel County Park provides river fishing access different from the lake-based options closer to Creston. A camper reports, "Fun splashing in the river catching minnows by hand. Pretty park. Easy turns with the trailer." The Middle River runs through the park, creating a 1.9-mile kayak loop that takes approximately one hour to complete when water levels permit.
What you should know
Variable hookup configurations: Site utilities at some campgrounds require extra equipment. At Pammel Park, one camper noted, "There are water hook ups, I just had to use 75 feet of hose to get to it. And the electric I had to use a 30 ft extension cord." Always verify the specific layout of your assigned site when making reservations.
Limited off-season options: While most camping areas close from November through March, South - Three Mile Co Rec Area offers year-round availability. Their cabins provide cold-weather accommodations: "Cabins are very clean the bunks allowed for four to sleep. Beautiful sunsets overlooking the lake. Fish cleaning station was also well taken care of."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Criss Cove County Park operates on a first-come basis without reservation options. One visitor observed, "No camp host, no dumpster, no dump station. No shower. Did I mention the best part? It's remote, quiet, and nice folks camp there."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Green Valley State Park features multiple play areas for children. A visitor mentions, "It is clear that facilities make a difference. Modern restrooms and showers are always a plus for attracting family campers. My wife does not like the rustic camping when we have our children with us."
Kid-friendly water activities: Lake View Campground offers diverse recreation options beyond swimming. According to one review, "Swimming, fishing and boating even put-put golf, campsites are pretty close but if you camp with a bunch of friends you don't notice it so bad!" The campground typically has numerous children enjoying the facilities.
Multi-generational activities: Lake Orient Recreation Area provides a quieter alternative for families seeking less crowded environments. "Clean, well kept off beaten path. Has storm shelter. Fish cleaning station," notes one visitor. The electric motors-only restriction creates safer water conditions for younger swimmers and beginning boaters.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds feature gravel pads that may require adjustment. At Criss Cove County Park, "The gravel campsites are adequately spaced for most RVs." Winterset City Park offers more level sites with "White rock roads and pads. It has some full hook up sites as well as water and electric sites."
Access limitations: Height restrictions affect some campgrounds in the region. Pammel County Park has a tunnel with limited clearance: "If you are over 12 ft, make sure and take the detour around the tunnel." Always check route restrictions before attempting to navigate to campgrounds with larger rigs.
