RV camping near Derby, Iowa offers convenient access to several parks within 20-50 miles of town. The area features gently rolling hills with elevations averaging 1,000-1,200 feet above sea level, creating scenic camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during peak camping season, while spring and fall visitors experience more moderate 50-70°F weather.
What to do
Hiking trails: Hickory Hills Park features wooded paths with historical significance. "This is a great little park just east of New Virginia, Iowa. The hiking trails are pretty easy going through the forest and then opening up next to old Native American burial mounds. This is really a great place to pitch a tent," notes camper Matt S. at Hickory Hills Park.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Rathbun near Honey Creek Resort provides excellent fishing access. "The fishing is also really good, we generally kayak and catch a lot of crappie, bass, and catfish," shares Willy W. at Honey Creek Resort.
Swimming options: Several parks offer swimming during summer months. "The beach is just outside the hotel and has a huge water park which is a lot of fun to play on. They also have a really nice indoor water park with a slide," adds Willy W. about Honey Creek Resort's water features.
What campers like
Level sites: Many RV parks feature level, well-maintained camping pads. "RV park is relatively quiet and easy to get into. Easy on and off to the interstate," notes a camper at Lakeside Casino RV Park.
Peaceful environment: Eagle Ridge RV Park provides a tranquil setting despite highway proximity. "Small campground with available spot with 2 days notice. Peaceful sites. Grounds very well kept. One of the best experiences on a site close to the 35, but far enough away you wouldn't know it," shares Sean & Holly H. at Eagle Ridge RV Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and common areas. "Made a quick trip here to see how the new puppy likes camping. Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Bath house & laundry are complete. Very nice and spotless," notes Jim C. at River Oaks RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Some parks fill quickly during peak season. "Two hour notice! Super nice hosts and very helpful getting us settled in our spot. Very nice and neat Campground! We will definitely be back!" mentions Marla A. about Eagle Ridge RV Park's reservation process.
Seasonal availability: Several parks operate on limited schedules. Eagle Ridge RV Park operates from March 1 to November 30, while others like Honey Creek Resort remain open year-round.
Surface conditions: Site surfaces vary between parks. "All the spaces are paved," notes one camper at Lakeside Casino RV Park, while Jim C. observes at River Oaks RV Park that "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "Terrific small town RV park in Iowa. Long, level pull thru's and back ins, playground, dog walk, DELICIOUS on site restaurant," mentions Elizabeth S. at Ted's RV Park.
Indoor activities: For rainy days, consider parks with indoor facilities. "Indoor waterpark: Probably geared to the 4-10 crowd. Only one bigger slide, lazy river, hot tub, pool with some balance platforms and a rope and a basketball hoop," notes Mia L. about Honey Creek Resort's amenities.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious families can find no-cost sites. "We stayed two night at this campground. Arrived late and just filled out the registration form. They have fire pits and picnic tables. They also have two clean pit toilets. You can stay 14 days free I think," shares Aliyah B. about Hickory Hills Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Pay attention to utility placement when setting up. "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," notes Jim C. about River Oaks RV Park.
Accessibility considerations: Some parks offer accommodations for campers with mobility needs. "I am in a wheelchair and this park allows me to move around freely," reports a camper at Buffalo Run RV Park.
Wi-Fi quality: Internet access varies between locations. "Free WiFi was good; we streamed tv. It did freeze a few times but hard to tell if it was the WiFi or the provider," mentions Jim C. at River Oaks RV Park.
