Backbone State Park's Six Pines and South Lake campgrounds anchor pet friendly camping near Dundee, Iowa. The area sits within the Paleozoic Plateau landform region, characterized by steep slopes and distinctive limestone bluffs. Camping options span from primitive tent sites to cabins with electric hookups, with several parks allowing pets across various campsite types.
What to Do
Trout fishing access: Fountain Springs County Park offers direct stream access from campsites. "I have been coming to Fountain Spring for the trout fishing for years. More recently, for the last two years, this has become my go-to spot for camping. Camping is free and there are several sites to choose from, most (literally) a few yards from the trout stream," notes Kerry M.
Cold water springs exploration: Visit the natural springs at Bailey Ford Park where shallow water is perfect for kids and dogs. "The RV/pull behind spots here fill up VERY fast. The park has the river on one end and cold water springs all around the other side," shares Chantal C.
Observatory stargazing: Wyalusing State Park features an astronomical observatory for nighttime viewing. The park's position on bluffs creates excellent dark sky conditions. "There are many burial mounds in the park, and there is an astronomical observatory on site," notes Jim J.
What Campers Like
Private wooded sites: New Wine Park offers spacious, shaded sites that provide a sense of seclusion. "All of the sites are large and well spaced with good hammock trees, fire pits, and picnic tables, and nice gravel parking pads. The sites are so large you have lots of places to pick from to pitch your tent on the level grassy sites," says Annie C.
Clean facilities: South Lake Campground maintains modern shower houses and restrooms. "Clean bathrooms, showers and spots. Beautiful park!" reports Edward B.
Affordable pricing: Multiple county parks in the area offer economical camping options. "Very nice campground at reasonable price. Water/Elec was $18 dollars night," shares Russell B. about New Wine Park.
What You Should Know
Weather variability: Fall camping requires preparation for temperature swings. "It was a Colder night as we camped in 30 degree weather and freezing rain came into our campground. This along with the wind made our situation feel pretty cold," reports Connor M.
Train noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience railroad disruptions. "There is a train track very close. The train runs very regularly and can be loud," warns Rene about Nelson Dewey State Park.
Water quality issues: Monitor park announcements for swimming advisories. "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it," notes Cheryl V. about one of the lakes.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Bailey's Ford Delaware County Park features multiple play areas for children. "Bailey's Ford has everything you need for a night or a week. It's clean and beautiful. Trout stream, trails, river access, showers and a playground," shares Laura.
Group-friendly layouts: Look for parks with open camping designs. "Nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)," explains Elizabeth K. about Delaware County Coffins Grove Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs suitable for young children. "The nature program was great for our son who was 2 at the time," Jennifer B. mentions.
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Turtle Creek County Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis with spacious sites. "We were site 28A and had so much room! Could've put another camper on our site easily," explains Hilary B.
Hookup availability: Check specific campground loops for electric service. "Backbone Southlake Camp review: Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," advises Edward B.
Tank management: With limited sewer hookups in the area, plan accordingly. "There is a dump station," notes one RVer about Bailey's Ford, making it convenient for longer stays with pets.
Legend
