Dispersed camping opportunities near Eldon, Iowa center around the Eldon Wildlife Management Area, where hunters and campers find several primitive sites among corn fields and forested areas. Located in southeastern Iowa's rolling hills at approximately 700 feet elevation, the region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers and cold winters. Camping conditions vary significantly between developed campgrounds with full amenities and the more rustic options on public lands.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Fisher offers electric sites and excellent bank fishing access. As one camper notes, "Very small campground. Wonderful fishing areas" making it ideal for anglers seeking a quiet experience without crowds.
Hiking trails: The Lake Wapello State Park Campground trail system provides scenic routes around the water. A visitor shares, "Spacious campground with clean facilities. Some campsites are close to the lake. Several hiking paths-Lakeshore Trail goes around the whole lake, so be sure to reserve 2-3 hours to conquer this path-more if you like to take in the scenery."
Historic exploration: Visit Bentonsport for its preserved 19th-century buildings and walking bridge. A camper explains, "Down the road from the sleepy little town of Bentonsport, IA is this small riverfront campground... The view of the Des Moines River and the Bentonsport Bridge was beautiful, and it is an easy and short walk into town."
Water recreation: Boat rentals and paddling opportunities exist at several lakes in the area. At Lake Darling, "There is a long concrete multi use path along the lake and into the cabin area... The lake area offers great fishing and there are boat rentals available. Paddle boats, canoes, and other options."
What campers like
Secluded spots: Eldon Wildlife Management Area provides true dispersed camping without amenities. One camper reports, "Small lot for hunters to park and go. For a secluded spot, good enough to camp. As long as you don't need any utilities."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of facilities at Lake Darling State Park Campground. A reviewer notes, "We very much like the campground and the lake area... The bathroom facilities are clean and well kept but the showers could use some updating."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers abundant animal sightings. At Lake Wapello, campers report: "Quite a bit of wildlife seen during kayaking and hiking-muskrat, beaver, swans, geese could be found on the water. Also seen: deer, bald eagles, frogs, toads, turtles."
Riverside camping: Sites along the Des Moines River provide scenic views and peaceful settings. At Bentonsport, reviews mention: "Quite roomy on river the town by it is a craftsman village with quilting woodwork old inns painters there is a railroad car they made into a rental."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campsite availability near Eldon, Iowa varies by season, with different opening dates. At Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground, one visitor noted in their off-season stay: "Stayed for a week in mid November. Although we had a storm at the beginning and end the overall stay was great. Weather ranged from 50s to 70s during the day and 30s to 40s at night."
Utility availability: Water hookups typically close during winter months. At Bentonsport, "there is no water or sewer on you're site but water is available in camp."
Reservation needs: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer. A Lake Darling camper notes that cabin rentals "do book up quick in advance, but there is usually walk up spots available the week of too."
Cell service limitations: Reception can be spotty in rural areas. A Lake Darling reviewer mentions: "And generally limited cell signal might be better that way eh?"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Ottumwa City Park offers camping with easy access to play areas. A visitor shares, "nice Campground in the middle of town, close to stores and has nice walking trails. Has a pond to fish as well and across the street from the city park!"
Swimming options: Waubonsie Trail Park provides family-friendly amenities. A camper notes, "Horseshoe pit, playground and campfire swing area were nice surprises. All for under $20 for electric RV site! Great campground for a small group event."
Budget-friendly sites: Several campgrounds offer good value for families. At Bentonsport, a visitor reports: "17$ Bentonsport campground. Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers,toilets,30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property."
Cabin alternatives: For families seeking more comfort, several parks offer cabin rentals. At Lake Darling, "The cabins seem nice, though we have never been in them or stayed in them. Book early they are usually booked up I am told."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Some campgrounds offer more privacy than others. At Lake Darling, "Sites were fairly level and all pretty close to the showers/restrooms, and well spaced out between sites."
Hookup positioning: Consider hookup locations when choosing sites. A Lake Darling reviewer cautions: "Opportunities for improvement would be that the full hookup sites have the neighbors waste tube close the campers picnic table. Sometimes getting a whiff of black water waste while trying eat dinner leaves a little to be desired."
Urban access: For RVers needing supplies or services, Ottumwa City Park provides convenience. As one camper explains, "This camp ground is smack dab in the middle of town. But once you're inside the campground surrounded by others it's hard to tell. You do hear quite a bit of traffic but depending on where your site is, you may not see it."
