Campgrounds near Eldora, Iowa offer camping options on both level gravel pads and wooded tent sites throughout the region. The landscape transitions between Iowa's flat prairies and the gentle roll of the Iowa River Valley, with elevation changes of 100-150 feet between riverside and upland sites. Most area campgrounds sit between 900-1,050 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage patterns that help campsites dry quickly after rain.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Pine Lake State Park Campground features multiple trail options through wooded areas. "There are great paved trails, and it is close to the free John Deere Museum, and the Cedar Valley Arboretum," notes a visitor to George Wyth State Park Campground. The park connects to a 150-mile regional trail network.
Water recreation: Fishing opportunities span from small ponds to larger lakes across the area. "The lake is great for kayaking and fishing," notes a camper at Beed's Lake State Park Campground. "Paddle boat rental available. Man-made waterfall. Fishing (lake and beneath the waterfall)."
Local attractions: The region offers several unique stops within a short drive. "If you are looking to get buzzed while out here at Kellogg RV Park, you are in luck as just nearby there's Grinnell Craft Brewhouse, Buzzed Bee Meadery as well as Van Wijk Winery – all of which are absolutely worth the visit," recommends a reviewer of the Kellogg area.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many area campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Bathrooms and shower rooms are new and super clean. Campground is well kept," reports a visitor at Pine Lake State Park Campground. The showers at most state parks feature push-button operation with limited temperature control.
Lake access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access. "We rented two campsites and the shelter this past weekend. The shelter is very nice and overlooks Dakins Lake," writes a camper at Dakins Lake County Park. Waterfront sites often book first during peak season.
Affordable rates: State and county parks provide economical camping options. A reviewer at Little Wall Lake County Park appreciated the "spacious sites along a gorgeous lake," while state parks throughout the region maintain standard rates of $11-16 for sites with varying hookups.
What you should know
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies widely between campgrounds. At Rock Creek State Park Campground, one camper noted, "Very nice lake. Very nice grass for your tent. The sites both tent and RV are simply too close for you to enjoy the place. Camp fires every 10 feet." Site selection matters for those seeking privacy.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during warm months. Some parks maintain a mix of reservable and first-come sites. As one camper at Little Wall Lake notes, "Some sites are reserveable online and some are first come first serve."
Weather considerations: High winds can affect camping comfort in some locations. "This is a nice small camp area that only has one downfall: a lack of wind break," reports a camper at Little Wall Lake Park. Waterfront sites may experience stronger winds but often provide better views.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "For little ones, there is a large sand playground area with slides and swings," notes a George Wyth visitor. This amenity provides convenient recreation for younger campers without leaving the campground.
Swimming options: Beach access varies by location. At Rock Creek, a visitor mentioned, "Unfortunately, the amazing swimming beach with concession stand and changing rooms with showers is gone. Due to the large population of geese, ducks, and cranes, the water is not safe to swim in."
Fishing spots: Kid-friendly fishing locations exist throughout the region. "We caught so many fish here we had to actually let some loose because we were over our limit," shares a Rock Creek State Park visitor. Some campgrounds rent fishing equipment for those traveling without gear.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV sites near Eldora, Iowa have varying grades. "Site 142 was the perfect tent location. Right on the water, distanced from our site neighbors," notes a Beed's Lake camper who found the tent areas more spacious than RV sections. Beeds Lake's layout includes many parallel parking sites that place RVs close together.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate with limited services in cooler months. "Showers were not open yet in April," reports a Little Wall Lake visitor. Water systems at most campgrounds typically operate from April through October, while electricity remains available year-round at designated sites.
Easy-access options: RV travelers appreciate convenient locations for overnight stays. "Very convenient to I-80, well-laid out," notes a Kellogg RV Park visitor about sites approximately 45 minutes south of Eldora. The park offers pull-through sites ranging from 65' to 85' in length.
