Campers visiting Emmetsburg, Iowa will find numerous camping options within a 30-mile radius. The area features rolling plains typical of north-central Iowa with elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,400 feet. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity levels from June through August, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder temperatures with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access: Emerson Bay State Recreation Area Campground provides multiple docks for fishing and boating. A camper noted, "Emmerson Bay is the Best for Tubing on tbe Iowa Great lakes so access for your boat here too is also amazing."
Religious attraction tours: The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park offers camping near the famous Grotto, described by a visitor as "a fascinating achievement worth a look if you are in the area." The religious shrine features intricate stone and mineral work accessible by foot from the campground.
Cycling trails: Jackson offers paved trails for biking enthusiasts. A camper at Jackson KOA shared, "We unloaded our bikes and enjoyed the bike trails that encircle and go through Jackson."
Historical sites: The area features several historic attractions within driving distance. One visitor mentioned, "New Ulm is about an hour away and well worth the visit! Cool little downtown area with lots of history, great restaurants, and cool shops."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Campgrounds near Emmetsburg prioritize cleanliness. A camper at Emerson Bay noted, "Bathrooms are IMPECCABLE someone was out cleaning the shower house at 11pm one night."
Lakefront access: Many campsites offer water views or lake access. At Everett Park, campers appreciate being "right on the lake" with "beautiful, peaceful" surroundings and "breathtaking scenery" at sunset.
Spacious sites: Most rv sites near Emmetsburg, Iowa provide ample room. An Emerson Bay camper shared, "The sites are well maintained" and "there is so much fun for the kids to bike, swim (sand beach), and fish."
Community events: Some campgrounds host social gatherings. A visitor at Jackson KOA mentioned being invited to their "end of season party," while another noted live entertainment: "That night they did have live entertainment... It was locals I think that lived there and was like a jam session."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. Fieldstone RV Park operates from "May 15 to October 15," while Emerson Bay State Recreation Area extends slightly longer from "April 1 to December 31."
Site surfaces: Prepare for varied ground conditions. At Emerson Bay, "All the campsites are on crushed gravel so be prepared to sweep frequently or leave your shoes outside."
Cell service details: While some campgrounds have adequate connectivity, reception varies by carrier. The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park offers "2 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well."
Reservation requirements: Booking policies differ between campgrounds. One visitor noted about Korte's Checkers Welcome Campground, "Very polite staff. Roads are nice. Facilities are clean. Sites are pull through but are set up with utilities for back in sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer play areas. The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park has "a park nearby with a playground," making it suitable for families with young children.
Swimming areas: Lizard Creek Ranch Camping is described as a "Very nice park with a nice restaurant and many things to do in the area," offering recreation options for all ages.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with open spaces and amenities for children. A camper at Everett Park mentioned, "If you have kids, looks like a great playground, plenty of room to run & play. Sites are large and well spaced."
Pet policies: Most campgrounds welcome pets but have specific rules. At Emerson Bay, campers note: "Dog friendly, lots of places to walk the dogs. Can't leave the dogs unattended in the camper, so keep that in mind when planning trips."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RV sites around Emmetsburg have various hookup arrangements. At Korte's Checkers Welcome Campground, "Sites are pull through but are set up with utilities for back in sites."
Site surfaces: Most RV camping options provide level surfaces. The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park has "grass, level, and reasonably well maintained" sites that are all pull-through.
Water fill considerations: Some campgrounds have seasonal water restrictions. A visitor to Korte's Welcome Campground noted: "No water hook up due to weather but glad we chose this as a place to stay."
Discount opportunities: Look for membership savings on camping fees. One RVer mentioned, "Great value as Passport America member... $20 per Passport America members for FHU is sweet."
