Best Campgrounds near Fairfield, IA

Camping near Fairfield, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do

• Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails around Lake Macbride State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "There were rangers checking out the area every so often. And not too far from a store to buy things we forget to get."
• Fishing and Water Activities: Enjoy fishing at Diamond Lake County Park, where one camper noted, "The lake is really clean and lovely, with lush grass and greenery all around."
• Disc Golf: If you're into disc golf, West Overlook Campground has a course nearby. A visitor shared, "There is disc golf as well. We didn't get to use the bathrooms due to a water main break which was of course out of anyone's control."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the clean restrooms and showers at Sugar Bottom Campground. One review stated, "Very clean, for me the star attraction here was the solo bathroom & shower both together with lockable door for extreme privacy when needed."
• Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the spacious sites at F. W. Kent Park. A camper mentioned, "Doesn't feel like a bunch of campers crammed together, at least in the reserved section."
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Cedar River Campground are noted for their family-friendly vibe. One visitor said, "So many things to do for adults and kids!! The owners are so helpful too."

What you should know

• Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Lake Macbride State Park Campground, allow same-day bookings, making it easy for spontaneous trips. A reviewer noted, "This site was super easy to do same day booking campsite."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have markets or stores nearby. For instance, at Sugar Bottom Campground, a camper pointed out, "There’s no place to buy firewood nearby so come prepared."
• Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Lacey-Keosauqua State Park is open from April 1 to December 31.

Tips for camping with families

• Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Little Bear Campground. A parent mentioned, "There was a kid’s playground with swingset and teeter-totters that had definitely seen better days."
• Quiet Hours: Be mindful of quiet hours, especially at family-oriented spots. One camper at Cedar River Campground expressed concern about noise, saying, "The Loud Music until 2:30 and 3 a.m. WAKING all 3 of my grands up at 2 am."
• Activities for Kids: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. A visitor at F. W. Kent Park noted, "Great access to the river!"

Tips from RVers

• Big Rig Friendly: Many campgrounds, like Amana RV Park & Event Center, are big rig friendly. One RV owner said, "The sites are wide open and generally level, in and out is a breeze."
• Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has electric hookups. A reviewer at Diamond Lake County Park mentioned, "The space had water and electric, fire ring and tables."
• Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with convenient dump stations. A camper at Sugar Bottom Campground appreciated, "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions."

Camping near Fairfield, IA, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RV enthusiast seeking comfort.