The Fairfield, Iowa area features numerous camping options within a 30-mile radius, situated in southeast Iowa's rolling landscape of farmland, forests, and riverways. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 600-800 feet. Seasonal camping runs primarily from April through October, with several parks offering year-round access during mild winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Indian Lake Park, the lake provides excellent fishing options for campers. "There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach. Almost empty during the week, but very busy on summer weekends. Hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, bird watching," shares one visitor.
Historic exploration: Take a short walk from Waubonsie Trail Park to discover local history. "Waubonsie trail behind park is a short hike to the covered bridge and Dutchman's Store. Perfect way to stretch your legs after a long day on the road," notes a camper who found this an ideal stop.
Trail systems: The concrete paths at Marr Park provide accessibility options for campers with mobility concerns. "Trails are concrete so people with mobility concerns can easily get around," explains a visitor who appreciated this feature. The paved trail system also connects to nearby towns, offering extended walking or biking routes.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Darling State Park Campground receives consistent praise for its maintenance. "There are 2 parts to the campground, both nice and fairly full-but not completely on the weekend we stayed. Sites were fairly level and all pretty close to the showers/restrooms, and well spaced out between sites," notes one visitor who spent time there.
Affordability: Campers appreciate the reasonable rates at many local campgrounds. At Ottumwa City Park, a camper shared: "Campground has nice mature trees and lots of spots available. $18 for full hook up. What a deal. Has a lake you can fish at right in campground."
Quiet atmosphere: Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground offers a peaceful environment away from urban noise. "Quiet campground located away from the lights of big cities. This has been one of our favorite campgrounds for years," writes a regular visitor. Another camper noted, "The camp sites are spaced really well so you don't feel like you are on top of one another."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping options exist but require preparation. At Lacey Keosauqua, a camper reported: "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."
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water quality issues to consider. At Marr Park, one visitor warned: "Bring plenty of bottled water for consumption. The water has an awful smell."
Dispersed camping availability: For those seeking more primitive options, Eldon Wildlife Management Area offers basic dispersed camping. "We drive to the end of Umber Ave and found two spots perfect for camping. We chose the one nestled next to the corn field. Perfect dispersed camp site with no road noise or visitors," shares a recent camper.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options: Lake Darling State Park offers cabin rentals that work well for families with varying camping experience. "They even have cabin rentals for the more glamping lifestyle. They do book up quick in advance, but there is usually walk up spots available the week of too," advises one visitor.
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas for children. "There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach," notes a camper about Indian Lake Park, making it suitable for families looking for water activities.
Playground facilities: Bentonsport offers riverside camping with additional attractions nearby. "Close to the river with lots of fun history and shops to keep you busy," mentions one visitor, highlighting the family-friendly environment beyond just the campsite.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campers should note the varying site sizes between campgrounds. At Crossroads RV Park, a camper observed: "The site was a full hookup- electric, water and sewer. I wouldn't stay longer than an overnight. The sites were close together and very close to a train track."
Hookup accessibility: The arrangement of utilities at some sites requires consideration. At Lake Darling, one RVer noted: "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."
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Updog RV & Camping, a camper mentioned: "Lots of trees for great shade in these hot days," but another noted that the shade "Made cell service very hard to receive."
