Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
Great Campground
Quiet, clean, organized and friendly host! I ll be coming back!
107 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Campgrounds in the area surrounding Ferguson, Iowa include both established state park facilities and county-managed recreation areas. Rock Creek State Park Campground, located east of Ferguson, provides a range of camping experiences including tent sites, RV hookups, and limited cabin accommodations. The park features lakefront camping with both electric and non-electric options. Additional nearby options include Timmons Grove County Park in Marshalltown and Mariposa Recreation Area in Kellogg, both within a 20-mile radius of Ferguson.
Seasonal availability varies significantly across the region's campgrounds, with many facilities operating from April through October. Rock Creek State Park remains open from April 1 to December 31, while some privately managed sites like Kellogg RV Park offer year-round accessibility. The area experiences typical Midwestern seasonal patterns, with spring sometimes bringing flooding concerns and summer weekends drawing larger crowds. Electric sites at most campgrounds tend to fill quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor commented that "if you don't need electricity to enhance your camping experience, there were dozens of sites available," even just before Memorial Day weekend.
Lakefront camping represents a particularly popular option in the Ferguson area, with several campgrounds offering water access for fishing and boating activities. Rock Creek State Park receives consistent positive feedback for its waterfront sites, where campers can fish directly from their campsite. "We were able to camp right on the edge of the lake," noted one reviewer, though they mentioned limited privacy between sites. Tent campers should be aware that many campgrounds cater primarily to RVs, with one review mentioning "we were definitely the one little tent in a sea of RVs." Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including fire rings, picnic tables, and restroom facilities, with many also offering showers. Fishing opportunities are frequently mentioned as a highlight, particularly at Rock Creek State Park, which is known for crappie and largemouth bass fishing.
"Nice Iowa State Park campground just outside of Grenell Iowa. On a lake. Hundreds of sites. So many of the non-electric test sites look amazing."
"Stopped overnight on our way home from Iowa City. No reservations & took our chances on finding an electric site. Score! Neighbors were friendly."
from $16 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Following up on my review from over a year ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this roadside pit stop of a campground in rural"
"Simple campground behind a Philips 66 gas station that totes they have Iowa’s best burger. They have recently updated shower building along with a laundry building"
"There are good hiking trails, including a walk through some wildflowers. Bird watchers will love this place. Also expect to see deer and turkeys."
"rural Iowa."
"Newton KOA This is the primary location for camping in Newton. It’s right off interstate I-80 and is very close to the Iowa Speedway."
"A few trails to hike and a horse camp that I didn’t have time to explore. Nice lending library as well. Bathroom/shower combos are nice (1 is ADA). Not far off the interstate."
"Union Grove is known for having good lake fishing. The lake is also a great place for kayaking or canoeing."
from $34 - $90 / night
Check Availability"The lake has been drained and dredged and is slowly filling back up. It’s pretty spacious and has lots of room for tent camping. I wouldn’t bring an RV here."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"Jump into the nearby water and let the kids have a blast! Enjoy a nice fun night away from home!"
"Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night! There is some play equipment for children. "
"There are a couple of hiking trails in the park that are maintained. One goes to a creek and a bird watching station."
from $7 / night
Check Availability"Hidden gem in Iowa"
"This is a very nice quiet campground close to a nice small lake. We stayed in space 30 and this area has just had the electrical updated and the are adding some new spots right by the lake."
from $10 - $20 / night
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Quiet, clean, organized and friendly host! I ll be coming back!
The campsite was great. There were campsites near the water and trees and then there were some on top of the hill.
Pulled in looking for a good place to camp, but unfortunately had plans late at night and they shut the gate so they’re is no entering or leaving past 10:30pm - 6:00am which I think is a little stupid if I didn’t have late night plans though I totally would’ve stayed, sites looked great, and there was only one other camper when I pulled in.
Has a good view of lake on the tent side with no electric hookups, or water, although there is a small water spout that is like a hose we used to wash dishes and there’s also porta potty’s. There is about 11 sites on this side pretty cheap for what you get with them; they have a fire ring, picnic table Id give it a 10/10
Very quiet campground. Only one bathroom and shower available for use, though. Lots of space and trees as well
Great friendly hosts. Check in inside the gas station. Full hook ups and a fair price compared to most rv parks especially with good sam membership. No frills but adorably decorated. You got gas, snacks and great food and ice cream..what else could you ask for in a overnight stop. Laundry, shower house and bocce court. Bocce sets available to borrow from the gas station. Cute communal sitting areas one area with fire rings and wood available at the gas station. Yes its right off 80 and you will hear the traffic but with this incredible convenience we didn't mind. Felt safe and good vibes during our stay. Level and long gravel pull through sites and big rig friendly. Will definitely be added to our favorites list for I80 travels.
Perfectly pleasant. There are flush toilets and showers. The lake adds a nice scenery. There aren’t too many amenities so this is good for a short stay
Nice spot, $10 fee “required” but the QR code is in disrepair so it may as well be free until they fix it, lol. The review that says someone followed them is weird, first of all it’s not even a lake, it’s the Iowa River, and maybe they just wanted a place to get it on? There’s a house right at the beginning of the trail, it didn’t feel unsafe at all solo camping there. Plus, there is quite obvious pit toilets, but I don’t think they’re maintained at all. Still, it’s a place to poop.
Great little spot with lots of hiking trails. Bathrooms are clean and guests are quiet. Don’t miss grave from 1869 at top of hill on trail. Beautiful place. Wish I lived closer.
Camping near Ferguson, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Ferguson, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next getaway!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Ferguson, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Ferguson, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 107 campgrounds and RV parks near Ferguson, IA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Ferguson, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Ferguson, IA is Rock Creek State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Ferguson, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Ferguson, IA.
What parks are near Ferguson, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 parks near Ferguson, IA that allow camping, notably Lake Red Rock and Saylorville Lake.
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