Best Campgrounds near Runnells, IA

Camping near Runnells, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking and Exploring: Ledges State Park Campground is a popular spot for hiking. One visitor mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals." The scenic trails are perfect for both summer and winter hikes.
• Water Activities: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy a no-wake lake with boat and kayak rentals. A reviewer noted, "The campground area is clean. Showers and toilets are clean. The RV section of campground was nearly full but the tent/non-hook up section had lots of space."
• Family Fun: Jester County Park offers a variety of activities, including airsoft gun and archery ranges. One camper shared, "Campgrounds amazing views airsoft gun and archery ranges snowshoeing equestrians and cross-country skiing."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground said, "Clean facilities."
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Cherry Glen Campground, offer spacious sites. One camper remarked, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a reviewer said, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A visitor at Ledges State Park Campground noted, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
• Busy During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get crowded, especially in summer. One camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground is busy in the summer months."
• Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds, like Prairie Flower Recreation Area, require reservations, especially during peak times. A camper advised, "You must reserve these sites in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

• Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family-friendly activities. Jester County Park has a kids' playground and hiking trails, making it a great spot for families. One camper said, "The campgrounds are great; the facilities are amazing."
• Choose Spacious Sites: Opt for campgrounds with larger sites to give kids room to play. A visitor at Cherry Glen Campground mentioned, "Some sites are close together, but generally spacious."
• Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or check if the campground has food options. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a camper noted, "Pizza on site is excellent and you can order it ahead for your arrival."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Walnut Woods State Park Campground said, "The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. At Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground, a camper mentioned, "Some sites have full hookups, ours had only electrical."
• Be Prepared for Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds have narrow roads, so be cautious when maneuvering. A visitor at Walnut Woods State Park Campground noted, "The road around the campground is paved, but very narrow."

Camping near Runnells, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a little planning, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!