Camping options near Forest City, Iowa range from state park campgrounds to RV-specific facilities that accommodate visitors year-round. The area sits at approximately 1,250 feet elevation in the prairie pothole region of north-central Iowa, characterized by gently rolling terrain and numerous small lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, with winter lows frequently dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Fishing at Beed's Lake: The 99-acre lake at Beed's Lake State Park Campground offers fishing opportunities with a picturesque dam. "Great area for camping. Beautiful park!" notes one visitor, while another highlights "a sandbar nearby for some fishing" at their tent site.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the area provide opportunities to observe deer and other wildlife. At Myre-Big Island State Park, campers report abundant wildlife: "Seeing large groups of deer was a daily/nightly thing!" One visitor mentioned, "When we pulled up, there were 5 deer on our site."
Hiking trails: Several parks feature hiking paths through diverse terrain. Pilot Knob State Park offers multiple trail options. "The park has 20+ miles of hiking trails through prairies, woodlands, and along the lake too!" reports one camper who appreciated the variety of natural environments.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Shower buildings and restrooms receive positive comments at most area campgrounds. At Clear Lake State Park Campground, visitors note: "The park is clean, the shower house is nice," and "The bathrooms are updated and nice."
Lake access: Many campgrounds provide direct water access for recreation. Crystal Springs RV Resort features a pond for activities: "There is a large pond on the property that is perfect for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports, and there is a walking path that circles the pond."
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room between sites than others. At White Fox — Myre-Big Island State Park, "sites are spacious with most having trees between each of the campsites for privacy," allowing for a more secluded camping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most private RV parks operate on limited schedules. At Oakwood RV Park, the season runs "Apr 15 - Oct 15," making it unavailable during winter months.
Site layouts: Campground configurations vary significantly. At Beed's Lake State Park, "over half of the campsites are parallel parking. That means if you don't know the person camping across from you, you'll be staring at a stranger just a few feet away during your stay."
Reservation requirements: Securing sites ahead of time is important, particularly during summer. KOA Kampgrounds notes that "Check in was quick, spots were easy to pull into," but availability can be limited during peak season without advance planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Pilot Knob State Park Campground, one visitor notes, "There is the town of Forest City just a few miles away and it has pretty much everything you need for a stock up for your next adventure!! The camp ground is on the smaller side but it's clean and there is a play ground!"
Swimming options: Beaches provide cooling opportunities during summer months. A visitor to Myre-Big Island State Park mentions "an amazing sand bottom swimming pond surrounded by sand beach" that's perfect for families with children.
Educational activities: Some parks offer additional programming. Myre-Big Island State Park "offers geocashing (and free GPS rental), as well as canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and a small fishing that can be rented," providing structured activities for children.
Tips from RVers
Factory proximity: RV camping near Forest City, Iowa often relates to Winnebago factory visits. At Three Fingers Campground & RV Park, one RVer shared: "We spent a few nights here before moving closer into town waiting for Winnebago service."
Hookup variations: Electric service differs between campgrounds. The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park provides limited options: "I counted (8) 50 amp and (16) 30 amp sites. Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided. The cost is $20 per night."
Water quality considerations: Water sources vary in quality. At Oakwood RV Park, a visitor noted: "Water had a chlorine taste is the only drawback, but probably no worse than city water," suggesting RVers might want to bring drinking water.
