Fruitland, Iowa offers diverse camping experiences with elevations ranging from 600-680 feet along the Cedar River basin. The region experiences humid continental climate with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Camping areas near Fruitland feature a mix of prairie, woodland, and riverfront terrain with most sites situated within 30 minutes of town.
What to Do
Fishing at Cedar River: Cedar River Campground provides excellent fishing access with boat launch facilities. "Seasonal cg along the Cedar River with camp store, ice, wood, propane, showers/restrooms. Has playground, pool, mini golf, Cedar River access too," notes James M. about the Cedar River Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Scott County Park offers multiple water recreation options including kayaking and canoeing. "Park offers Pride Lake for fishing/paddling, trails for hike/bike/horse, pool with concessions, golf course, historical Pioneer Village, and trails with wildlife!" explains a visitor to Woodside Campground.
Historical exploration: Several campgrounds provide access to local historical sites. "Although this campground is closed for the winter, these sites offer wooded and shaded spots... the park offers pool, golf with concessions, Pride Lake for fishing/paddling, historical Pioneer Village," says James M. about Wilderness Campground.
What Campers Like
Nature immersion: Wilderness Campground offers secluded, wooded sites that create a genuine forest experience. "Primitive. Campground host, wood available in park, playground, showers, fishing, golfing, historical village, bike/hike/horse trails, park gates close after hours," reports a camper about Wilderness Campground.
Family activities: Cedar River Campground features numerous recreation options beyond glamping. "Not our typical campsite but we had the kids down for the weekend and we thought a campsite with a pool and mini golf would be a fun break from the norm," writes Steve T.
Swimming options: Many glamping locations near Fruitland feature swimming facilities. "Recently under new ownership, you can tell they've been working hard getting the place going again... They had a great fireworks display for the fourth," mentions Jenny about her stay at Cedar River Campground.
What You Should Know
Highway noise: Some campgrounds in the Fruitland area experience traffic noise. "Very standard rv spots feet from the highway. Hosts are very amicable. Perfect for what we needed, a quick stop on our drive across country," explains Alieta about Little Bear Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most luxury camping options near Fruitland operate April through October. "The pool was closed for the evening cleaning, so we didn't get to use it. There was a beautiful wetland just down from the campground," reports Jackie J. about Cedar River Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular glamping sites fill quickly during peak season. "We stayed on the primitive group side of the lake. There is a small pond that we were able to let some of our scouts get started in kayaks and canoes before getting into the main lake," shares Robert F. about Lake Darling.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pool access: Choose glamping sites with swimming options during summer months. "Nice campground with some newer facilities, well kept up and clean. Sites were fairly level and all pretty close to the showers/restrooms, and well spaced out between sites," recommends Molly L. about Lake Darling State Park Campground.
Playground availability: Several glamping locations feature play areas for children. "We loved the helpful service from the owner as he helped us get settled in. It was our first time there and it was a great visit. The showers at the main lodge were AMAZING," shares Chole C. about Haven Hills Campground and Resort.
Activity planning: Luxury camping sites offer varying activities that require planning. "Camp offers site for all tastes: primitive and modern cabins and lodges, tents for small or large groups and couples. Hard roads, fire pits, tables, water, showers, supplies. Surrounded by nature with forest, prairie, and lake," describes James M. about Camp Liberty.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV glamping requires attention to site specifications. "Campground offers host, nicely maintained heated showers and restrooms, play area, firewood, available on site, RV pads are hard surface, have fire rings, water, electric, tables," explains James M. about Woodside Campground.
Utility access: Full hookup availability varies by location. "Very conveniently located off I-80, Fair price, full hook up and pull through site $33.00," notes Alan B. about Little Bear Campground.
Spaciousness concerns: Some glamping sites offer more space than others for large RVs. "We had a cross country meet here. Came back to camp. Loved exploring the area," shares Dorothy H. about Lake Darling State Park.
