Best Campgrounds near Garwin, IA

Camping near Garwin, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic views to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do

• Hiking and Trails: Explore the many trails available in the area. Campers have enjoyed the “numerous shade trees, gravel pads, and hiking trails” at Jester County Park.
• Water Activities: If you love being near the water, check out Lake Macbride State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “The campground area is clean. Showers and toilets are clean. The RV section of the campground was nearly full but the tent/non-hook up section had lots of space.”
• Fishing and Boating: For those who enjoy fishing or boating, Rock Creek State Park Campground is a great spot. A reviewer noted, “Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities. Campground has some 30 amp and some 50 amp sites.”

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at F. W. Kent Park said, “Very quiet and clean, with lots of amenities and space to spread out.”
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. A visitor at Bob Shelter Recreation Area shared, “Friendly hosts & Rangers.”
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites available. A review for Prairie Flower Recreation Area highlighted, “The spaces are large and open with a nice balance of trees for shade.”

What you should know

• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Thomas Mitchell County Park mentioned, “Even though there were several empty spaces, turns out they were reserved.”
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Lake Macbride State Park Campground noted, “Showers had to be continually pushed to keep rolling.”
• Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially if you’re camping with pets. A camper at Yellow Banks County Park warned, “Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal.”

Tips for camping with families

• Playgrounds Available: Many campgrounds have playgrounds for kids. One family enjoyed the “kids playground, hiking trails, Equestrian Center, golf course, and nature center” at Jester County Park.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for all ages. A camper at George Wyth State Park Campground mentioned, “This park has hiking (on path or off), fishing in multiple lakes and the cedar river, and a beach!!!”
• Quiet Times: Choose weekdays for a quieter experience. A visitor at F. W. Kent Park said, “It’s a great place for a quick getaway. Quiet and not a million sites.”

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground noted, “The biggest downside: hard to tell until you see your site if you have water pump close enough!”
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A reviewer at Cherry Glen Campground appreciated the “electric hookups with 120 volt power outlets.”
• Dump Stations: Ensure there’s a dump station nearby. A camper at Bob Shelter Recreation Area mentioned, “Dump station and water fill in the back.”

Camping near Garwin, Iowa, has a lot to offer, from beautiful parks to friendly communities. Whether you’re in a tent or an RV, you’ll find a spot that suits your needs.