Campgrounds near Glenwood, Iowa offer diverse options along the Loess Hills, with elevations rising 200 feet above the Missouri River floodplain. The region's unique terrain provides opportunities for camping near natural areas and scenic views, particularly during spring and fall when temperatures average 50-70°F. Local sites balance proximity to urban areas with access to outdoor recreation.
What to do
Hike the Loess Hills: Hitchcock County Nature Center in Honey Creek features extensive hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. According to Pat V., "There are miles of trail available with backcountry camping available for $10 per night. The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below." Trails are well-marked with multiple trailheads.
Try archery: Hitchcock County Nature Center maintains an on-site archery range open to visitors. As Pat V. mentions, "As a family we go to Hitchcock a few times a year for the hiking and the archery range they have on-site. Both are excellent and a nice escape from the city!"
Mountain biking: The Ashland RV Campground provides access to nearby trail systems. Andrew D. notes, "It is also right by a killer mountain biking trail (lookup Oxbow Trail System on Trailforks if you are into that)." The trail system is suitable for intermediate riders with some technical sections.
Geocaching: Several campgrounds offer geocaching opportunities within walking distance. Andrew D. shares, "To entertain my kids (ages 6-12), there were several geocaches to find within walking distance, and the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities at area campgrounds. At Victorian Acres RV Park, Zach H. reports, "We stayed here 1 night while passing through. Easy access from the highway. The staff and other campers were very friendly. Large sites, many with trees. Well landscaped with lots of green space."
Educational programming: Nature centers provide learning opportunities for all ages. At Hitchcock County Nature Center, Lynn G. writes, "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping... Make sure to look at their events calendar, they have exceptional programs for all ages."
Hawk watching opportunities: The tower at Hitchcock offers bird watching opportunities. James M. mentions, "Great hiking in Loess Hills, great Nature Center especially with programming of 'Hawk Watch'." The observation tower provides views of migrating raptors during spring and fall.
Proximity to town amenities: Ashland RV Campground offers walkable access to town services. Jen S. notes it's a "Brand new clean quiet campground walking distance from downtown." Andrew D. adds, "It is close to main street Ashland, which offers gourmet coffee (Fariner Bakery was my favorite), and a couple of restaurants."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds have limited operations during winter months. For Bluffs Run RV Park, Lisa C. warns, "I arrived February 28 to visit the casino and friends in town. I couldn't figure out where to check in so I called the number on the website. Turns out the RV parking is closed for the winter."
Noise factors: Highway and train noise affect some campgrounds. At Pine Grove RV Park, Annaliese M. cautions, "Don't expect peace & quiet. This place is sandwiched in between I-80 and the I-80 Speedway." Similarly, Andrew D. notes at Ashland RV Campground, "The only downside to this campsite is the traffic noise. Even though it is off the interstate, you still get trucks coming into town using their jake brakes and a train that passes through town blowing its horn."
Site levelness: Site quality varies between and within campgrounds. At Victorian Acres, Maggie C. observes, "Sites are nice with trees and vegetation but not very level." At other parks, corner sites may have specific leveling challenges.
Self-registration process: Several parks offer after-hours check-in. Abby W. at Hitchcock County Nature Center appreciated the "simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked." This system works well for late arrivals.
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational programs: Hitchcock County Nature Center offers family-oriented activities. Karen W. shares, "This is one of our favorite places to camp. It's beautiful and there's plenty of hiking... With the nature Center there is plenty for the kids to do. There's even a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes... We love doing their extra classes."
Find campgrounds with playgrounds: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Bob Hardy RV Park, Wendy M. mentions, "They had electric hookups, grills and picnic tables at every site plus a small playground for kids." Playground equipment typically includes swings and climbing structures.
Consider water features: During summer months, seek out campgrounds near splash pads or pools. Andrew D. notes that in Ashland, "the town has a splash pad and pool during the summer months" which provided entertainment for his children aged 6-12.
Test hiking gear on shorter trails: Hitchcock's varied terrain makes it ideal for introducing children to hiking. Matt S. recommends, "The trail system isn't huge because of the size of the park, but it has a lot of up and down and is a great place to practice backpacking or test new gear before you leave the plains and head to the rocky mountains for a new adventure."
Tips from RVers
Electric service varies: Many parks offer multiple power options. Bob Hardy RV Park provides 30-amp service, as Victoria S. explains: "All camps for 30amps. Only 2 drinkable water fountains." Other parks offer 50-amp connections for larger rigs.
Dump station availability: Free dump stations can save money for longer trips. Jacob T. notes at Bob Hardy RV Park, "Single free dump station as well." Chris H. adds, "Dump station and water fill" are available until freezing weather arrives.
Site size and accessibility: For larger rigs, site dimensions matter. At The Wilds RV/Trailer Resort, level sites accommodate larger vehicles with full hookups including 50-amp service. The Bartlett Shores sites also provide adequate space for big rigs with full connections.
Seasonal site conditions: Weather affects campground operations. Victoria S. mentions, "The dump station was free. We made $15 per night. But on some spots it says it $17.50 a night." Winter camping options are limited, with most RV parks closing water services during freezing temperatures.
