Best Campgrounds near Greeley, IA

Camping sites near Greeley, Iowa offer both primitive sites along trout streams and more developed campgrounds with electrical hookups. Situated in Delaware County's rolling hills, the area experiences temperature swings with summer highs reaching 85°F and winter lows dipping below 10°F. Most sites remain open from May through October, though some permit year-round access with limited winter amenities.

What to do

Trout fishing opportunities: At Fountain Springs County Park, the stocked stream attracts anglers throughout the season. "I have been coming to Fountain Spring for the trout fishing for years. More recently, for the last two years, this has become my go-to spot for camping," notes Kerry M., who appreciates the proximity of sites to the water.

Hiking woodland trails: Explore the trail system at Backbone State Park, which features the distinctive rocky ridge that gives the park its name. "We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails, seeing deer on the trail, and the lake," shares Larissa C., who visited during October when fall foliage peaks.

Creek exploration: Children enjoy wading in the shallow creeks at most campgrounds in the region. At Coffins Grove Park, one camper notes, "Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in."

What campers like

Secluded camping spots: Many visitors appreciate the quiet nature of these rural sites. "Secluded and free!" reports Bernadette H. about her experience at Fountain Springs County Park. "Came in at dusk and were the only campers there. We bought a bag of fire wood from the house going into the park and had a wonderful fire and sipped some wine."

Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness receives consistent praise. At New Wine Park, Russell B. notes, "Very nice campground at reasonable price. Water/Elec was $18 dollars night." While mentioning the facilities aren't fancy, he adds, "The showers and restrooms are what you might expect for an unattended camp ground."

Wildlife viewing: Many campers report seeing turkeys, deer, and various birds. Kerry M. mentions the wildlife at Fountain Springs County Park: "Usually, I hear (or see) turkeys and woodpeckers. Other camp visitors include whitetail deer, squirrels, raccoons, and the occasional skunk."

What you should know

Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies across the region's campgrounds. Tammie C. warns about Fountain Springs: "all I could do was text from my AT&T phone... I forgot where my morning destination was and had to use GPS to feel my way out until I had service again. You'll want a hard copy of your directions if you stay the night."

Site spacing considerations: Campgrounds vary in site spacing and privacy. At Backbone State Park, Cheryl V. observes, "Campsites are close together w no privacy," a contrast to the more spread-out sites at other county parks in the area.

Water quality issues: Some water features have seasonal quality concerns. At Backbone State Park, one reviewer cautions, "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it."