Camping near Dolliver, Iowa offers outdoor options across both Minnesota and Iowa, with sites situated among glacial lakes and agricultural landscapes at an average elevation of 1,250 feet. The region's continental climate brings warm summers with periodic thunderstorms and cold winters, with camping season typically running April through October. Seasonal campers often secure spots at popular locations months in advance.
What to do
Fishing access options: At Perch Lake Park, campers can fish directly from the shore. "Would like more night lighting and lake access," notes one visitor, suggesting improvements while acknowledging the current fishing opportunities.
Mini-golf and recreation: Flying Goose Campground & Resort features an on-site mini-golf course plus volleyball and basketball courts. "Mature shade trees everywhere, Impeccably clean bathrooms, showers, etc. playground, small homemade mini golf course, volleyball, basketball, the works to keep the kids happy and entertained," a camper observed.
Frisbee golf courses: Local campgrounds connect to dedicated disc golf facilities. "Frisbee golf course within walking distance," reported one visitor at Daly Park & Campground, while another camper noted the same amenity at Island View: "Clean Park, have fun things to do at Lawcon park across the street! Frisbee Golf, playground, and a 5mile trail around lake."
What campers like
Lakefront campsites: Everett Park offers direct lake access many appreciate. "Nice place right on the lake. Campground manager is nice. Sites are electric only. Fill with water before setting up. Reasonable and it's clean. If you like to fish you want to come here," shared one camper.
Clean facilities: Many reviewers highlight facility cleanliness as a top feature. "The shower had plenty of hot water with great water pressure. Dated but clean. Very quiet and peaceful here. Dog friendly," noted a camper at Everett Park.
Yurt camping options: Bright Lake Co Park provides yurt camping near Dolliver, Iowa with scenic lake views. "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!" a visitor commented, noting the spaciousness that accommodates various camping styles including yurt setups.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others operate first-come, first-served. "This campground is first-come-first-serve. Not sure why it popped up on the map," noted one traveler about Everett Park, highlighting the importance of verifying reservation policies beforehand.
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds open mid-April through October, with peak times from Memorial Day to Labor Day. "We were there for a one night mid-week stay, and it was so quiet and calm because ~70% of the spots are taken by seasonal guests who are primarily at the campgrounds on the weekends," a Flying Goose visitor explained.
Hookup limitations: Different sites offer varied utility connections. At Land of Memories Campground, a camper noted: "No water hook ups at each site. Has one in central location so luckily I had just enough hose to fill up the camper."
Train proximity: Some campgrounds sit near active rail lines. At The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park, a visitor observed: "Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes... The 50 amp area offers more privacy, gravel pull through parking and more convenient shower and rest room access but a lightly used rail line runs by."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple parks feature kid-friendly play areas. "We have very much enjoyed our weekends at the Land of Memories Campground. This is a very spacious, clean campground. We camp with children and this has been a very family friendly campground. It has a playground & trails to walk along the Minnesota River," one family reported.
Swimming beaches: Jackson KOA offers swimming opportunities for families. "I've been to several KOAs while traveling and this one does not disappoint. Clean and updated bathrooms, nice pool and friendly staff," noted a visitor, highlighting amenities that appeal to families with children.
Space for activities: Look for sites with open areas for games and gathering. "Wide open grass center of Park is wide open for frisbee kids and and such, nice," observed a visitor to Land of Memories Campground, pointing out the practical benefit of ample play space.
Tips from RVers
Extension cord needs: At some sites, electrical connections require planning. "The electric hook ups are really far from the pad so bring an extension," advised a camper at Land of Memories Campground.
Dump station access: RV travelers appreciate convenient waste disposal options. At The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park, a visitor reported: "Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided. The cost is $20 per night."
Site leveling: Most campgrounds in the area feature relatively flat sites. "The site we were put in was not set up well for the connections however it was a large site. Very muddy site but they offered to let us use a rug so we didn't get ours all muddy," shared an RVer at Flying Goose Campground, indicating staff help with site conditions.
