7 campgrounds with availability this weekend
RV campgrounds near Grinnell offer multiple full-hookup options, including pull-through sites with 50-amp service and big-rig-friendly layouts. Kellogg RV Park offers pull-through sites with 50-amp service and sewer connections, positioned just off Interstate 80 for convenient access. "Very nice, clean and comfortable campground for an overnight stop. The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer," notes one visitor. Rock Creek State Park Campground provides both 30-amp and 50-amp electric sites, though campers report the RV area can become crowded during peak seasons with sites positioned close together. Diamond Lake County Park features newly developed RV sites with lake views, while Adventureland Campground in Altoona caters to families visiting the adjacent amusement park.
Several campgrounds in the area remain open year-round, including Kellogg RV Park and Adventureland Campground, while others like Amana RV Park operate seasonally from April through October. Most parks accommodate big rigs, with Kellogg and Griffs Valley View specifically advertising as big-rig friendly. Highway noise can be a consideration at certain locations—Newton KOA sits within earshot of I-80 traffic. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, travelers seeking more peaceful surroundings should request sites furthest from highways. Dump stations are available at most parks, though availability varies; Diamond Lake County Park provides water and electric hookups at its lakeside sites but requires use of the central dump station. Pet policies differ between facilities, with most allowing pets on leash while Griffs Valley View RV Park prohibits pets entirely.
"Full hook ups and a fair price compared to most rv parks especially with good sam membership. No frills but adorably decorated."
"The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer. The only real issue is the constant noise from I-80 which is just to the south of the campground."
"The campground very very well kept with spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/ sewage hookups. Two nice laundry/shower houses, one in the front and one in the back of the campground."
"I came here once for a baby shower and then check the place out for RV camping you can stay year round you can stay for a week a month or a day and they have full hookup propane they have so many interesting"
from $35 - $90 / night
"This is a great location right in the Amana Colonies to explore the area. There are sites for tents up to big rigs. They have showers and laundry and the folks are very nice."
"We used our bikes and biked around the colonies. Place was clean, showers and bathroom great. We were there after Labor Day and had section to our selves.Lots of dump stations. Minimal tres however."
from $25 - $42 / night
"In fact, this campground outpost is so close to the highway that you’ll be hard pressed not to see or hear it during your entire stay."
"Newton KOA This is the primary location for camping in Newton. It’s right off interstate I-80 and is very close to the Iowa Speedway."
"One of the few places around Cedar Rapids that is open in winter. 35$/night. Management is pleasant."
"Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought."
"We stayed here to go to the Iowa State Fair. It was easy to park here and catch a shuttle to the fair."
from $45 - $60 / night
"No wake lake. Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities. Campground has some 30 amp and some 50 amp sites. New playground for the kids. Clean facilities."
"This park, like all state parks, has had it's ups and downs. Unfortunately, the amazing swimming beach with concession stand and changing rooms with showers is gone."
Available this weekend
from $12 - $40 / night
"While it was our first time camping in Iowa, we were extremely lucky to land upon this slightly hidden fresh water centered campground just a 20 minute drive south of Route 80 near Montezuma, wherein one"
"review from over a year and a half ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this county park campground gem in a very rural part of Iowa"
"Jump into the nearby water and let the kids have a blast! Enjoy a nice fun night away from home!"
LegendVery nice state park campground. There are cabins as well as campsites. The park is adjacent to Pine Lake and water based recreation is available including swimming beach and boating. The campground is off a paved road and is near to town. There is a walking path to the boat launch from the campground. Biking/hiking trails are on property.
TravelerNice quiet campground. The front looks like more long timers and it was a little noisier up there but I drove to the back loop and it's nice and quiet back here. PLENTY of 50/30/20 amp hookups and the shower house in the back was nice. Water was just lukewarm but it was hot out so no problem. Might be less pleasant in colder weather though. Pull through spots available. I would stay here again for sure.
Legend9-14-26 Timberline East RV Campground, I do not think this is a KOA anymore. Tent site T1 & 2 was level and on grass with table and fire ring. checked in at 7pm, overcast, Molly was great at the check in, offered a 10% Veteran discount. $34 for the night. We only stayed one night. Showers and bathrooms were decent. T-Mobile was 5G 4 bars. Rained all night, you can hear the noise from the highway but you drown it out.
ScoutThis is a great location by the lake with some spots having great water views. You dont feel like sardines with all the space between sites. You can walk down to the beach as well in no time. We had a nice relaxing weekend. Will be back.
ScoutI love being close to the river and watching the birds.
GuideQuiet, clean, organized and friendly host! I ll be coming back!
TravelerThe campsite was great. There were campsites near the water and trees and then there were some on top of the hill.
TravelerHas a good view of lake on the tent side with no electric hookups, or water, although there is a small water spout that is like a hose we used to wash dishes and there’s also porta potty’s. There is about 11 sites on this side pretty cheap for what you get with them; they have a fire ring, picnic table Id give it a 10/10
RangerGreat friendly hosts. Check in inside the gas station. Full hook ups and a fair price compared to most rv parks especially with good sam membership. No frills but adorably decorated. You got gas, snacks and great food and ice cream..what else could you ask for in a overnight stop. Laundry, shower house and bocce court. Bocce sets available to borrow from the gas station. Cute communal sitting areas one area with fire rings and wood available at the gas station. Yes its right off 80 and you will hear the traffic but with this incredible convenience we didn't mind. Felt safe and good vibes during our stay. Level and long gravel pull through sites and big rig friendly. Will definitely be added to our favorites list for I80 travels.
Camping around Grinnell, Iowa offers options ranging from basic tent camping to full-hookup RV sites within a 20-mile radius of town. Located in east-central Iowa at approximately 948 feet above sea level, the area features a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in this prairie region remain open from April through October, with a few year-round options for travelers seeking camping experiences during colder months.
Fishing at local lakes: Diamond Lake County Park provides several prime fishing spots around the 98-acre lake. "Very nice camping place very laid back and good people around, decent sized lake for fishing," notes one camper. The lake is stocked with bluegill and crappie, making it ideal for casual anglers.
Biking on paved trails: Rock Creek State Park Campground connects to a bike trail that leads directly into Grinnell. "Nice and quiet even on race weekend," mentions one visitor. The paved trail runs approximately 5 miles from the campground to town, offering an alternative to driving.
Farm and food experiences: Several local attractions showcase the area's agricultural heritage. Near Kellogg RV Park, campers can explore "a cool antique farm tractor and old gas station across the street to look at." For food enthusiasts, "head on over to nearby Maytag Blue Cheese for a slice or slab or head on over to Dayton Meat Products," which offers unique regional meats and sausages.
Storm shelters for safety: Severe weather preparedness is a serious consideration in Iowa camping. "Bonus points to Kellogg RV Park for having an F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site, so while your RV might blow away, no worries, you and those you hold most precious will be protected in the event of a tornado."
Serene lakefront views: The newer RV section at Diamond Lake County Park features water-adjacent sites. "Beautiful electrical sites right on the lake," reports one visitor, while another notes the "serene view of Lake Diamond" and mentions "cell phone service is great for cricket and Verizon."
Space between sites: At Howell Station, campers appreciate the roomier setup compared to other campgrounds. "Sites were spacious, level and most were very shady," writes one reviewer. Another mentions, "We have plenty of space for our dogs on two stakes. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table."
Seasonal openings vary: While some RV parks near Grinnell operate year-round, most have limited seasons. At Amana RV Park & Event Center, the camping season runs "Apr 1 - Oct 31," requiring off-season planning for travelers. A visitor notes, "The 'office' is a little gas station, hamburger cafe with a very efficient and friendly check-in person."
Lake water quality varies: Diamond Lake features darker water that may not appeal to swimmers. One camper observes, "The only downside is that the lake water was very murky. I would not want to swim there." Another reviewer calls it "a great place for a nightover" despite this limitation.
Limited privacy at some sites: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, be prepared for close quarters in certain areas. "RV sites are close and busy," notes one camper, while another states "the sites both tent and RV are simply too close for you to enjoy the place. Camp fires every 10 feet."
Playground access: Griffs Valley View RV Park offers "a small playground" among its amenities. Another camper mentions the "large community center, gym, and laundry facilities on site," making it suitable for longer family stays.
Swimming alternatives: With limited swimming options at some lakes, consider RV sites near Grinnell, Iowa that offer pool facilities. "They have a swimming pool and a fishing pond," reports a visitor to Adventureland Campground, which provides a good alternative for families wanting water recreation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Diamond Lake County Park offers excellent bird watching. "Great spot for birds—saw multiple heron, egret and hawks," writes one camper. This provides educational opportunities for children interested in nature without requiring structured activities.
Site selection strategy: When staying at Adventureland Campground, experienced RVers recommend specific locations. "Pull through paved 50 amp sites, with water and sewage. Picnic table for use," notes one camper. The concrete pads make leveling easier, with another visitor mentioning "concrete slabs, so it was easy to back in and set-up."
Utility hookup planning: At Griffs Valley View RV Park, utilities are well-positioned for most rigs. The campground offers "spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups," making it suitable for extended stays. One camper mentions staying "at Griffs for two months in autumn while working in Altoona."
Weather preparation: Iowa's climate requires proper planning. Howell Station campers appreciate staff preparedness: "The night we stayed, there was a severe weather threat, and the staff, at the end of the night, had unlocked the storm shelters should the need arise."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near Grinnell, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Grinnell, IA is Kellogg RV Park with a 4-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near Grinnell, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 73 RV camping locations near Grinnell, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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