Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mason City, IA has a lot to offer. Mason City is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Mason City and user-submitted reviews.
$17 - $35 / night
"We love coming to Clear Lake! The campgrounds are always very well kept, bathrooms very clean! Easy access to the lake, and the town has so much to do during the summer months!"
"Clear lake state park is a nice campground. It does get very busy during peak season and traffic is continuous. It is clean and close to the beach. Down town and other shopping is a short drive away."
$12 - $26 / night
"This campground is just across the river from East Park, a very large part in Mason city. The river flows through the park and there are several, maybe 5 playgrounds in the park."
"There are also awesome parks within walking distance. If we ever come through this area again we will definitely be staying here!"
"Perfect size sites and near the river for some water fun. Pool wasn’t open yet but looked to be a good size. Would go back there again for sure!"
"Big grassy field surrounded by huge (walnut) trees. There a gravel track that goes along a large river. Trees everywhere so bring bug spray. Quiet, peaceful. Not private but worth it."
"Nice and quiet, many families around. Had a great overnight and a lazy morning before a 2 PM checkout. Would stay again when we're back this way."
$12 - $60 / night
"Sites arranged in a circle around a clean shower house. Potable water. Only 2 non-electric sites. Most sites level. Sites are close to each other, not offering much in the way of privacy."
"Beautiful shaded campground near the lake, not far from town if you forgot something. We stayed in one of the two yurts- bunk bed plus a futon and table/chairs inside. Picnic table and grill outside."
$10 - $28 / night
"Located by New Ulm, MN this campground has plenty of activities in the park or very near the park."
"When driving to my site two fawns were laying near the playground."
"We tent camped but they’ve got lots of spaces for campers and tents as well, bathrooms are close, there is a nice lake near with play equipment located at the lake and at the campground, the campground"
$25 / night
"Short walk to the lake and playgrounds. Bar and grill 1/4 mile away."
GuideLiked the spot by the lake and we could have been the only ones there but we noticed a few things on the way to the site that was unsettling and then we were followed in by a truck that just went to the end of the loop then left, with the driver and passenger obviously not wanting to be seen. Weirded me out so we left. Felt unsafe.
GuidePaid $45 online than had to pay $7 at gate. Some trails, saw bear poop, restrooms were confusing (7 choices 😳)
TravelerA good place for a place to stop next to a lake. Good hookups and picnic tables
ScoutThis is a beautiful county park with lots of camping sites with great views and generous camping spots. It is on a small lake that has good fishing, full hookups, and very nice swimming b each beach. We also enjoyed walking on the many trails.
RangerBig Island was nicely wooded, keeping a very cool temperature but with little cover from other campsites. Tent pad and fire pit were well maintained. Restrooms were well cleaned, if not exactly maintained (soap and Toilet paper ran light over the weekend, and spiders hung out after a cleaning). ADA accessible. Even with a few trails closed, plenty of trails to explore around the Big Island campground. Rented a tandem kayak from the ranger station, looked like one of the two kayaks, plenty of canoes for rent. Spotted pelicans, turtles, and birds along the shore. Campground host never came by, but the ranger was spotted twice once to keep hammock straps off a smaller tree. Mosquitos were out in full force during the cooler weather.
GuideQuiet, clean and decent size lots.
This Campground sits among a sleepy country city… however with the trees and the setting, you would never know.
The cost is $20 per night for electric and water. Sewer cost extra.
Would stay here 100 times over any type of lot docking and many other campsites that look like parking lot.
It’s a home run stay here!
RangerI really enjoyed my stay here. I had planned for one night but I enjoyed it so much I stayed for 3. The fairgrounds are dead quiet when there is not an event going on. The locals come through on walks because the fairgrounds are so pleasant. There is a nice walking path with gardens and artwork, and a playground as well.
There is a very clean bath house that has one shower. There are water hydrants throughout the fairgrounds but none at the camp sites. There is no dump station on the property. The sites are paved and most require some leveling. They are pretty short, my motorhome is 25 feet long and when I parked the back of my rig was over the grass. Some of the other sites might be a little longer.
There is a cell tower right next to the fairgrounds. I had excellent T-mobile (5G) and Verizon (4G) signal & speeds here.
There is a train track nearby, I heard trains once or twice a day. I did not hear any horns at night, but some during the day. It was not too loud.
The downtown part of Northwood is about a 15 minute walk. There you'll find a handful of restaurants and a very nice, very small, coffee shop. There is a grocery store in town, as well as a hardware store and a pharmacy. All within a 10-15 minute walk from the fairgrounds.
There is a very nice city park with bike paths, located right on the river, in the Southwest part of town. It's about a 20 minute walk.
ScoutBig grassy field surrounded by huge (walnut) trees. There a gravel track that goes along a large river. Trees everywhere so bring bug spray. Quiet, peaceful. Not private but worth it. Free, 3 day max stay
GuidePulled in one evening on our way to Texas from Minnesota. Large, open spaces equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. Electric hookups and water also available. Reasonable rates (I think we paid $15) for one night.
Camping near Mason City, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to wooded retreats, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, the camping options near Mason City, Iowa, have something to offer everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What campgrounds are available in Mason City, Iowa?
Mason City offers several camping options within and around the city. MacNider Campground is located in the city, situated across the river from East Park. For campers willing to venture slightly outside Mason City, Prairie Bridges Park provides a quiet small-town camping experience with convenient walking paths and nearby amenities. Other options within driving distance include Clear Lake State Park, Beed's Lake State Park, and Worth County Fairgrounds. Most campgrounds in the area offer electric sites, with some providing water hookups and shower facilities. Many are open seasonally from spring through fall, with specific opening and closing dates varying by location.
What amenities does MacNider Campground in Mason City offer?
MacNider Campground in Mason City offers convenient access to East Park, a large park with the river flowing through it. The campground is adjacent to the city pool, making it ideal for families who want to swim during their stay. The nearby East Park features multiple playgrounds (approximately five) providing excellent recreation options for children. While the campground itself has basic amenities, its main advantage is the proximity to East Park's extensive facilities. The location offers a unique blend of camping experience with urban convenience, allowing campers to enjoy outdoor activities while remaining close to city amenities and services.
Is tent camping available near Mason City, Iowa?
Yes, tent camping is available near Mason City at several locations. Beed's Lake State Park Campground offers excellent tent camping opportunities with sites located right next to the lake. It's a great fishing destination with beautiful views of the waterfall and dam. Eldred Sherwood Park provides primitive tent sites with a bathhouse about 500 feet away, plus forested and prairie walking paths. Other nearby options include McIntosh Woods State Park and Otranto County Park. Most of these campgrounds feature fire pits, picnic tables, and access to restroom facilities. Availability is typically seasonal, running from spring through fall.
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