Camping near Hawarden, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.
What to do:
- Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Blue Mounds State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "We went on a couple trails and just enjoyed the beautiful fall colors."
- Wildlife Viewing: Check out the bison at Blue Mounds State Park Campground. A camper shared, "We could hear the Bison, wasn't able to see them but we could hear them."
- Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, families can enjoy fishing and swimming. One reviewer noted, "The lake had a great beach, fishing pier, and picnic area."
What campers like:
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Palisades State Park Campground said, "Bathrooms exceptionally clean. Showers great."
- Spacious Campsites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Big Sioux Recreation Area. One camper mentioned, "Sites are big and roomy. We have two big dogs and were able to put them both on 30-foot leads."
- Family-Friendly Activities: Families love the activities available at Sioux Falls Yogi Bear. A parent shared, "It was an absolute blast for our kids with plenty of activities to keep them entertained."
What you should know:
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby highways or events. A visitor at Sioux Falls KOA noted, "Lots of noise since it’s off the highway."
- Limited Privacy: Campers at Newton Hills State Park found that "the proximity of sites could be bothersome" during busy weekends.
- Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds, like Lake Vermillion Recreation Area, fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. One camper advised, "We liked it so much we stayed a second night."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places like Yogi Bear Campground, which offers lots of activities for kids. A reviewer said, "Great pool and kid activities."
- Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or plan hikes to keep kids engaged. One family at Big Sioux Recreation Area enjoyed the trails, stating, "There are lots of trails here, so I got a good run in."
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Keep everyone happy with snacks during your outdoor adventures. A camper at Lake Vermillion Recreation Area mentioned, "We enjoyed the picnic area."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campsite. A visitor at Palisades State Park Campground noted, "Totally new entrance with easy access to new section that will handle larger RVs."
- Look for Amenities: Choose campgrounds with electric hookups and clean facilities, like Sioux Falls KOA. One camper said, "Felt clean and secure."
- Be Prepared for Weather: Bring gear for rain or shine. A camper at Newton Hills State Park mentioned, "Great stargazing," indicating clear skies can be a highlight.
Camping near Hawarden, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.
