Pet friendly camping near Hiawatha, Iowa provides campers access to multiple county and state parks within a 30-minute drive. The area sits in the Cedar River watershed with elevations ranging from 720-850 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds remain open from mid-April through mid-October, with summer temperatures averaging 83°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Biking on nearby trails: Morgan Creek County Park connects to a network of bike paths that extend throughout the region. "This area has something for everyone. Lots of opportunity to ride the numerous bike trails nearby and hike in wanatee park and nearby pinicon," explains Kristy E. who visited Wanatee Park.
Fishing opportunities: The area offers multiple fishing spots on local rivers and lakes. "There is a nice hiking trail around the lake, about 8 miles complete loop. There is a bit of elevation change and not many opportunities to 'bail out' so take water and pace yourself," notes Mitch C. about Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground.
Paddling and water recreation: Several parks provide boat access for kayaking and canoeing. "The fish cleaning stations are well maintained and the location is not too far away from town. My son and I like to get the canoes and Kayaks out and paddle around the lake," says Robert F. about his experience at Pleasant Creek.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between campsites. "The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided. The nearest grocery store was within 5 miles," reports Clint G. about his stay at Pinicon Ridge Park.
Modern shower facilities: Clean, updated bathrooms are available at most parks. "Awesome Campground. Clean, and even NEW showers that are outstanding. Storm shelter right on site," shares Beau Z. about Pinicon Ridge Park, adding that the "Playground is awesome for kids of all ages."
Wooded sites for privacy: Several campgrounds offer good tree coverage. "We stayed at site 48 and it's a perfect spot just off the lake with great views. Only drawback is it's kinda of a walk from a bathroom and the beach but that is more than ok to deal with," writes Brad B. about Sugar Bottom Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites fill quickly during summer months. "We stayed in a 25 foot travel trailer in the middle of the week. Weekends are pretty much sold out," warns David J. about Pleasant Creek. Some campgrounds like Wanatee Park offer both reservable and first-come-first-serve options.
Storm shelters: The area can experience severe weather during summer months. "Storm shelter right on site," mentions Beau Z. about Pinicon Ridge, while Lake Macbride State Park offers "clean bathrooms with showers and multiple water wells spread out. There were rangers checking out the area every so often," according to Delrealist S.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers," notes Clint G. about his experience at Wanatee Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature excellent play areas for children. "The playground is fantastic and keep the kids entertained all day. The water is great for fishing, swimming and boating," recommends Ashley S. about Pinicon Ridge Park.
Beginner-friendly trails: Many parks offer easy hiking options suitable for children. "Fun beginner hikes. As a local to the area it's a park I visit often," shares Ryan about Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground, which features scenic bluffs overlooking the Cedar River.
Swimming areas: F.W. Kent Park includes a beach area for families. "The large lake is beautifully landscaped with walking bridges made from recycled iron and memorial trees of many varieties. There is about a two mile trail circumventing the entire lake. I was there in early October so the weather was too chilly to use the nice beach," writes Lisa S.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Most campgrounds offer electric and water hookups with dump stations available. "Great facilitity," states Terry M. about Wanatee Park, which offers water and electrical hookups plus a sanitary dump station upon exit.
Site selection for larger RVs: Some campgrounds better accommodate big rigs. "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided," notes Clint G., who has camped at Wanatee Park multiple times.
Proximity to services: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to nearby towns. "The park is huge and you could easily get lost. Only downfall is the gates are locked at 10pm so if you needed to come or go, you're stuck," advises Desiree R. about F.W. Kent Park.
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