Camping options near Gilbert, Iowa range from full-service RV parks to public campgrounds with varying amenities. Gilbert sits within the Des Moines Lobe landform region at approximately 1,050 feet elevation, characterized by rolling terrain shaped by glacial deposits. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F while spring and fall camping seasons experience 45-65°F with potential for rainfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Little Wall Lake County Park provides access to a small lake stocked with bass. "This lake is great, lots of fishing spots and camping spots," noted a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly environment.
Biking trails: Near Griffs Valley View RV Park, the 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail runs between the campground and office. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," shared one camper who stayed for two months.
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park offers bison and elk viewing areas. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," explains one camper, though sightings require patience.
Hiking exploration: Ledges State Park Campground features sandstone formations and challenging terrain. A visitor commented, "What I enjoy most about this park compared to others in Iowa are the sandstone ledges and the slopes on the trail."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Acorn Valley maintains immaculate bathhouses. "Bathrooms are immaculate and cleaned every day," reported one camper, noting this was a standout feature compared to other area campgrounds.
Quiet atmosphere: Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures offers a peaceful setting despite proximity to highways. "We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn't hear a sound. It was really in a good perimeter of trees and lots of shade and level camp spots," shared one satisfied visitor.
Stargazing conditions: Several campgrounds in the Gilbert area benefit from minimal light pollution. "Our favorite spot to camp is 410 and 409. It's a secluded area within the 400s that is lined with trees on one side and a drop off into the Saylorville water circuit on the other. For $15/night/camping spot, you can enjoy the best view of stars and amazing sunsets," reported a regular visitor to Jester County Park.
Natural surroundings: Many campsites border water features or wooded areas. "The frogs in the nearby swamp were fun to hear. Lots of birds too," commented a visitor to Little Wall Lake County Park.
What you should know
Reservation patterns: Most campgrounds fill quickly from May through September, especially on weekends. "The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September. Good thing we got through because they found us a site for the night," reported a visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Weather considerations: High winds can affect camping comfort at some locations. At Little Wall Lake County Park, one visitor cautioned, "This is a nice small camp area that only has one downfall: a lack of wind break. We went when the wind was blowing in typical Iowa summer fashion."
Wildlife encounters: Secure food storage is essential at many campgrounds. "Biggest downside is the resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper," advised a camper at Acorn Valley.
Noise levels: Highway noise affects some campgrounds. One visitor to Little Wall Lake noted, "Only downfall if I need one is the campsites are closer together and it's close to an highway so you can hear cars driving by but it's rural Iowa so there aren't that many."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Acorn Valley offers family-friendly sites near play areas. "We parked at a site by the playground and bathhouse, and could sit at our camper and watch our son play at a safe distance," explained a parent.
Riverbed exploration: Natural play areas supplement traditional playgrounds. "It's quiet and there is plenty of shade in the tent camping area. The tent sites lead to some small trails which end at the riverbed. Our boys love exploring here," shared a parent about Acorn Valley.
Nature education: Several campgrounds feature educational opportunities. Jester County Park received praise for its conservation center: "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," remarked a visitor who spent time with family.
Site selection for tents: Consider distance from parking when tent camping. At Ledges State Park, one camper warned, "If you want to tent camp, bring a cart or something to haul everything with. The parking lot is a LONG WAY from any private tent site."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many RV campgrounds near Gilbert require leveling blocks. At Kellogg RV Park, "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks."
Shower facilities: Not all RV parks offer shower buildings. At Whispering Oaks RV Park in Story City, the lack of shower facilities stands out, though it accommodates big rigs year-round with electric hookups and water/sewer connections.
Food options: Several RV campgrounds near Gilbert feature on-site dining. Kellogg RV Park offers convenient food access: "Very convenient to I-80, well-laid out. Most convenient, though, was setting up at the site and then walking to the co-located gas station and burgers for dinner (and great ice cream cones)."
Off-season availability: Winter camping options exist for RVers at select locations. "We stayed at Griffs for two months in autumn while working in Altoona. The campground very well kept with spacious concrete pads," reported one seasonal camper.
