The Homestead area in eastern Iowa sits in the Iowa River valley at an elevation around 720 feet, surrounded by rolling farmland and scattered woodlands. Campgrounds near Homestead provide access to boating and fishing opportunities at nearby Coralville Lake and Lake Macbride. Weather conditions can bring challenges during the spring season when heavy rainfall may affect gravel pads and road access.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Devonian Fossil Gorge: Located near West Overlook Campground, this site features exposed Devonian-era fossils. "The recreation area also includes campgrounds and river recreation downstream of the dam, including a gorge of geologic interest that is filled with Devonian fossils exposed in the flood of 1993," notes Janet R.
Paddleboating and mini golf: Visitors to Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres can enjoy multiple activities without leaving the campground. "Great clean campground with lots to do. Mini golf, basketball, paddleboat on a small pond, horseshoes, and plenty of swings and playscapes for kids," writes Ben P.
Hiking the lake trails: The paved trail network surrounding F. W. Kent Park offers walking routes through diverse habitats. "Forest, prairie, wetland habitats. Not far from town for quick trip if needed," explains James M. Another visitor adds, "Great hike around the lake on trail that connects to the campground. Look for trail maps on the parks website."
What campers like
Easy interstate access: For travelers making a quick stopover while traveling on I-80, Little Bear Campground offers convenience. "Very conveniently located off I-80, Fair price, full hookup and pull through site $33.00," writes Alan B. Another camper added, "Just off I-80 this was a clean, large, level, grassy tents sites. Gas station right next door."
Winter camping options: Unlike many area campgrounds, Sudbury Court Motel & RV Park remains open year-round. "One of the few places around Cedar Rapids that is open in winter. 35$/night. Management is pleasant," notes Anna C.
Tent camping along lake shoreline: Sugar Bottom offers tent sites with water views. "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...with a pop up," shares Brad B.
What you should know
Bathroom and shower facilities vary: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly across the region. At Sugar Bottom Campground, "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions. This large COE has a variety of sites, with the 300 loop being full hook-ups. The sites down by the boat launch have electric only and tent sites."
Terrain and leveling challenges: Many RV sites require levelers. At F.W. Kent Park, a camper noted the "RV sites all seemed to have a slant to them." When selecting a site, inspect it first if possible.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Cedar River Campground specifically runs "April 15 to October 15," while Lake Macbride State Park Modern North Campground remains open year-round, offering winter camping options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. At Morgan Creek Campground, "Great little campground. Beautiful park with trails and playgrounds. Site was great and had everything we needed," reports Kristin B.
Swimming beaches: Lake Macbride and Coralville Lake provide designated swimming areas during summer months. A visitor to West Overlook noted, "The dam and the lake are cool, there's a decent beach, two playgrounds, and lots of sites to choose from."
Kid-friendly activities: Beyonder Getaway offers numerous recreational options. "Great owners, loads of stuff for kids (putt putt, paddle boats, horseshoes, basketball, Gaga, trampoline, playground). Near the highway so it has truck noise," mentions David W.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: RV sites at area campgrounds have varying privacy levels. At Morgan Creek, one camper noted, "Site was pretty level. But, closer to your neighbors than I would like." For better separation, consider campsites along perimeters.
Water and hookup options: Full-hookup sites are limited in the region. While several campgrounds offer water and electric, fewer provide sewer at individual sites. Cedar River Campground provides "water and electricity at site, along with picnic table and fire ring," making it suitable for shorter stays.
Seasonal impacts: Spring rainfall affects driving conditions on gravel roads. At Little Bear Campground, "The down sides of the park were that the roads and pads are gravel so I could see it becoming an issue during weather but we didn't have much trouble leveling."
