Hopkinton, Iowa sits at 876 feet elevation in Delaware County's rolling countryside. Winters average 14°F with summer temperatures reaching 83°F, creating a limited camping season typically from April through October. Most glamping sites close for winter due to freezing temperatures and increased maintenance challenges.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area offers an 8-mile complete loop trail around the lake with some elevation changes. A reviewer noted, "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."
Paddling and fishing: Swiss Valley County Park provides access to Catfish Creek, a popular trout stream stocked by Iowa DNR. "Trout stream runs through campground and park and is stocked by Iowa DNR, has Swiss Valley Nature center with trails," shares one visitor who rated the park 5 stars.
Playground access: Pinicon Ridge Park features extensive playground facilities for various age groups. A camper explained, "They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages, and they used a rubber composite on the ground at the playground so when kiddos fall, they aren't injured."
Beach activities: Delaware County's Bailey Ford Park combines glamping with water recreation options. A reviewer commented, "Bailey's Ford has everything you need for a night or a week. It's clean and beautiful. Trout stream, trails, river access, showers and a playground. I recommend!"
What campers like
Level sites: Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides flatter camping areas for traditional tent camping alongside its glamping options. A camper observed, "Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site. Good for RV, trailer or tent camping… level ground and lots of shade."
Clean facilities: At Swiss Valley County Park, campers appreciate the well-maintained infrastructure. "Campground is well maintained, restrooms, showers, recycling station, fire wood available, campground host onsite, resident park ranger," states one 5-star review.
Trails and nature access: Central Park in Center Junction combines glamping with natural exploration. A visitor reported, "Nice big pond for some easy kayaking. There is a new beach for swimming, and some hiking and nature trails. Easy kayak access with parking. The fire pits are really nice and have grates for cooking."
Quiet setting: Many campgrounds near Hopkinton offer a peaceful glamping experience away from crowds. One Central Park visitor simply stated, "We love this place, very quiet," in their 5-star review.
What you should know
Site selection: At Palisades-Kepler State Park, terrain varies significantly between sites. "Campsites kinda small and hilly. Great hiking trails and views of the bluffs over the river," notes one camper who gave it 4 stars.
Weather preparedness: The region experiences rapid weather changes in spring and fall. "By the 3rd morning the river had risen to the point of flooding out our campsite. The DNR let us switch sites for our last night," shared one Matsell Bridge visitor.
Water conditions: The water in some facilities contains minerals that affect odor. A reviewer at Swiss Valley warned, "The shower facilities weren't bad but they have sulfites in the water so it stinks a little."
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping facilities near Hopkinton operate only from April through October. "There is a sign that states firewood is for sale at 6pm but the ranger was about 45 min late bc he tends to two other parks," explained one camper regarding staffing limitations during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly options: Delaware County Coffins Grove Park offers flexible camping arrangements perfect for family reunions and group glamping. A regular visitor stated, "Nice, smaller campground! No designated spots, so great for groups to circle up and camp together (we camp here every year for our family reunion)."
Water play access: Multiple streams and small bodies of water provide safe exploration for children. "Small creek runs through the park (on the edge of the campground) and a fun place for kids to explore and play in," notes a Coffins Grove Park visitor.
Safety features: Some playgrounds include special safety surfacing. At Pinicon Ridge, "They used a rubber composite on the ground at the playground so when kiddos fall, they aren't injured."
Storm protection: In severe weather, designated shelters provide safety. "Storm shelter right on site. Playground is awesome for kids of all ages," reports a Pinicon Ridge camper who rated their experience 5 stars.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Bailey Ford Delaware County Park offers full hookup options for glamping-style RV stays. An experienced RVer at Swiss Valley advised, "We had a 50amp water site and the dump station was nearby. This county park is very nice and sits in a very quiet valley. A true gem…."
Site levelness: RVers report most sites require minimal leveling. "The sites were extremely level and clean, electric and water hookups. The camp host was very friendly and had plenty of firewood and ice in stock," shares a Pinicon Ridge visitor.
Shower access: Different campgrounds offer varying shower quality. "Bathrooms on loop B are dirty and dated. I suggest going up to the Plains loop and use it's facilities. Very clean and new bathrooms and showers," advises one camper.
Road access: Most glamping locations near Hopkinton accommodate larger vehicles. "We stayed at this campground for 7 nights with W/E hook ups. Dump available on entrance/exit. The site was a level rock pad witch was very spacious with a fire ring and picnic table," reports a Pinicon Ridge reviewer.
