Best Campgrounds near Maxwell, IA

Camping near Maxwell, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
• Fishing and Boating: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy a no-wake lake perfect for fishing and kayaking. A reviewer noted, "Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities."
• Playgrounds and Family Activities: Families can enjoy the playgrounds at Jester County Park. One visitor shared, "The campgrounds are great; the facilities are amazing."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review for Prairie Flower Recreation Area stated, "Clean shower house and restrooms. Would we go back? That's a definitely yes."
• Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at Cherry Glen Campground. One camper mentioned, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. A review for Des Moines West KOA Holiday said, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Ledges State Park Campground noted, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected."
• Busy During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get crowded, especially in summer. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "The campground area is clean, but the RV section was nearly full."
• Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, so it's best to reserve your spot ahead of time. A camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area advised, "You must reserve these sites in advance."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for campgrounds that have playgrounds and family-friendly activities. Jester County Park has a kids' playground and hiking trails, making it a great choice for families.
• Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A reviewer at Des Moines West KOA Holiday mentioned, "Pizza on site is excellent and you can order it ahead for your arrival."
• Plan for Outdoor Fun: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep the kids entertained. One camper at Yellow Banks County Park said, "Lots of shade, fairly level sites, clean bathrooms, right off the river with boat access."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your site can accommodate your RV. A reviewer at Walnut Woods State Park Campground noted, "The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine."
• Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground features. A camper at Bob Shetler Recreation Area mentioned, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing."
• Be Mindful of Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially near public areas. A visitor at Cherry Glen Campground said, "The public parking lot is also just a few feet from a lot of the campsites so it gets loud."

Camping near Maxwell, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!