Camping sites near Iowa City primarily cluster around the Coralville Lake area, with elevations averaging 700-750 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, though several remain open year-round with reduced services during winter months. The Coralville Dam complex forms the centerpiece of the region's outdoor recreation system, creating diverse camping options within a 15-mile radius of downtown.
What to do
Fossil hunting at Devonian Gorge: Located near West Overlook Campground, the limestone gorge features an interpretive trail with visible marine fossils. "Beautiful view of the water. Very clean and well run COE. Also very nice place to find fossils among the back rocks," notes a visitor to Tailwater West.
Paddling opportunities: The Iowa River and Coralville Lake provide multiple access points for kayaks and canoes. At Lake Macbride State Park, campers can launch from several locations. "Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing. Near Iowa Raptor Project that conducts raptor programs and site with walking tour and live raptors," reports one camper.
Winter recreation: While many campgrounds close seasonally, some remain open year-round. "We enjoy the peace and quiet especially with the views of the lake and the fall colors," mentions a West Overlook Campground visitor who camped during the off-season.
What campers like
Multiple camping loops with different experiences: At Sugar Bottom Campground, the variety of camping sections appeals to different preferences. "Very nice COE campground north of Iowa City in the Lake Coralville area. Beautiful setting, lots of options for sites," explains one reviewer who appreciated the campground's layout.
Proximity to Iowa City: Many Iowa City campgrounds function as affordable basecamps for University of Iowa events. "It is also a nice and inexpensive basecamp for folks visiting Iowa City or the University of Iowa, only about a 15-20 minute drive away," notes a camper from West Overlook.
Fishing access: Multiple campgrounds offer direct fishing opportunities. At Tailwater East Campground, "Small but lots of fishing! Hot showers, very clean bathrooms, fish cleaning stations, some concrete pads, some gravel." The campground positions anglers directly below the dam where fish tend to concentrate.
What you should know
Uneven terrain at some campgrounds: Several Iowa City area campgrounds feature sloping sites. At Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow, "The land is not flat. The spots are good and most are pull-throughs but some are too short for a 30' camper," warns one RVer who stayed there for several weeks.
Differences between modern and primitive options: Campground amenities vary significantly. "This park has two campgrounds. The modern side on the north end of the park with full hookups, and the primitive side on the south side of the park with no electricity or water hookups," explains a Lake Macbride camper.
University event impacts: Football weekends and university events create reservation challenges. When staying at West Overlook, a camper noted, "Reservations are a must," highlighting the competition for sites during peak times and university events.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly facilities. At F.W. Kent Park, "This campground has many beautiful spots to camp. There were also a few playgrounds that my grandkids loved," shares a visitor, highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Coralville Lake area supports diverse animal populations. "Beautiful place... saw wild turkeys and dear almost ever day walking the camp grounds," reports a tent camper who spent extended time at Lake Macbride State Park.
Swimming beaches: Multiple campgrounds offer designated swimming areas. "Great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers. Fantastic amenities including hot showers and nice bathrooms and a cleaning station with sink basin for camping dishes. Great beach swimming area," notes a Sugar Bottom visitor.
Tips from RVers
Electric site availability: Most Iowa City campgrounds offer electric sites with varying amperage options. At Primitive South Campground at Lake Macbride, despite the name, there are electric hookups. "This is for the primitive southern camp site at lake macbride, iowa. Their is a modern campsite on the north side as well," clarifies a reviewer who documented the sometimes confusing campground naming conventions.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds feature sanitary stations. West Overlook campers note, "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions." This practical information helps RVers plan their arrival and departure strategies.
Senior discounts: Many Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Iowa City offer significant price reductions. "This is a COE Park so you also can get a discount with your Senior Pass," mentions a Sugar Bottom camper, referencing the 50% discount available to America the Beautiful Senior Pass holders.
