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Best Campgrounds near Algona, IA

156 Reviews

Campgrounds near Algona, Iowa include several established camping areas within a short drive of town. Smith Lake County Park offers both tent and RV camping with electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities just north of Algona. Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground provides tent camping with electric hookups and water connections about 15 miles southwest of town. The region includes a mix of county and state-managed developed campgrounds, most operating seasonally from April through October. Several campgrounds feature lakeside locations with fishing access, while others are situated in more wooded settings with hiking trails.

"This is a great little spot to stay bike touring through Iowa," noted one visitor about a nearby lake campground. Most developed campgrounds in the area require camping fees ranging from $15-25 per night, with electric sites typically costing more than primitive options. The camping season generally runs from mid-April through October, with limited winter accessibility. Many campgrounds offer reservable sites, though some operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Cell service varies throughout the region but remains generally reliable near established campgrounds. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with occasional thunderstorms possible. Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water sources during summer months, particularly in the evenings.

Campers report high satisfaction with water access at several locations. Smith Lake County Park receives positive reviews for its lakeside setting, with one camper noting, "The tent area is nice and big for several tents, but could use a few more trees for shade." The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park in nearby West Bend offers a unique camping experience adjacent to a religious shrine, with full hookup sites available. Many campgrounds in the region feature clean facilities, reasonable rates, and proximity to small towns for supplies. County parks tend to be less crowded than state parks, especially during weekdays. Several camping areas include playground equipment, making them suitable for family camping trips. Most developed campgrounds provide fire rings, picnic tables, and access to drinking water.

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Best Camping Sites Near Algona, Iowa (68)

    1. Siems County Park

    3 Reviews
    Whittemore, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 295-2138

    "I drove in and saw the beautiful lake and the campground so I talked to the camp host, told him I just needed a primitive spots I didn't need electricity or water is it all good just grab a tent site,"

    "Small lake. Public restrooms and shower. Frisbee Golf. Well kept."

    2. Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Algona, IA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (641) 581-4835

    $10 - $18 / night

    "The park itself is pretty nice with several trails and a small campground. There is an enclosed stone shelter house you can rent for gatherings."

    "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course. $18 per night."

    3. Smith Lake County Park

    2 Reviews
    Algona, IA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 295-2138

    "This campground has RV sites along the edge with all the tents on a hill by the lake. Every time we go camping here we make a new friend, get some great camping recipes."

    "For $15 you get water/electric sites with access to bathrooms and showers. Dogs are allowed on leash. Pretty nice playground. The beach area has been taken over by geese though."

    4. memoirs park

    6 Reviews
    Whittemore, MN
    16 miles
    Website

    $15 - $25 / night

    "We went on a weekday so we were the only ones around. We had site C14. Bathrooms were decent. Playground is kind of small and old."

    "Has one in central location so luckily I had just enough hose to fill up the camper. Close to state park with trails and bison so had a great weekend!"

    5. The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Whittemore, IA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 887-2371

    "Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes. I counted (8) 50 amp and (16) 30 amp sites. Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided."

    "One is very close to a train line, which runs infrequently. Sites are grass, level, and reasonably well maintained. All sites are pull through. Only electrical hookups are available at the sites."

    6. Grotto Campground

    2 Reviews
    Whittemore, IA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 887-2371

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Doesn’t feel quite like the middle of nowhere and located right next to nice trees and train tracks. Recommended for a nice, easy spot to sleep."

    "Next to train tracks but only one train came by and it wasn’t loud. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area. You pay at the gift shop across the street. $20 for RV and $10 for tent."

    7. Devine Wildlife Area

    1 Review
    Algona, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 295-2138

    8. Lotts Creek Co Park

    1 Review
    Humboldt, IA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 332-4087

    9. Smidt Campground

    1 Review
    Burt, IA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 320-4051

    10. Joe Sheldon County Park

    2 Reviews
    Humboldt, IA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 332-4087
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Recent Camping Photos near Algona, IA

9 Photos of 68 Algona Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Algona, IA

156 Reviews of 68 Algona Campgrounds

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Siems County Park

    Nice little campground

    Mix of sites. Some have electric and water. Some have electric but have to share a water spigot. Small lake. Public restrooms and shower. Frisbee Golf. Well kept.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground

    Mixed bag

    Small campground. Not busy while I was here. Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared. Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees. No privacy between sites. Pit toilets. No showers. Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course. $18 per night.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Devine Wildlife Area

    Free and fairly primitive

    Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up. No water, no electric, no toilet. Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent. But the price is right.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lotts Creek Co Park

    Camping in the shade of tall oaks

    Nice little campground. 5 sites. Water, electricity, picnic table and fire pit with grilling grate at each one. Flush toilet and sink in bathroom. Old style playground. Shelter with more picnic tables. First come, first serve. $15 per night. Nicely set up for a multiple family campout.

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Smith Lake County Park

    Good value camping

    This is a pretty quiet campground in my experience. For $15 you get water/electric sites with access to bathrooms and showers. Dogs are allowed on leash. Pretty nice playground. The beach area has been taken over by geese though.

  • Kristy E.
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Lake Cornelia Park

    Beautiful place

    This is a beautiful county park with lots of camping sites with great views and generous camping spots. It is on a small lake that has good fishing, full hookups, and very nice swimming b each beach. We also enjoyed walking on the many trails.

  • Bethany G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground

    Peaceful

    I stayed at this campground a week after Memorial Day weekend along with my dogs in our minivan/tent. I butted up against woods with neighbors to one side which made me feel like I had a pretty private area to myself. Other than the bugs, which it is that time of the year, I enjoyed our time and the almost non-existent cellphone service. However, I was able to text my family via satellite to let them know I was okay. It could be seen as a pro or con, but I think we all need no phone time at some point to just set still and relax. I look forward to camping here again soon!

  • A & D S.
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Everett Park

    Quiet, off the beaten path.

    Friendly and helpful staff, very accommodating. Beautiful spot, close to the lake. Water fill station, 30A power, washroom & shower if needed. Great price $25 per night (20 if tenting). If you have kids, looks like a great playground, plenty of room to run & play. Sites are large and well spaced.

  • Carrie C.
    May. 24, 2025

    Dows Pool Park & Campground

    Dows Campground

    Pulled in one evening on our way to Texas from Minnesota. Large, open spaces equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. Electric hookups and water also available. Reasonable rates (I think we paid $15) for one night.

Guide to Algona

Camping near Algona, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakes to well-maintained campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails at Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The hiking is so good, it'd be silly to worry about much of anything down here."
  • Fishing and Kayaking: Beeds Lake State Park is perfect for fishing and kayaking. A camper shared, "Nice trails to hike or bike, beautiful small lake, great for kayaking and fishing."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife at Pilot Knob State Park. One reviewer noted, "We saw a few deer and other animals."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Blue Earth City Campground said, "The bathrooms were clean, and fast wifi and free firewood were great added benefits."
  • Friendly Hosts: Many campers rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One camper at Jackson KOA mentioned, "The owners are very helpful and friendly! Best camping experience yet!"
  • Quiet Surroundings: Campers enjoy the peaceful environment. A review for Briggs Woods Park stated, "Very quiet park, we stayed in the back."

What you should know

  • Site Layout: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A camper at Beeds Lake noted, "Many of the RV sites are very close together, which is the norm in Iowa."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell coverage in certain areas. A visitor at Dolliver Memorial State Park mentioned, "Cell service cuts out as you drive down into the park."
  • Seasonal Availability: Check the campground seasons before planning your trip. For example, Clear Lake State Park Campground is open from April 1 to December 31.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. One reviewer at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area said, "There was also a nice playground for the kids surrounded by a well-maintained, large, grassy area."
  • Plan for Bugs: Be aware that some areas can be buggy, especially in warmer months. A camper at Big Island Campground noted, "Bugs were in full force."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy during outdoor activities. One camper at Clear Lake State Park mentioned, "The playground was fun for the kids, nice beach access!"

Tips from RVers

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. A visitor at Jackson KOA said, "Water pressure was good, no issues with electric."
  • Look for Dump Stations: Ensure there’s a dump station nearby. A camper at Pilot Knob State Park mentioned, "The dump station was closed, but it was publicized on their website."
  • Consider Off-Peak Times: Camping during the week can mean fewer crowds. One camper at Big Island Campground enjoyed, "We were here mid-week and pretty much had the place to ourselves."

Camping near Algona, Iowa, has its perks, from friendly hosts to beautiful scenery. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping available at Joe Sheldon Park in Algona?

Yes, camping is available at Joe Sheldon County Park near Humboldt, a short drive from Algona. The park offers drive-in access with water, toilets, and sites that can accommodate larger RVs. For a similar experience in the region, Eldred Sherwood Park provides both electric RV sites and primitive tent sites with a bathhouse nearby, plus walking paths through forest and prairie landscapes and a small fishing lake.

Where can I rent an RV in Algona for camping?

While Algona itself has limited RV rental options, the surrounding area offers alternatives. Many campers choose to rent from dealerships in nearby larger cities like Fort Dodge or Mason City, then camp at parks like Kennedy County Park which offers well-maintained RV sites with electrical hookups, WiFi, and reasonable $18/night rates. For those planning to rent an RV, call local dealerships in advance to check availability and consider making reservations during peak camping season (May-September).

Where can I find camper rentals in Algona?

Camper rentals near Algona are typically available through RV dealers in larger neighboring communities. After securing your rental, consider camping at McIntosh Woods State Park Campground, which offers electrical hookups, clean facilities, and proximity to Clear Lake. The park features shaded sites arranged in a circle around a shower house, with easy lake access. Another option is Briggs Woods Park near Webster City, which provides campsites, cabins, and recreational activities including canoeing and fishing.

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