Camping sites near Janesville, Iowa include several options within a 20-mile radius of this small Cedar River community. The area sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level in the gently rolling landscape of northeastern Iowa's Cedar Valley region. Summer high temperatures typically reach the mid-80s with nighttime lows in the 60s, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures with occasional frost in early May or late September.
What to do
Biking access: At George Wyth State Park Campground, campers can access an extensive trail network. "If you are a biker there is a wonderful bike path. It will take you all the way through Cedar Falls and Waterloo you could bike all day long," according to one camper. The park connects to over 150 miles of paved trails throughout the Cedar Valley area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies offer diverse fishing experiences near Janesville. The Shell Rock Rec Area provides both river access and a fishing pond. One visitor notes the area has a "fish pond and river fishing" with a "boat ramp" for water access. Most fishing spots are less than 15 minutes from Janesville.
Paddling options: Cedar River access points allow for kayaking and canoeing. "The lake is small, no wake lake - but great for using your SUP or kayaks," notes a camper about Big Woods Lake. Rental equipment is available at some locations during summer months for approximately $10-15 per hour.
What campers like
Quiet riverside settings: Campers appreciate secluded spots along local waterways. One reviewer describes Siggelkov County Park as "Quiet and secluded, if that's what you're looking for. To get out and decompress it's a great spot. Has electric sites and also places to tent camp right on the Wapsi River."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean facilities receive consistent mention in reviews. At Cedar Bend Park, a camper notes, "It was so clean and peaceful. Not overly crowded. The camp host was so friendly and helpful." Most campgrounds in the area feature modern restrooms with showers.
Affordable camping: Sites in this region offer good value. "Iowa state parks are a bargain! This one is $11 for a non-electric site, $16 for an electric site. (Rates go down to $6 and $11 from 10/1-4/30.) There is no separate park entry fee," explains one camper about George Wyth State Park. County parks typically range from $10-18 per night.
What you should know
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas experience periodic flooding. One camper advises about George Wyth: "This is a clean and well kept campground... the park does occasionally close for flooding." Sites closest to rivers should be monitored during rainy periods.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise. A camper at Big Woods Lake mentions, "NOTE: Some Hwy noise at night as Hwy 218 is right next door." Sites farther from main roads typically offer quieter conditions.
Reservation systems: Most parks have different booking policies. For Bremer County Park Cedar Bend Park, sites are first-come, first-served, while others like George Wyth require advance reservations through the state system. County parks typically open May 1st and close October 31st.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a large sand playground area with slides and swings" at George Wyth State Park, notes one camper. Cedar Bend Park has "older playgrounds" but still provides recreation options for children.
Swimming options: Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA offers unique water recreation. "Decent sites with full hook ups... beach area, small boat rentals, good sized convenience store with ice, beer, snacks, milkshake machine, etc. Enough to do for a day or two without going to the water park," reports one visitor. The KOA has a swimming pond separate from the commercial water park across the street.
Easy hiking trails: Look for beginner-friendly trails. "Nice park with some easy hiking trails and great bike paths. Both also good for any runners. All are really flat and would be easy for older people or young children to do," says a camper about the paths at George Wyth State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most parks offer at least electric sites, with some providing full connections. One camper at Deerwood Park notes it's a "Quiet" campground with hookups, though some reviewers mention "the neighbors were terrible so we left," indicating site spacing may be an issue.
Dump station access: Not all parks have on-site dump stations. A camper at Shell Rock Rec Area mentions, "No trailer dump in park but, available in nearby town of Shell Rock." Most campgrounds with dump stations include this service in the camping fee.
Site levelness: Surface conditions vary across campgrounds. At Big Woods Lake, one reviewer states sites are "well planned out though, giving each camper plenty of space. Several buddy set ups, allowing two campers to set up with main doors facing each other." Gravel sites are most common, with some parks offering grass parking pads.
