Eastern Iowa's farmland surrounding Kalona features gently rolling terrain between 650-850 feet elevation with scattered wooded areas and several river valleys cutting through the agricultural landscape. Campgrounds near Kalona typically sit on small elevation changes that can create challenges for leveling RVs, as most sites require blocks for proper stabilization. The Iowa River and its tributaries provide fishing opportunities at several camping locations within 20 miles of town.
What to do
Lake activities: F.W. Kent Park offers a central lake with multiple recreation options. "Paddling, fishing, hiking, swimming, to name a few. Firewood available. Conservation education center open seasonally with programs offered. Forest, prairie, wetland habitats," notes James M.
Fossil hunting: West Overlook Campground provides access to the Devonian Fossil Gorge, a geological feature exposed in the 1993 flood. "This recreation area also includes campgrounds and river recreation downstream of the dam, including a gorge of geologic interest that is filled with Devonian fossils exposed in the flood of 1993," explains Janet R.
Walking trails: Marr Park features accessible paved paths that accommodate diverse mobility needs. "Close to major highway. Gravel sites. Clean campground. Many paved and grass walking trails surrounded by trees and natural areas," writes Renee H.
What campers like
Budget-friendly stays: The Primitive South Campground at Lake Macbride offers exceptional value. "Clean sites right on the lake.. Peaceful nights with other friends & other campers.. Good place to launch kayaks from.. We had cell service.. Free firewood for campers was a plus!!! $9.00/night!!!" reports Jeff A.
Spacious sites: F.W. Kent Park provides ample room between campsites. "Nice quiet place during the week. Lots of space between sites," mentions Shelton A. Another camper adds, "Unique mix of RV and tent sites in a variety of sizes. Some close together would be good for groups and some remote."
Seasonal quiet periods: West Overlook Campground experiences different crowd levels throughout the year. "Its a popular location, so Spring camping is quieter; fall camping is also quiet, and the fall leaves are beautiful then," notes Janet R.
What you should know
Water quality issues: Several campgrounds experience water challenges. "Bring plenty of bottled water for consumption. The water has an awful smell," warns Donna H. about Marr Park. At Beyonder Getaway, one reviewer noted "a really bad poop smell" during their visit.
Campground access: River Junction Access has limited signage that can create confusion after dark. "After driving down the hill, he saw the basic 'welcome' and 'Pay here' signs next to a 4-car parking area. There were no signs marking where the bathroom was or any directions on how to choose a site," explains Emily B.
Shower availability: Primitive campgrounds may require driving to access shower facilities. "Shower house 8 miles away at north campsite, may need your own toilet paper as not always restocked quickly," notes April W. regarding Lake Macbride's primitive campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Hills Access Campground provides both camping and recreation amenities. "A great place Hills Access Campground. We have a great spot for our tent. The firepit & extra rack for charcoal coffee from the teapot. Quiet days and nights," says Bear & Sue about this family-friendly location.
Swimming options: Sugar Bottom Campground features beach access for children. "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. Fun for all," reports Steve T.
Wildlife viewing: Lake Macbride State Park offers nature observation opportunities. "Expect the usual run ins with raccoons, coyotes, and other wild life and guard your food from them," advises April W. about the primitive campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Sugar Bottom Campground sites vary in evenness. "Our site was somewhat level, but we did have to put blocks under the passenger-side tires. We could back far enough in our site to park our F-450 in front of our rig at an angle and still put our back deck out," shares MickandKarla W.
Reservation timing: Plan ahead for weekend stays at the best places to camp near Kalona. "This campground was very handy for an overnight while driving cross-country on I-80. We didn't have a reservation but found that there were several," notes Thomas B. about West Overlook Campground, though others mention "If you want to reserve a campsite online, do so at least 2 days ahead."
Dump station access: West Overlook Campground offers efficient waste disposal. "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions. This large COE has a variety of sites, with the 300 loop being full hook-ups," explains MickandKarla W.
