Looking for the perfect glamping experience near Kellogg? Glamping is not only a fun alternative to traditional tent camping, but also allows you to pack more or less gear as you see fit. Whether you're looking for a quiet location in the woods or a site closer to all the action, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect glamping spot.
Camp in one of several campsites near the park’s lake, featuring both electric and non-electric sites, a modern restroom and shower building. Several campsites sit on the water’s edge and provide beautiful views of Rock Creek Lake. One-fourth of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and advanced campsite reservations through the online reservation system for Rock Creek State Park
$6 - $12 / night
$7 / night
$20 - $25 / night
Wallashuck Campground is located on Lake Red Rock, Iowas largest lake. It is just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife. For more information regarding the Army Corps of Engineers and the Lake Red Rock Project, click here:Lake Red Rock Website
Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline. Anglers will find crappie, largemouth and striped bass,walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area.
Lake Red Rock is situated on the Des Moines River. Hardwood forests cover the lake shore at Wallashuck, offering shade and scenic views. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrates through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March. White-tailed deer , turkeys and other small animals are commonly viewed around the lake.
Des Moines, Iowa's capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.
A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amound. Cancel or change reservations through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees.
$20 - $24 / night
Cherry Glen Campground is located on the 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project, which stretches more than 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.
Visitors enjoy Saylorville Lake for its excellent boating, sailing, water skiing, windsurfing and swimming opportunities. Anglers will find walleye, wiper, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie and northern pike. The paved Neal Smith Trail winds 24 miles from Des Moines to Big Creek State Park and connects the campgrounds on the east side of the lake. It is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is used for biking, hiking, jogging, walking and in-line skating.
Cherry Glen, the oldest and most popular campground on the lake, is nestled on a compact 13-acre wooded ridge. Wildlife is abundant throughout the project. White-tailed deer, turkeys, waterfowl and other small game animals roam the lands around the lake.
$24 - $26 / night
As of June 2023, Otter Creek Lake & Park has reopened to the public.This reopening includes all camping area, roadways, trails, etc. Though the refilling process has begun, the lake is still mostly empty. Fishing, swimming, boating, and other water activities are unavailable, as the lake has not yet filled with water. Restoration includes establishment of excellent fish habitat, improved angler access, removal of sedimentation, irrigation improvements, and more.
Seventy (70) acre lake hosting quality fishing, boating, and swimming.
Two open air shelters with approx. capacity of 72 persons each.
Electric camp section with 65 unit capacity.
Tent section with 18 sites, 45 tent capacity
Swimming beach offered at no charge
Picnicking. Tables to entertain up to 400 persons
Concrete boat ramp providing safe and convenient access to lake
Fish cleaning station located next to boat ramp
Sanitary dump station for trailer units using campground
Modern showerhouse (for campers)
Six vault latrines scattered throughout park
Two acre native prairie (never tilled by man)
Headquarters for maintenance operations
Two play areas with assorted play equipment including swings, jungle gyms, spring toys, slides.
3.0 mile loop scenic hiking trail around lake
Handicap access provides safe and easy access to beach play area.
Tama County Nature Center houses main office, 5,600 sq. ft. on main floor, 2,600 sq. ft. in basement, handicap accessible building. The Nature Center is popular for social events including weddings, receptions, family reunions, and workshops.
Visitors kiosk with vending machine is located directly south of the concrete boat landing.
$10 - $20 / night
Legend
I like this place, I really do. It certainly packs a punch with all of the amenities that Kellogg RV Park offers up, not least of which is partnering up with apparently the best burger joint in the whole of Iowa. Burgers and camping? Can it get any better? Well, while this location gets extra points for achieving EZ on- and off-again I80 highway access, that likely is also its downside, as you are so close to arguably the busiest of all thoroughfares here in the state of Iowa that it makes you wonder if you are really getting away from it all or just taking a quick pitstop.
As for the grounds themselves, they are very well organized and nearly everything on this property is either brand-spanking new or has a nice degree of ‘kitsch’ that just feels right where you are at in the middle of the Midwest. There’s a well-appointed separate laundry location on the NE corner of RV Park, with a community shower/ bathroom facility smack-dab in the middle of the place, making it central and convenient to get refreshed. There’s a simple little loop that will jog you around the place, where in all there’s some 38 spots perfectly carved out for RVs or 5th Wheelers. While the map for Kellogg RV Park indicates a playground behind the laundry, if it was there to begin with, it has been replaced by a chicken coop, which I have to admit is pretty dang awesome to be woken up by these fine-feathered friends each dawn. Plus, um, there’s fresh eggs for your brunch munching pleasure!
With amenities in mind, each pull-thru, gravel-strewn site (all 18’ wide with lengths ranging from 65’ to 85’) comes equipped with all of the typical hook-ups (20 / 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) along with plenty of in-ground fire rings, stand-up BBQ grills and plenty of brand new picnic tables along with complimentary WiFi. There’s solar panels on the for southwest corner of the campground, which sadly eliminates the vibe that you are out in nature. If there was just one bit of advice I would give this place it’s this(and it’s quite simple): plant some trees! That’s the one thing I noticed that felt incredibly weird… there’s just a few trees in this whole place. Granted, it is somewhat surrounded by corn fields, but here’s a hint: After mid-September when all that corn is harvested, the place feels like a barren desert, so how you compensate for that is by planting trees, shrubs, bush or anything that would make this place feel like it was planted in nature versus carved out of a watershed.
While the main office is up front where you would have seen that Iowa’s Best Burger Café sign, where there’s also an Amoco gas station along with a convenience market that has limited groceries and supplies. Bonus points to Kellogg RV Park for having an F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site, so while your RV might blow away, no worries, you and those you hold most precious will be protected in the event of a tornado, which is important because this state gets hit by them all the time. They’ll also sell you a bundle of firewood for$6 / bundle, which is fair, especially considering that they’ll deliver the bundles directly to your site.
Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best sites are those located as far east and north as possible (yes, right near the laundry facilities and chicken coop). Why? Well, because they will be furthest away from I80, so less noise, plus they are on the periphery, so this offers up better views of corn country, and additionally, more tranquility. Plus the shower / restroom facilities are centrally located, so not too far away; (2) If you are looking to get buzzed while out here at Kellogg RV Park, you are in luck as just nearby there’s Grinnell Craft Brewhouse, Buzzed Bee Meadery as well as Van Wijk Winery – all of which are absolutely worth the visit!; (3) Should your foodie vibes need to be tamed while here, head on over to nearby Maytag Blue Cheese for a slice or slab or head on over to Dayton Meat Products, which not only processes meat in case you are out and about with a bow & arrow, but will serve up some pretty outrageously awesome sausages, loins and particular cuts of meats that you just can’t find anywhere nearby. Oh, and if farmer’s markets are your thing, then check out nearby Grinnell Farmers Market or Jasper County Farmer’s Market – both just 10 minutes from here; and (4) Once you grow tired of pillaging your on-board mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler and are looking for some local fare, I will have to admit that Iowa’s Best Burger Café does live up to its boast – and while I didn’t have another burger while I was in the ‘Hawkeye State’ I do make it my business to check stuff out when I see ‘Best’ noted anywhere and there’s reasonable proof behind this claim here, so give the good folks here the better side of your discerning tastes and try them out. Oh, and there’s that little thing that there’s not too much competition in these parts, so unless you are up for a good drive, the only other joint is RJ’s Bar& Grill, which trust me, is much more Bar than Grill.
Happy Camping!
RangerKellogg RV Park
This is a little fun RV park right off the interstate. It doesn’t have much but it’s a nice place to take a break.
There is a gas/burger station right infringement of the RV park. You can get supplies and make your reservation there.
It’s pretty quiet there, there is a cool antique farm tractor and old gas station across the street to look at. There is also a small garden to hang out in and relax.
Overall if you are looking for a quick little place to stay in your RV this is it.
ScoutThis RV park is right off the interstate but far enough you won’t hear the noise. I can’t tell you if they are actually Iowa’s best burger because this is the only burger I’ve had in Iowa.
Nice people, everything is clean. Spots are pull thru. No issues at all.
It’s a one night because unless you’re in the area for something there isn’t much to see if do
Would stay here again
Scout
Hidden gem in Iowa
RangerSimple campground behind a Philips 66 gas station that totes they have Iowa’s best burger. They have recently updated shower building along with a laundry building
Guide
Good sized lake, nice beach, camp store operators real nice. Decent distance between sites for a state park on Iowa. Boat rentals. On my annual camp rotation.
Guide
Wallashuck in Pella, iowa is one of my favorite places to camp. It’s mostly quiet and peaceful. Plus town is close and has plenty to entertain or fill up supplies
GuideVery nice, clean and comfortable campground for an overnight stop. Price is right! The “office” is a little gas station, hamburger cafe with a very efficient and friendly check in person. The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer. The only real issue is the constant noise from I-80 which is just to the south of the campground. But nothing that a good set of earplugs can’t fix. Our little dog especially liked the two chicken coops at east side of the the campground! (Not noisy or any problem - just a reminder that you are in Iowa!). Overall, very nice and has clean restrooms. The sign on the “office” says they have Iowas “BEST” Hamburger. We didn’t try it, but will take their word for it!
Scout
Above average overall for central Iowa. Views of Saylorville Lake. Plenty of shade. Clean restrooms. It’s a large park and some sites are close together, but generally spacious. Good cell service.
TravelerStopped overnight on our way home from Iowa City. No reservations & took our chances on finding an electric site. Score! Neighbors were friendly. Water pressure to fill tank was pretty weak but other than taking a little longer, no complaints. Had an owl in the tree above the camper as a look out even! A++++
Legend
Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. There are electric and non electric sites available. The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water. Some sites are reservable and some walk up. There is a fishing lake,playground,sand volleyball, and hiking. The main hiking trails are wide with smaller ones shooting off the sides. There is also a group site that you can hike to on the Devote trail. The camp hosts are helpful and offer firewood,which they bring to your site, on Wednesday-Sunday. It is very peaceful but we also camp Sun-We’d when there isn’t a ton of people. We will definitely camp here again.
Guide
Jester Park is our go-to camping destination in central Iowa! By far, this county park has a lot of fun activities and access points to the Saylorville waterway circuit. In addition to the water access ways, there is a sweet pond to fish in, several hiking trails, a brand new (opened August 2018) Nature Center, amphitheater, bison and bird viewing, and even cabins if you want to rent them (fully stocked, linens included!).
Our favorite spot to camp is 410 and 409. It's a secluded area within the 400s that is lined with trees on one side and a drop off into the Saylorville water circuit on the other (see photos). For $15/night/camping spot, you can enjoy the best view of stars and amazing sunsets. We go a couple times a year to camp and Jester has even been the place where we hold special events like birthdays/going away parties.
TravelerThis site was great, it has a reserve site to its right, (the people never showed up) and a FCFS site to the left. No one showed up there either and it was Father’s Day weekend! Super quiet and relaxing. Each site towards the front of the 400’s is BIG. You have plenty of room for 2 vehicles and two sizable tents. There was four of us and a dog.
A couple minor complaints that I developed would be that it is right next to the golf course so there is a lot of near by traffic, and people like to cruise on motorcycles and drive muscle cars through the twisty roads. The nice bathroom in the #300s camping area is a bit of a walk BUT has showers and really clean toilets. Some of the cleanest I’ve seen at a campground in Iowa. DO NOT USE THE “TOILETS” in the #400s area, they are dirty and basically a hole in the ground.
Another downside is that things are pretty spread out, and with it being pretty hot out we weren’t able to walk miles to get to the different trails at the park. The short trails we did walk on were nice and up kept though.
ScoutThe owner is still working to fix the park all of the in and out sites are grown over the gravel they need to get busy updating this park. Newton is a good place to grab a bite try Hy-Vee Market Grill
ScoutGreat campground, friendly staff, clean easy access from interstate 80
TravelerOpen year around. Nice large sites and no need to unhook. Clean rv park with easy access to 1-80.
GuideWe needed to stop for the night and this was a great choice. It was right off the interstate but the sounds of traffic wasn't too bad. The site was an easy pull through and pretty level. The bathrooms were clean. The showers were clean, hot and good pressure. I loved the chicken coops and the landscaping. The burgers were not the greatest but ok. I would stop here again if passing through.
GuideEasy in and out. Great communication. Late check in easy. Clean bathrooms and showers. Felt very safe with my family. E/W/S all available but we only used electric.
GuideWe have a last minute change in plans so needed a place to stay for a couple of nights.
Level sites with full hookups
Plenty of space to walk the dog
Right next to a gas station with great burgers and tenderloins!
It was cold and windy so we didn't get out much to explore. It is right next to the interstate for easy on and off and it's very quiet.
ScoutI have camped here alot in my life time. If you don't like busy this campground is not for u. The electric is full almost every weekend. Fishing is pretty good. Currently no playground, a new is under construction.
ScoutUsed to go here as a kid, was always good fishing. We visited one week before the water and modern bathrooms were ready, so that was challenging. The park seemed a little rough to be on the cusp of true spring camping. Derecho looks to have hit here, lots of clean up to do. I never saw a ranger or any staff. Gorgeous tent camping area and waterfront sites. Great bike trail that goes right into Grinnell. We were in site 39 and it’s a great one!
GuideNo wake lake. Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities. Campground has some 30 amp and some 50 amp sites. New playground for the kids. Clean facilities.
ScoutStayed 2 nights in 6/7. No shade, giant electrical boxes, whole campground is downhill from dump station and the smell on Sunday morning is really unpleasant. Feels like whole campground is crammed together and smoke from campfires is thick enough to chew.
When we were there, teens were running littler kids off the playground; someone dumped all the TP in the men's room in to the toilets on Sunday morning, and the showers were too hot to use, with no way to adjust water temp.
On the bright side, the lake is pretty, it's right there at the campground. Boat, kayak and canoe rentals seemed reasonable and little store was convenient.
GuideIf you have US Cellular you’ll be disappointed with reception. Verizon has reception. Nice campground overlooking a lake. Pontoon and boat rentals. Sites are a bit uneven. Leveled up on worse than these before.
GuideWe were definitely the one little tent in a sea of RVs at this campground. People were actually coming over to look at our tent (lol). There was not a lot of privacy, but otherwise it was a cool campground. We were able to camp right on the edge of the lake. Bathrooms and showers were relatively clean. Firewood is available. Depending on where you are in the campground, some AT&T service is available.
ScoutClean place very open and gorgeous and peaceful
TravelerWe stayed here overnight while in-transit from Michigan to Utah. (May 2018) It’s about 8 miles off I-80, so it worked out pretty well. The route from the interstate is not well-signed, so dial up your GPS. Cheap - $11 per site (without power).
The campground was clean and quiet, and seems quite popular with the locals. For sites with electricity, there is a high density of fifth wheels and the like. Quite a high occupancy rate considering it’s two weeks before Memorial Day.
If you don’t need electricity to enhance your camping experience, there were dozens of sites available.
A previous reviewer mentioned the possibility of Spring flooding. This was not a problem. The campground is a series of terraces up the side of a hill and would not flood, in my opinion.
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According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular glamping campground near Kellogg, IA is Rock Creek State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 18 reviews.
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