Camping options near Kellogg, Iowa range from basic tent sites to fully equipped RV campgrounds with concrete pads. Located in the rolling hills of central Iowa, this area features several lakes and rivers with camping access at elevations around 800-900 feet above sea level. Many campgrounds remain open from April through October with several RV parks offering year-round access.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rock Creek State Park Campground has gained a reputation for excellent crappie and largemouth bass fishing. "Rock Creek is known for its crappie and large mouth bass fishing. The lake has lots of features like brush piles, vertical structures, mossy areas and you can go over by the bridge and fish the rocks," notes Willy W. at Rock Creek State Park Campground.
Biking trails: The 25-mile paved Chichaqua Valley Trail runs directly between Griffs Valley View RV Park and the campground office. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," mentions Anthony W. This trail provides easy access for cyclists staying at the campground.
Kayaking access: Diamond Lake County Park offers watercraft access with several lakefront camping sites. "Beautiful electrical sites right on the lake but very close to one another and a fee site along the water were awkward with backing in yet faced away from the water," reports Theresa G. at Diamond Lake County Park. The lake is described as dark and murky but suitable for kayaking and fishing.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Howell Station Campground consistently receives praise for its maintenance standards. "Baths/showers were very clean and well kept up. Sites were spacious, level and most were very shady. Hosts were helpful and very friendly," writes Jay M. about his experience at Howell Station.
Convenience to attractions: Adventureland Campground provides easy access to nearby entertainment options. "This is a great spot if you plan on staying in the area and want to go to Adventure Land or Prairie Meadows. There are lots of restaurants near by like Spectators and Jethro's BBQ," explains Willy W., highlighting the campground's proximity to local attractions.
Food options: Kellogg RV Park combines camping with dining convenience. "Very convenient to I-80, well-laid out. Most convenient, though, was setting up at the site and then walking to the co-located gas station and burgers for dinner (and great ice cream cones)," shares Greg I. at Kellogg RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt closes during fall and winter, as one camper discovered: "Drove 6 hours to find out the campground is closed (apparently for all of fall and winter) without any awareness of that being the case online," warns Katie P. at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt.
Reservation systems: Many campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis with payment through honor systems. Diamond Lake uses a simple envelope payment method: "Incredibly simple honor system to accessing any site on a first-come, first-served basis– simply stick your money in an envelope and pick out whatever location suits you," explains Stuart K.
Water conditions: Several area lakes have limited swimming potential due to water quality. "The water in Lake Diamond is quite dark and murky, so unless you are an adventurous soul, I don't recommend swimming here," notes Stuart K. Similar conditions exist at other water bodies in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several rv campgrounds near Kellogg, Iowa feature play areas for children. "The grounds have play sets and swings for kids. There are some great paved paths to walk or bike. It's a good place to fish or bird watch," shares Tiffany K. about Howell Station.
Storm shelters: Weather safety is important when camping in Iowa. "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," Stuart K. points out, noting the safety feature at River Oaks RV Park.
Space considerations: Some campgrounds offer more space than others for families. "Site 15 for primitive campers is HUGE. Easily the size of 2-3 sites at other campgrounds," mentions Megan M. about Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt, highlighting options for families needing extra room.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary across RV parks near Kellogg. "We 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," reports Kimberly M. about her stay at Kellogg RV Park.
Hookup positioning: RV campgrounds in the area feature different hookup layouts. "Level sites with full hookups. Plenty of space to walk the dog. Right next to a gas station with great burgers and tenderloins!" explains Elisha L., highlighting the convenient setup at Kellogg RV Park.
Site surfaces: RV sites range from gravel to concrete throughout the area. "Gravel sites, a little bit of leveling required. Poor Verizon cell signal, no internet signal. Not much natural privacy between sites, but sites were well spaced apart," notes Renee H. about Howell Station, providing important details for RV travelers.
