Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest reservoir at over 15,000 acres, with water levels that fluctuate seasonally by up to 20 feet. The surrounding recreation areas span 51,000 acres of public land with over 35 miles of shoreline accessible for camping and outdoor activities. Several campgrounds around the lake provide designated pet exercise areas with direct water access during summer months.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: The trail system at Elk Rock State Park offers multiple pet-friendly options. "We really enjoyed riding the trails here. Good facilities for our horses," notes Dorothy H., while another camper mentioned how "the trails throughout Elk Rock State Park loop through wooded areas with occasional eagle sightings."
Beach access: North Overlook Camp provides convenient beach access for pets and families. One visitor shared: "The campground itself is very nice... The lake is right next to the tent spots and you can walk to the beach which is nice." However, be aware that water conditions vary by location.
Fishing spots: Multiple fishing locations around the lake accommodate pets. At Whitebreast Camp, one visitor noted it "sits on the bank of Red Rock Lake which has great fishing." Another review called it "a great area for camping and fishing," making it ideal for pet owners who enjoy fishing while their dogs rest nearby.
Watercraft activities: Boat ramps at multiple locations provide water access. The Elk Rock Equestrian campground gets busy during peak season, as one reviewer observed: "This is a really busy boat ramp but the campground is pretty big and open. The boat ramp is the closest one to mile long bridge."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Whitebreast Campground offers generous spacing between sites. "There is a lot of space between campsites, which is awesome! Our site had a great view of the lake, as well," reported Molly L. Another camper noted, "We had site 24, sites were very spaced out and they are only on one side of the road so no sites backed up to ours. Plenty of room for our dogs."
Waterfront views: Several campgrounds feature sites with lake visibility. As one visitor to Whitebreast observed: "Lots of shade, quiet." Another mentioned: "Has some very nice shaded spots. Can walk down to the dock."
Private pond access: Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake offers secluded water features that dogs enjoy. According to Evan G., it provides "a beautiful view of three ponds and a sunset you will not want to miss." Another camper described it as "Peaceful, beautiful, incredible... Very quiet with a beautiful view of three ponds."
Clean facilities: Howell Station maintains high standards for amenities. "Baths/showers were very clean and well kept up," reported one camper. Another mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers are well kept."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Water levels and beach conditions change throughout the year. At Whitebreast, a visitor warned: "The beach had sand at the top, leading me to believe it would be a typical sandy beach-not at all! As you made your way further down and into the water, there was muddy, wet clay and the beach floor was slimy and muddy."
Storm shelter access: Kellogg RV Park, though further from the lake, provides an F5-rated tornado shelter for severe weather. As one reviewer mentioned, "Bonus points to Kellogg RV Park for having an F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site."
Veterinary services: Veterinary care is available in nearby towns approximately 6-7 miles from most campgrounds. This proximity is important for emergency pet care during longer stays.
Tick prevention: The wooded areas around campgrounds harbor ticks. One camper at Grant Park warned: "Let's talk ticks!! I travel with my dog and during the 3 nights I stayed, I was constantly removing them from him, myself and within the inside of my van."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Howell Station provides family-friendly amenities. "There are play grounds for the kids. It is along a river for fishing and bird watching," shared Tiffany K. Another visitor noted, "The grounds have play sets and swings for kids."
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot eagles and other wildlife. One camper at Howell Station mentioned, "bald eagles, blue herons and pelicans line the river," making it educational for children.
Historic attractions: Camping can be combined with educational visits to nearby towns. Marion County Park features "a historic village onsite that's open for tours on weekends during the summer," providing cultural learning opportunities between outdoor activities.
Supply access: Most campgrounds are within 5-10 minutes of towns with supplies. One camper at Marion County Park noted: "There are many stores within a 5-10 minute drive if you need supplies, but it still feels isolated while there."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several campgrounds require careful leveling. At Marion County Park, a visitor advised: "The sites are somewhat unlevel so you'll likely need to block up tires (we've had to block one side of tires on two different past sites)."
Electric options: Most sites provide 50-amp service. Wallashuck provides electric hookups with "each sight has a fire ring and table, plus a lantern pole," according to one camper. Most established campgrounds in the area offer 50-amp options.
Water access points: Water access varies by campground. At Wallashuck, a visitor noted, "you have to get water at the entrance only electrical hook up," which requires planning for RV water tanks.
Dump station locations: Most Lake Red Rock campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities, though locations vary. According to one Howell Station visitor, "The potable water available at the dump station was clear and good for drinking. Dump station is easily accessible."
