Lake Red Rock's RV campgrounds offer diverse options between April and October when most facilities are fully operational. The lake forms Iowa's largest reservoir at 15,250 acres, with water levels fluctuating seasonally as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the dam for flood control. Winter camping remains limited, with most water systems shut down from November through March, though River Oaks RV Park maintains year-round availability.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The lake offers abundant fishing spots, particularly at Diamond Lake County Park where anglers can catch multiple species. "Great views. Nice, quite camping spots with a serene view of Lake Diamond. Cell phone service is great for cricket and Verizon," reports Ben D., noting the clean camp areas and lake access.
Biking trails: Many campgrounds connect to paved paths suitable for cycling. "There's a nice bike/walking trail around the park and (at least when we've visited) bald eagles, blue herons and pelicans line the river," mentions Kent W. about Howell Station, highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities while cycling.
Bird watching: The area attracts various bird species throughout the year. At Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake, campers enjoy "peaceful, beautiful, incredible" settings with "a beautiful view of three ponds and a sunset you will not want to miss," according to Evan G., making it ideal for wildlife observation.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds feature well-designed layouts with adequate separation between campers. "Sites are large with nicely manicured lawns," notes Preston G. about Griffs Valley View RV Park, adding that "the woman that runs it was very nice and met me at the entrance to lead me to my spot."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors. At Rock Creek State Park Campground, Michael C. found "clean bathroom with good showers" alongside "beautiful scenery with lake front camping" and opportunities to "rent a boat or paddleboard."
Convenient locations: Several RV parks offer strategic positioning for exploring the region. Joey B. appreciated Rock Creek State Park's location, noting it's a "very nice state park campground on a lake" with "well kept grounds, clean bathrooms" and that it's only "20 min from Grinnell."
What you should know
Site levelness varies: Many campgrounds have gravel sites requiring leveling blocks. Jim C. reports that at River Oaks RV Park, "sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," though he praised the "good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought."
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to interstates. Steve D. noted at Kellogg RV Park "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."
Seasonal water access: Water hookups and shower facilities typically operate from April through October. At Howell Station, facilities remain open seasonally, with "clean bathrooms and showers spaced nicely throughout campground," according to Heather M., who enjoyed the "lovely, clean and very well spaced camp sites" with "electric only with water and dump station nearby."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, Kandace F. mentioned the park includes "a small playground" along with a "clubhouse with bathrooms that were really clean" and "a nice recreational fishing pond."
Swimming considerations: Not all lakes in the area are suitable for swimming. Elisha L. noted at Rock Creek State Park that "unfortunately, the amazing swimming beach with concession stand and changing rooms with showers is gone. Due to the large population of geese, ducks, and cranes, the water is not safe to swim in."
Animal attractions: Some campgrounds feature unique animal encounters kids enjoy. Steve D. mentioned at Kellogg RV Park that "our little dog especially liked the two chicken coops at east side of the campground! (Not noisy or any problem - just a reminder that you are in Iowa!)"
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Some RV campgrounds feature thoughtfully placed connections. At River Oaks RV Park, Jim C. appreciated that "full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site."
Easy interstate access: Several RV parks offer convenient on/off highway access for travelers. At Lakeside Casino RV Park, Renee H. noted "RV park is relatively quiet and easy to get into" and provides "easy on and off to the interstate," making it suitable for overnight stops.
Length accommodations: Most Lake Red Rock RV campgrounds accommodate larger rigs with pull-through sites. "Level sites with full hookups" are available at Kellogg RV Park according to Elisha L., who also mentioned there's "plenty of space to walk the dog" and it's "right next to the interstate for easy on and off."