Lake View, Iowa offers extensive glamping and camping opportunities along Black Hawk Lake, the southernmost glacial lake in Iowa. The 957-acre lake provides a central feature for outdoor recreation throughout the year, with several campgrounds operating seasonally between April and October. Water levels can fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline activities and boat access points at certain campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Kennedy County Park features multiple fishing areas with boat ramps where anglers target species native to the region. "I can't say enough about Kennedy Memorial County Park in Fort Dodge Iowa. Its beautiful well taken care of has a nice playground and access to a beautiful golf course! And FREE WIFI! All for $18.00 a night," notes Mary J. about this affordable fishing destination.
Roller skating experiences: Spring Lake County Park offers a unique attraction not commonly found at camping areas. "Small friendly community of camping. Door to door ice and concession delivery. Awesome open air roller skating rink and nightly grilling parties at the beach," shares Jodi H. about this family-oriented venue.
Biking routes: Crawford Creek County Rec Area provides facilities for active visitors seeking exercise options during their glamping stays. "Multiple play areas for kids. Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming. Nice cabins for rent," explains Megan H., highlighting the recreational diversity.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Thirty Acres Campground at Black Hawk State Park maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "Beautiful lake. Pretty busy with lots of campers. Nice walking path around the lake," reports Kim K., noting both the natural surroundings and park amenities.
Trail access: Swan Lake State Park Campground offers paved pathways for walkers and cyclists. "We stayed one night, beautiful park! Great trail all the way around the lake, we took a bike ride around it was about 3 ish miles. Camp host was a gem. Bathrooms were very clean! Great view of the lake," describes Shane T.
Waterfront proximity: Spring Lake County Park provides direct lakefront camping options. "We were lucky and got a spot right along the lake. This park is peaceful (only slight downfall is the trains you can hear a bit-not too loud though). Bike/hiking trail, disc golf, kayak/paddle boat rentals, swimming beach, historic roller skating rink, playgrounds and more," details Kimberly M.
What you should know
Campsite arrangement: Camp Crescent Park at Black Hawk State Park has gravel sites with specific layout considerations. "Nice level campground right on the water and in town. Many types of sites available from full hook to dry camping. Some paved but most are gravel sites. Utility location did require us to use a longer hose and extension cord to reach from our site," explains Bruce P.
Seasonal variations: Little Sioux Park Campground operates with specific seasonal dates. "I'd classify this as an above average county run park/campground. All sites are first come first serve. We arrived on a Saturday evening around 5:30pm and found a site no problem. There are two loops. One has electric only sites and the second has electric/water sites," reports Tim K.
Accommodation options: Nelson Park offers glamping opportunities with various facilities for different camping styles. "It's a good place for camping not perfect. Has a descent size lake good for kayaking and fishing," states Edger G., highlighting water activities available during stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Crawford Creek County Rec Area provides multiple play areas for children. "Nice bath houses. Clean area. Good for the family," notes Shana L., emphasizing the family-friendly environment.
Swimming areas: Kennedy County Park includes beach sections suitable for children. "Multiple kids parks, beach area, fishing areas with boat ramps, trails, kids butterfly garden," lists Megan H., detailing the variety of family activities.
Rental options: Spring Lake County Park offers equipment rentals for water recreation. "There is a roller rink and a concession stand. This is a very busy campground in the summer. There are reservable sites on mycountyparks.com. There is a golf course that borders the park," shares Dave M. about the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Featherstone County Park has tight spacing for larger RVs with slideouts. "Snug if you have slide outs, must watch to see you don't hit neighbor's trailer as you extend. Awnings literally touch neighbors. Crazy good time, if that's what you're into. I like the cabins!" cautions Jeannie D.
Utility hookup locations: Camp Crescent Park requires planning for connections. "Utility location did require us to use a longer hose and extension cord to reach from our site. Nice town and trails for biking nearby. Gets busy on the holidays and some areas are pretty tight if your pulling a large unit," advises Bruce P.
Navigation challenges: Kennedy County Park has layout issues RVers should know about. "The sites are somewhat modest in size and the one-way roads are narrow and unmarked. (Several times during our two-night stay, drivers were forced to pull off to permit a 'wrong-way' vehicle to pass.) The park host is really helpful and hospitable," warns Sherry N.
