Camping sites near Clear Lake, Iowa center around a natural lake covering over 3,600 acres with water recreation opportunities throughout spring, summer, and fall. The region features a mix of state parks and county-managed facilities within a 30-minute drive radius. Campsites range from $10-$35 per night depending on hookups and amenities, with most facilities operating from April through October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Clear Lake State Park Campground has excellent fishing access with one camper noting, "the lake has great fish." Fishing is particularly productive in spring and early summer.
Swimming at public beaches: The area offers several swimming options when conditions permit. A visitor to MacNider Campground mentions, "the city pool is right next door" and "there are also awesome parks within walking distance."
Hiking local trails: Several parks offer walking paths through different ecosystems. At Pilot Knob State Park Campground, campers appreciate the "several hiking trails" and one reviewer specifically noted they "got to see turtles laying eggs and deer were all around."
Basketball and playground time: Multiple campgrounds maintain recreational facilities for families. One camper at Camp At The Woods commented on "new park for kids new basketball court new pavilion."
What campers like
Affordable rates: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable fees. At Inglebretson Park County, a visitor noted it was "very inexpensive" at "only $15 on our summer early September rate and drops to $10 basically in October for a few months, which includes a small fire pi, tabke, and electric!"
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise. One MacNider Campground reviewer commented, "The ground and well kept and staff is incredibly friendly and helpful," while another noted it "fits our 43' rig well."
Shade coverage: Many campgrounds provide natural shade, important during hot Iowa summers. A Shellrock River Co Preserve visitor described the area as a "Big grassy field surrounded by huge (walnut) trees" with "Trees everywhere."
Spacious sites: Certain campgrounds offer larger-than-average sites. At Clear Lake State Park, a camper observed, "they are large spots" and another mentioned the "Great campground. Family and friends get together a must here."
What you should know
Seasonal water quality: Clear Lake sometimes experiences algae issues. A visitor to Pilot Knob State Park mentioned, "showers were individual room with timed lights, motion sensors kept the shower interesting!"
Site leveling challenges: Not all campsites provide level parking. At Eagle Lake State Wildlife Management Area, a camper noted, "This spot is exposed with virtually no privacy. (Winter/ early spring) It's about a 1/4 mile off of the dirt road."
Varying privacy levels: Campground layouts offer different privacy experiences. One MacNider camper observed it was a "Quaint city campground" with a relatively "small" footprint but accommodating for larger rigs.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking basic experiences, free camping exists. At Shellrock River Co Preserve, a camper noted it's "quiet, clean, and has some pretty views of the Iowa nite sky" and another mentioned, "Secluded free camping with port a potty, fire rings and a shelter."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. A Clear Lake State Park visitor noted, "the playground has nice, safe equipment for the little kids."
Swimming options: Public beaches and pools provide swimming opportunities. At McIntosh Woods State Park Campground, a camper mentioned there is a "beach for swimming but there is no lifeguard on duty."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing can entertain children. At Pilot Knob State Park, one family "Got to see turtles laying eggs and deer were all around. Family loved the fishing."
Rental accommodations: For families without camping equipment, some parks offer alternatives. McIntosh Woods features "two rental yurts" described as having a "bunk bed plus a futon and table/chairs inside. Picnic table and grill outside."
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Be prepared for varying utility connection placements. At Camp At The Woods, one RVer found "the sewer connection was at the front of the site and was up hill kind of."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dump stations. A visitor to Inglebretson Park County appreciated that "They have a dump, clean bathrooms with hot showers."
Seasonal availability: Some campgrounds remain open year-round. A winter visitor to Camp At The Woods noted they were "very accommodating super nice people helped us back in and set up in middle of winter after dark" and "the water worked when temp was below freezing."
Site reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A Clear Lake State Park visitor advised, "Reserve early!" while another noted it being "full more than a week before the holiday, shows how great it is."
