Camping options near Larchwood, Iowa center around county and state recreation areas within a 30-mile radius. The terrain consists primarily of prairie landscapes with scattered wooded areas along rivers and lakes. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons experience wider temperature variations from 40-70°F. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Lake Vermillion Recreation Area offers a well-maintained course for disc golf enthusiasts. "I didn't partake but they do have a Frisbee golf course. Took a short walk on their trail system to the suspension walking bridge," shares one visitor who found multiple recreation options beyond water activities.
Kayak rental services: At River of the Double Bend Campground, visitors can rent kayaks for upstream paddling and downstream floating. "We rented kayaks and went up river, then floated to our camp site. Half way we ran out of beer - AND THEY BROUGHT US SOME!!!" notes one enthusiastic camper about the exceptional service.
Prairie hiking trails: Blue Mounds State Park Campground features trails showcasing native prairie ecosystems. "Hiking is excellent, challenging, and the views are AMAZING! From flooding a couple of years ago, they are having some water issues. They give you jugs of drinking water on check in," explains a camper who enjoyed the distinctive landscape despite some infrastructure challenges.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Lake Vermillion Recreation Area earns praise for its peaceful environment. "Nice, quiet state campground. Our site was nice, level, spacious, and had plenty of grass coverage (instead of dirt). Bugs were a pain but not much you can do about that," notes a repeat visitor who appreciates the well-maintained grounds.
Spacious sites: Island Park in Rock Rapids provides campers with room to spread out. "Very nice quiet campground. The sign says all sites are $15 but online it says you can rent camp in the grass for $5 so just write that on the slip when you pay," advises a budget-conscious camper who found exceptional value.
Shaded camping areas: Big Sioux Recreation Area offers tree coverage for summer heat relief. "Site was level. Trees surrounding area. Electric hook up but no water. Flush toilets with showers very nice," reports a camper who appreciated the natural shade and convenient facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Non-resident fees apply at South Dakota state parks. "South Dakota charges a day use fee ($6) plus a fee for tent camping ($17); I opted to pay for an Annual Pass of $30 since I plan on doing more SD camping this year," explains a visitor to Lake Vermillion who found the annual pass more economical.
Seasonal closures: Some smaller campgrounds close after summer season. "Drove over tonight excited for my stay at this neat looking park. Unfortunately it appears that the June 2024 flood damaged the campground and it's currently closed for repair," reports a traveler who attempted to visit Island Park.
Water quality issues: Palisades State Park Campground occasionally experiences water service disruptions. "Very nice campground with big sites. This area is very nice for hiking and pretty sure swimming and kayaking. We were there early spring so water was to cold to swim," notes a visitor who found activities limited by seasonal conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Magnolia City Campground offers family-friendly recreation. "The playground was rated 'amazing' by our kids. The electrical and water are a little spaced out. We took the end spot and count quite reach our two water hoses," shares a parent whose children enjoyed the facilities despite some hookup challenges.
Swimming opportunities: Island Park features a designated swimming area popular with families. "Very cheap, $15 a night for RV with electric and water, $5 for tents. Huge swimming area with slides for kids, and river with a lot of fish!!! Brand New shower houses," enthuses a visitor who found multiple child-friendly amenities.
Yurt camping options: Sioux Falls KOA provides alternative shelter options for families seeking yurt camping near Larchwood, Iowa. "We stayed in the TeePee and it was definitely an experience our family will cherish forever. Awesome staff as well," reports a parent who enjoyed this unique accommodation option with children.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience stops: Tower Campground offers easy highway access for travelers. "A parking lot style campground with nice green areas for pets. Level sites, full hookups. If you are looking for a convenient spot by Sioux Falls, this one fits the bill," advises an RVer who prioritized practical amenities over scenic value.
Electrical hookup details: Magnolia City Campground provides affordable full-service sites. "Cheap full hookup when passing through," notes a concise reviewer who found the small municipal campground met their essential RV needs without unnecessary expenses.
Seasonal RV considerations: Several campgrounds near Larchwood offer year-round RV accommodations. "Very friendly and accommodating staff. This park is open year round and well set up for cold weather, the water spigot is heated so if you invest in a heated water line and have an insulated camper you should be good for the cold," explains a winter camper at Tower Campground who noted preparations for cold-weather camping.
