Lehigh, Iowa camping destinations sit in the Des Moines River Valley, surrounded by a mix of prairie and woodland landscapes at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,100 feet above sea level. The region experiences distinct seasons with hot summers and cold winters, making spring through fall the primary camping seasons. Water recreation access shapes many camping experiences with multiple lakes and river options influencing site selection.
What to do
Hiking sandstone formations: Ledges State Park features distinctive geological formations with challenging hiking trails. Camden O. shares, "Stayed at this campground for my college visit to ISU and I nearly went to the university just because I wanted to be here at this park every weekend." The park's hiking trails include steep stone steps and dramatic river views that require proper footwear.
Roller skating outdoors: Spring Lake County Park offers a unique open-air roller skating rink operating on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "Plenty of stuff to do's for the whole family. Roller skating on the weekends," notes Chris L. The rink provides an unusual activity option not commonly found at campgrounds.
Water recreation: Don Williams Park provides lake activities with swim areas and fishing spots. According to James M., "Camped by tent, basic amenities on-site-fire ring, table, etc. Went kayaking on lake and then on Des Moines River (close by)." Boat rentals are available at several parks, with paddling opportunities on both lakes and rivers.
What campers like
Proximity to biking trails: Swede Point Park connects to popular regional cycling routes. Brian G. mentions, "Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail." The High Trestle Trail bridge provides a notable cycling destination from the campground, requiring riders to plan for several miles of biking each way.
Varied terrain: Ledges State Park provides topography uncommon for Iowa. Tom S. explains, "What I enjoy most about this park compared to others in Iowa are the sandstone ledges and the slopes on the trail. There are some excellent views, so make sure your phone has enough battery to take photos." The ledges create dramatic hiking opportunities with elevation changes rarely found in the region.
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park offers wildlife observation opportunities including bison viewing areas. "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level. They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay away from humans, as it should be," notes Jim S. The park maintains viewing areas with informational signage about the animals.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Some parks have connectivity challenges. At Kennedy County Park, Jeannie D. reports, "No cell service provider functions in this park. The WIFI is shared between dozens of sites, speed averages right around 5mps." Visitors should download maps and information before arrival rather than relying on mobile data.
First-come sites: Many county parks operate without reservation systems. Billy K. explains about Swede Point Park, "Tent camping is always available (literally - was just there over Labor day weekend and had no trouble getting a spot on Saturday), with maybe 20 electric sites, no reservations." Arrival on weekdays increases chances of securing electric hookup sites.
Weather vulnerability: Little Wall Lake Park has limited wind protection. Bill M. advises, "This is a nice small camp area that only has one downfall: a lack of wind break. We went when the wind was blowing in typical Iowa summer fashion." Campers should secure tents well and consider RV positioning relative to prevailing winds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Little Wall Lake County Park provides family-friendly facilities with recreational options. Mary describes, "This little gem is a great place to stay. Small lake. Some sites are reserveable online and some are first come first serve." The park offers playground equipment adjacent to camping areas.
Swimming beaches: Several parks feature designated swimming areas with varying facilities. Korey A. says about Spring Lake Park, "This place is really family friendly. Plenty of camping spaces, some right next to the lake. Swimming area, concession stand, boat rentals, and even a skating rink on the weekends." Swimming areas typically operate without lifeguards, requiring family supervision.
Game spaces: County parks maintain open recreation areas for group activities. About Swede Point Park, J B. notes, "If your family or group likes games, the park maintains a flat well groomed area for play games. The bathroom/shower house has music 🎶." These multi-use spaces allow for volleyball, frisbee, and other group games.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing challenges: Several parks have tight RV accommodations. At Kennedy Memorial Park, Sherry N. cautions, "Unfortunately, the RV park is quite cramped. 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.)" RVs over 30 feet should verify site lengths before arrival.
Utilities placement: Glamping in Lehigh, Iowa often means RV sites with varying hookup configurations. Jeannie D. advises about Featherstone County Park, "Snug if you have slide outs, must watch to see you don't hit neighbor's trailer as you extend. Awnings literally touch neighbors." RVers should consider slideout placement when selecting and setting up in sites.
Dump station access: Campgrounds near Lehigh provide varying levels of sanitation facilities. Jim S. notes about Jester Park, "Okay, let's address the dump station, I've never been to one so thought out and efficient. Weird favorite thing but if you know you know." Several parks offer full-service glamping near Lehigh with both water fill and sanitary dump options, though hours may be restricted.
