Camping near Lewis, Iowa allows travelers to experience the unique landforms of the Loess Hills region, a windblown silt formation found only here and in China. Elevations range from 1,000 to 1,400 feet, creating distinctive ridge-top campsites with views of the Missouri River valley. Seasonal variations affect site availability, with most campgrounds operating April through November while a few remain open year-round.
What to do
Hiking trails: Hitchcock County Nature Center offers miles of varied terrain with backcountry camping available for $10 per night. "The trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. They already have a nice flat spot for your tent," notes one visitor at Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Birdwatching: The Loess Hills region hosts seasonal hawk migrations that can be observed from dedicated platforms. "They have a hawkwatch tower. Lots of information about Hawks and nature conservation," explains a camper who visited Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Water recreation: The 171-acre lake at Lake Anita State Park Campground supports multiple activities. "The best feature of this park, in my opinion, is the four-mile paved recreation trail that goes around the entire 171-acre lake. Good for walking, running, or biking. The lake is beautiful, and we also saw people boating, kayaking, and fishing."
Educational programs: Nature centers in the area host regular events for all ages. "When I think of 'nature center' I think of a stuffy little cabin with taxidermy. This site is far far more than that, with hiking trails, educational programs, a museum, event halls, and of course camping."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many rv parks near Lewis maintain high cleanliness standards. "Stopped late after a long 12 hour drive. I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked. The facilities were impressively clean and well maintained," notes a visitor to Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds and recreational areas make camping with children easier. "We stayed at #70 which was a full hookup. It backed up the playground and bathrooms. Everything was in super clean and the whole campground was very well taken care of," reports a Lake Anita State Park camper.
Accessibility options: Some locations offer inclusive features for visitors with mobility considerations. "There are miles of trail available with backcountry camping available for $10 per night. RV camping is also available for $15 per night with electric, showers/bathrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, etc. They also offer a couple cabins for rent."
Value pricing: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the affordable rates at state parks. "This is hands down one of the best campgrounds we've been to in the U.S. Everything is beautifully maintained from the grass covered campsites to the clean bathrooms and free showers. Full hookup and tent campsites are plentiful with or without reservations."
What you should know
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have limited space between sites. "Nice state park with all the amenities, but, this State Park definitely needs to be updated to accommodate the bigger and wider campers. If you like to be on top of each other, this is your campground!" cautions a visitor to Lake Anita State Park Campground.
Seasonal closures: Winter camping options are limited in the region. "I arrived February 28 to visit the casino and friends in town. I couldn't figure out where to check in so I called the number on the website. Turns out the RV parking is closed for the winter."
Train noise: Railway proximity affects some camping locations. "Nice campground, pretty spread out at a nice lake. Only downside is that it is close to the traintracks."
Algae conditions: Water quality at lakes can vary seasonally. "Swimming beach was under watch for Blue Algae, etc."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Look for campgrounds with nature programming. "We love doing their extra classes," says a visitor about CAB Campground. "The park has cabins, rv sites, tent camping and backcountry hike in camping. The nature center is a nice place to cool down the summer and learn about the loess hills."
Movie nights: Some parks host special evening entertainment. "There is a park and on saturdays during the summer they do Disney movies and free popcorn."
Beach areas: While swimming is available, check conditions before planning water activities. "The lake is good for fishing. They have a beach and volleyball."
Proximity to town: Emergency supplies and necessities are accessible from most camping locations. "It is close to town so if you need anything that is helpful."
Tips from RVers
Self-registration process: Many rv parks near Lewis, Iowa offer convenient check-in procedures. "There are no frills here just quiet and the essentials, elec, water and sewer for $25/night. Great communication. If you're traveling near it's an inexpensive place to get some rest," notes a visitor to Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino.
Alternative parking: When RV parks are closed or full, some locations offer overflow options. "We called the casino & they told us we could park in the lot for free. If you want electricity & showers, you can pay. We just needed a place to sleep as there are not a lot of campgrounds here."
Size considerations: Large RVs may face challenges at certain locations. "The campsites have you packed in like sardines. It would have been nice if the mowing was all the way down to the lake instead of just a patch. Too many vehicles packed in a small area."
Hookup variations: Electric service ranges from 30-amp to 50-amp depending on the facility. "Interstate was RIGHT THERE..... but the noise of our AC downed it out! Water and electric, not a bad price."
