Lake Iowa County Park provides tent sites, RV spots with electric hookups, and cabins for visitors seeking equestrian-friendly camping options near Marengo, Iowa. The park maintains a system of trails connecting to wooded areas and the lake, with varied terrain suitable for horseback riding. Camping fees are $16 for electric sites and $10 for primitive camping areas.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Wanatee Park features extensive single-track trails ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts. "The best thing about this campground is it's access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff," notes Kris P.
Fishing opportunities: Lake Iowa County Park offers access to both lake and pond fishing areas, though reaching the water requires walking downhill from most campsites. According to Ken G., "If I had more time, I would have gone paddle boarding or fishing on the lake."
Wildlife observation: Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides excellent wildlife viewing along the Wapsipinicon River. "Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River," states Carol M. The natural setting attracts various wildlife species throughout the year.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Lake Iowa County Park maintains well-kept shower facilities and restrooms. "Bathrooms and entire area was really in perfect shape. One of the cleanest showers and bathrooms I have seen. $10 for tent, $16 for electric - how can you go wrong?" says Randall K.
Affordability: Keokuk County Belva Deer Park offers reasonable rates for primitive camping with modern amenities. Keith B. shares, "$12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance."
Spacious campsites: Wanatee Park provides room between sites for comfortable camping. "The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided," notes Clint G. This design allows for privacy despite being near other campers.
What you should know
Site selection for views: Few campsites at Lake Iowa County Park offer direct views of the water. Leslie P. advises, "Very few sites have a view of the lake. To walk to the lake or near by pond you must go down hill, which could be a problem for any one with mobility issues... I would say if you can try and get sites, 67-70. They have beautiful views."
Seasonal considerations: Summer humidity can impact camping comfort, particularly for visitors from drier climates. "Being from Colorado where we live at much higher altitudes & we didnt expect the humidity to affect us as it did. Not a bad thing, we were just used to 15% max and that weekend we saw 90% with 90 degrees," explains Clifton B.
Smoke management: Campfire smoke can accumulate when sites are occupied close together. Randall K. cautions, "Around 2:30am there was so much smoke in our van from nearby campfires that I woke up sick and my dog threw up all over the bed... If a few people make a fire you better shut down all your windows."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Wakpicada Natural Area provides opportunities for children to observe nature up close. "Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun anyway. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other," reports Parker H.
Exploring local attractions: Lake Iowa County Park serves as a convenient base for visiting nearby points of interest. Clifton B. mentions, "Wife and I will likely return and see more of the Amana communities in the fall," referencing the historic Amana Colonies within driving distance.
Accessible trails: Most equestrian campgrounds near Marengo, Iowa feature trails suitable for families of mixed abilities. At Lake Iowa County Park, Ken G. found "Lots of trails to walk with the dog including a nice trail along the lake."
Tips from RVers
Leveling preparation: Bring leveling equipment to Wanatee Park as some sites may require adjustment. Clint G. shares, "Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers."
Utility connections: Lake Iowa County Park provides electric hookups at designated sites for equestrian campers. The park charges $16 for sites with electricity compared to $10 for primitive sites, making it an economical option for RVers requiring power for horse-related equipment.
Dump station access: Wanatee Park offers dump station facilities for RVs upon exit or entrance. According to Clint G., they camped "for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance."
