Camping spots near Marion, Iowa range from year-round county parks to seasonal state recreation areas within 30 minutes of driving. The terrain varies from prairie-dotted lakeshores to wooded riverfront sites, with elevations between 720-850 feet above sea level. Several campgrounds include trail networks connecting to larger systems, with Pinicon Ridge Park linking directly to a 3-mile trail into Central City.
What to do
Hiking diverse trails: Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground offers varying difficulty levels for hikers of all experience. According to James M., the park has "lots of intense trails to explore but some trees were in the way due to a past storm." The park also provides "nice hiking along the Cedar River" with what Brett G. describes as "not a flat campground! Beautiful!"
Water recreation: Fishing, kayaking, and swimming opportunities exist at many locations. Danni J. notes that Palisades-Kepler offers "close to cedar river for awesome fishing!" At Sugar Bottom Campground, campers appreciate the "nice access to lake" with "nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing," according to James M.
Wildlife viewing: The natural areas around Marion host diverse wildlife. At Wanatee Park, Kristy E. mentions it has "lots of opportunity to ride the numerous bike trails nearby and hike in wanatee park and nearby pinicon. The Cedar river and the wapsicon for fishing. This area has something for everyone."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained amenities. At Primitive South Campground, reviewers note "the campground had a water spigot to fill containers and dumpsters. A restroom with pit toilets similar to a National Park are on-site. They were very clean, as was the campground," according to Angie G.
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers find good value in the area. Steve T. describes Sugar Bottom Campground as having "great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers." At Primitive South Campground, Jeff A. mentions, "Clean sites right on the lake. Peaceful nights with other friends & other campers. Good place to launch kayaks from. We had cell service. Free firewood for campers was a plus!!! $9.00/night!!!"
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention comfortable spacing between sites. At Pinicon Ridge Park, David S. describes the sites as "nice clean and generally spacious" with "water and electric hookups, dump station near by. Clean shower house with storm shelter. Mixed sun and shade with generous grassy sites, fire pit and picnic table."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October with some open year-round. At West Overlook Campground, Janet R. notes, "spring camping is quieter; fall camping is also quiet, and the fall leaves are beautiful." Joelle V. adds that West Overlook is a "wonderful place to enjoy Fall Colors. We enjoy the peace and quiet especially with the views of the lake and the fall colors."
Reservation needs: Especially during peak season, securing spots can be challenging. At Morgan Creek County Park, Terry M. mentions, "Beautiful facilities. Pleasant camp hosts. The only problem is it's first come first serve. Hard to get a site."
Site characteristics: Terrain and site conditions vary across locations. Megan M. notes that at Primitive South Campground, "very few spots had flat area for tents, most were on a hill" and "campground is laid out in a way that makes you butt up against other campers on almost every side—virtually no privacy."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds feature kid-friendly amenities. At Morgan Creek County Park, Kristin B. says it's a "great little campground. Beautiful park with trails and playgrounds. Site was great and had everything we needed."
Family-focused campgrounds: Some locations specifically cater to families. Chelsea D. says Pinicon Ridge Park is the "best campground ever! Our kids had more fun at this campground than any other so far. They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages."
Beach access: Swimming areas provide summer recreation for children. At West Overlook Campground, Greg S. notes "the dam and the lake are cool, there's a decent beach, two playgrounds, and lots of sites to choose from."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Electric and water connections vary across campgrounds. At Wanatee Park, Clint G. reports, "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers. The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided."
Leveling challenges: Site surfaces differ significantly across the area. At Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area, David J. shares, "We stayed in a 25 foot travel trailer in the middle of the week. Weekends are pretty much sold out. We love the area. Kayaking, biking, and fishing. Very well maintained grounds."
Site accessibility: Road conditions and parking configurations matter to RVers. Lauren M. describes West Overlook Campground as having "spacious sites. Well maintained. Concrete pad with picnic table and fire pit. Close to town if needing shopping."
