Camping opportunities around Maxwell, Iowa include sites in a largely agricultural region at around 900 feet elevation. The area experiences seasonal weather patterns with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most campgrounds open for the season in April and close in late October or November, though a few operate year-round.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Jester County Park offers multiple fishing access points along Saylorville Lake and a stocked pond. "Beautiful campground! Lots of trees and peaceful area. Our spot was pretty level and well maintained," notes one camper at Jester County Park.
Hiking trails: Explore the well-marked trails at Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt. "There are plenty of trails to hike and some really nice views of the prairies. You can bring a kayak/canoe to go on the water," according to a reviewer who experienced the area.
Biking access: The Chichaqua Valley Trail runs for 25 miles near Griffs Valley View RV Park. As one visitor shares, "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office."
Wildlife viewing: Visit the bison viewing area at Jester County Park. "They advertise Elk and Bison which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," mentions a camper who appreciated the park's conservation efforts.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently note the well-maintained bathrooms at Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground. "The campgrounds are clean and well managed with modern bathrooms and showers," according to a reviewer who enjoyed their stay.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the roomy layouts at River Oaks RV Park. "Nice size campground, sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought," writes one visitor who stayed at this Maxwell area rv park.
Quiet atmosphere: Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt provides a peaceful camping experience away from crowds. "The campground was well maintained and very quite. Great place for a quick trip," states a reviewer who found the park to be "a hidden gem."
Water access: The Des Moines River runs near Bob Shelter Recreation Area. "Great spot located next to the Des Moines River. Check in was a breeze and conveniently near the fill and dump stations. Peaceful lot near the river," noted a satisfied camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds near Maxwell fill quickly during peak season. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, "The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September. Good thing we got through because they found us a site for the night."
Seasonal closures: Verify operating dates before visiting. "Drove 6 hours to find out the campground is closed (apparently for all of fall and winter) without any awareness of that being the case online," warns a disappointed visitor to Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds sit close to interstate highways. At Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures, "You could literally throw a rock from the entrance and hit a passing semi," though another camper noted, "We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn't hear a sound."
Limited amenities: Facilities vary widely between parks. "There is no WII-Fii so bring your own," notes a visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park, though they appreciated "the community center has nice showers, laundry, game room."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Adventureland Campground connects to entertainment options. "The biggest draw for us was Adventureland Park which was a five minute walk from the campground. Adventureland Park is a small amusement park and water park which is great for all ages."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water recreation. "They have a swimming pool and a fishing pond. The office also has a little store to buy goods," mentions a reviewer about Adventureland Campground facilities.
Kid-friendly sites: Bob Shelter Recreation Area includes family amenities. "Along with the campgrounds there are quite a few picnic areas and shelters with playground equipment and plenty of space to run and play games with your kids."
Storm protection: Safety features exist at certain campgrounds. "The community center has nice showers, laundry, game room. Kitchen with attached TV room, oh and storm shelter," points out a camper who stayed at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: At Kellogg RV Park, visitors find convenient setups. "Level sites with full hookups... Plenty of space to walk the dog. Right next to a gas station with great burgers and tenderloins!"
Site leveling: Bob Shelter Recreation Area offers concrete pads. "We stayed at spot 20 which was extra wide, concrete pad with electric hook up. No water or sewer. Spot 20 is at the end which makes it very private with nice large grassy area adjacent to wooded area."
Winter considerations: Year-round parks maintain specific services. "Spent the winter here, they are very good at keeping snow and ice under control," notes a camper who stayed at Griffs Valley View RV Park during colder months.
Dump station access: Facilities for RV maintenance are available at most parks. "Park had water available to fill fresh tanks, showers, flush toilets and dump station. Sr. Lifetime pass rate $10 per night," shares a visitor to Bob Shelter Recreation Area.
