Camping opportunities near Roland, Iowa include a mix of state and county parks within short driving distance. Most campsites in the area sit between 1,000-1,100 feet elevation in a landscape characterized by glacial deposits that created the region's small lakes and rolling terrain. Weather patterns typically include spring thunderstorms from April through June, with July and August bringing the warmest camping conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails: Ledges State Park features challenging terrain unusual for central Iowa. "I would say it was a challenging hike. A lot of up and down terrain, stone steps, etc. The ledges along the river were beautiful and depending on the river height you can walk right along them!" notes Jennifer M.
Water recreation: Pine Lake State Park offers dual lake access for paddling enthusiasts. "Paddle on upper or lower Pine Lake, fishing, shore or boat (lake, stream, or river), bicycle trails, hiking trails (all around lower Pine Lake), beach swimming (lower only)," writes Kerry M. who recommends the varied water activities.
Winter visits: Many parks in the area maintain limited winter accessibility. Briggs Woods Park keeps select sites open year-round, allowing for off-season visits when crowds thin substantially. "Stayed in early November. Nice park with standard tent and RV sites. Boone River, Briggs Woods Lake good for paddling with rentals available, fishing, beach, shower house, cabins," reports James M.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Swede Point Park provides opportunities to experience natural Iowa habitat. "This county park has many amenities not to mention that it is close to a very popular bike trail (High Tressel Trail Bridge). There are a few miles of mowed trails along with a couple of trail through the woods up and down hills," shares reviewer J.B.
Fishing opportunities: Local lakes provide productive fishing throughout the camping season. Little Wall Lake County Park receives high marks from anglers. "This lake is great, lots of fishing spots and camping spots," notes Jodi H. about the accessible shoreline.
Affordability: Campgrounds in the Roland area maintain reasonable rates compared to other recreation destinations. Prairie Flower Recreation Area provides good value according to visitors. "The campground is full of wild flowers, thus the name Prairie Flower," explains Matt S., highlighting the natural setting that comes with the modest pricing.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "This campground is a hot spot for Des Moines to escape the weekend - with that said, reservations are a must! Most times you need to make them six months out," advises Elizabeth A. about Prairie Flower Recreation Area.
Shade variations: Established campgrounds offer better tree cover than newer facilities. "Unfortunately being a newer campground there are no established trees for shade, we found the best spots are on the south side where the camper door faces east," notes Debra T. about Dakins Lake.
Weekday advantages: Visiting midweek provides a dramatically different experience than weekends. "Can get busy on the weekends but if you camp mid-week you may be the only folks around. Very peaceful," mentions MitchRoeschlein about Pine Lake State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jester County Park features family-friendly amenities. "Beautiful campground! By far, this county park has a lot of fun activities and access points to the Saylorville waterway circuit. In addition to the water access ways, there is a sweet pond to fish in, several hiking trails, a brand new Nature Center, amphitheater, bison and bird viewing," recommends Larissa C.
Swimming options: Many local lakes maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. "They have a fun 'eagles view' point that overlooks the ledges. Nice picnic areas are also available," Jennifer M. shares about Ledges State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programming for children. "The Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," Jim S. mentions about Jester County Park, highlighting the learning opportunities available.
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: Little Wall Lake County Park provides year-round services. "This little gem is a great place to stay. Small lake. Some sites are reserveable online and some are first come first serve. We had water and electric on site," reports Mary, noting the amenities available.
Site leveling: Campgrounds vary in pad preparation and levelness. "Spacious campsites with cement pads," Ron M. notes about Prairie Flower Recreation Area, making setup easier for larger units.
Electric service: Most campgrounds offer electrical hookups with varying amperage options. "The sites vary in size, all of them seem ample. The best sites, in my opinion, are along the lake," says Abby F. about Hickory Grove Park, which maintains electrical sites along the waterfront.
