Camping near Mineola, Iowa provides access to the Loess Hills, a distinctive landform created by wind-deposited silt at the edge of the Missouri River valley. The area's campgrounds sit within these rolling hills at elevations ranging from 960 to 1,400 feet, creating varied terrain for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s, while spring and fall camping offers milder conditions with lows in the 40s-60s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Pony Creek Co Park offers fishing in both the main lake and a smaller pond near the entrance. "The fishing has always been good here. It's a beautiful setting, right in the middle Loess Hills in sw Iowa," notes Tony B. in his review of Pony Creek Co Park.
Hiking trails: Waubonsie State Park provides scenic trail options through the Loess Hills with several difficulty levels. "We took one of the more scenic trails and took us over the top of some of those beautiful Loess Hills," says Tony B. about Waubonsie State Park. The park offers both easy and moderate routes with scenic overlooks.
Water recreation: Lake Cunningham Campground offers multiple non-motorized boating options. "The lake itself is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing! People do swim near the beach area but it is technically not allowed. I like the beach for letting my dog swim!" explains Kwin K., highlighting the water activities available just 30 minutes from Mineola.
What campers like
Quiet natural settings: Campers appreciate the relative seclusion at certain campgrounds. At Platte River State Park Campground, visitors enjoy the natural environment. "I love Platte River State Park; there are accommodations for every type of camper - cabins, RV, privative - hell they even have teepees!" says Jared J. about Platte River State Park Campground.
Riverside camping: Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers sites along the Platte River. "It's flat and easy for young kids to bike around all the different lakes (ponds). Plus the Platte river is right there too that adds a great ambient sound. Lots of cottonwood trees for shade," writes Justin R. about Fawn Meadows Campground.
Spacious sites: Oak Grove Campground at Two Rivers SRA provides well-spaced camping areas. "It's not close to water like some of the others but it has a nice amount of room between spots and lots of trees for shade," notes Shannon G. The campground offers both electric and electric-plus sites with ample space between neighboring campers.
What you should know
Train noise: Louisville State Recreation Area experiences significant train disruption. "Train noise all night," warns Bill M., while Justin R. adds, "The trains! This has the capability to be a great little state park, but and a huge one at that is at night the trains go by about every 17 minutes." Consider packing earplugs if staying at Louisville State Recreation Area Campground.
Limited amenities: The camping areas near Mineola tend to offer basic facilities. Pony Creek Park "only has about 6 sites. There is a pond in front of the park for fishing and a small playground," according to Matt S. Plan accordingly by bringing necessary supplies.
Reservation system: Two Rivers State Recreation Area uses a specific system for walk-up sites. Shannon G. explains, "The walk up process is a little strange. You get put on a waiting list and have to return to main office at 3. Then the start at beginning of list and people start choosing so get on waiting list early."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Eugene T. Mahoney State Park provides multiple recreational options. "There are many activities from your typical hiking experience to spending the day at the water park to being able to take the family mini golfing," shares Camden O. about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly fishing: Two Rivers SRA offers productive fishing opportunities. "This is a great campground for camping and fishing with kids. The fishing is easy in all the lakes and they have a pay fishing trout lake that nearly guarantees success," explains Rick J.
Alternative accommodations: Consider unique lodging options for families wanting comfort with a camping feel. "If you enjoy some extra comforts, rent one of the train cabooses which feature a small kitchen, bathroom, AC and beds with mattresses. Our kids loved the lofted full sized bed," suggests Carla D.
Tips for RVers
Hookup availability: Lake Cunningham Campground provides full-service sites. "The sites have concrete pads with power, but no water or sewer. There is a fill station on the way in," notes Alana R. about Lake Cunningham Campground.
Site selection: Choose your site location carefully to maximize comfort. "The East end shower facility was very clean, as the host camper was cleaning it at 6 am," reports Ryan A. regarding Two Rivers SRA, indicating maintenance quality varies by area.
Camper spacing: Consider campground layout when planning for horse trailers or larger rigs. Waubonsie State Park has limitations as Tony B. notes, "The sites just are to close for me as a tent camper." For equestrian camping near Mineola, Iowa, verify space requirements before arrival.
