Ashton Wildwood Park sits on sloping forested terrain in Jasper County, approximately 7 miles from Mingo at an elevation of around 900 feet. The camping area features 5 primitive sites with pit toilets but no running water in the immediate campground area. Winter temperatures typically range from 13°F to 32°F, while summer averages 63°F to 84°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking trails and orienteering: Rock Creek State Park's trail system offers varied terrain for day hiking. "Very nice state park campground on a lake. Well kept grounds... Found a great trail to hike, also the opportunity to rent a boat or paddlebord," notes Michael C. at Rock Creek State Park Campground.
Creek exploration: The creekside sites at Thomas Mitchell provide cooling water play during summer. "Thomas Mitchell park is located outside of Altoona Iowa on 197 acres. The outer loop has a creek that flows behind the sites with large stairs to get down to it. Kids were having a blast in the water," reports Shannon G. at Thomas Mitchell County Park.
Fishing opportunities: Yellow Banks County Park connects directly to the Des Moines River with multiple fishing spots. "It's got access to trails and to the Des Moines river. It's a great little escape. There is a fishing pond that's got plenty of bluegill and largemouth bass. There is a couple of docks and boat ramps," writes Willy W. at Yellow Banks County Park.
What campers like
Spacious, secluded sites: Tent camping areas at Ashton Wildwood offer privacy among dense trees. "Definitely follow the directions on Dyrt, google took us on a winding gravel road that led to the same place. The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents," explains Topaz G. at Ashton Wildwood Park.
Accessible showers and facilities: Jester County Park offers premium glamping near Mingo with modern amenities. "Very pretty and clean. We got in pretty late, staff was awesome even showed us to our spot. The park looked nice, only thing some spots looked really close together. Our spot was big right by the park area," shares Tessa M. at Jester County Park.
Affordable pricing: Many campgrounds in the area offer budget-friendly options. "It's only $7/night! There is some play equipment for children. There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs. Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower," notes a camper about Ashton Wildwood Park.
What you should know
Site locations and privacy: Cherry Glen Campground offers varying levels of seclusion. "I would suggest looking for camp sites on the back side of the western loops because they have views of the lake. I would look at sites 111-116 and 72-78. These last six are also very close to a shower house," advises Matt S. at Cherry Glen Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most sites at county parks require advance planning. "You can reserve online ahead of time as well. The bathhouse was very clean and had two showers that had hot water. We could not hear the highway from our spot despite it being close by, and the other campers around were very quiet," reports Reese W. about Thomas Mitchell Park.
Seasonal considerations: Water access and facilities vary throughout the year. "We visited one week before the water and modern bathrooms were ready, so that was challenging. The park seemed a little rough to be on the cusp of true spring camping. Derecho looks to have hit here, lots of clean up to do," notes Christine R. about Rock Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. "Campground is very green and shady. Many sites are creekside. Park has large playground area, hiking trails, fishing pond. Mosquitoes can get pretty bad, also poison ivy if you get into the thickets," warns Michelle H. about Thomas Mitchell Park.
Site selection for tent campers: At Swede Point Park, tent camping offers flexibility for families. "Nice little camp ground with easy access to the high trestle bike trail," notes Brian G. at Swede Point Park. "This county park has many amenities not to mention that it is close to a very popular bike trail. There are a few miles of mowed trails along with a couple of trail through the woods up and down hills."
Water activities: Multiple parks offer water recreation. "Great place to go tent camping, very clean and quiet. They sell firewood bundles for $5. Easy trails for the kids to go hiking and playing in the creek to cool off in the heat. There is even a pond for fishing that you can take a trail from the campsite to," suggests Willy W. about Thomas Mitchell Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Kellogg RV Park offers year-round full-service glamping near Mingo. "Level sites with full hookups. Plenty of space to walk the dog. Right next to a gas station with great burgers and tenderloins!" reports Elisha L. at Kellogg RV Park.
Pull-through access: Many sites accommodate larger rigs without unhooking. "Open year around. Nice large sites and no need to unhook. Clean rv park with easy access to 1-80," explains Carrie S. about Kellogg RV Park.
Dump station quality: Facilities vary between parks. "Only addressing the dump station, I've never been to one so thought out and efficient. Weird favorite thing but if you know you know," mentions Jim S. about Jester County Park, noting its exceptional quality compared to other local options.
