Public access campsites around Mingo connect to central Iowa's rich conservation network located along the 41st parallel. The area sits at approximately 830 feet elevation within a mix of riverine systems and reconstructed prairie landscapes. Winter camping is limited, with Adventureland Campground among the few year-round options near Mingo.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Rock Creek State Park Campground provides reliable fishing with notable crappie and largemouth bass populations. "Rock Creek is known for its crappie and large mouth bass fishing. The lake has lots of features like brush piles, vertical structures, mossy areas and you can go over by the bridge and fish the rocks," noted one camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground.
Hiking trails: The 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail passes directly through several camping areas. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," reports a visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Wildlife observation: Several parks offer viewing areas for native and reintroduced species. "You can check out the Bison, which are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be," mentions one visitor about Jester County Park, which features both bison and elk viewing areas.
What campers like
Pond amenities: Several RV sites near Mingo, Iowa feature fishing ponds with maintained surroundings. "There is a really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean," reports a camper about Griffs Valley View RV Park. Another mentions the "pond is nice, groomed all around with paved paths."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness stands out in camper reviews. "The bathroom/showers are immaculate," notes one Griffs Valley View visitor. At Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt, a camper reports, "Easily the best bathrooms I've found while camping (modern)."
Efficient check-in: Staff assistance receives positive mentions at several locations. "The woman that runs it was very nice and met me at the entrance to lead me to my spot," reports one camper about Griffs Valley View RV Park. At Kellogg RV Park, a visitor noted the "very efficient and friendly check in person."
What you should know
Site placement considerations: Proximity to Interstate 80 affects noise levels at some campgrounds. "You could literally throw a rock from the entrance and hit a passing semi," cautions one visitor about Shady Brook Camping, while another reports about Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground that it provides a "lovely spot backing to a river" that feels more secluded.
Seasonal water activities: Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting recreation options. "Unfortunately you can not rent kayaks or canoes at this time due to water levels," noted a Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt visitor. Another mentioned, "The river was very low and muddy, so water sports like kayaking aren't an option right now."
Campground closures: Several campgrounds close during fall and winter months. "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," reported one disappointed camper about Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "There is a small playground," mentions a visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park. Jester County Park also receives praise for its "great playground" from multiple reviewers.
Easy fishing for kids: Stocked ponds provide accessible fishing options. "The fishing pond has bluegills" mentioned in reviews about Griffs Valley Valley RV Park offers easier catches for young anglers compared to larger lakes.
Nature centers: River Oaks RV Park and other locations feature educational opportunities. Jester County Park receives high marks for its nature center, with one visitor noting the "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many RV sites near Mingo, Iowa require leveling blocks. At River Oaks RV Park, a camper notes, "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks."
Pull-through site availability: Several parks offer convenient pull-through options for larger rigs. At Kellogg RV Park, a visitor reports, "Level sites with full hookups. It was an easy pull through and pretty level." Another notes the park has "pull-thru, gravel-strewn sites (all 18' wide with lengths ranging from 65' to 85')."
Dump station efficiency: Jester County Park receives specific praise for its dump station. "Let's address the dump station, I've never been to one so thought out and efficient. Weird favorite thing but if you know you know," reports one RVer.
