RV camping near Missouri Valley, Iowa offers easy access to the Loess Hills region, a rare landform found only here and in China. The area sits along the Missouri River valley with elevations ranging from 920 to 1,560 feet in the surrounding hills. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s, while spring and fall camping conditions remain mild with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Hike unique terrain trails: Hitchcock Nature Center features miles of varied difficulty trails through the distinctive Loess Hills. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below. All trails are marked and have multiple different trailheads, many which start around the visitors center/tower Overlook," notes a visitor.
Join educational programs: The nature center hosts regular educational events including Hawk Watch, a popular program for bird enthusiasts. "Great hiking in Loess Hills, great Nature Center especially with programming of 'Hawk Watch'," shares one camper who appreciated the educational offerings.
Try archery: On-Ur-Wa RV Park provides convenient access to recreational activities including archery ranges. "This campsite was everything we were needing for the night plus more. The people were very friendly," comments a satisfied camper about this convenient base for activities.
What campers like
Backcountry camping options: Hitchcock Nature Center offers remote sites for those seeking more solitude. "My preference is getting one of the campsites on the western edge of the park on top of the ridge. At night you can see the Omaha skyline lit up and the breeze running through there is wonderful," writes one reviewer who enjoys the more secluded options.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms as a highlight. "Bathrooms and showers are clean. One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom," notes a visitor to On-Ur-Wa RV Park.
Quick interstate access: Many campgrounds in the area provide convenient highway access for those passing through. "Great location. Very nice campground. Large spacious pull thru sites. Extremely clean bathrooms and showers. We stayed twice, westbound and eastbound," writes one camper about On-Ur-Wa RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the Missouri Valley area have limited operating seasons, typically April through October. Bob Hardy RV Park runs "early April to late October" with shower houses that close when temperatures reach freezing.
Self-service options: Many parks have straightforward check-in processes without full-time hosts. "Small park in a cute neighborhood. 8 RV spots with electric and water. Tent camping as well. $15/night for RV spot. $10/night tent spots. 5 day max. Pay at the bath house, no host on site," explains a visitor to Bob Hardy RV Park.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds are located near major highways, which can create ambient noise. "This place is sandwiched in between I-80 and the I-80 Speedway. Even w/ full hookups it's a bit overpriced," reports one camper about a nearby RV park.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programming for kids: Pine Grove RV Park & Campground offers family-friendly amenities including a pool that's well-maintained. "We love the friendly staff, the onsite cafe, and the beautiful pool. The owners take great care of the pool, so our grandkids come out and swim with us whenever they can. So many campground pools are a bit scary, but not this one," shares a frequent visitor.
Accessible nature trails: Some parks feature boardwalk trails suitable for all ages and abilities. "They have a 1 mile hike on a boardwalk that's very easy. There's all levels of hikes," notes a camper about Hitchcock Nature Center's family-friendly options.
Recreation rentals: Several campgrounds offer equipment rentals for water activities. "The nature center is a nice place to cool down in the summer and learn about the loess hills," mentions one visitor about the educational opportunities available for children.
Tips from RVers
Level site considerations: Many RV sites in the region require minimal leveling but vary by location. "The gravel site we were on fit our 40 ft fifth wheel without a problem but was slightly off level," notes a visitor to Sunset at Blue Oasis RV Park.
Dump station access: Free dump stations are available at some parks but may have positioning challenges. "Single free dump station as well," notes a visitor to Bob Hardy RV Park, providing essential information for RV waste management.
Overnight stop convenience: The Missouri Valley area serves well as a waypoint for cross-country travelers. "Not too far from the Interstate and Lewis and Clark State Park in Iowa. The bathrooms/showers are beautiful and immaculate," shares an RVer about their experience at Sunset at Blue Oasis RV Park.
