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Best Campgrounds near Montezuma, IA

271 Reviews

Central Iowa's Montezuma area features several lakeside camping options within a 30-minute drive of town. Diamond Lake County Park, located just 20 minutes south of Interstate 80, offers 120 campsites with separate areas for RVs and tent camping. The park encompasses 90 acres of freshwater lake and 660 acres of prairie land, providing both waterfront and wooded camping experiences. Rock Creek State Park, about 25 miles northwest in Kellogg, maintains year-round camping with electric hookups, showers, and boat rentals. Smaller operations like Anderson Campground provide overflow options with basic RV hookups for travelers seeking proximity to Diamond Lake's recreational opportunities.

Seasonal considerations significantly impact camping availability in the Montezuma region. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with Diamond Lake County Park open from April 26 to October 21. Rock Creek State Park maintains a longer season from April through December. First-come, first-served registration is common at county parks, while state parks typically require reservations. As one camper noted, "Check-in is self-registration and done onsite at Diamond Lake. Electric sites are $20/night and non-electric are $10, so this place is incredibly affordable." Fall visitors often find less crowded conditions, with mid-October offering colorful foliage and peaceful surroundings.

Water recreation forms the centerpiece of camping experiences near Montezuma. Diamond Lake's primitive campsites along the southwestern shore provide direct water access that tent campers particularly appreciate. According to visitor reports, the lake supports kayaking, canoeing, and fishing despite somewhat murky water conditions. Hiking trails circumnavigate the lake and extend into prairie areas. Campground amenities vary significantly between locations, with Diamond Lake offering three shower houses, boat ramps, fishing docks, and a playground. Highway noise affects some campgrounds in the region, particularly those closest to Interstate 80, though most reviewers note that lakeside sites provide adequate buffer from traffic sounds.

Map showing campgrounds near Montezuma, IowaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Montezuma, Iowa (82)

    1. Diamond Lake County Park

    11 Reviews
    Montezuma, IA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (641) 623-3191

    "While it was our first time camping in Iowa, we were extremely lucky to land upon this slightly hidden fresh water centered campground just a 20 minute drive south of Route 80 near Montezuma, wherein one"

    "review from over a year and a half ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this county park campground gem in a very rural part of Iowa"

    2. Rock Creek State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Kellogg, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (641) 236-3722

    $12 - $40 / night

    "Stopped overnight on our way home from Iowa City. No reservations & took our chances on finding an electric site. Score! Neighbors were friendly."

    "The RV section of campground was nearly full but the tent/non-hook up section had lots of space. One can camp on lakeside but be aware that these spots have a slope, not comfortable for my van."

    3. Kellogg RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Kellogg, IA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (641) 526-8535

    "Simple campground behind a Philips 66 gas station that totes they have Iowa’s best burger. They have recently updated shower building along with a laundry building"

    "I can’t tell you if they are actually Iowa’s best burger because this is the only burger I’ve had in Iowa. Nice people, everything is clean. Spots are pull thru. No issues at all."

    4. Lake Iowa County Park

    7 Reviews
    Williamsburg, IA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 655-8465

    "Not too far off the highway.  Very clean and quiet.  The campground is above the lake but a short trail will take you to the lake.  "

    "The good: The area around the lake and near by pond, is not overly developed. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife."

    5. Robertson Access

    1 Review
    Montezuma, IA
    8 miles
    Website

    6. Anderson Campground

    1 Review
    Montezuma, IA
    6 miles
    +1 (641) 990-5178

    7. Iowa Lake Co Park

    2 Reviews
    Williamsburg, IA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 655-8466

    "Well that was the case when I informed friends I was going to Iowa for a quick getaway. While there are a bunch of corn fields, the lakes and campgrounds are nice and good for an adventure."

    8. Newton KOA

    11 Reviews
    Kellogg, IA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (641) 792-2428

    "rural Iowa."

    "Newton KOA This is the primary location for camping in Newton. It’s right off interstate I-80 and is very close to the Iowa Speedway."

    9. Lake Keomah State Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Oskaloosa, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (641) 673-6975

    $10 - $36 / night

    "There is a beach to swim, and great fishing in the lake."

    10. Union Mills Access

    Be the first to review!
    Montezuma, IA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (641) 673-9327
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Recent Camping Photos near Montezuma, IA

65 Photos of 82 Montezuma Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Montezuma, IA

271 Reviews of 82 Montezuma Campgrounds

  • Kent W.
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Howell Station

    One of our favorites

    This is a really nice campground. It’s run by friendly, helpful people. It’s well maintained, the bathrooms are clean, you’re not packed together like sardines, there’s a nice bike/walking trail around the park and (at least when we’ve visited) bald eagles, blue herons and pelicans line the river. It’s just a little over an hour from us so it’s easy to get to.

    We’re trying parks all over Iowa and Howell has been one of our favorites.

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Newton KOA

    Highway Roadside Campground Oasis

    Following up on my review from over a year ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this roadside pit stop of a campground in very rural Iowa.

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Fairly EZ access from I-80; (2) Incredibly well-manicured campground that is both very clean and well-organized; (3) Despite being next to the highway where we were concerned with errant late-night visitors who had no business being at this CG, there’s excellent security and a feeling of being safe; (4) Superb Midwestern hospitality from the KOA staff and camping community; (5) RV slots offer very nice FHUs and fairly spacious areas; (6) Picnic tables & fire rings are in pretty good condition; (6) If you need anything, there’s a handful of just OK restaurants like Cratty Shack Diner and grocery stores like Hy-Vee and Walmart Supercenter in nearby Newton; (7) Spectacularly clean bathrooms and shower facilities; and (8) Well-stocked catch & release fishing pond

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) You are literally right next to I-80, but the CG sits down below the swooshing traffic, so if you’re not looking, you almost forget that you’re camping next to the busiest highway in Iowa; (2) Lack of privacy between sites as there’s not a ton of trees, bushes or brush on the interior of the CG; (3) Most of the RV slots have no shade, so bring your own awning or shelter; (4) Some sites have very close proximity to their neighbors; (5) Some amenities feel dated and could be replaced and / or refurbished; (6) There’s a fairly nasty industrial park, complete with a junk yard and car mechanic garage with accompanying abandoned cars scattered around the entrance that you’ll have to navigate through before reaching this KOA; (7) This really isn’t a good place for tent camping, unless you can convince the staff to let you set up in the shaded area at the north end of the CG; (8) The pool was shut down for maintenance when we visited

    Happy Camping!

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 1, 2025

    Diamond Lake County Park

    Campground Diamond In The Rough

    Following up on my review from over a year and a half ago, I’m adding a bunch of additional photos as well as an abbreviated post pointing out the HIGHS and LOWS of this county park campground gem in a very rural part of Iowa.

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) EZ access and just a 20 minute / 9 mile drive due south from I-80 via Exit 201; (2) Incredibly well-manicured campground – very clean and well-organized; (3) Superb Midwestern hospitality from the CG staff and camping community; (4) The RV area looks to be brand spanking-new and offers very nice FHUs and fairly spacious areas as well as most have an excellent view of Lake Diamond; (5) The hiking trails and bountiful fishing spots make this a simply wonderful campground; (6) Incredibly simple honor system to accessing any site on a first-come, first-served basis – simply stick your money in an envelope and pick out whatever location suits you; (7) While basic, the bathhouses were in pretty good condition and very clean; (8) Kid’s playground is fantastic and nearly brand new; (9) Reasonably priced bundles of pre-cut firewood; and (10) Overall the overnight price to stay here, whether RV or tent-camping is very cheap, so great value for $

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) There’s no security gate to prevent any wandering traffic in here, although you are so far out in the boondocks, it’s not really much of a concern; (2) The newly minted RV area slopes down to the lake, but as you park perpendicular, it shouldn’t be an issue; (3) Also, because the RV area is new, there’s no trees or brush, which creates a lack of privacy between sites; (4) Nearly all of the RV slots – save the few that are right next to the lake - have no shade, so bring your own awning or shelter; (5) Some sites have very close proximity to their neighbors; (6) Picnic tables & fire rings, at least in the tent camping areas, are worn-out and in pretty poor condition and should be replaced or refurbished; (7) The water in Lake Diamond is quite dark and murky, so unless you are an adventurous soul, I don’t recommend swimming here

    Happy Camping!

  • Allen B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Diamond Lake County Park

    Diamond lake

    Clean showers & flush toilet’s. No hand towels. Sites are close together. Some road noise. But overall a nice campground for one night.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 24, 2025

    River Oaks RV Park

    Nice campground. Clean. Well kept.

    We stayed here to go to the Iowa State Fair. It was easy to park here and catch a shuttle to the fair.

  • Clifton B.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Lake Iowa County Park

    Very nice campground off the beaten path

    Wife and I met friends here in August 2025.  This was the middle between us & them as we live in CO and they live in NY.  The campground was very well maintained.  Shower rooms & restrooms were very clean and all were functional.  We really enjoyed the long weekend here.  Be advised tho, we were not adequately prepared for the humidity in August.  Being from Colorado where we live at much higher altitudes & we didnt expect the humidity to affect us as it did.  Not a bad thing, we were just used to 15% max and that weekend we saw 90% with 90 degrees.  Wife and I will likely return and see more of the Amana communities in the fall.

  • Erik W.
    Jul. 21, 2025

    Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow

    Neat place but it's not flat

    Super nice staff.  We stayed here for a few weeks while working in the area. The land is not flat.  The spots are good and most are pull-throughs but some are too short for a 30' camper.  Would definitely stay there again. 

    We stayed there in October, 2017

  • Jerry V.
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Colfax Quarry Springs Park

    Well Maintaned & Good Fishing

    I stayed at site #13 with my two boys.  We had a blast.  I would highly recommend site #13.  It had plenty of space for a large tent and canopy.  It had a nice access spot for fishing.  The new restroom/shower facility was very nice and clean.  Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that.  There was also company on-site that rents Kayaks.  The campground manager was extremely helpful.  He had firewood already staged for $7 and even came back on day two with more firewood for the same fee.

Guide to Montezuma

Camping near Montezuma, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From serene lakeside spots to family-friendly campgrounds, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing and boating: Many campgrounds, like Rock Creek State Park Campground, provide access to beautiful lakes. One reviewer mentioned, "The lake is pretty, it's right there at the campground. Boat, kayak, and canoe rentals seemed reasonable."
  • Hiking: Trails are abundant in the area. A visitor at Lake Macbride State Park Campground noted, "Right next to trails... quiet and pretty level sites."
  • Swimming: Campgrounds like Sugar Bottom Campground have swim beaches that are perfect for families. One camper shared, "The beach was a plus for the kids as well."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for F. W. Kent Park highlighted, "Clean bathrooms with good showers."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A visitor at Cherry Glen Campground said, "This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of campground hosts. One reviewer at Bob Shelter Recreation Area noted, "Friendly hosts & Rangers."

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area advised, "You must reserve these sites in advance."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have markets or stores nearby. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground mentioned, "There’s no place to buy firewood nearby, so come prepared."
  • Wildlife: Campers should be cautious about wildlife. One camper at Yellow Banks County Park warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places with playgrounds and swimming areas. A reviewer at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "New playground for the kids."
  • Pack for activities: Bring along games and outdoor toys. A camper at Lake Macbride State Park Campground suggested, "There were rangers checking out the area every so often."
  • Plan meals: Having a meal plan can make cooking easier. One camper at F. W. Kent Park noted, "Fire pits with built-in grill grates."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Some sites may be tight for larger RVs. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground mentioned, "We had to put blocks under the passenger-side tires."
  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Bob Shelter Recreation Area offer electric hookups, which can be a big plus. One reviewer said, "Clean, level sites, close to fishing."
  • Use apps for reservations: Many campers find it easier to book sites through apps. A visitor at Prairie Flower Recreation Area noted, "It is easier to do so on the app versus the web."

Camping near Montezuma, Iowa, provides a great mix of nature, fun, and relaxation. Whether you're with family or enjoying a solo trip, there's plenty to explore and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Montezuma, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Montezuma, IA is Diamond Lake County Park with a 4.2-star rating from 11 reviews.

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