Rock Creek State Park provides camping options around a 602-acre lake in central Iowa, about 10 miles from Montezuma. The park sits at an elevation of approximately 850 feet and experiences hot summers with humidity often reaching 90%. Most glamping accommodations and campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, though winter camping is available at select locations.
What to do
Fishing for crappie and bass: Rock Creek State Park offers excellent fishing opportunities. "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," notes reviewer Willy W.
Kayaking and boating: Rental options for various watercraft are available at multiple parks. "You can rent fishing boats, pontoons, kayaks, and canoes," according to Elisha L. at Rock Creek State Park. The marina contains equipment for water activities without needing to bring your own gear.
Biking on trails: Several parks connect to local trail systems. "Great bike trail that goes right into Grinnell," reports Christine R. about Rock Creek State Park. This provides an opportunity to explore beyond the campground boundaries.
Creek exploration with children: Thomas Mitchell County Park features a small creek perfect for cooling off. "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," shares Willy W.
What campers like
Waterfront camping sites: Several campgrounds offer premium sites directly on the water. At Wallashuck, "you can reserve some spots right on the water and fish from your tent," according to Michael W. These sites typically cost $5-10 more than standard sites but provide direct lake access.
Clean facilities: Shower houses and restrooms receive consistent praise from visitors. "Shower house and bathrooms were really nice - very hot water," notes Thomas B. at Thomas Mitchell County Park. Most facilities are centrally located within the campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lake Iowa County Park provides frequent wildlife encounters. "We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through," notes Leslie P. Many campers report seeing deer and rabbits directly from their sites.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking solitude, mid-week stays offer the best experience. "During the weekday it empties out," mentions Willy W. about Rock Creek State Park. Sunday through Wednesday typically has significantly fewer campers than weekend dates.
What you should know
Site spacing concerns: At several parks, campsites can be quite close together. "The sites both tent and RV are simply too close for you to enjoy the place. Camp fires every 10 feet," reports Bruce K. about Rock Creek State Park. Consider booking sites on the outer edges of campgrounds for more privacy.
Weather and seasonal considerations: Spring camping may present challenges in some areas. "We visited one week before the water and modern bathrooms were ready, so that was challenging," notes Christine R. about early spring visits to Rock Creek State Park.
Reservation systems vary: Kellogg RV Park and other private campgrounds require advance reservations, while many county parks offer both reservable and first-come sites. "You can reserve online ahead of time as well. There are QR codes at each site that you can scan to quickly and easily do this on the spot," explains Reese W. about Thomas Mitchell County Park.
Water quality issues: Some lakes have swimming restrictions. "Unfortunately, the amazing swimming beach with concession stand and changing rooms with showers is gone. Due to the large population of geese, ducks, and cranes, the water is not safe to swim in," reports Elisha L. about Rock Creek State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature playgrounds near camping areas. "Park has a large playground area, hiking trails, fishing pond," notes Michelle H. about Thomas Mitchell County Park. These play areas provide entertainment options for children between outdoor activities.
Site selection for families: When glamping near Montezuma with children, location matters. "We were able to camp in a tent near RVs without feeling crowded. The restrooms, showers, and playground were all close by…great for camping with kids," shares Amanda H. about Wallashuck campground.
Budget-friendly options: Eveland Access offers affordable glamping options. "20 bucks a day you submit your fill out sheet at the service area and drop it off in a drop box," notes Marie M. This makes for an economical family camping experience with basic amenities.
Water safety considerations: For families with young children, be aware of limited swimming options. "If you don't have a boat no worries you can rent one at the marina," shares Cj C. about Rock Creek State Park, offering alternatives to swimming.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Keokuk County Belva Deer Park provides amenities RVers need. "$12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance," reports Keith B. Electric, water, and sewer hookups are available at varying rates.
Easy highway access: Some parks offer convenient locations for overnight stops. "Very convenient to I-80, well-laid out. Most convenient, though, was setting up at the site and then walking to the co-located gas station and burgers for dinner," shares Greg I. about Kellogg RV Park.
Site leveling considerations: RV sites at some parks require adjustment. "The cabin has such a slant that a ball will roll by itself to the entrance side," notes Leslie K. about one accommodation at Outback Campground. Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds.
Dump station locations: "Clean rv park with easy access to 1-80," reports Carrie S. about Kellogg RV Park. Most campgrounds offer dump stations near the entrance/exit, though not all have full sewer hookups at individual sites.
