Moorhead, Iowa camping areas sit at elevations between 1,050-1,400 feet above sea level within the Loess Hills. The region features silty loess soil that can be muddy after rain but creates firm, well-drained campsites in dry weather. Summer humidity levels typically reach 70-80% with overnight temperatures dropping to 55-65°F even during hot months.
What to do
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lewis and Clark State Park offers good fishing opportunities on Blue Lake. One visitor mentioned that "This place has great fishing and is very well maintained not to mention that they have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago."
Hiking the prairie trails: Preparation Canyon State Park features nearly 8 miles of trails across 340 acres. A camper noted it has "Beginner to intermediate level trails that are good for the whole family" and that the park provides "excellent backwoods refuge" for weekend adventures.
Kayaking on calm waters: Blue Lake at Lewis and Clark State Park provides protected areas for paddling. As one visitor described: "Large site under trees with mix of sun & shade... Nearby boat ramp to load kayak onto Blue Lake. Many water lilies but sheltered at one end so good for kayak."
Historical exhibits: Visitors can learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition at the visitor center. According to a camper: "They have a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark and their travels around the area."
What campers like
Secluded backpacking sites: Preparation Canyon State Park offers remote camping opportunities. One visitor shared: "I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded. Picnic table and fire ring included."
Clean facilities: Nelson Park Crawford County Park maintains well-kept facilities. A camper reported: "The grounds and facilities at the park were in excellent shape even though many of the buildings were still the same ones that I had known from childhood."
Level campsites: Huff - Warner Access Area features concrete pads at some sites. A visitor noted: "5 concrete pads with gravel on the rest. Level and well spaced sites."
Wildlife viewing: The prairie and woodland landscapes support diverse animal populations. A camper at Preparation Canyon State Park remarked on "the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America."
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water with high mineral content. At Huff-Warner Access Area, a camper reported: "The water, while potable (so we were told), has a very, very strong iron/metallic taste. To the point that, for us, it was undrinkable."
Insect preparation: Schaben County Park and other riverside locations require insect protection. One camper advised: "You're camping by a river (i.e., water), so there are many, many flying insects. Be sure to have insect repellent, as they are merciless."
Limited amenities at primitive sites: Jones Pond offers free camping but minimal facilities. A visitor cautioned: "There is no bathroom or drinking water so make sure you are ready for that."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds close for winter. Schaben County Park operates from "April 1 to October 31," while Nelson Park Crawford County Park runs from "May 15 to October 15."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with play areas near campsites. At Lewis and Clark State Park, one camper mentioned: "There's a pretty big playground near all the sites. When I went in the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too!"
Swimming opportunities: Nelson Park Crawford County Park offers swimming in warmer months. A visitor noted: "I grew up swimming and camping at Nelson Park" and that it "has a descent size lake good for kayaking and fishing."
Educational opportunities: Lewis and Clark State Park provides historical learning experiences. One camper shared: "They will also occasionally take it [the replica boat] out and give rides. They also have a history museum to accompany the boat."
Easy access sites: For families with young children, consider sites with minimal hiking. A visitor to Preparation Canyon State Park mentioned: "There are about 8 sites dispersed around the area so camping is always private. There is a parking lot where envelopes are so you can pay and hike in."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups. At Loess Hills Hideaway, a visitor noted: "They have cabins and R.V. spots for sure. Owner is very nice and the bathrooms if you need them are clean and well maintained."
Site spacing concerns: Consider how close sites are to neighbors. At Lewis and Clark State Park, an RVer observed: "Nice facilities well maintained. I guess most people are looking for this kind of camping, but it's a bunch of campers all piled on top of each other with no real views."
Affordability: State and county parks offer reasonable rates. One camper at Lewis and Clark State Park was pleased that "the rate was 19.00 for full 50 amp hookup. Beautiful state park in the water nice level sites paved. Fire rings and tables."
Site locations: Some campgrounds offer waterfront sites. A camper at Lewis and Clark State Park recommended: "We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground."
