The Lake Rathbun area in southern Iowa sits at approximately 900 feet above sea level in the rolling hills region. Temperatures range from summer highs around 85°F to cooler fall nights in the 50s, creating variable camping conditions throughout the season. Glamping in Moravia, Iowa and surrounding areas offers access to the 11,000-acre Rathbun Lake with multiple improved camping options.
What to do
Hiking trails: Hickory Hills Park maintains easy-to-moderate forest trails that pass by Native American burial mounds. "This is a great little park. The hiking trails are pretty easy going through the forest and then opening up next to old Native American burial mounds," notes a visitor at Hickory Hills Park.
Water recreation: Lake Ahquabi State Park offers multiple water activities with equipment available for rent. "There is plenty of fishing, a swimming beach, and they have water sport rentals! The area is very pretty and peaceful," mentions a camper at Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground. Paddleboard and kayak rentals typically cost $10-15 per hour.
Historical exploration: The Marion County Park maintains a historic village with weekend tours in summer months. A reviewer notes, "There's also a historic village onsite that's open for tours on weekends during the summer. Plus, it's on the outskirts of town so restaurants and grocery stores are nearby."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Island View Campground offers well-separated camping areas. "Very nice corp park. Campsites were spaced well apart with plenty of room on pad around campsites, cell service was four bars and air tv 30 channels," reports a visitor at Island View Campground.
Clean facilities: Wallashuck maintains modern bathroom and shower facilities. "Showers are very clean and there is also a children's play ground," comments a camper at Wallashuck. Another adds, "Very nice campground, each sight has a fire ring and table, plus a lantern pole."
Affordable pricing: Several county parks offer budget-friendly luxury camping options. At Waubonsie Trail Park, a camper noted, "All for under $20 for electric RV site! Great campground for a small group event."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. "It tends to be very busy. My stay was a week past labor day and still over half full," notes a visitor at Island View.
Site leveling issues: Some sites require equipment for proper setup. "The sites are somewhat unlevel so you'll likely need to block up tires (we've had to block one side of tires on two different past sites)," advises a camper at Marion County Park.
Seasonal variations: Most luxury glamping experiences around Moravia operate on limited schedules. Wallashuck operates from April 24 to October 13, while Island View's season runs May 1 to September 30.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several parks feature dedicated children's areas. "The park has a nice play set for kids and there are baseball fields nearby," mentions an Island View visitor.
Swimming access: Lake Ahquabi offers a dedicated beach area. "They have a beautiful lake and a beach. The water has minimal seaweed and great temperature!" reports a visitor who enjoyed Eveland Access, another option with "new showers and toilets."
Educational opportunities: Use historical sites for learning experiences. "This campground is a little off of the beaten path but it is quiet and has great hiking trails. It is also known locally for its effigy mounds where native american artifact were buried," notes a Hickory Hills visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "Marion County is often overlooked by people in favor of the various Red Rock campgrounds that are nearby...They have done a great job in recent years updating sites a few at a time, adding pavement and full sewer hookups."
Dump station access: Check if on-site facilities exist. "Campgrounds were very clean and staff was helpful and polite... Restrooms/showers were clean, nothing fancy."
Cell service quality: Connection varies by location. "Cell service was four bars and air tv 30 channels," reports an Island View camper, making it suitable for those needing connectivity while enjoying luxury tent camping near Moravia.
