Best Campgrounds near Mount Pleasant, IA

Camping near Mount Pleasant, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking and Trails: Many campgrounds are close to scenic trails. For example, at Lake Macbride State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the “quiet” and “pretty level sites” that are right next to trails, making it easy to enjoy nature.
• Fishing and Water Activities: If you enjoy fishing, Sugar Bottom Campground is a great spot. Campers have noted, “Park offers lake fishing, paddling, swimming beach,” which makes it perfect for water lovers.
• Disc Golf: For some fun, check out the disc golf course at F. W. Kent Park. One camper mentioned, “There is disc golf as well,” highlighting the variety of activities available.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers often rave about the cleanliness of the bathrooms. At Sugar Bottom Campground, one review states, “Very clean, for me the star attraction here was the solo bathroom & shower both together with lockable door for extreme privacy when needed.”
• Spacious Sites: Many campers appreciate the spaciousness of the sites. A visitor at Lake Macbride State Park Campground noted, “Doesn't feel like a bunch of campers crammed together,” which is a big plus for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Friendly Staff: Campground hosts often receive high praise. At F. W. Kent Park, a camper mentioned, “The park ranger was very nice,” which adds to the welcoming vibe.

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy due to nearby trains or roads. For instance, at Clarks Ferry, one camper warned, “If it weren’t for the trains going by constantly, it would be a five-star place.”
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. At Sugar Bottom Campground, a review pointed out, “Compared to other COEs we’ve stayed at, the sites here are closer together,” which might be a consideration for those seeking more privacy.
• Reservations: Some campgrounds do not allow reservations. A camper at F. W. Kent Park mentioned, “NO reservable,” so it’s best to arrive early during busy seasons.

Tips for camping with families:

• Play Areas: Look for campgrounds with play areas for kids. At F. W. Kent Park, one review highlighted, “Play areas, RR, storm shelters, views,” making it a family-friendly choice.
• Safety: Always check for nearby amenities. A camper at Lake Macbride State Park Campground appreciated that “there were rangers checking out the area every so often,” which adds a layer of safety.
• Pack Essentials: Some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground advised, “There’s no place to buy firewood nearby so come prepared.”

Tips from RVers:

• Site Size: Make sure your site can accommodate your rig. A review at Lake Macbride State Park Campground mentioned, “Entry on this app says big rig friendly, but it might be hard to fit a big rig on the electrical only sites.”
• Electric Hookups: Check for electric hookups if needed. At Iowa Shady Creek, a camper noted, “Good amenities: electric, tables, fire rings,” which is essential for RVers.
• Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with convenient dump stations. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground mentioned, “They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions,” making it easier for RVers to manage waste.

Camping near Mount Pleasant, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to seasoned RVers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!