Camping sites near Mount Vernon, Iowa range from rustic tent areas to fully-equipped RV parks within the eastern Iowa landscape. The region sits along the Cedar River valley with elevations ranging from 700-900 feet above sea level. Fall camping can be particularly rewarding from late September through early November with moderate temperatures typically between 45-65°F and colorful hardwood forests.
What to do
Hiking trails and wildlife viewing: At Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground, trails follow the Cedar River through wooded areas. "Great hike along the Cedar River. Only camped once, but definitely on the list to visit again," notes Brett G. Another camper mentions, "Lots of intense trails to explore but some tree were in the way due to a past storm."
Fishing access: Fishing opportunities abound around the region's lakes and rivers. At Sandy Beach Camp, campers appreciate the proximity to water. "It was close to a boat ramp for easy access to the lake," shares Tiffany K. The location makes it convenient for anglers to get on the water quickly.
Water recreation: Swimming and boating are popular activities at many area campgrounds. "This is a real family oriented campground. Although it is a primative campground, it allows for fishing, boating and a playground," explains Jeannie B. about Lake Macbride State Park's primitive campground.
Fossil hunting: The Devonian Fossil Gorge near West Overlook Campground offers unique geological exploration. Janet R. explains, "The recreation area also includes campgrounds and river recreation downstream of the dam, including a gorge of geologic interest that is filled with Devonian fossils exposed in the flood of 1993."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at F.W. Kent Park. "Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing," shares one camper. Another notes, "Spacious campsite, well maintained, clean shower houses." The park provides ample space between sites for privacy.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates for basic amenities. "Great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers," reports Steve T. about Sugar Bottom. The primitive campground at Lake Macbride offers even greater savings with a camper noting, "$9.00/night!!! Free firewood for campers was a plus!"
Lake views: West Overlook Campground offers prime water views. "We stayed in campsite W44, a very level site with a great view of the lake," states Alan K. Another camper mentions, "We enjoy the peace and quiet especially with the views of the lake and the fall colors."
Community atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster a friendly environment. At Scales Pointe, a camper observed, "The campground has a sense of community and campers seem helpful and friendly." Social activities are common, with another noting, "They have live music and activities karaoke, volleyball and bags."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We made a reservation for a nice summer weekend but when we arrived someone was in our site," cautions LeAnn D. about Palisades-Kepler State Park. "Reservations are a must," states another camper about West Overlook.
Campsite leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have terrain issues. At Wapsipinicon State Park Campground, a camper warns, "No such thing as a level camping spot at this campground." Similarly, at Lake Macbride, "The electric sites all seemed to have a slant to them, probably tent too."
Seasonal insect activity: Be prepared for bugs during warm months. "During our stay (Labor Day) there were tons of flies and gnats, like annoyingly so. At one point there were a dozen flying around," reports Tiffany K. about Sandy Beach Camp.
Weather impacts: Storm damage can affect facilities. "Lots of intense trails to explore but some tree were in the way due to a past storm," notes one camper. Another mentions, "We stayed here the weekend before the Derecho damaged so many of the trees."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Primitive South Campground — Lake Macbride State Park, "Our kids played with other kids in the campground at the small but nicely maintained and modern playground." Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek) also features playground equipment.
Beach activities: Look for campgrounds with swimming access. "The beach area is usually well maintained. Great place to take the family for summer fun," says Jessica P. about Lake Macbride. West Overlook Campground features "a large sandy beach" that's popular with families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting local animals. At Lake Macbride, one camper reports, "Quiet park, beautiful park setting. Lots of deer, squirrel and other wildlife." Another mentions seeing "wild turkeys and dear almost ever day walking the camp grounds."
Budget considerations: Some campgrounds offer exceptional value for families. "We appreciated the small playground near the north campground. Showers are meh, but overall value is great at $11 per night," notes Adam J. about Lake Macbride's modern campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size: Check campground maps for appropriate spaces. At Sugar Bottom Campground, one RVer advises, "Check-in was quick and easy. We proceeded to back-in site 61 with water and electric(50/30/20 AMP). We were one and done on what we thought might be a more difficult back-in, but there was enough level ditch in front to allow an easy swing."
Utility hookups: Electric and water availability varies by campground. "This large COE has a variety of sites, with the 300 loop being full hook-ups. The sites down by the boat launch have electric only and tent sites," notes one Sugar Bottom camper.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds have onsite dump facilities. "There is a fresh water station but no dump station. (We stopped at another park on the way to here but the park host told us there's a dump site at the state park in Monticello; it's about 10 miles from Anamosa)," shares an RVer at Wapsipinicon State Park.
Starlink connectivity: For those needing internet access, "We got 2 bars on Verizon and could put out our Starlink," reports one camper at Sugar Bottom. Another mentions "good Starlink north clearing (site 13)" at Lake Macbride State Park's modern campground.
