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Campgrounds near Mount Vernon, Iowa include established sites with varied amenities and natural settings. Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground, located directly in Mount Vernon, offers electric hookups, shower facilities, and accommodations for tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping options. The surrounding area features several additional campgrounds within a 30-minute drive, including Lake Macbride State Park with both modern and primitive camping areas, Sugar Bottom Campground in Solon, and West Overlook Campground in Iowa City. Most campgrounds in the region provide electric hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings, with many offering water access for fishing, swimming, and boating.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with most campgrounds operating from April through October, though some remain open year-round. Spring flooding can impact accessibility, particularly at riverside locations like Palisades-Kepler State Park and campgrounds along the Iowa River and Coralville Lake. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and University of Iowa football game days when sites fill quickly. The region experiences typical Midwestern weather patterns with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Several campgrounds offer both primitive and developed sites with varying levels of amenities. As one visitor noted, "The Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds. A call ahead to the conservation office to check on closures is a good idea."
Campers consistently praise the natural settings and water access available at campgrounds throughout the region. Lake Macbride State Park receives positive reviews for its shaded sites and proximity to water recreation, with one camper highlighting that "the lake is beautiful, the modern toilet house was clean, there was water on site." West Overlook Campground, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, stands out for its "large sandy beach, modern boat launch area, and options for a variety of kinds of campsites in separate loops." Many campgrounds feature hiking trails, playgrounds, and boat ramps. The region's campgrounds serve both as destinations for local residents and convenient stopovers for travelers on I-80, with several reviewers noting their value as inexpensive basecamps for visiting Iowa City or the University of Iowa, typically just a 15-20 minute drive away from most camping areas.
"Very nice COE campground north of Iowa City in the Lake Coralville area. Beautiful setting, lots of options for sites."
"Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing. Near Iowa Raptor Project that conducts raptor programs and site with walking tour and live raptors, and Macbride State Park as well."
from $14 - $260 / night
Check Availability"The reservoir behind the dam creates both the Coralville Lake alongside Lake MacBride which is a state park in a side bay."
"LuLu and I stayed for 10 days while visiting family in Iowa City. The campground hosted mainly locals but it’s only a couple of miles off the I80."
from $22 - $28 / night
Check Availability"Great walking trails through wooded areas near the river. Beautiful place."
"Situated along the Cedar river, fishing and paddling can be done. Lots of trails, CG and cabins closed for winter season for improvements and online reservations."
from $12 - $80 / night
Check Availability"My niece who lives nearby recommended this place to stay when we went to visit her since was a short drive from where she lives. "
"Close access to boating and town"
from $20 / night
Check Availability"You may also be able to take the dam trail with a bike, but I'm not totally sure about that."
"This is for the primitive southern camp site at lake macbride, iowa. Their is a modern campsite on the north side as well. This one is spacious, beautiful and peaceful."
from $10 - $25 / night
Check Availability"We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers. "
"There are a variety of sites to choose from, nice trees, and a beautiful wildflower field to walk through."
from $23 - $33 / night
Check Availability"We stayed during an Iowa Football weekend, attended the game in nearby Iowa City, and then enjoyed the rest of our weekend exploring the ponds and trails in the park."
"It is the perfect camping destination between Amana colonies and Iowa City."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Close to bathroom and showers. Hiking trails. Nice place to fish and explore."
"The RV sites aren’t really out of the ordinary but the park sits upon a slight rise above the Missouri River and the road around the campground leads down to the river."
from $10 - $36 / night
Check Availability"This is one of around 4 campgrounds near/around Lake Coralville."
"Natural setting with plenty of trees and located near Coralville Reservoir. Paved roads and sites. Ample roam for big rigs, but no pull through sites."
from $26 - $30 / night
Check Availability"The couple downfalls is the shower and bath house is outdated and there's no swimming area on this side of the lake. Other than that I had a blast."
"Just looking for a layover spot after a long day of driving. Couldn't figure out where to register so we walked into the bar/restaurant, Bobber's Grill. The owner was at the bar."
TravelerNice quiet campground. The front looks like more long timers and it was a little noisier up there but I drove to the back loop and it's nice and quiet back here. PLENTY of 50/30/20 amp hookups and the shower house in the back was nice. Water was just lukewarm but it was hot out so no problem. Might be less pleasant in colder weather though. Pull through spots available. I would stay here again for sure.
LegendThis campground has basic amenities, including tables, fire pits, water on site, restrooms. There is also a larger group campsite across from the standard campground. There are many trails throughout the limestone Bluffs and pine Creek credited through. There is a historical site known as Pine Creek Brit Mill, pioneer cemetery, and a cabin and school site.
ScoutNew owners, free laundry 🧺
LegendThis campground is well located on Highway 22 in Buffalo, Iowa. Sitting along the banks of the Mississippi river, sites include hard pads, fire rings, electric, water, showers, and restrooms, campground Office, seasonal host with wood. There is a playground, volleyball, Sandy beaches, boat ramps. This campground recently connected to City water instead of septic.
RangerWe had a delightful afternoon and overnight stay here. We were warmly welcomed by the volunteer at the registration booth, who filled us in on the area and what we might see during our short visit. Our site was lovely, tucked at the end of a loop overlooking the woods, where we spotted several deer. We explored a bit while we were there, including the dam and the nearby fossil site—both very cool. Bathrooms were clean, and the showers had plenty of hot water and good pressure. We only wish we could have stayed longer at this lovely park. It was a wonderful final stop on our trip.
LegendTons to do, trails, the caves, playground, picnic areas The sites are average The caves are amazing Water, power, bathrooms and dumping station
ScoutVery quiet campground. Not a bad spot. Has dump station and a few water spigots to fill up on your way in. Plenty of old trees. Cell service is spotty.
LegendThis campground has a good location, considering it’s proximity less than a half mile north of interstate 80. There is also food, fuel, and a Farm And Fleet nearby. Upon entering the campground, gravel roads need dressed, potholes, both small and very large neat filling. Appears to have year-round residence, and sites have tables, firings, electric, water. On a positive note, The Pool looks clean this season, the store is open and offers basic necessities, and firewood is available.
LegendThis campground has both primitive, spacious shaded sites, as well as RV sites towards the north. Primitive sites include Tables and Fire rings only, no hard pads to pull up onto. It has a boat ramp for the Wapsi river, offering paddling and fishing. The primitive side does flood so watch a river levels. The RV side has a seasonal host, restroom and showers, playground, and a shelter for rent. Sites have tables, fire rings, and electric, with a dump station nearby.
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.
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."
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."
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What RV facilities are available at Mount Vernon camping areas?
RV campers near Mount Vernon have several good options. West Overlook Campground offers electric hookups with convenient dump and water stations at the park entrance. It's popular with both locals and interstate travelers. Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow is another family-friendly option just minutes from I-80, providing convenient access for RVs. Many campgrounds in the area are big-rig friendly with electrical hookups, though full hookup sites may be limited.
Are there any seasonal camping options in Mount Vernon, IL?
Sugar Bottom Campground near Mount Vernon offers seasonal camping in a beautiful setting with varied site options. This Corps of Engineers campground provides electric sites in a quiet environment with abundant wildlife. Seasonal closures may occur during winter months or after severe weather events. Cottonwood Campground/Coralville Lake is another option with tent areas among trees, fire rings, and shower facilities. The campground provides access to nearby fishing, hiking, and lake activities, though availability may vary seasonally.
Where is the Mount Vernon campground located?
Mount Vernon, Iowa's premier camping option is Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground, located just outside Mount Vernon along the Cedar River. This scenic state park offers drive-in, boat-in, and walk-in access with reservable sites. For those seeking alternatives, Wanatee Park is situated nearby in Marion, providing another convenient option for Mount Vernon visitors with drive-in access, water hookups, and toilet facilities.
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