Camping near Mount Vernon, Iowa occurs primarily in the rolling hills of eastern Iowa's Linn and Jones counties. The Cedar River watershed creates varied terrain with elevations ranging from 700-850 feet above sea level, while summer temperatures average 75-85°F with moderate humidity. Traditional camping options include tent sites on crushed rock pads with electric hookups at many locations, while some parks also offer primitive backcountry sites for those seeking more seclusion.
What to do
Hiking through limestone bluffs: Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground features notable trails along the Cedar River with varying difficulty levels. One camper reported, "Great park offers lots of amenities and recreation opportunities. Situated along the Cedar river, fishing and paddling can be done. Lots of trails." The park has several miles of trails through forest and along scenic overlooks.
Paddleboating and fishing: Several lakes near Mount Vernon allow for affordable water recreation. At Lake Iowa County Park, visitors can rent equipment and access multiple fishing spots. A visitor noted, "A short trail will take you to the lake...If I had more time, I would have gone paddle boarding or fishing on the lake." The area supports bass, catfish, and panfish populations.
Wildlife viewing: Natural areas around Mount Vernon house diverse wildlife populations. "We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through," shared one Lake Iowa County Park camper. Dawn and dusk offer the best viewing opportunities for deer, rabbits, and various bird species throughout the camping areas.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses and amenities. A Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground visitor stated, "Cabins were nice - not luxury or glamping but clean and in good condition. The gentleman that takes care of the campground takes great pride in his work and it shows." Shower facilities at most parks are available from April through October.
Affordable camping options: Sites typically range from $10-33 per night depending on amenities. According to one Lake Iowa County Park camper, "$10 for tent, $16 for electric - how can you go wrong? Very well kept campground!" Most campgrounds offer both primitive and electric sites with varying fee structures.
Seasonal yurt camping: Mount Vernon, Iowa and surrounding areas offer limited yurt camping opportunities during peak season. While traditional yurt camping in Mount Vernon, Iowa isn't widely available, some parks feature yurt-style accommodations seasonally. A Pinicon Ridge Park visitor mentioned, "Great place to kick back and relax. The trail through the campground takes you across the river where you can find canoe and paddle boat rentals."
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Some campgrounds have crowded sites while others offer more privacy. One camper at Lake Iowa County Park warned, "Only issue is that the spots are pretty close together. Around 2:30am there was so much smoke in our van from nearby campfires that I woke up sick." Research site maps before booking to find more secluded options.
Reservation systems differ by park: Central Park and other county parks use different booking systems than state parks. "Park has free WiFi," noted one Central Park camper, which can help with last-minute reservations. Most parks open reservations 3-6 months in advance.
Weekend crowding: Popular parks fill quickly during summer weekends. "We stayed in the middle of the week. Weekends are pretty much sold out," shared a Pleasant Creek visitor. Thursdays through Sundays from Memorial Day to Labor Day typically see the highest occupancy rates.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities: Pinicon Ridge Park features exceptional play areas for children of various ages. "Our kids had more fun at this campground than any other so far. They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen," shared a camper. "There were activities for kids of all ages, and they used a rubber composite on the ground at the playground so when kiddos fall, they aren't injured."
Nature programs: Several parks offer educational activities for youth visitors. Camp Liberty provides "guided activities" according to one visitor, while other parks feature occasional ranger-led programs during summer months.
Swimming access: Multiple locations offer beach areas for family swimming. "This park is beautiful and there is tons to do. The playground is fantastic and keep the kids entertained all day. The water is great for fishing, swimming and boating," noted a Pinicon Ridge Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Not all parks with RV sites offer on-site dumping. A Matsell Bridge Natural Area camper advised, "Primitive bathrooms, no showers or running water." Research dump station availability before arriving, especially for longer stays.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring substantial leveling. "Campsites kinda small and hilly," reported one Palisades-Kepler visitor. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for most area campgrounds.
Electric hookup availability: Most parks offer limited 30/50-amp service. "Bathrooms on loop B are dirty and dated. I suggest going up to the Plains loop and use its facilities. Very clean and new bathrooms and showers," shared a Pinicon Ridge camper about finding the best services in the park.
