Camping options near Ogden, Iowa range from spacious prairie sites to wooded lakeside accommodations within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler spring and fall camping seasons. Most campgrounds in the area open from April through October with limited winter facilities available at select locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, anglers can find diverse fishing spots. "I was surprised to see a school of muskie while fishing, but it appeared that they were spawning at the time. If you go camping in May, make sure to bring a slightly heavier fishing pole to handle the musky," notes one visitor at North Equestrian Campground.
Hiking exploration: Ledges State Park features challenging terrain unusual for Iowa. "I did not camp here however I drove and took a day hike. The hiking trails are cool. I would say it was a challenging hike. A lot of up and down terrain, stone steps, etc. The ledges along the river were beautiful and depending on the river height you can walk right along them," shares a day visitor at Ledges State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Jester County Park offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Buffalo ranch near by which is cool as well as Pingora outdoor supply store near by where you can purchase firewood and other camp supplies," mentions one camper describing the amenities around Jester Park.
What campers like
Modern facilities: Many RV parks near Ogden provide exceptional bathhouse amenities. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, "Two nice laundry/shower houses, one in the front and one in the back of the campground. You can check in and fill propane at the campground office that is actually up NE 46th St to the north of the campground attached to a feed store/barn," according to a long-term guest.
Year-round accessibility: Several campgrounds offer extended or winter season access. Des Moines West KOA Holiday now operates beyond its traditional season. "Don't pay attention to the highway signs that says they're only open until October, they're working on updating them," notes a December visitor who found "clean bathrooms with space heaters running to ensure they're warm during the December cold."
Pond amenities: Multiple campgrounds feature fishing ponds. One reviewer describes Griffs Valley View's water feature as a "really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean."
What you should know
Reservation recommendations: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area, one visitor notes, "I would suggest getting reservations. We stopped on a Friday without one, they were booked. We only wanted one night in a tent. They don't have designated tent sites but they have one overflow sight and they let us use it for the night."
Variable shade conditions: Tree cover varies significantly between campgrounds and sites. At Brushy Creek, "Most sites have younger trees that provide some shade. This is not the big wooded type park." A camper at the North Equestrian area mentioned, "Unfortunately, we had no shade in the afternoon so weren't able to eat dinner outside or enjoy a fire in the evening."
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for nocturnal visitors. At Acorn Valley, "Biggest downside is the resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly play areas. At Acorn Valley, one family reports, "We parked at a site by the playground and bathhouse, and could sit at our camper and watch our son play at a safe distance."
Water activities: Beaches provide summer swimming options. A visitor to Brushy Creek noted, "The beach looked real nice, not too crowded for a hot July day," when describing the Beach Campground area which is "primarily families with younger children."
Educational opportunities: Jester Park features natural learning options. "Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," mentions one visitor to Jester County Park, noting the educational facilities available alongside camping.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Some RV parks near Ogden, Iowa require preparation for uneven sites. One camper at Brushy Creek notes, "Sites are level and well marked. The property is kept up nicely."
Concrete pad availability: Several campgrounds offer high-quality parking surfaces. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, "Spots are tight and some share electrical, so bring your connectors just in case. Very little shade," advises one RVer who stayed there while passing through.
Amperage considerations: Different campgrounds offer various power options. One camper at Brushy Creek advises, "If you need 50 amps, you're going to want to head to the Beach Camp," rather than the North Equestrian area which primarily offers 30 amp service.
Water hookup details: Many RV parks feature full connection options. A camper at Griffs Valley View reports the campground has "spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups," making it suitable for extended stays.
