Best Camping near Otley, IA

Join the fun near Otley. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Camping Sites Near Otley, IA (102)

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Creek State Park Campground

    1. Rock Creek State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    38 Photos
    82 Saves
    Kellogg, Iowa

    Camp in one of several campsites near the park’s lake, featuring both electric and non-electric sites, a modern restroom and shower building. Several campsites sit on the water’s edge and provide beautiful views of Rock Creek Lake. One-fourth of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, and advanced campsite reservations through the online reservation system for Rock Creek State Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $6 - $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Whitebreast Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitebreast Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitebreast Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitebreast Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitebreast Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Whitebreast Campground

    2. Whitebreast Campground

    8 Reviews
    9 Photos
    70 Saves
    Lake Red Rock, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park

    3. Yellow Banks County Park

    14 Reviews
    36 Photos
    97 Saves
    Pleasant Hill, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park

    4. Kellogg RV Park

    11 Reviews
    26 Photos
    10 Saves
    Kellogg, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)

    5. Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)

    10 Reviews
    13 Photos
    60 Saves
    Swan, Iowa

    Improvements include adding electric sites, shower house, and water station. All sites are first come first serve and will cost $20 per night. Registration is required upon arrival at the campground entrance. Campers may stay in WCCB campgrounds for 14 days out of any 30 day period.

    Donated by Ferold and Dorothy Grant, this 150 acre park in northeast Warren County features a picnic shelter, a secluded pond, some wonderful woodland trails, and—new in 2018—10 primitive campsites!

    The picnic shelter is available for reservation by calling the WCCB office at (515) 961-6169.

    Grant Park has ten primitive campsites. There is a pit latrine in the campground. Water is not available. Reservations are not accepted. This campground is free of charge. Registration is required and is available at the campground entrance. Campers may stay in WCCB campgrounds for 14 days out of any 30 day period.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA

    6. Newton KOA

    10 Reviews
    30 Photos
    18 Saves
    Kellogg, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park

    7. Thomas Mitchell County Park

    11 Reviews
    57 Photos
    57 Saves
    Mitchellville, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
    Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station

    8. Howell Station

    5 Reviews
    13 Photos
    28 Saves
    Pella, Iowa

    Overview

    Howell Station Campground sits just below the Red Rock Dam and Lake on the north side of the Des Moines River. Lake Red Rock is Iowa's largest lake, located just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife. For more information regarding the Army Corps of Engineers and the Lake Red Rock Project, click here: Lake Red Rock Website__

    Recreation

    Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline. Anglers will find crappie, largemouth and striped bass, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area.

    Facilities

    Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline. Anglers will find crappie, largemouth and striped bass, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area.

    Natural Features

    Hardwood forests cover the riverbanks at Howell Station, offering shade and scenic views. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrate through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March. White-tailed deer, turkeys and other small animals are commonly viewed around the lake.

    Nearby Attractions

    Des Moines, Iowa's capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. Cancel or change reservations through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $24 / night

  • 9. Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake

    4 Reviews
    56 Photos
    51 Saves
    Lake Red Rock, Iowa

    The charming natural beauties and it's healing powers! Four beautiful view campsites situated in the quiet peaceful campground that has 3 private ponds with fish, and 10-acre all nature tree areas in the fenced 40 acres hilly land. It is about 50 miles in the capital city Des Moines. The site has good cell phone signal from most providers. The geodesic dome tent is the only one in Iowa, provided more climate controlled stay while still enjoying the magnificent nature's gift.

    We are open year around for you to enjoy four seasons world excitement: Springs, Summers, Falls and of course winters!!

    All of 4 campsites have plenty of space and is apart from each other with good privacy. Each site has a fire pit with a tripod for food cooking, a "picnic table" and a solar light. Drinking water tap is near the entrance, not at each site. For RVs, you can add water before you get in the gate. Site 1, site 2 and site 3 are on top of the hills with a beautiful view of ponds and lake, and site 4 is in woods with has full shade in summer and walking trails in woods.

    The are also a lots to do nearby the red Rock lake areas. The Whitebreast camping and swimming Beach, Red rock lake boat ramp, Historic Coal Ridge Church, Stu Kuyper hiking trail and Youth park are within one mile from our camping site.

    Tri-Pond camping sites are the perfect campsites for family relaxing camping, Van-camping, road trip stops, friends gathering, or come and stay for local events in the nearby cities, such as in Des Moines, Newton, Pella, Knoxville, Oskaloosa, Monroe, Pleasantville, Indianola etc.. Tulip Time, hot balloon Festival, car race…

    Notes: four wheel vehicle recommended since the campground is hilly here and there. You will need bug repellent during summer. We do not use any chemicals on site. Ticks are common during earlier spring and summer in grassy areas and woods, but not usually found during Fall and Winter. There may be hunting gun sounds near or far during hunting seasons, these are from public land nearly. we do not allow any kinds of hunting or trapping on our camping ground.

    The site has plenty of space for big rig boondocking near the gate.

    Questions? Text to Anna at: (530)309-9885. Or

    Email to: fengyuwang62@gmail.com

    Notes to campers:

    1. Hilly road. Drive less than 10 m/ h, carefully some area near pond has Steep slopes.

    2. Quiet time: 10:00pm to 6:00am

    3. Need bug repellent during summer. Ticks are common in the grassy area and woods, but not usually find on area grass been mowed. We do not use any chemical on site.

    4. Possible coyotes in the property, take care of small children, especially during night

    5. Watch out the dead trees in the woods.

    6. Pay attentions to water safety. No swim in the ponds.

    7. No swim in the campsite ponds, just for fishing. You can go swim at the Whitebreast beach, which is less than a mile from the campsite. and the shower houses there are clean and well maintained.

    8. Please do not pick nor eat any mushrooms on site. The Mushrooms on site maybe poisonous.

    9. No hunting anytime.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $25 - $120 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
    Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck

    10. Wallashuck

    4 Reviews
    11 Photos
    31 Saves
    Pella, Iowa

    Overview

    Wallashuck Campground is located on Lake Red Rock, Iowa___s largest lake. It is just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife. For more information regarding the Army Corps of Engineers and the Lake Red Rock Project, click here:Lake Red Rock Website__

    Recreation

    Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline. Anglers will find crappie, largemouth and striped bass,walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area.

    Facilities

    Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline. Anglers will find crappie, largemouth and striped bass,walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill. Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area.

    Natural Features

    Lake Red Rock is situated on the Des Moines River. Hardwood forests cover the lake shore at Wallashuck, offering shade and scenic views. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrates through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March. White-tailed deer , turkeys and other small animals are commonly viewed around the lake.

    Nearby Attractions

    Des Moines, Iowa's capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amound. Cancel or change reservations through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $24 / night

Showing results 1-10 of 102 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Otley

Recent Reviews In Otley

383 Reviews of 102 Otley Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Iowa County Park
    September 23, 2024

    Lake Iowa County Park

    very nice and clean. Lots of sites but well spaced

    Not too far off the highway.  Very clean and quiet.  The campground is above the lake but a short trail will take you to the lake.  Couldn't see the lake from where we camped, but nice woody area behind our campsite.  Nice little visitor area.  Lots of trails to walk with the dog including a nice trail along the lake.

    Great place to spend one night.  If I had more time, I would have gone paddle boarding or fishing on the lake.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    September 22, 2024

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    Small but great spot to camp

    Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt
    September 21, 2024

    Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt

    Campground closed

    Drove 6 hours to find out the campground is closed (apparently for all of fall and winter) without any awareness of that being the case online. Now I have to figure out somewhere to go at dinner time with my over-tired toddler and two dogs. Frustrated.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Prairie Flower Recreation Area
    September 6, 2024

    Prairie Flower Recreation Area

    Large, level, clean, quiet, cheap

    Large level gravel pad driveways surrounded by beautiful prairie grass. Fantastically clean & well maintained facilities. Nice beach down the road and some Greenway trails. One of the NICEST public campgrounds I've stayed at. Reserve online at rec.gov. America the Beautiful National Parks Pass pays your day use fees at the beach.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Roberts Creek West Campground
    August 18, 2024

    Roberts Creek West Campground

    Roberts Creek - East

    East not west as satellite view in Dyrt is old and doesn’t show East campground. I did add a screenshot of current satellite view. FHU. Easy in and around campground. A lot of space between sites. Sites are fairly level with hard pack gravel.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Union Grove State Park Campground
    August 12, 2024

    Union Grove State Park Campground

    Loved it!

    Loved this campground! We just stayed for one night, but wish it had been two. Small and quiet. A few trails to hike and a horse camp that I didn’t have time to explore. Nice lending library as well. Bathroom/shower combos are nice (1 is ADA). Not far off the interstate. Some sites are off with level & weird (ie stairs/door open on an incline and away from the table), and our picnic table was sloped. So pick your site carefully. 19E was ok - table not level and high stairs required from TT but good for Starlink connection and close water spigot (elec only at these sites)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lake Iowa County Park
    August 9, 2024

    Lake Iowa County Park

    Great spot for a great price

    Very well kept campground! Bathrooms and entire area was really in perfect shape. One of the cleanest showers and bathrooms I have seen. $10 for tent, $16 for electric - how can you go wrong?

    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 and my dog threw up all over the bed. At 3am we decided we needed to move to an electric site because it was too much to have the windows open. I felt really bad for anyone in a tent. I coughed all the next day.

    The campground was not that busy so there is no way I would stay here on a busy holiday weekend due to the spots being too close. If a few people make a fire you better shut down all your windows. No sleeping in the cool, night air here.

    But this is an issue at other places too. Just never experienced anything on this level before. Esp considering no one in our section even had a fire going.

    I wish campgrounds would start banning these fires. But that’s a topic for a later date.

    Other than that it was a great spot.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Valley
    August 2, 2024

    Acorn Valley

    Nice playground , well maintained

    Nice and well maintained ! 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

  • Camper-submitted photo from Acorn Valley
    July 30, 2024

    Acorn Valley

    Amazingly Quiet

    We lived our time there. It was quiet and we loved listening to the wildlife at night. My only complaint is that they left people in to camp after 10. Which kept me awake for a bit.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Iowa State Fair Campgrounds
    June 25, 2024

    Iowa State Fair Campgrounds

    Nice campground!

    We've stayed here a number of times now in the past 2 years (not during fair weeks.) Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds. There are hundreds of sites here. Some are flat, some are no where near flat, but there are so many, you can find one that will work for you! Almost all of the sites are full grass sites. The main shower house is the only one we've ever used and have no complaints. They are clean and bright and well kept.

    The sites are $32/night.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Keokuk County Belva Deer Park
    May 31, 2024

    Keokuk County Belva Deer Park

    Clean park warm showers

    $12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance. Stand-alone bathrooms throughout the park have the deep composting toilets that smell bad but whatever the ones up front are nice. Would recommend 10/10

  • Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
    May 7, 2024

    Howell Station

    Large spacious campground

    Well maintained campground with mature shade trees. Gravel sites, a little bit of leveling required. Poor Verizon cell signal, no internet signal. Not much natural privacy between sites, but sites were well spaced apart. Paved trail nice for biking and walking. Fishing nearby and the Dutch themed town of Pella is a short drive and a must see. Bathrooms and showers were nice, clean. Handicap camp site and bathhouse available. Firewood for sale at front gate. The potable water available at the dump station was clear and good for drinking. Dump station is easily accessible. Dumpsters were positioned around the campground. Staff was friendly. The night we stayed, there was a severe weather threat, and the staff, at the end of the night, had unlocked the storm shelters (utility area in the middle of the bathhouses) should the need arise. We ended up having to seek shelter because of a tornado warning.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Jester County Park
    April 13, 2024

    Jester County Park

    camping

    we love it here people are great price is Right Showers are hot every time it a WOnderfull place •to be .

  • Camper-submitted photo from Greenhouse Camping
    April 2, 2024

    Greenhouse Camping

    Nice laid back overnight stay.

    This turned out to be a very easy overnight stopover on our way north to Minnesota. My niece lives in Desert Moines and it was a short drive for her to come for a visit and bring some local, delicious tacos for dinner. We will definitely consider this spot next time through!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Newton KOA
    April 1, 2024

    Newton KOA

    This KOA Deserves Your Attention

    Literally a single stone’s throw from I80, one of the busiest thoroughfares you’ll find yourself on here in the great ‘Hawkeye State,’ this is one campground that very much deserves your attention, despite being a KOA. In fact, this campground outpost is so close to the highway that you’ll be hard pressed not to see or hear it during your entire stay. While this KOA does sit down a bit from the hustle & bustle that comes with a major interstate highway, a good number of the available RV sites sit on a sloping hill that is the same elevation as the highway itself, so if you do have the choice, opt for the lower sites (more on that later). 

    Sitting just 30 minutes east of Des Moines, Newton KOA offers up about 100 sites for RVs and 5th wheelers offering up all the standard hook-ups (water, sewage and 30 / 50 amp- but be careful because some sites only offer 30 or 50, while some do offer both, so be sure to ask when making your reservation). For mi tent pitching bredren, there’s about a dozen or so sites to choose from and all are fairly intermingled with the RV sites, although each site does sit on a plush patch of grass, so this KOA does a nice job on that front of integration. Oh, and if you don’t have an RV, 5th wheeler or a tent, on worries, this KOA will rent you one of its three cabins. 

    As this is a KOA you can expect a ton of amenities and this place does not disappoint with: catch & release fishing pond w/ fish cleaning station (that is oddly placed about as far away from the fishing pond as you can get), disc golf course, K9 camp for the puppies, cable TV, WiFi, in-ground pool (available 5/25 until 9/3) with ADA pool lift, horseshoes, meeting rooms, firewood for sale, LP gas refueling station, pool table, shuffleboard, social lounge, two kids playground, laundr-O-mat, basketball court, restroom & shower facilities, mini-market with basic groceries, ping pong, jump pad, game room, gaga pit, designated dumpster and dump station and of course the scattered fire pits and picnic tables. Just to go above and beyond, this KOA serves up free breakfast of flapjacks on Saturdays. Yahoo! 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Whether you are pitching a tent or pulling up in your RV, the best sites IMHO are those in the lower valley, but located right in front of the main office, where there are 6 RV slots numbered #45 – 50 and 6 tent sites numbered T1 – T6; (2) Should you get hungry and might want to try some local fare, check out Taco John’s and La Cabaña Mexican Restaurant, which I guess stand for ‘local’ around here, although there is Newton Family Restaurant. If you are looking for something really different and amazing, I would suggest heading on over to Dan’s Sandwich Shop, which feels like real Americana from a bygone era, complete with a diner-esque vibe and matching elbow counter to warm up to over a nice piece of apple pie, scoop of ice cream washed down with a hot mug of coffee; (3) While this KOA has a mini-market, you will find a bigger selection with better prices just down the road at the local Walmart, where just due west of this, you’ll find a Hy-Vee Grocery store with a wine & spirits shop positioned there as well. Further down the road, you have excellent fresh cut meat from Fareway Grocery, but check out the local hotspot, Newton Market as well; and (4) While what you will discover from an outdoor standpoint at Newton KOA is interesting, if you want something more substantial, head to Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens for 6 acres of family-friendly landscape to explore with more displays and demonstrations that you can shake a stick at! Seriously, there’s a butterfly garden, peony border and nearly 200 individual species of trees here to check out. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Greenhouse Camping
    March 1, 2024

    Greenhouse Camping

    New to the Dyrt!

    Jake from the Dyrt here! We're excited to have this campground on the Dyrt and ready for you to book, check them out and make sure to leave a review!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Kellogg RV Park
    January 1, 2024

    Kellogg RV Park

    Barren Campground Gem Just Off Highway

    I like this place, I really do. It certainly packs a punch with all of the amenities that Kellogg RV Park offers up, not least of which is partnering up with apparently the best burger joint in the whole of Iowa. Burgers and camping? Can it get any better? Well, while this location gets extra points for achieving EZ on- and off-again I80 highway access, that likely is also its downside, as you are so close to arguably the busiest of all thoroughfares here in the state of Iowa that it makes you wonder if you are really getting away from it all or just taking a quick pitstop. 

    As for the grounds themselves, they are very well organized and nearly everything on this property is either brand-spanking new or has a nice degree of ‘kitsch’ that just feels right where you are at in the middle of the Midwest. There’s a well-appointed separate laundry location on the NE corner of RV Park, with a community shower/ bathroom facility smack-dab in the middle of the place, making it central and convenient to get refreshed. There’s a simple little loop that will jog you around the place, where in all there’s some 38 spots perfectly carved out for RVs or 5th Wheelers. While the map for Kellogg RV Park indicates a playground behind the laundry, if it was there to begin with, it has been replaced by a chicken coop, which I have to admit is pretty dang awesome to be woken up by these fine-feathered friends each dawn. Plus, um, there’s fresh eggs for your brunch munching pleasure! 

    With amenities in mind, each pull-thru, gravel-strewn site (all 18’ wide with lengths ranging from 65’ to 85’) comes equipped with all of the typical hook-ups (20 / 30 / 50 amp electric, water and sewage) along with plenty of in-ground fire rings, stand-up BBQ grills and plenty of brand new picnic tables along with complimentary WiFi. There’s solar panels on the for southwest corner of the campground, which sadly eliminates the vibe that you are out in nature. If there was just one bit of advice I would give this place it’s this(and it’s quite simple): plant some trees! That’s the one thing I noticed that felt incredibly weird… there’s just a few trees in this whole place. Granted, it is somewhat surrounded by corn fields, but here’s a hint: After mid-September when all that corn is harvested, the place feels like a barren desert, so how you compensate for that is by planting trees, shrubs, bush or anything that would make this place feel like it was planted in nature versus carved out of a watershed. 

    While the main office is up front where you would have seen that Iowa’s Best Burger Café sign, where there’s also an Amoco gas station along with a convenience market that has limited groceries and supplies. Bonus points to Kellogg RV Park for having an F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site, so while your RV might blow away, no worries, you and those you hold most precious will be protected in the event of a tornado, which is important because this state gets hit by them all the time. They’ll also sell you a bundle of firewood for$6 / bundle, which is fair, especially considering that they’ll deliver the bundles directly to your site. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) IMHO the best sites are those located as far east and north as possible (yes, right near the laundry facilities and chicken coop). Why? Well, because they will be furthest away from I80, so less noise, plus they are on the periphery, so this offers up better views of corn country, and additionally, more tranquility. Plus the shower / restroom facilities are centrally located, so not too far away; (2) If you are looking to get buzzed while out here at Kellogg RV Park, you are in luck as just nearby there’s Grinnell Craft Brewhouse, Buzzed Bee Meadery as well as Van Wijk Winery – all of which are absolutely worth the visit!; (3) Should your foodie vibes need to be tamed while here, head on over to nearby Maytag Blue Cheese for a slice or slab or head on over to Dayton Meat Products, which not only processes meat in case you are out and about with a bow & arrow, but will serve up some pretty outrageously awesome sausages, loins and particular cuts of meats that you just can’t find anywhere nearby. Oh, and if farmer’s markets are your thing, then check out nearby Grinnell Farmers Market or Jasper County Farmer’s Market – both just 10 minutes from here; and (4) Once you grow tired of pillaging your on-board mini-fridge or Cordova roto-molded cooler and are looking for some local fare, I will have to admit that Iowa’s Best Burger Café does live up to its boast – and while I didn’t have another burger while I was in the ‘Hawkeye State’ I do make it my business to check stuff out when I see ‘Best’ noted anywhere and there’s reasonable proof behind this claim here, so give the good folks here the better side of your discerning tastes and try them out. Oh, and there’s that little thing that there’s not too much competition in these parts, so unless you are up for a good drive, the only other joint is RJ’s Bar& Grill, which trust me, is much more Bar than Grill. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Diamond Lake County Park
    January 1, 2024

    Diamond Lake County Park

    Lakeside Campground Bliss

    While it was our first time camping in Iowa, we were extremely lucky to land upon this slightly hidden fresh water centered campground just a 20 minute drive south of Route 80 near Montezuma, wherein one needs only follow Road#63, before coming across Diamond Lake County Park. With the fall colors being in full bloom when we visited, the entire campground was awash in bright yellows, reds and oranges from the changing colors of the leaves. Also, as we were visiting in mid-October, versus some of the other reviews here, we found that we had the place mostly to ourselves, which made for a rather peaceful sublime respite we were searching for. 

    As for the campground itself, what we enjoyed most was how this location is, for the most part, very well organized in keeping the RV'ers and 5th Wheeler crowds together, while preserving a nice slice of verdant lakeside pasture for us primitive camper types. Each of the sites for camping come equipped with (in most cases) fairly new aluminum picnic tables, fire ring with folding BBQ grill. While we didn’t stay in the RV areas, given our tent-pitching persuasion, what we did see was fairly impressive and looked altogether rather brand new with freshly poured concrete slots and fairly mint-looking RV hook-ups (50 amp electric and water) and this same area also boasted a brand new restroom facilities. 

    Obviously, the main attraction here is Diamond Lake itself, with its more than 90 acres of fresh water, albeit murky fresh water, was certainly a hit with this camping family. We enjoyed being able to get out on the lake with our kayaks and canoes as well as go for very long walks around the circumference of the lake itself, with which you will find simply splendid trails. And if that’s not enough exploration for you, then head further inland and away from the lake to explore this parks other 660 acres of grassy prairieland. 

    From an amenities standpoint, there’s a decent amount, including: three shower houses, four shelters, 2 dump stations, three his / her latrines (some much more dated than others), boat ramp and fishing dock, a dedicated fish cleaning station and what looked to be a fairly new kids playground. In all there’s a total of 120 sites to choose from, with 80 designated for RVs / 5th Wheelers and 40 earmarked for primitive camping, which do not come with any electric, which was on one hand the biggest bummer, but on the other hand, offered up front-row access to lakeside camping bliss as many of these primitive campsites are located right on the water’s edge. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) Check-in is self-registration and is done onsite, so net-net, this place is first-come, first served as no online or advanced registration is taken. While we didn’t mind this, and given that we arrived right around noon as folks were actually checking out, we got the ‘pick of the litter’ of campsites. Electric sites are $20 / night and non-electric are $10, so this place is incredibly affordable; (2) If you are looking for some grub nearby after growing weary of another meal of franks & beans, then there’s really just a few nearby options: Subway, Sauced Pizza & Pub, Casey’s and Yolanda’s Tacos over in the little town of Montezuma; (3) While there are actually few different campgrounds here at Diamond Lake, for primitive campers, the best sites IMHO are located as far southwest as you can possible go around the lake, where there’s more than a dozen or so sites that sit right in front of the water and present a completely isolated surrounding. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Anderson Campground
    January 1, 2024

    Anderson Campground

    Corn Field RV Parking Pasture

    If you find yourself heading left / right or east / west through the ‘belly button’ of Iowa here on its busiest thoroughfare (interstate 80) and find yourself looking for a place to ‘hunker down for the night (or several), then you may very well want to consider visiting the good folks over at Anderson Campground. What first started out as a patch of land that they would let out to ‘friends & family’ soon ballooned into more of an enterprising opportunity to help RV road warriors find suitable, safe and peaceful plot of land to enjoy nearby Diamond Lake County Park. 

    In fact, a very good amount of the business Anderson Campground has here is the result of overflow from this little-known summer lake destination specifically for those campers who wanted something more akin to ‘peace & quiet.’ With only 6 dedicated RV slots complete with 30 / 50 amp electric and water hook-ups, one thing is for certain should you choose to stay here – you will definitely get to know your neighbors as you will be parked right alongside of them with virtually no privacy, but when we were there, this did not seem to be an issue. 

    While most of the folks who were laying up here in their own RVs and 5th Wheels could be described more as ‘day laborers’ like traveling nurses or those working construction jobs, there was a very nice sense of community and the new-found isolation that one may have felt was only the direct result of the surrounding corn-fields having been recently harvested. Aside from this, the chocolate lab, Beau, was the first to welcome us and what a host (and friend) he turned out to be! 

    What this location delivers in spades – namely peace & quiet– is compromised by the lack of amenities (apart from the basic hook-ups). There is no sewage line, bathrooms or showers and you won’t find community fire rings or picnic tables. But from what we gathered when we stopped in was that most folks had all of this covered from what they were packing in their RVs so for those that care, there’s other places to consider. And for those that don’t mind, this may very well be your perfect lay-up. With the nightly rate being an amazingly low $20, the place usually sells out for those wanting to rent out by the week or for the month @ $500. To check on availability and rates, call Julie directly. 

    Insider’s tips? Here’s a few: (1) First things first, you’ve got to get yourself down to Diamond Lake County Park, where there’s a simply fantastic, large lake that is great for kayaking and canoeing as much as it is for fishing (catch & release) as well as swimming, although to be honest, the lake is a bit too dark and murky for me; (2) If you are looking for some grub nearby after growing weary of another meal of franks & beans, then there’s really just a few nearby options: Subway, Sauced Pizza& Pub, Casey’s and Yolanda’s Tacos over in the little town of Montezuma. Further afield, you could find a Country’s Pride over near Brooklyn as well as in the opposite direction, yes, you guessed it, more Mexican restaurants like Los Girasoles or Casa Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, both of which are fairly decent; (3) Should you need to load up on groceries while in the vicinity, while there isn’t much, in the little town of Montezuma, you’ll find both a Dollar General as well as a Supervalu. 

    Happy Camping!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Ashton Wildwood Park
    December 23, 2023

    Ashton Wildwood Park

    I love this secluded little campground!

    I live just 7 miles away, but I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping.  Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious.  It's only $7/night!  There is some play equipment for children.  There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs.  (Bring your flashlight!)  Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side.  There is also a big group site for family get togethers.  There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement.  I'd highly recommend it, but I don't want it to get too crowded!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lakeside Casino RV Park
    October 31, 2023

    Lakeside Casino RV Park

    Decent place to spend the night

    RV park is relatively quiet and easy to get into. The concrete in our site was in poor condition, it had crumbled leaving a dip in the pad. The cable didn’t work, but electric and water had no issues. Easy on and off to the interstate. There is only one garbage dumpster near the entrance and we didn’t see a camp host on site or anybody to check in with. We stayed just one night on our way through the area and were comfortable.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Eveland Access
    October 26, 2023

    Eveland Access

    Glendale Access

    20 bucks a day you submit your fill out sheet at the service area and drop it off in a drop box.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake
    October 23, 2023

    Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake

    Beautiful fall camping site

    We really enjoyed our stay at site 4 in the woods. It was absolutely beautiful with the fall colors and leaves falling all around us. We also enjoyed the trails around our site and a pretty view of a pond a short walk away. Anna was very responsive and gave thorough directions for us. We would stay again.



Guide to Otley

Camping near Otley, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled trip, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Enjoy the calm waters at Rock Creek State Park Campground. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the lake. One visitor mentioned, "Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities" made their stay enjoyable.
  • Fishing: Head to Diamond Lake County Park for some fishing. A reviewer noted, "Decent sized lake for fishing," making it a great spot for anglers.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Thomas Mitchell County Park. One camper shared, "There are hiking trails, playground, sand volleyball, and fishing," highlighting the variety of activities available.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Yellow Banks County Park said, "Showers were warm and sites were either paved or good gravel."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at Kellogg RV Park. One reviewer mentioned, "The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming atmosphere. A guest at Griffs Valley View RV Park said, "Really welcoming host, treated us like friends."

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground, require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper noted, "Came in late, even though there were several empty spaces turns out they were reserved."
  • Limited Shade: Many campgrounds have limited shade options. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground pointed out, "Limited shade options."
  • Wildlife Caution: Be aware of wildlife, especially at Yellow Banks County Park. One camper warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. Thomas Mitchell County Park has a playground that kids enjoy. A camper mentioned, "Kids were having a blast in the water."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Choose campgrounds that offer various activities. At Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground, one visitor enjoyed, "Found a great trail to hike, also the opportunity to rent a boat or paddleboard."
  • Safety: Ensure the campground is safe for kids. A camper at Kellogg RV Park felt secure, stating, "Felt very safe with my family."

Tips from RVers:

  • Site Selection: Choose sites away from busy roads for a quieter experience. A reviewer at Newton KOA suggested, "The best sites are those in the lower valley."
  • Check Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups. A visitor at Griffs Valley View RV Park appreciated the "spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups."
  • Local Eats: Don’t miss out on local dining options. A camper at Newton KOA recommended checking out nearby restaurants for a taste of local cuisine.

Camping near Otley, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Enjoy the great outdoors and make some lasting memories!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular campground near Otley, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Otley, IA is Rock Creek State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 18 reviews.

  • What parks are near Otley, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Otley, IA that allow camping, notably Lake Red Rock and Saylorville Lake.