Best Campgrounds near Ottumwa, IA

Campgrounds for various types of camping can be found in multiple areas near Ottumwa, Iowa. Ottumwa City Park offers established camping from April through October with both tent and RV sites, featuring amenities such as electric hookups, drinking water, and showers. Just 15 miles south in Drakesville, Lake Wapello State Park Campground provides a more diverse camping experience with tent sites, RV spots, and cabin accommodations. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Eldon Wildlife Management Area, located approximately 10 miles southeast of Ottumwa, offers dispersed camping with minimal amenities but allows tent camping in a more natural setting.

"We stayed on the primitive group side of the lake. There is a small pond that we were able to let some of our scouts get started in kayaks and canoes before getting into the main lake," noted a visitor about Lake Darling State Park. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many sites closed during winter months from December through March. Lake Wapello State Park remains open until December 31, while Lake Keomah State Park Campground, located about 20 miles north of Ottumwa, offers year-round access. Reservations are recommended for developed campgrounds, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Cell service varies throughout the area, with better coverage at established campgrounds closer to towns. Many campgrounds provide electric hookups and water access, though primitive sites typically lack these amenities.

Several visitors mentioned the fishing and water recreation opportunities as highlights of camping in the region. Lake Wapello State Park features hiking paths around the lake, with one reviewer noting "great fishing and walking paths" and that "Iowa has done a great job fixing up this area." The campgrounds near Ottumwa provide varying levels of privacy between sites, with more secluded options available at wildlife management areas. Developed campgrounds typically offer amenities such as showers, flush toilets, and picnic tables, while dispersed camping areas like Eldon Wildlife Management Area provide a more rustic experience with no facilities. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during spring and summer storm seasons, making weather awareness important for campers throughout the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Ottumwa, Iowa (95)

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Recent Reviews near Ottumwa, IA

167 Reviews of 95 Ottumwa Campgrounds



Guide to Ottumwa

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

What to do:

  • Fishing and boating: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy a no-wake lake perfect for fishing and kayaking. One camper mentioned, "Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities" made their stay enjoyable.
  • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park. A reviewer shared, "Excellent hiking trails. Great area to explore around the park as well."
  • Playgrounds and family activities: Many campgrounds, like F. W. Kent Park, have playgrounds for kids. One parent noted, "New playground for the kids. Clean facilities."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Thousand Hills State Park Campground remarked, "The shower houses had individual, private, large, and very clean facilities."
  • Spacious campsites: Many campers enjoy the roomy sites at Whitebreast Campground. One reviewer said, "Sites were very spaced out and they are only on one side of the road."
  • Natural beauty: Campers love the picturesque surroundings. A visitor at Diamond Lake County Park mentioned, "The lake is really clean and lovely, with lush grass and greenery all around."

What you should know:

  • Self-registration: Most campgrounds, like Diamond Lake County Park, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper noted, "Check-in is self-registration and is done onsite."
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have markets or stores nearby. A visitor at F. W. Kent Park pointed out, "NO market" on-site, so plan accordingly.
  • Noise from highways: Campgrounds close to major roads, like Newton KOA, can be noisy. One camper mentioned, "The sounds of traffic wasn't too bad," but it's something to consider.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Look for places like F. W. Kent Park that offer kid-friendly amenities. A parent shared, "Nice campground with a lake" and activities for children.
  • Plan for activities: Bring along games or outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground enjoyed the "little store" for snacks and supplies.
  • Check for family-friendly events: Some parks host events or activities during the summer. A visitor at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park mentioned, "Great beach, and just close enough to town to grab some ice cream."

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Kellogg RV Park offer full-service electric, water, and sewer. A reviewer said, "The sites are mostly pull through with full service electric, water, and sewer."
  • Choose quieter sites: Opt for spots away from busy roads. A camper at Newton KOA suggested, "The best sites are those in the lower valley."
  • Explore local dining options: Many campgrounds are near local eateries. A visitor at Kellogg RV Park recommended checking out "Iowa's Best Burger Café" nearby.

With these insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Ottumwa, Iowa!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Ottumwa City Campground located?

Ottumwa City Park is located in Ottumwa, Iowa, within the city limits. The campground offers convenient access to local amenities while providing a camping experience within the urban area. For those looking for camping options just outside Ottumwa, Lake Darling State Park Campground is within a reasonable driving distance and features both primitive camping areas and improved sites around a scenic lake with good fishing opportunities and walking paths.

Is tent camping allowed at Ottumwa campgrounds?

Yes, tent camping is allowed at campgrounds in and around Ottumwa. Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground in Southeast Iowa welcomes tent campers and offers well-maintained, clean facilities in one of Iowa's oldest state parks. Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground in Shimek State Forest provides a wooded, tucked-away setting ideal for tent camping with nice tiered fire rings and vault toilets. While some campgrounds may have designated tent sites, others offer mixed-use sites suitable for both tent and RV camping. It's advisable to check specific campground regulations before your visit, as some may have restrictions or designated tent-only areas.

What camping amenities are available at Ottumwa campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Ottumwa offer various amenities to enhance your camping experience. North Overlook Camp at Lake Red Rock provides heavily shaded sites with direct access to a large beach, shower houses, and concessions. Honey Creek Resort offers premium amenities including an RV park right on the lake, as well as a resort hotel with an indoor waterpark and cabins for rent. Many area campgrounds typically provide basic facilities like fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, with some offering electric hookups, water access, and shower facilities depending on the specific location.