Lake Red Rock provides the backdrop for some of the best places to camp near Pella, Iowa. The area features Iowa's largest lake with over 15,000 acres of water and 35,000 acres of public land surrounding it. Most campgrounds near Pella sit at elevations between 725-760 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain that's unusual for central Iowa. Several Corps of Engineers campgrounds circle the lake, with camping seasons typically running from April through October.
What to do
Bike the Volksweg Trail: The paved trail runs 14 miles connecting Pella to Lake Red Rock, passing directly through North Overlook Camp. As Dan R. notes, "The campground is located directly on the Volksweg trail which offers excellent opportunities for any level of hiker or bicyclist."
Fish from shore: Multiple access points around the lake provide fishing opportunities without a boat. At Whitebreast Campground, campers can "walk down to the dock" according to Laura B., who adds it's "a great place for all ages to enjoy."
Birdwatching: The lake attracts numerous bird species, particularly bald eagles during certain seasons. Jennifer M. reported seeing "about 70 bald eagles perched in the trees" during her visit to Elk Rock State Park, calling it "really a beautiful sight."
Visit Dutch-themed Pella: The historic town is just a short drive from most campgrounds. As one camper at Howell Station noted, "the Dutch themed town of Pella is a short drive and a must see."
What campers like
Spacious, well-separated sites: Howell Station gets high marks for site spacing. According to Jay M., "Sites were spacious, level and most were very shady." Heather M. adds they are "very well spaced camp sites" with "clean bathrooms and showers spaced nicely throughout campground."
Mature shade trees: Nearly every campground in the area features large trees. At Roberts Creek West Campground, Norman D. appreciated the "dense, tall shade trees" where "each site has a nice view of the woods."
Clean facilities: Most Corps of Engineers campgrounds maintain their facilities well. At Howell Station, one reviewer noted bathrooms and showers were "nice, clean" and mentioned "handicap camp site and bathhouse available."
Lake and river views: Several campgrounds offer water views. At Wallashuck, Tom observed that "campsites are well spaced, some have good views of the lake."
What you should know
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer electric hookups only. Michael M. noted that Wallashuck is a "little pricey for not having full hookups," though he still considered it a "good place."
Beach conditions vary: Not all beaches meet expectations. One camper at Whitebreast beach found that "as you made your way further down and into the water, there was muddy, wet clay and the beach floor was slimy and muddy."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require reservations during peak season. Sites at popular campgrounds like Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake fill quickly, especially during summer weekends and holidays.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. Check specific opening dates as they vary by location, with some opening mid-April and others not until late April.
Weather considerations: Iowa summers can be hot and humid while spring brings potential flooding. One camper at Howell Station reported that "the night we stayed, there was a severe weather threat, and the staff had unlocked the storm shelters."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. Michael W. noted that Wallashuck has "a children's play ground" along with other amenities that make it family-friendly.
Consider proximity to bathrooms: Site selection matters with kids. Amanda H. from Wallashuck appreciated the "nice mix of convenience and privacy. Perfect location to showers and playground for kids."
Check for beach access: Not all campgrounds have direct beach access. Whitebreast Camp offers access to what Andrew B. describes as "a nice beach" along with "shaded camping areas, nice bathrooms, hiking trails, fishing."
Plan for severe weather: Iowa weather can change quickly. Have a plan for storms, especially during summer. Renee H. noted that at Howell Station, "staff, at the end of the night, had unlocked the storm shelters should the need arise."
Tips from RVers
Check site lengths: Some campgrounds have limited spaces for larger RVs. When visiting Roberts Creek, Camden O. warns to "be careful of low lying trees for taller campers."
Consider dump station access: Most campgrounds offer dump stations but not at individual sites. At Howell Station, one reviewer noted "the potable water available at the dump station was clear and good for drinking. Dump station is easily accessible."
Leveling requirements: Many sites require some adjustment. At Howell Station, a reviewer mentioned "gravel sites, a little bit of leveling required."
Cell service varies: Coverage is inconsistent throughout the area. One camper at Ivan's Recreation Area found "cell service was terrible, but we loved the park."
