Lake Geode serves as the central water feature in camping destinations near Stockport, Iowa. The region sits in the rolling hills of southeast Iowa where elevations range from 500-700 feet above sea level. With four distinct seasons, campers should expect hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 85°F and humidity levels around 70% from June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Nearby Lake Showme Campsites offers free primitive camping with good fishing access. The lake is stocked and maintained regularly, though you'll need a Missouri fishing license if staying on the Missouri side of the border.
Historic village exploration: In Bentonsport, visit the preserved 1800s village within walking distance of Bentonsport Riverside Park. "Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts... Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, a Indian artifact museum and gift shops. Historical walking bridge that is amazing," reports Greg K.
Hiking trails: Geode State Park Campground maintains several miles of wooded trails suitable for day hikes. A camper noted, "The trail system around the lake is in pretty good shape and makes for some great mountain biking." Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderate with some elevation changes.
What campers like
Affordability: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the lower rates at many Stockport area campgrounds. At Bentonsport Riverside Park, campsites cost $17 per night, with Greg K. reporting, "Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers, toilets, 30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property."
Shady sites: Indian Lake Park receives consistent praise for its tree cover. Dave N. shared, "Most of the sites are nice and shady and level. A bathhouse with showers. A stone lodge for large parties."
Quiet weekday camping: Several campers mention the peacefulness of midweek stays. "Almost empty during the week, but very busy on summer weekends," notes Dave N. about Indian Lake Park. This pattern holds true across most campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Train noise concerns: Beyond Crossroads RV Park, other campgrounds in the area experience varying levels of train disruption. Charles A. specifically mentions Indian Lake Park is "not too near a train," highlighting this as a positive feature compared to other options.
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds in the region have limited seasons. Updog RV & Camping operates from April 15 to November 15, while Teresa M. notes it has "lots of shade trees. 5 minutes from everything!"
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have spotty connectivity. At Bentonsport Riverside Park, one reviewer reported, "No wifi.. poor Internet although I did have one bar so could be worse. I have total by Verizon." Plan communications accordingly, especially at more remote locations.
Tips for camping with families
Beach and swimming access: Indian Lake Park offers family-friendly swimming options. Mary F. reported, "it has full hookups, tent site swim beach, fishing, canoes, playgrounds also cabins a stone lodge for family get togethers."
Playground facilities: When traveling with children, choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "There is a playground, a few nice hiking trails, and a lake with a nice sandy beach," noted Dave N. about Indian Lake Park's family amenities.
Cabin alternatives: For families new to camping or during unpredictable weather, Camp Nauvoo offers cabin accommodations alongside traditional campsites. David B. described the campground as a "Great value, nice campground" with "sunny sites and some have shade."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RVers should research site dimensions before booking. At Updog RV & Camping, one reviewer cautioned, "If I walked behind camper, I had to hang on to spare wheel or fall down the slope. Barely enough room in front of camper to park pickup at an angle."
Dump station locations: RVers staying at parks without full hookups should plan waste disposal carefully. Mary F. notes that Indian Lake Park has "a dump station" available for campers, making it suitable for multi-day stays without sewer connections.
Big rig access: Larger RVs may find limited options in some rv parks near Stockport, Iowa. Geode State Park Campground accommodates larger vehicles but review the specific site before booking. A camper shared that "Recent upgrades to campground include some full hookup sites and new shower house."
