Nine Eagles State Park offers seasonal camping from April through December, with both electric and non-electric sites available. The park sits on nearly 1,200 acres of woodland approximately 30 miles southeast of Centerville. Horse trails wind through hardwood forests and along the 64-acre lake shoreline, connecting to various camping areas throughout the park.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: Nine Eagles State Park features well-maintained equestrian paths through diverse terrain. "Wonderful area for horses. Great trials," notes Dorothy H., who gave the park a five-star rating.
Fishing opportunities: The 64-acre lake at Nine Eagles provides good fishing access. "Nice lake to swim and fish. Absolutely beautiful park and really nice trails," shares Tina T., who visited in 2024.
Hiking options: Waubonsie Trail Park connects to nearby natural attractions. "Waubonsie trail behind park is a short hike to the covered bridge and Dutchman's Store. Perfect way to stretch your legs after a long day on the road," explains Tracy J.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The horse campgrounds near Centerville, Iowa maintain good sanitation standards. "We stayed in the Elk Rock Equestrian campground and it was so peaceful and beautiful. The facilities were clean," reports Bradley N. about his experience.
Affordability: Lake Showme Campsites offers economical options for various camping styles. "Great spot, $20 for RVs and campers. Free if primitive camping. All spots have power and water," explains Chunk S., who appreciated the value.
Peace and quiet: Less crowded equestrian camping areas provide a more relaxed atmosphere. "I camped in the equestrian campground and loved it with my popup. Outhouse type toilets are available there. I only drove past the RV campground and the campsites were close together. The equestrian area is the way to go in my opinion but i love the quiet," shares Joyce M. about her stay at Waubonsie.
What you should know
Facility improvements: Nine Eagles State Park Campground has undergone recent upgrades. "Update: I returned to nine eagles this year with our Boy Scout Troop. They have spent some money since I was last here building new pavilions and updating some of the equipment," reports Matt S.
Limited amenities at some sites: Not all camping areas have full facilities. "The youth group site is a large open space surrounded by tall trees. The grass is well maintained and the campsite is clean and beautiful. There are not any bathroom facilities at the campsite which is why I give it four instead of five stars," explains Matt S. about the youth group area.
Water availability varies: Check water status before arrival. "We arrived on Thursday evening. After a short debate we opted to pay the extra money for an electric site - based solely on the fact that the water wasn't turned on in the basic site loop (we later discovered it was also off at the swimming beach)," shares Uhura G.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Equestrian Campground — Elk Rock State Park offers play areas for children. "The campgrounds are very clean. There are lots of trails around the area. It's also a great place if you like to go horse back riding with lots of trails that go near the water," notes Willy W.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Seasonal bird watching can be exceptional. "The best part about the trip was the eagles. We must have been there at just the right time, because lined all through the trees along the lakes edge were eagles upon eagles. I'd say we saw about 70 bald eagles perched in the tress," recounts Jennifer M. about Elk Rock.
Group camping preparation: When camping with youth groups, plan for bathroom access. "Nine Eagles is near Lamoni, Iowa near the Iowa-Missouri border right off of Interstate 35. I camped here with my son and his Boy Scout troop in the youth group part of the campground," shares Matt S., noting bathroom facilities aren't available at the youth campsite.
Tips from RVers
Supply planning: Horse campgrounds near Centerville require bringing all necessary supplies. "No store, no wood so get what you need before you get here," advises Lauri C. about Nine Eagles State Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully between electric and non-electric sites. "At a guess the basic sites aren't used much as they seemed less kept than the electric sites. Finding a place to pitch a tent in the electric loop was a challenge but we did find one that had enough level grass. Site 4 - close to the water spigot and a modest walk to the bathroom/showerhouse," explains Uhura G.
Campground hosts: Waubonsie Trail Park provides on-site assistance. "Very nice hosts. Only stayed 1 night. Definitely on the 'let's go back' list. Bathrooms and showers were exceptionally clean. Horseshoe pit, playground and campfire swing area were nice surprises. All for under $20 for electric RV site," shares Tracy J.
