Best Camping near Rockwell City, IA

Searching for the best camping near Rockwell City, IA? Rockwell City is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Rockwell City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Rockwell City, IA (64)

    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground

    1. Ledges State Park Campground

    39 Reviews
    57 Photos
    208 Saves
    Boone, Iowa

    Millions of years before the plains of Iowa were inhabited by the Sauk, Fox and Sioux peoples, much of the American Midwest was covered by a shallow inland sea. It was at this time that the area’s sandstone deposits began forming. Fast-forward to just 13,000 years ago, with the inland sea now long gone, Ice Age glacial meltwater raced across the dry plains, carving and scouring channels and canyons into the sandstone terrain. One of these canyons can be found in Iowa’s Ledges State Park. This 1,000-acre nature preserve and recreation area is located on a wide bend on the Des Moines River, and is just 40 miles north of the city of Des Moines. The park is subject to frequent flooding when the river breaches its banks, but is otherwise a popular year-round outdoor recreation destination. Visitors to Ledges can enjoy a variety of hiking, fishing and paddling opportunities, as well as explore a prehistoric river canyon that showcases nature’s ability to sculpt the landscape.

    The campground at Ledges State Park features 94 tent and RV sites situated among deciduous woods not far from the Des Moines River. Campers can choose from full-hookup, partial-hookup, or primitive tent sites. Most sites are back-in; only a few are pull-through for larger vehicles. Tent sites are located in both in the main camp area, and in a secluded walk-in area. There is also a youth group site. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and cooking grills, and all have access to water faucets, flush restrooms, showers, and trash receptacles; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. The campground also features a kids’ playground, outdoor amphitheater, and is within walking distance of trails and picnic areas. Some roads and/or facilities may not be open or available in the winter. Reservations are accepted, however the park saves about half of the sites for first-come, first-served campers; sites are $11–$19/night.

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

    $12 - $18 / night

    • No image available

      2. University 40

      4 Reviews
      1 Save
      Lanesboro, Iowa
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • ADA Access
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Cabins

      $25 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
      Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park

      3. Spring Lake County Park

      9 Reviews
      9 Photos
      31 Saves
      Jefferson, Iowa
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access

      $20 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from North Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from North Equestrian Campground — Brushy Creek State Recreation Area
      • No image available

        6. Featherstone County Park

        2 Reviews
        1 Save
        Rockwell City, Iowa
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • RVs
        Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Prange City Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park

        8. Kennedy County Park

        4 Reviews
        13 Photos
        5 Saves
        Badger, Iowa

        The largest and most popular area managed by the Webster County Conservation Board is John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. Construction of Kennedy Park began in 1962 and the park was officially dedicated in 1965. This park is a 400 acre multiple use recreation area. The 53-acre Badger Lake provides the focal point for a wide variety of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, picnicking, hiking, canoeing and boating (no gas motors) as well as an the 18 hole Lakeside Municipal Golf Course.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        • RVs

        $20 - $100 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Hagge County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Hagge County Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Coopers Cove Co Park

        10. Coopers Cove Co Park

        1 Review
        1 Photo
        7 Saves
        Rolfe, Iowa
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • RVs

        $20 / night

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      Showing results 1-10 of 64 campgrounds

      Pet-friendly camping near Rockwell City

      Recent Reviews in Rockwell City

      144 Reviews of 64 Rockwell City Campgrounds


      • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Don Williams Park
        Oct. 14, 2024

        Don Williams Park

        Quite and nice

        Very quite and nice campground, we camped on top of the hill in tents it was awesome view and potable drinking water next to camp, bathrooms and shower facilities was clean and nice

      • c
        Camper-submitted photo from Sportsman Park
        Sep. 22, 2024

        Sportsman Park

        JJSploit

        This piece of writing is certain to attract the interest of readers from a wide variety of backgrounds due to the abundance of insightful content and topics that are pertinent to the topic at hand. JJSploit Official

      • George H.
        Camper-submitted photo from University 40
        May. 17, 2024

        University 40

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        You have no idea how helpful you've been. Writing an essay is the most difficult task for me. And I have to pay for essay to keep my grades up. And thanks to your examples and professional help I will be able to write even better.

      • RN P.
        Camper-submitted photo from Swan Lake State Park Campground
        Oct. 21, 2023

        Swan Lake State Park Campground

        Perfect

        Tented camped in late October, the weekend before closing.  I was only tent camper in the electric only sites.  If there was a tent only location, I didn't see it.  Those in campers that need water and electricity are regulated to gravel 'parking lot' sites.

        Beautiful park with playgrounds, swim beach, fisbee golf, paved trail, many fishing bars, and more.  

        Electric only sites are small and spaced out well.  Most have level drive perfect for sm camper or suv camping. Grass has slope, but I think you can find a good enough place for tent, I did.  Bathroom clean enough, I didn't use showers. I enjoyed the privacy of lake-front site J.

      • Pam H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Grotto Campground
        Sep. 5, 2023

        Grotto Campground

        Nice quiet camping

        Stopped for the night , so I could see the Grotto in the morning. Very clean restrooms/showers. Only one other camper here. Shaded spots, great Wi-Fi, good cell service. Next to train tracks but only one train came by and it wasn’t loud. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area. You pay at the gift shop across the street. $20 for RV and $10 for tent.

      • Ashley M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Sportsman Park
        Jul. 26, 2023

        Sportsman Park

        Awesome

        Great camping sites! Can’t beat the price. Showers and toilets that were clean. Very peaceful. Best place we camped from Michigan to Washington!

      • R
        Camper-submitted photo from The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park
        Jun. 22, 2023

        The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park

        Nice place to stop while visiting the Grotto

        We stayed at the Grotto of the Redemption RV park for two nights. We were in our class C while slowly making our way across the country. We had no problems getting a spot here. There are two areas. One is very close to a train line, which runs infrequently. Sites are grass, level, and reasonably well maintained. All sites are pull through. Only electrical hookups are available at the sites. This is in good condition. There is fresh water and a dump station available. Each site has a nice grassy area and there are plenty of large trees. Staff was very friendly and helpful. There was a park nearby with a playground. 

        The RV park is near the Grotto. The Grotto is a fascinating achievement worth a look if you are in the area.

        We had 2 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well. Campground wifi was not available.

        We enjoyed our brief stay at this campground. We will stay again when traveling this way.

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Featherstone County Park
        May. 25, 2023

        Featherstone County Park

        Snug

        Snug if you have slide outs, must watch to see you don't hit neighbor's trailer as you extend. Awnings literally touch neighbors. Crazy good time, if that's what you're into. I like the cabins!

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
        May. 25, 2023

        Spring Lake County Park

        Family Tradition

        We love to return here every year! 

        Recently updated two-way fresh-fill/santiary dump station. There is Ice Cube Consessions and the skating rink from Memorial Day through Labor Day every year. Great long-term hosts really make this park feel like going home.

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Joe Sheldon County Park
        May. 25, 2023

        Joe Sheldon County Park

        Beautiful hiking!

        This is a lovely and expanding park. Spacious, level pull through sites with full hookups. Decent Verizon coverage. Shower houses could use updates.

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Briggs Woods Park
        May. 25, 2023

        Briggs Woods Park

        Pretty place

        Nice camp, decent sites, GREAT buddy sites! Cell service is null, and no wifi. We do love the hiking over here!

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Kennedy County Park
        May. 25, 2023

        Kennedy County Park

        Getting away from it ALL!

        Decent smaller county park with newly installed blacktop trail around lake and golfcourse next door. No cell service provider functions in this park. The WIFI is shared between dozens of sites, speed averages right around 5mps. The rest of everything out here is WONDERFUL! Great neighbors, wildlife, the trail, fishing, boating, the playground… everything else is wonderful.

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground
        May. 25, 2023

        Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground

        Love Dolliver

        One of my favorite hiking spots! Camping here is comfortable enough. Sites can be a little squat in the middle loops, and no fhu. Antenna coverage is fine for catching your evening weather report, but cell service cuts out as you drive down into the park, and does not resume until you come back up and out. There's no wifi, and I'm not sure how satellite service would fare down here. Our Dish barely kept up with the antenna, so I'm guessing satellite's a meh. If you have anything you'd like to listen to or watch, download it before going in. But, honestly, the hiking is so good, it'd be silly to worry about much of anything down here. I rarely do.

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
        May. 25, 2023

        Ledges State Park Campground

        It's okay

        Great vibes. Camp's pretty far from the bones of the park, but the hike's relatively plesant. Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected.

      • Jeannie D.
        Camper-submitted photo from Webster County Kennedy Park Campground
        May. 25, 2023

        Webster County Kennedy Park Campground

        No Service

        Great sites, phenomenol hosts. LOVE the playground, and the culture; this is home during the summer months. Terrible WIFI, absolutely no cell coverage out here. Not sure how they justify raising camping rates here if the ameneties do not reflect modern needs for family enjoyment. Yes we like smores, and watching the birds, and fishing, and hiking; but so help me, we like our Netflix too, and I sure would like to be able to watch the weather report. Even Dish coverage is spotty out here. It's weird, we're not down in a valley or anything. Not sure why this is such a dead zone out here.

      • Lory B.
        Camper-submitted photo from Gordon Prange City Park
        Mar. 18, 2023

        Gordon Prange City Park

        gordon prange campground

        hope you like flooding and bugs all over the bathrooms.the city clerk was nice to your face but not when your back is turned , but other than that the town people are very nice

      • d
        Camper-submitted photo from University 40
        Mar. 1, 2023

        University 40

        Car drifting simulator you dreamed of

         Enjoy drifting& driving awesome cars. Explore beautiful maps, find your favourite drift locations. Do experiments with car tuning. And join the Drift Hunters community!- Over 25 awesome drift cars. Drive your dreams!- Detailed car tuning- Car customization. Paint your car in any color with 4 types of paint. Change rims, paint rims. Stance it- Upgrade performance of your car- make more skids- 10 nice tracks for drifting, racing or just doing burnouts With the coins you collect in endless game mode you can open new beautiful cars to drift. Enjoy drifting.

      • Elza S.
        Camper-submitted photo from University 40
        Feb. 17, 2023

        University 40

        Excellent!

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      • D
        Camper-submitted photo from Ledges State Park Campground
        Oct. 9, 2022

        Ledges State Park Campground

        Nice Campground

        Canyon road and limestone cliffs are awesome. Secluded spots in the trees. If you have Verizon and rely on data this may not be the campground for you.

      • S
        Camper-submitted photo from The Hausbarn Heritage Park
        Aug. 17, 2022

        The Hausbarn Heritage Park

        Very small self service campground

        Only 20 or so sites on a first come first served system. Only $20 for full hookups. Liked the heritage museum. Did boot appreciate the hotel across the road with flood lights on all night.

      • Therese T.
        Camper-submitted photo from Springbrook State Park Campground
        Aug. 9, 2022

        Springbrook State Park Campground

        Nice park

        Quiet, there were only a couple other campers in the whole park. Bathroom facilities adequate. Nice lake for the kids to go fishing. Lots of nice hiking trails. Park rangers are good ppl. They had a little nature center which was closed but the nice lady opened it for my kids to go in and let them hold snakes and turtles! They were so excited!

      • J
        Camper-submitted photo from Briggs Woods Park
        Jul. 1, 2022

        Briggs Woods Park

        Decent County Park, and the price is right!

        This is a county park that is was well wooded and quite busy on a June Friday night.  Lots of local folks.  Stayed at the front-end of the part where apparently the sites are a little closer together than the rear sites.  Was passing through on a cross country trip so only stayed on one night.  Site with full hook-ups was only $30.  Partial or no hook-up even less.  You can reserve a spot by going online, though they do keep some as FCFS.

        A few negatives about the park is that, with the local flavor, there were a lot of extended families there, and they all seemed to bring there dogs.  Lots of barking going on.  Our space was out of level but manageable, and the bath house and outhouse were on the rustic side.  Decent enough place when passing through, and a great price!

      • GThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park
        Jun. 16, 2022

        The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park

        Very Nice, Excellent Value

        The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free. Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes. I counted (8) 50 amp and (16) 30 amp sites. Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided. The cost is $20 per night. Sites are offered on a first come first served basis. Thirty amp sites are on lush grass and include a view of a the grotto, a pond and surrounding residences. The 50 amp area offers more privacy, gravel pull through parking and more convenient shower and rest room access but a lightly used rail line runs by.

      • Kimberly M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake County Park
        Jun. 12, 2022

        Spring Lake County Park

        Nice park with much to do

        We were lucky and got a spot right along the lake. This park is peaceful (only slight downfall is the trains you can hear a bit-not too loud though). Bike/hiking trail, disc golf, kayak/paddle boat rentals, swimming beach, historic roller skating rink, playgrounds and more-something for everyone to enjoy! Close to Jefferson which has a great coffee shop and cute shops!



      Guide to Rockwell City

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

      What to do

      • Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals." The trails offer a great way to enjoy nature and get some exercise.
      • Fishing and Swimming: At Spring Lake County Park, you can fish right from your campsite. A reviewer shared, "You can pull your rig right up to the lake there is fishing and hiking." This park also has a swimming beach, perfect for cooling off on hot days.
      • Biking: The nearby High Trestle Trail is a favorite among cyclists. One camper suggested, "I would suggest the 'high trestle trail' for bike riders, lots of cute bars to stop in along the way." It’s a great way to explore the area while enjoying the fresh air.

      What campers like

      • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at Swede Point Park. A visitor noted, "Clean restrooms & shower stalls. Water. Playground. Friendly & helpful campground host."
      • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peaceful environment at Littlefield Rec Area. One reviewer said, "Quiet, zero traffic noise. Campsites spread out over 4 campgrounds." This makes it a great spot for relaxation.
      • Friendly Campers: The community vibe is strong at Jester County Park. A camper remarked, "We love it here people are great price is right. Showers are hot every time it’s a wonderful place to be."

      What you should know

      • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Dolliver Memorial State Park, have poor cell reception. A camper mentioned, "Cell service cuts out as you drive down into the park, and does not resume until you come back up and out." Download any necessary info before you arrive.
      • Busy During Peak Season: Campgrounds like Ledges State Park Campground can get crowded in the summer. One visitor noted, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months." If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-peak times.
      • Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds, such as Springbrook State Park Campground, can fill up quickly. A camper advised, "You could call that a pro or a con! Really nice campground employees." It’s best to book your spot in advance.

      Tips for camping with families

      • Playgrounds Available: Many campgrounds, like Jester County Park, have playgrounds for kids. A reviewer said, "CG has a kids playground, hiking trails, Equestrian Center, golf course and nature center." This keeps the little ones entertained.
      • Activities for All Ages: At Spring Lake County Park, there are plenty of activities. One camper shared, "There are approximately 100 sites. There is a playground and disc golf." This variety makes it easy to find something for everyone.
      • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water. A camper at Littlefield Rec Area reminded, "Watch kids by river sites!" Safety is key when enjoying the outdoors.

      Tips from RVers

      • Check Hookups: Make sure to check the availability of electric and water hookups at campgrounds like Briggs Woods Park. A reviewer noted, "Site with full hook-ups was only $30." Knowing what’s available can help you plan better.
      • Level Sites: Look for level sites to avoid issues with your RV. One camper mentioned, "Our space was out of level but manageable." It’s always good to check the site conditions before setting up.
      • Plan for Waste Disposal: Some campgrounds, like Swede Point Park, may not have a dump station. A camper advised, "Dump station is at the entrance of the CG." Be prepared for this when planning your stay.

      Camping near Rockwell City, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Enjoy the great outdoors!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular campground near Rockwell City, IA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rockwell City, IA is Ledges State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 39 reviews.

      • What parks are near Rockwell City, IA?

        According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Rockwell City, IA that allow camping, notably Saylorville Lake and Lake Red Rock.