Camping near Smithland, Iowa centers around multiple county-managed conservation areas in the western section of Woodbury County. The region typically experiences warm, humid summers with temperatures averaging 85°F in July and cooler fall camping seasons dropping to 45-65°F in September and October. Most campgrounds operate on a seasonal schedule from April or May through October, with camping sites situated along various water features including Blue Lake and the Little Sioux River.
What to do
Explore historical exhibits: Lewis and Clark State Park Campground features educational opportunities beyond just camping. As one visitor noted, "They have a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark and their travels around the area" while another mentioned you can see "a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago. They will also occasionally take it out and give rides."
Enjoy water recreation: Crawford Creek County Rec Area offers multiple water activities as mentioned by a camper: "Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming." The recreation area maintains several access points for water sports during the summer season.
Take lakeside walks: Walking trails provide scenic recreation options at Snyder Bend County Park, where a visitor highlighted "a nice long sidewalk for an evening stroll" and another pointed out "nice lakeside walking path" around the park perimeter, making it suitable for evening exercise.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Browns Lake Bigelow Park receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. One camper observed that "Restrooms/showers were newer, modern and spotless and also served as a tornado safe shelter. 4 individual shower rooms+ 4 individual/private toilet, sink, shower rooms handicapped accessible."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes and water access points provide fishing options throughout the Smithland area. At Bigelow Park, a visitor mentioned "You can fish on Dock by river" while another noted the "newly constructed Handicapped ramp to fishing jetty and nice big fishing/boat dock that is at the rear of the CG."
Quiet atmosphere: Little Sioux Park Campground offers a peaceful setting with varied recreational opportunities. Visitors have commented that it has "plenty to do for everyone" and describe it as "very well kept park." The park maintains both electric-only sites and electric/water sites across its two camping loops.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Most county parks near Smithland operate on a first-come, first-served basis. At Snyder Bend County Park, a camper noted "No reservation needed. Self check-in before 10pm. $25 for electric & water hookup." Similarly, at Browns Lake, a visitor mentioned "All sites are 1st come 1st serve."
Seasonal limitations: The majority of campgrounds in Woodbury County close during winter. Peters Park operates "all year" while most others like Southwood Conservation Area follow a "May 1 to Oct 31" schedule. Plan accordingly as facilities are reduced or unavailable during off-season months.
Site leveling requirements: Prepare to level your camping setup at several area campgrounds. At Snyder Bend, one camper advised "Plan on using your leveling blocks" as the sites aren't naturally level, despite being spacious.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Southwood Conservation Area and surrounding parks feature play areas for children. The area has recently been upgraded according to one visitor who mentioned "Campground has recently been upgraded and heading back soon" after having "spent easily 100 nights here" previously.
Beach areas for swimming: Several parks offer swimming beaches during summer months. At Browns Lake, a visitor pointed out they "have a Beach..No Life Guard on Duty" while Crawford Creek features "Multiple play areas for kids. Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming."
Special events: Some campgrounds host family-oriented activities during peak season. At Lewis and Clark State Park, a camper mentioned "the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too!" making it an appealing destination for families with children during holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups, with varying amperage options. At Lewis and Clark State Park, one RVer noted "the rate was 19.00 for full 50 amp hookup" with "beautiful state park in the water nice level sites paved."
Site spacing considerations: Space between sites varies significantly between campgrounds. Some locations like Lewis and Clark were described by one RVer as "a bunch of campers all piled on top of each other with no real views" while Browns Lake was praised for "spacious sites, full hookups" with "some sites have shade."
