Campers looking for RV camping near Roland, Iowa have multiple options within a short drive. Located in central Iowa's agricultural landscape at 1,076 feet elevation, Roland experiences typical Midwestern seasonal changes with hot summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October with several offering year-round availability during milder winter conditions.
What to do
Hiking trails: Ledges State Park Campground features sandstone formations and varied terrain. "The hiking trails are cool. I would say it was a challenging hike. A lot of up and down terrain, stone steps, etc. The ledges along the river were beautiful and depending on the river height you can walk right along them!" reports jennifer M.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes near Roland provide good angling. "There is a really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean," notes Willy W. about nearby waters. Most campgrounds maintain stocked fishing areas suitable for both experienced anglers and beginners.
Bicycling: Paved trails connect multiple parks in the region. "The Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," according to Anthony W. This 25-mile trail system provides relatively flat riding terrain suitable for families and recreational cyclists.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Pine Lake State Park Campground receives praise for its peaceful environment. "Very peaceful. Can get busy on the weekends but if you camp mid-week you may be the only folks around," shares MitchRoeschlein. Several campgrounds in the area maintain quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Clean facilities: Restrooms and shower houses at most Roland-area campgrounds undergo regular maintenance. "The bathrooms are very nice-a room with 3 stalls and 4 individual showers," reports Mallory S. about Pine Lake. Most parks feature updated facilities with hot water and accessible options.
Level sites: Many campgrounds feature properly graded camping pads. "Sites are level and well marked. The property is kept up nicely," notes Paula O. about her experience camping in the area. Most RV sites offer relatively level parking that requires minimal adjustment.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Little Wall Lake County Park operates with a mixed reservation system. "Some sites are reserveable online and some are first come first serve," explains Mary. During peak summer months, especially weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day, advance reservations are strongly recommended.
Weather considerations: Central Iowa experiences significant seasonal changes. "This is a nice small camp area that only has one downfall: a lack of wind break. We went when the wind was blowing in typical Iowa summer fashion," reports Bill M. Windbreaks are limited at most campgrounds around Roland.
Shade availability: Newer campgrounds may lack mature trees. At Dakins Lake County Park, "being a newer campground there are no established trees for shade, we found the best spots are on the south side where the camper door faces east," advises Debra T.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jester County Park provides family-friendly facilities. "Beautiful campground! Lots of trees and peaceful area. Bison and Elk viewing, and a brand new Nature Center, amphitheater," notes Larissa C. Most area campgrounds maintain playgrounds with equipment suitable for various age groups.
Swimming options: Several parks feature designated swimming areas. "Beach swimming" is available at Pine Lake State Park as Kerry M. points out. Most swimming areas operate without lifeguards, so parental supervision is required at all times.
Kid-friendly activities: Educational opportunities exist throughout the region. "The nature/Conservancy center there is just next level," jim S. shares about Jester Park. Many parks offer weekend ranger programs and wildlife viewing areas appropriate for school-age children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: River Oaks RV Park features thoughtfully designed utility connections. "Sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site," reports Jim C.
Site dimensions: Kellogg RV Park offers spacious pull-through options. "Level sites with full hookups. Plenty of space to walk the dog. Right next to a gas station with great burgers and tenderloins!" according to Elisha L. Pull-through sites at campgrounds near Roland typically accommodate RVs up to 85 feet in length.
Accessibility considerations: Many campsites require leveling blocks. "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," Jim C. notes. Most campgrounds maintain gravel parking pads rather than concrete, which can present challenges during wet weather.
