Runnells, Iowa camping options sit at approximately 830 feet elevation in the heart of the Hawkeye State's rolling prairie landscape. Most campgrounds in the area remain open from April through October, with overnight temperatures dropping into the 40s during early spring and fall months. During summer, humidity levels typically reach 70-80%, making water access and shade important considerations for tent campers.
What to do
**Fishing opportunities: Campers staying at Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground can access the Des Moines River for angling. "Love to camp here and watch the spill way," notes camper Roger O., with many visitors casting lines near the spillway area.
**Biking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct access to paved trails. "Nicely paved 25 mile long Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," states Anthony W. about recreational opportunities at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
**Gaming entertainment: RV parks near Runnells, Iowa frequently offer proximity to casino facilities. One reviewer at Lakeside Casino RV Park mentioned, "If you are here to gamble, you will love it. If you are here to rest, you will love it. My wife and I feel safe in this park."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The Kellogg RV Park receives positive feedback for its upkeep. "Very nice, clean and comfortable campground for an overnight stop. Price is right!" writes Steve D., who appreciates the campground's efficient management.
Convenient interstate access: Many RV parks Runnells, Iowa and surrounding areas provide strategic locations for travelers. As one reviewer noted about Kellogg RV Park, "Very convenient to I-80, well-laid out. Most convenient, though, was setting up at the site and then walking to the co-located gas station and burgers for dinner."
Clean shower facilities: For Runnells area campers wanting fresher amenities, River Oaks RV Park offers newer bathing options. "A new bath house, community room, and 'shop' is being built. Bath house & laundry are complete. Very nice and spotless," reports Jim C.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, especially summer months, securing spots becomes challenging. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, "The voicemail said it was fully booked from May until September. Good thing we got through because they found us a site for the night," writes Mike M.
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds feature gravel pads requiring adjustment. Jim C. observed at River Oaks RV Park that "Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks."
Highway noise levels: Some campgrounds sit near major roadways. Kelly noted about Shady Brook Camping & RV Adventures that "You could literally throw a rock from the entrance and hit a passing semi." However, other visitors had different experiences, with Lee D. stating, "We looked at the other reviews and it talked about it being so close to the freeway, but we didn't hear a sound."
Tips for camping with families
Amusement park access: Adventureland Campground provides direct access to theme park attractions. "Short walk to the amusement park. We were there for most of the early summer so we got a season pass to the park which included the water park," explains Erik W.
Holiday celebrations: Some campgrounds host special events. "We especially loved the fireworks display on the 4th," mentions Erik W. about Adventureland Campground.
Playground options: Limited playground facilities exist at certain locations. Jo E. observed, "This is likely the nicest rv park I have seen. No facilities (pool, playground) for kids," regarding Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup accessibility: RV parks Runnells area offer varying hookup configurations. According to Anthony W., Griffs Valley View provides "spacious concrete pads, both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups."
Overnight convenience: For travelers passing through, Iowa State Fair Campgrounds offers flexible options. Matt M. explains, "There are hundreds of sites here. Some are flat, some are nowhere near flat, but there are so many, you can find one that will work for you! Almost all of the sites are full grass sites."
WiFi availability: Internet access varies between facilities. Jim C. noted about River Oaks RV Park, "Free WiFi was good; we streamed tv. It did freeze a few times but hard to tell if it was the WiFi or the provider."
