Shell Rock, Iowa camping destinations sit along the scenic Cedar River in the northeastern part of the state. The area receives approximately 35 inches of rainfall annually with summer temperatures averaging 83°F, creating favorable conditions for outdoor recreation. Camping options near Shell Rock range from county parks with basic amenities to state parks with more extensive facilities.
What to do
Kayaking and river activities: Cedar Bridge County Park offers excellent access to the Cedar River for water sports. One visitor noted, "Sitting right on the Cedar River, it's a great location to kayak and tube. Cheap at $20 a night."
Biking on paved trails: George Wyth State Park Campground features extensive paved paths. As one camper observed, "The bike trails are excellent and same for hiking. It's also pretty bright here at night because it's right in the city."
Fishing and swimming: The lakes and rivers throughout the region provide numerous fishing opportunities. At Airport Lake Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "nice swimming beach and many fishing jetties" with "small lake for fishing and swimming within walking distance."
Wildlife watching: Lake Meyer County Park offers trails with diverse wildlife viewing. One camper mentioned, "Beautiful trails with lots of wild life. Even an eagles nest."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain modern restrooms and shower houses. A visitor to Bremer County Park Cedar Bend Park remarked, "Clean restrooms and shower stall" while another noted they "found that it was quite a peaceful campground."
Firewood accessibility: Several parks provide convenient firewood access. One camper at Cedar Bend Park appreciated that "there was a giant wood pile where you could grab wood for a donation in the box and a wheelbarrow was provided to use which was quite convenient."
Spacious sites: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites. At Airport Lake Park, "Camper spots were huge with plenty of space between sites. Fire ring was on a cement slab."
Affordability: Most campgrounds in the area offer reasonable rates. Dows Pool Park & Campground provides "nice, quiet campground. Very low cost ($15/night with water & electric)."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate only from spring through fall. Clear Lake State Park Campground is open "April 1 to December 31" but shower facilities at some parks close earlier in the season.
Flooding potential: The Cedar River can flood portions of parks during heavy rain periods. One reviewer noted about George Wyth State Park: "Because it is so close to river anytime it rains heavily there is flooding in several areas of the park."
Site reservations: Popular parks fill quickly during peak seasons. A Clear Lake visitor observed, "It being full more than a week before the holiday, shows how great it is."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to major roads. One camper at George Wyth mentioned, "It was kind of loud, but it was busy" while another noted "it is fairly close to the highway."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Several parks feature play areas for children. At Lake Meyer County Park Campground, families appreciate the open space and tent camping area described as "very nice with 3 giant pine trees and some picnic tables and fire rings."
Swimming beaches: Multiple parks offer swimming opportunities. Airport Lake Park includes a "small lake for fishing and swimming within walking distance" making it convenient for families with young children.
Educational opportunities: Some parks include nature centers with learning activities. Clear Lake State Park offers numerous recreational options where "the playground was fun for the kids, nice beach access!"
Shower temperature considerations: Parents should note shower controls at some facilities. At Clear Lake, one visitor mentioned, "It's hard to control the temperature in the showers, too hot for little kids to stand directly in the water."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections are common, but full hookups are limited. At Otter Creek Lake and Park, campers appreciate that "this area has just had the electrical updated and they are adding some new spots right by the lake."
Dump station locations: Most campgrounds provide dump stations for convenience. Cedar Bridge County Park has "dump station and dumpsters near the exit."
Site leveling: Pad quality varies between campgrounds. Clear Lake State Park campers note "sites not too level, but spacious" while Dows Pool Park & Campground offers "pads are gravel and very level."
Cell service information: Connectivity is generally good throughout the area. At Dows Pool Park & Campground, one RVer reported, "I had 3 bars of Verizon 4G which provided 70 down and 12 up."
