Camping opportunities near Shellsburg, Iowa cluster around several county and state parks within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling hills with elevations between 750-950 feet and sits in the watershed of the Cedar and Wapsipinicon Rivers. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with moderate humidity levels, creating favorable camping conditions from April through October.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Iowa County Park offers multiple shore fishing spots and boat access. "This is a newer campground so is a mixture of mature and young trees. It is very clean and well cared for. Lots of opportunity to ride the numerous bike trails nearby and hike in wanatee park and nearby pinicon. The Cedar river and the wapsicon for fishing. This area has something for everyone," notes Kristy E.
Trail exploration: Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides primitive camping with nature trails along the Wapsipinicon River. "Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River. Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up," shares Carol M.
Swimming options: George Wyth State Park Campground features a sand beach area for water recreation. "There is a sand beach to swim, where they also rent kayaks & canoes. The campground is located along the Cedar river, for those who want to boat and fish on a river, as well as multiple lakes to fish and a lake to ski," explains Steve R.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek) offers natural habitats where visitors can spot local wildlife. "I loved this campground. There are a variety of sites to choose from, nice trees, and a beautiful wildflower field to walk through. Bathrooms are stationed without so it's never a far walk and the shower house was really nice," reports Colleen L.
Clean facilities: Lake Iowa County Park maintains well-kept shower and restroom facilities. "Very well kept campground! Bathrooms and entire area was really in perfect shape. One of the cleanest showers and bathrooms I have seen. $10 for tent, $16 for electric - how can you go wrong?" writes Randall K.
River proximity: Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides direct river access for fishing and water activities. "Good campsite for a mellow weekend. When i visited we were the only campers there an it was awesome!" shares Ryan.
What you should know
No equestrian facilities: While searching for horse campgrounds near Shellsburg, Iowa, it's important to note none of the nearby campgrounds offer dedicated equestrian facilities. Each property explicitly marks "NO horse-corral" in their amenities list.
Seasonal considerations: South Lake Campground at Backbone State Park requires advance planning. "All reservable spots...clean bathrooms, showers and spots. Beautiful park!" notes Edward B.
Bug preparation: Insects can be abundant in warmer months, particularly near water. "Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness," advises Carol M. about Matsell Bridge.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: George Wyth State Park offers child-friendly amenities. "For little ones, there is a large sand playground area with slides and swings. There is a sand beach to swim, where they also rent kayaks & canoes," mentions Steve R.
Wildlife education opportunities: Lake Iowa County Park provides natural encounters for children. "The area around the lake and near by pond, is not overly developed. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife. We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through," describes Leslie P.
Mobility considerations: Some campgrounds have terrain challenges. "To walk to the lake or near by pond you must go down hill, which could be a problem for any one with mobility issues. Once down to the water trail are easy to walk," warns Leslie P. about Lake Iowa Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Black Hawk County Park provides electric hookups and dump station access. "Nice place good amenities. Has plenty of fishing access archery gun range. Boat access. Decent shower/bathroom facilities," shares Travis R.
Site leveling needs: Wanatee Park requires some preparation for RVs. "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers. The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided," explains Clint G.
Water filling requirements: South Lake Campground has specific RV procedures. "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," advises Edward B.
