Sioux City sits at the intersection of the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers, where Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota meet at an elevation of 1,135 feet. The area's riverside landscape offers a mixture of hardwood forests and open prairie with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F. Winter camping options remain limited in this tri-state region with most campgrounds closing from late October through April.
What to do
Hiking trails at Lewis and Clark State Park: The park features mowed paths through prairie grass connecting to the lakeshore. "There are a few trails, one leading to the Missouri River," notes a camper at Clay County Park. For history buffs, "They have a replica of the Boat that Lewis and Clark traveled on many years ago. They will also occasionally take it out and give rides," according to a visitor.
Fishing access points: Blue Lake provides multiple shoreline fishing spots. A visitor at Lewis and Clark State Park mentions, "This place has great fishing and is very well maintained." Morning and evening offer the best conditions for catching catfish and bass.
Kayaking opportunities: The Missouri River and smaller lakes offer paddling routes for beginners and experienced kayakers. "Nearby boat ramp to load kayak onto Blue Lake. Many water lilies but sheltered at one end so good for kayak," notes a camper about water conditions.
What campers like
Clean facilities: "Extremely clean bathrooms and nice pool and playground. Great helpful people!" says a visitor about Onawa-Blue Lake KOA, which offers yurt camping near Sioux City, Iowa. Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept shower facilities even during peak season.
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate not feeling crowded. "All the spots are spacious...neighbors are not on top of you," reports a camper at Scenic Park. Another notes, "The sites were very nice sized. You didn't feel like you were right on top of each other" at Clay County Park.
Family-friendly amenities: Playgrounds, swimming areas, and open fields provide recreation options. A visitor to Little Sioux Park comments, "Plenty to do for everyone. Very well kept park." The campground offers glamping options with premium amenities during its May to October season.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect most sites: The camping season typically runs May through October. "Onawa-Blue Lake KOA" operates from "April 15 to October 15" according to listings, though a few campgrounds like Scenic Park remain accessible year-round.
Site types vary significantly: Not all campgrounds offer the same hookup options. At Sioux City North KOA, "Campsites are very close together. Great for quick overnight stop," notes one camper about the layout differences.
Weather-related challenges: Spring camping can bring muddy conditions. One reviewer warned, "We came in about 5pm, the place was almost completely flooded. And with not that much rain either." Some sites drain better than others after rainfall.
Noise considerations: Location affects ambient noise levels. "There was a major highway on the other side of the river and ambulances would pass by with sirens going," reports a camper, while another notes that "the sites closer to the river tend to be quieter" at Scenic Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose sites near play areas for convenience. "We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready," shares a parent about Crawford Creek Recreation Area.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas. "Multiple play areas for kids. Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming," notes a visitor about Crawford Creek's family-friendly setup.
Yurt camping for novice families: Yurts provide shelter with minimal setup for first-time campers. Onawa-Blue Lake KOA offers yurt accommodations from April through mid-October, providing a comfortable alternative to tent camping.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds have sewer hookups at each site. "Water and dump site on 11th st on the left pasted the ball field," notes a camper about facilities at Tekamah Memorial Park.
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, select appropriate sites. "Nice pullthru campsites," notes a camper about Sioux City North KOA, while another mentions "Spots are easy to park in" at Scenic Park.
Hookup variations: Electric service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on location. "We did not have a full hookup site, but still had water, electric, and free cable tv," explains a camper about amenities at Scenic Park.
