The Slater area occupies part of central Iowa's prairie landscape with elevations ranging from 950-1,050 feet above sea level. RV parks near Slater typically remain open from April through October, though select facilities maintain year-round availability. Winter camping is possible at certain locations, with temperatures often dropping below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Trail access: The 25-mile Chichaqua Valley Trail runs directly alongside Griffs Valley View RV Park, offering paved biking and walking opportunities. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," notes Anthony W.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds within a short drive of Slater provide accessible fishing. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, "There is a really nice pond for fishing that has some bluegills. The water is very clean," according to Willy W.
Wildlife viewing: Observe local wildlife including bison at Jester County Park, which maintains a bison and elk habitat. "Bison and bird viewing" is available according to Larissa C., though another visitor cautions that the animals "are smart enough to stay far away from humans, as it should be."
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Most area campgrounds prioritize cleanliness. At Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground, "The campgrounds are clean and well managed with modern bathrooms and showers," reports Matt S.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain peaceful settings despite interstate proximity. At Kellogg RV Park, one visitor notes it's "right next to the interstate for easy on and off and it's very quiet," while at Acorn Valley, campers appreciate the "beautiful scenery, and very quiet" setting.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer generously sized camping pads. One visitor to Griffs Valley View RV Park describes "spacious concrete pads with both 30/50 amp and full water/sewage hookups," while another notes "sites are large with nicely manicured lawns."
What you should know
Raccoon activity: Wildlife encounters happen regularly at local campgrounds. At Acorn Valley, one camper warns about "resident raccoons. Come out every night to rummage through possible food options. Secure your food and they're no problem unless you're a light sleeper."
Advance planning required: Summer months fill quickly at most facilities. At Kellogg RV Park, winter camping is available as they remain "Open year around. Nice large sites and no need to unhook. Clean rv park with easy access to I-80."
Storm shelter availability: Severe weather protection exists at select campgrounds. Kellogg RV Park maintains an "F5-rated tornado shelter located on-site, so while your RV might blow away, no worries, you and those you hold most precious will be protected in the event of a tornado."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain playground equipment. At Acorn Valley, one parent mentions, "We parked at a site by the playground and bathhouse, and could sit at our camper and watch our son play at a safe distance."
Water activities: Multiple swimming options exist within short driving distances. Ledges State Park Campground features water areas that are "fun for kids to take a dip in," according to Jennifer M.
Nature exploration: Multiple parks offer educational opportunities. Jester County Park features "a brand new (opened August 2018) Nature Center, amphitheater, bison and bird viewing," making it suitable for families seeking educational outdoor experiences.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal site availability: Winter camping options exist but are limited. Whispering Oaks RV Park remains open year-round but offers minimal amenities.
Hook-up placement: Site layout varies between parks, affecting connection ease. At River Oaks RV Park, a visitor notes "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."
Wi-Fi reliability: Internet access varies significantly between parks. River Oaks RV Park receives praise for connectivity: "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."
