Best Campgrounds near Smithland, IA

Smithland, Iowa provides several camping destinations within Woodbury County, with established campgrounds like Southwood Conservation Area and Lewis and Clark State Park accommodating tent, RV, and cabin campers. The area features multiple county-managed parks with varying amenities and access to water recreation. Southwood Conservation Area offers both standard campground facilities and cabin options directly south of Smithland, while other nearby options include Peters Park in Hornick and Little Sioux Park Campground in Correctionville.

Many campgrounds in the Smithland area operate seasonally, typically from May through October, with limited or no availability during winter months. Water access is a highlight for most locations, with fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities at lakes and rivers throughout the region. The majority of campgrounds provide drinking water, electric hookups, showers, and toilets, though specific amenities vary by location. Roads generally allow standard vehicle access, with most sites categorized as drive-in locations suitable for both small and large recreational vehicles. One camper noted, "Nice campground, clean bathrooms, the trails are really good, quiet and peaceful."

Visitors to Smithland area campgrounds frequently mention water activities as primary attractions, with fishing being particularly popular. Several campgrounds provide beach areas for swimming during summer months. Campfire restrictions are minimal, with fires permitted at most locations, and firewood is often available for purchase on-site. While some campgrounds like Southwood Conservation Area receive excellent reviews for their peaceful atmosphere and recreational opportunities, others like Onawa Blue Lake KOA have mixed feedback regarding management and site conditions. A visitor commented that Little Sioux Park Campground has "plenty to do for everyone" and is a "very well kept park." Families appreciate the multiple playgrounds available at several locations, making the area suitable for campers of all ages.

Best Camping Sites Near Smithland, Iowa (78)

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Recent Reviews near Smithland, IA

205 Reviews of 78 Smithland Campgrounds


  • V
    Sep. 30, 2025

    loess hills state forest

    Loess Hills State Forest

    Really impressed with this location. Incredible hiking just outside your door.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 24, 2025

    Onawa-Blue Lake KOA

    Convenient and quiet

    Conveniently located approximately 2.5 miles West of I29 and on the Eastern edge of Lewis and Clark state park which makes this KOA very quiet.

  • sparkleblaster S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Moorehead Pioneer County Park

    Safe and lots of trees

    I stayed on the picnic loop at one of three designated camp spots (according to the map posted at the end of the picnic loop). There was a nice shade structure, picnic table, fire pit, and grill. Pit toilets and trash bins nearby and a water spigot that wasn't working. I got in late on a Sunday. I saw some fishermen around the pond on my way in but no one else. There's a playground and a couple small pavilions across from where I camped, so I imagine it can be busy on the weekend.

    It's not really a campground. It's a county park with a few camp spots. If I hadn't found the sign with tent symbols I would have doubted it was a legitimate place to camp.

    The coordinates in the description here took me to a boat launch. This is the coordinate to the camp spot I stayed at: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BziGswnzeFVjgVxV6

  • J
    Aug. 24, 2025

    On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    Overnight stay

    This campsite was everything we were needing for the night plus more. The people were very friendly.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Snyder Bend County Park

    Nice lakeside walking path

    No reservation needed. Self check-in before 10pm. $25 for electric & water hookup. Lake facing spaces available if not already taken. Nice walking trail lakeside. Yes. There are mosquitoes at dusk.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    Comforting

    Night 1 of a 60 day trip with 42 moves. Super clean park and very well taken care of. I watched a youtube video that showed the park and it was like re-living a dream. Pulled in, stopped at office, John came in and helped me, asked me if I was a GoodSam member and charged me $43.34 for a full-hookup, super long pull thru. There were a lot of open spaces so the park felt very comfortable. Totally worth it.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    Comforting

    Night 1 of a 42 moves trip. You can find a few decent youtube videos that show the park and it was like living a dream. Pulled in, John came into the office, asked if I was a Good Sam member and charged me $43.34 for a full hook-up, extra long pull thru on the outside of the trees. I watch for that now after the top of a tree fell on power lines above my camper last year. Seemed pretty vacant but there were people here that looked like travelers. Very comfortable.

  • Nancy B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Elk Point City Park Campground

    Nice park

    What a great find. $15 with electric and some water hookups. Playground right there and a nice walking path

  • lThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Scenic Park

    Perfect for 1 nite OR a long stay!

    Sites are easy to park in. Plenty of trees and grass. Some noise from train and city, but very bearable. Easy access from and to Sioux City and highway. Office folk accommodating, helpful, and there for you .


Guide to Smithland

Camping near Smithland, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: The Lewis and Clark State Park Campground is right by Oxbow Lake, which has a sandy shoreline perfect for fishing. One camper mentioned, "The campground was as I hoped. Empty except for 3 others. Oxbow lake is nice with a sandy shoreline."
  • Hiking: At Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, you can explore trails that offer stunning views of the unique landscape. A visitor shared, "The flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America."
  • Playgrounds and Family Activities: The Lewis and Clark State Park Campground features an amazing playground, making it a hit with families. One review noted, "Beautiful park, beautiful scenery and amazing playground!"

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers at places like Scenic Park. A reviewer stated, "The restrooms and shower are very simple but clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy sites at Snyder Bend County Park. One camper said, "Spots have water and electric for $25/night."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers often mention the peaceful environment at Browns Lake Bigelow Park. A visitor remarked, "This place was so beautiful and peaceful."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Preparation Canyon State Park Campground, don’t have drinking water or electric hookups. A reviewer pointed out, "There are about 8 sites dispersed around the area so camping is always private."
  • Seasonal Availability: The Stone State Park Campground is open from April 1 to December 31, so plan your trip accordingly. One camper noted, "Ground was mostly dirt not grass on our site."
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the warmer months. A camper at Snyder Bend County Park mentioned, "Mosquitoes were bad."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Check for Play Areas: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like the Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, which has a great playground for kids. One parent said, "Beautiful park, beautiful scenery and amazing playground!"
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Many campgrounds enforce quiet hours, which is great for families. A visitor at Snyder Bend County Park noted, "Busy but not noisy and quiet by 9."
  • Bring Bug Spray: To keep the mosquitoes at bay, especially at places like Snyder Bend County Park, where they can be a nuisance.

Tips from RVers:

  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Scenic Park offer electric hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A reviewer mentioned, "Spots are spacious and on pavement."
  • Check Site Levels: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A camper at Snyder Bend County Park said, "Plan on using your leveling blocks."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Sites can be close together at some campgrounds, like the Sioux City North KOA, where a visitor noted, "Campsites are very close together."

Camping near Smithland, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Smithland, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Smithland, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 78 campgrounds and RV parks near Smithland, IA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Smithland, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Smithland, IA is Lewis and Clark State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Smithland, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Smithland, IA.