Camping options near Solon, Iowa range from primitive sites to premium electric hookups within a 30-mile radius. The region sits at approximately 750 feet elevation with rolling hills and wooded areas interspersed with prairie lands. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions between 50-70°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Matsell Bridge Natural Area offers primitive camping with direct access to nature trails. "Good campsite for a mellow weekend. When I visited we were the only campers there and it was awesome!" notes Ryan, highlighting the area's secluded appeal.
Fishing and boating: Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area Campground features a 410-acre lake with multiple fishing spots. One visitor explains, "We stayed here for the easy access to the water for the Scouts to get out in canoes and fishing. My son and I like to get the canoes and Kayaks out and paddle around the lake. The fish cleaning stations are well maintained."
Mini-golf and swimming: Cedar River Campground includes family recreation options alongside camping. A recent camper shared, "This place became my wife's and daughters' favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful. The managers are always courteous and attentive."
What campers like
Playground access: Pinicon Ridge Park receives consistent praise for its family facilities. One camper noted, "Our kids had more fun at this campground than any other so far. They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages."
Wildlife viewing: Lake Iowa County Park offers natural encounters near campsites. A visitor reported, "We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through. There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife."
Dark skies: Morgan Creek County Park provides excellent stargazing opportunities. According to Jessica C., "This is a first come first serve campground. No reservations can be made... The bathroom was pretty nice and clean. The grounds were beautiful, even though you can tell some trees took a hit from the recent derecho."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds around Solon operate from April through October. Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground specifies "Park offers lots of amenities and recreation opportunities. Situated along the Cedar river, fishing and paddling can be done. Lots of trails, CG and cabins closed for winter season for improvements and online reservations."
Site terrain: Many campgrounds feature uneven grounds. One camper at Palisades-Kepler noted, "Campsites kinda small and hilly. Great hiking trails and views of the bluffs over the river."
Reservation systems: Several campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. As Terry M. explains about Morgan Creek, "Beautiful facilities. Pleasant camp hosts. The only problem is it's first come first serve. Hard to get a site."
Tips for camping with families
Storm safety: Central Park includes storm shelters within the campground area. James M. notes, "This park is well maintained with full service and primitive sites. Trails, nature center, shelters, restrooms/showers, and lake access for beach, paddling, fishing, etc."
Budget options: Lake Iowa County Park offers affordable camping with amenities. A camper shared, "$10 for tent, $16 for electric - how can you go wrong? Very well kept campground! Bathrooms and entire area was really in perfect shape. One of the cleanest showers and bathrooms I have seen."
Swimming access: Multiple sites offer water recreation for children. Leslie P. commented about Central Park, "Beautiful little lake. Nice beach area. Camping sites pretty level. Park has free WiFi."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most glamping in Solon, Iowa and surrounding areas offer electric hookups, though water and sewer connections vary. At Little Bear Campground, "It is right next to a trailer park. There are a few tent sites ($22/night) and RV sites($33/night). It had full hook ups with a fire ring and picnic table."
Dump station location: Pleasant Creek provides convenient dump stations. David J. advises, "Camp sites do not provide private water/sewer but there is a good water/sewer station on the way in."
Spacing considerations: Cedar River Campground has tighter spacing between sites. A reviewer noted, "Spots are tighter than what we prefer, but will be back again. They had a great fireworks display for the fourth."
