Camping near Solon, Iowa offers varying terrain surrounding the Coralville Reservoir with over 200 campsites across multiple parks within a 25-mile radius. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, while spring and fall camping seasons experience temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night. Mosquitoes are most prevalent in July and August, particularly at lakeside campsites.
What to do
Paddle the Mississippi River: Shady Creek Campground provides direct access to the Mississippi for kayaking and canoeing. "Nice location to spend time fishing, watching sunsets, and paddle. Near Wild Cat Den State Park," notes James M.
Explore hiking trails: F.W. Kent Park features a two-mile trail around the lake with unique features. "The large lake is beautifully landscaped with walking bridges made from recycled iron and memorial trees of many varieties. There is about a two mile trail circumventing the entire lake," says Lisa S.
Miniature golf and recreation: Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres offers family activities beyond just camping. "They had a little train ride, miniature golf course, catch and release fishing in their pond, splash pad, lots of cool things hand built structures to see as well," reports Wheelin With Hope.
Visit the Amana Colonies: Located just 20 miles from Solon, this historical area makes a great day trip. "Great place, 1 mile from Amana. Our second stay here, from Louisiana. Good food in Amana. Really nice folks, ground squirrels too," says Michael J. from Amana RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious, level campsites: Sugar Bottom Campground offers well-maintained sites with lake views. "We stayed at site 48 and it's a perfect spot just off the lake with great views. Only drawback is it's kinda of a walk from a bathroom and the beach but that is more than ok to deal with," reports Brad B.
Beach swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature beach access for swimming. "Great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers. Fantastic amenities including hot showers and nice bathrooms and a cleaning station with sink basin for camping dishes. Great beach swimming area," notes Steve T.
Quiet atmosphere: F.W. Kent Park receives praise for its peaceful environment. "Just spent one night tent camping here. It was peaceful and quiet. Easy self check in process and self pay for firewood," explains Chris J.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Very quiet, lots of wildlife and amenities like a boat ramp, beach, playground, walking trails, recycling (!) and an amphitheater (!)," says Steve B. about Sugar Bottom.
What you should know
Site reservation systems vary: Some campgrounds require advance planning while others allow walk-ups. "Due to COVID reservations are required, you can drive up but a sign asks you to make one online or call. Cell service was poor for T Mobile and the wait time for a call was 45 min," reports Barbara P. from Shady Creek.
Highway noise considerations: Little Bear Campground sits near I-80 but maintains reasonable quiet. "I was surprised that the interstate noise was much quieter than I thought it would be. All and all it was a pleasant place to stop over," notes Shannon G.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate from April through October. "We camp here every year for Scouts. The time a year we go it is not busy and we pretty much have the place to our selves," mentions Robert F. about F.W. Kent Park.
Weather preparedness: Rain can create challenging conditions at some campgrounds. "The gravel lanes were soft from recent storms," James M. notes about Interstate RV Park, highlighting the need for preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "The campground has a variety of sites, with the 300 loop being full hook-ups. The sites down by the boat launch have electric only and tent sites. There are shower houses throughout the CG," mentions MickandKarla W. about Sugar Bottom.
Kid-friendly activities: Cedar River Campground includes multiple recreation options. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," says Jackie J.
Swimming options: Many parks offer swimming beaches or pools. "Great owners, loads of stuff for kids (putt putt, paddle boats, horseshoes, basketball, Gaga, trampoline, playground)," reports David W. about Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres.
Conservation education: Kent Park provides educational opportunities. "Conservation education center open seasonally with programs offered. Forest, prairie, wetland habitats," explains James M.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through sites: Amana RV Park & Event Center offers convenient RV sites near Solon, Iowa. "Wide open park with very very easy access. The people running the place were incredibly friendly and helpful," notes Ash B.
Leveling considerations: Some RV sites near Solon require equipment for leveling. "Our site was somewhat level, but we did have to put blocks under the passenger-side tires. We could back far enough in our site to park our F-450 in front of our rig at an angle and still put our back deck out," shares MickandKarla W.
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of service. "Full-hookup pull-through RV sites with 30/50 amp electric power, water, and sewer. Dust-free gravel pads and flat grass spots, perfect for quick setups or longer rests with no leveling hassles," explains Stuart K. about Little Bear Campground.
Dump station access: RVers should note where dump stations are located. "They have a double-hole dump station that can be accessed in both directions," mentions MickandKarla W. about Sugar Bottom Campground.
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