Glamping options near Spencer, Iowa provide access to prairie landscapes and seasonal outdoor recreation. The region sits at approximately 1,312 feet above sea level in the Des Moines Lobe landform with weather patterns that bring warm summer temperatures from June through August and cold winters. Campgrounds in the area operate primarily from April through October with limited wintertime availability.
What to do
Lake activities at Bright Lake: Bright Lake Co Park offers secluded campsites with views of the water through the trees. "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake, had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!" reports camper Wally B.
Visit geological attractions: The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park provides a base for exploring the adjacent religious shrine. According to Gary H., "The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free. Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes."
Explore connected trails: Campers at memoirs park can access multiple outdoor recreation areas directly from their sites. Daniel N. explains, "New paved roads, boat landing to river and frisbee golf connected. No water hook ups at each site. Has one in central location so luckily I had just enough hose to fill up the camper. Close to state park with trails and bison so had a great weekend!"
What campers like
Affordable rates: Glamping accommodations near Spencer offer good value compared to other regions. At The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park, "The cost is $20 per night. Sites are offered on a first come first served basis. Thirty amp sites are on lush grass and include a view of the grotto, a pond and surrounding residences."
Spacious campsites: Larger than average sites provide room for glamping setups. Anna M. notes about Land of Memories Campground, "We have very much enjoyed our weekends at the Land of Memories Campground. This is a very spacious, clean campground. We camp with children and this has been a very family friendly campground."
Local events: Several glamping destinations near Spencer host seasonal activities. Matthew B. shared about Jackson KOA, "Great KOA, owners were very friendly and welcoming. They invited us to their 'end of season' party and came and talked to us the next morning."
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Select glamping sites may experience occasional train noise. Richard &. mentions about The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park, "There are two areas. One is very close to a train line, which runs infrequently. Sites are grass, level, and reasonably well maintained. All sites are pull through."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Weather patterns can impact site availability. Mike G. warns about Land of Memories Campground, "Right time of year it is nice. Along the river are nice sites but mosquitos can be a problem. Park is subject to flooding and can be closed. Sometimes a long time."
Variable phone service: Connectivity can be limited at glamping sites close to Spencer, Iowa. Richard &. reports, "We had 2 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well. Campground wifi was not available."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Everett Park provides recreational facilities for children visiting the glamping area. A & D S. shares, "If you have kids, looks like a great playground, plenty of room to run & play. Sites are large and well spaced."
Budget-friendly options: Family glamping near Spencer can be done economically. Carla A. notes about Everett Park, "Nice place right on the lake. Campground manager is nice. Sites are electric only. Fill with water before setting up. Reasonable and it's clean."
Bathroom facilities: When glamping with children, clean restrooms matter. Nancy Q. reports, "The shower had plenty of hot water with great water pressure. Dated but clean. Very quiet and peaceful here. Dog friendly."
Tips from RVers
Extension cord requirements: Robertson Park has electric hookups but some glamping sites require extra preparation. Dawn S. explains, "This place offers cabins places for tent camping as well as places for dispersed free camping."
Water access planning: At upscale glamping locations, water hookup logistics vary by site. Daniel N. advises, "No water hook ups at each site. Has one in central location so luckily I had just enough hose to fill up the camper."
Site selection for privacy: Choose locations based on density and surroundings. Gregory L. shared about Jackson KOA, "Our site was level, easy to get into, and had a nice tree providing some shade. Water pressure was good, no issues with electric."
