Camping areas near Spencer, Iowa offer convenient access to regional lakes and recreational opportunities within 40 miles of the city. The area sits at approximately 1,312 feet above sea level in the glaciated prairie region of northwest Iowa. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from November through March, making most campgrounds seasonal operations with limited availability during colder months.
What to do
Fishing at Spirit Lake: Spirit Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities at Marble Beach State Recreation Area Campground. According to campers, "Spirit Lake is the largest natural lake in Iowa and provides some of the best fishing in the state. Anglers will find challenging sport pursuing a variety of game fish including walleye, northern pike, muskellunges, largemouth and smallmouth bass."
Bicycling around lakes: The Iowa Great Lakes region offers extensive biking trails. One visitor at Marble Beach noted, "Good place for Bicycling, 4 miles mostly bike path to town. Around Spirit Lake is a nice 16 miles bike ride." The paved trails connect multiple recreation areas and towns.
Cultural sites: The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park provides access to a unique religious shrine. A visitor mentioned, "The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free." Another camper noted it was "just a short walk to the grotto of redemption."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Emerson Bay State Recreation Area Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. One camper stated, "The sites are well maintained, bathrooms are IMPECCABLE someone was out cleaning the shower house at 11pm one night." Another mentioned, "Spaces were clean, bathrooms were nice. Beach is very close. Showers were private."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campsites with activities for children rank highly. A reviewer at Emerson Bay wrote, "The staff are extremely friendly and there is so much fun for the kids to bike, swim (sand beach), and fish. The surrounding area provides so much entertainment you can easily spend a week."
Lakefront settings: Most popular campgrounds feature lake access. At Everett Park, campers appreciate the waterfront location: "It was serene and beautiful. The sunset over the water was absolutely amazing. Breathtaking scenery."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds near Spencer operate from April through October. The Jackson KOA lists its season as "Apr 15 to Oct 13," while Emerson Bay remains open longer, from "April 1 to December 31."
Site conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds have uneven or sloped sites. One camper at Marble Beach noted, "Our site sloped down toward the lake; had to use our traction boards to level the van as best we can." Another reported, "Camp sites for tents are super tiny and irregular shaped. Lots of sloping on sites."
Reservation requirements: Popular lakeside campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. A visitor to Emerson Bay advised, "It was full the entire time that we were here and it does fill up quickly so book your trip well in advance."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access: Look for campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas. A visitor to Emerson Bay noted, "This campground is right on the lake! There is so much fun for the kids to bike, swim (sand beach), and fish."
Playground facilities: Minnewashta Lake and surrounding campgrounds offer recreational facilities for children. While limited in amenities, one visitor noted, "It a boat launch with a couple campsites. They do have power. Open space. Great to get a nights rest."
Pet considerations: Many campgrounds allow pets with restrictions. Emerson Bay permits dogs but has rules: "Dog friendly, lots of places to walk the dogs. Can't leave the dogs unattended in the camper, so keep that in mind when planning trips. Boji Bark has doggie daycare."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven sites at some campgrounds. A camper at Marble Beach advised, "Site 59 has a downward sloping driveway and the camping area is sloped and tilted but neither we're too challenging so we set up easily."
Full hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer complete RV services while others have limitations. The Grotto of Redemption RV park has "only electrical hookups are available at the sites. This is in good condition. There is fresh water and a dump station available."
Site sizes for large rigs: RV camping near Spencer, Iowa accommodates various vehicle sizes. At Marble Beach, a visitor observed, "Nice sites that back up to spirit lake with enough room for bigger rigs to get into easily and have tree coverage to feel wooded."
