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Best Campgrounds near Storm Lake, IA

82 Reviews

The Storm Lake area in western Iowa provides several established campgrounds with facilities for tent, RV, and cabin camping. Buena Vista County Park Sunrise Campground and Martin Area County Park offer diverse accommodation options including cabins and RV hookups, while parks like Larson Lake County Park provide more primitive experiences. Many campgrounds are situated near Storm Lake itself or along rivers in the surrounding farmland, making water activities a central feature of the camping experience in this region.

Camping season in the area generally runs from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Several campgrounds including Sunrise Campground, Buena Vista County Park, and Hagge County Park operate from approximately April 1 to October 15-31. Restroom and shower facilities are available at most established sites, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Sites with electric hookups and water connections are common in the region's campgrounds, while more primitive options exist for those seeking a simpler experience. A visitor noted, "Sites aren't crunched together, so you have privacy. Trails are nice. Everything is well maintained. Showers and bathrooms are awesome!"

Campers consistently mention the peaceful nature of camping in this predominantly agricultural region. Water access represents a significant draw, with Storm Lake offering fishing opportunities for perch, walleye, crappie, and white bass. Several parks feature hiking trails through wooded areas that provide contrast to the surrounding open farmland. The combination of lakeside and riverside settings creates diverse camping environments despite the generally flat terrain. According to one visitor, "We had a wonderful view of lake from campsite. Campground was kept clean. I especially liked the number of bathroom/shower combos." For those seeking quieter experiences, county parks like Buena Vista County Park and Silver Sioux Recreation Area receive high ratings for their peaceful settings and well-maintained facilities, while still offering amenities like showers, toilets, and picnic areas.

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Best Camping Sites Near Storm Lake, Iowa (64)

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Recent Camping Photos near Storm Lake, IA

4 Photos of 64 Storm Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Storm Lake, IA

82 Reviews of 64 Storm Lake Campgrounds

  • Joel S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Siems County Park

    Nice little campground

    Mix of sites. Some have electric and water. Some have electric but have to share a water spigot. Small lake. Public restrooms and shower. Frisbee Golf. Well kept.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Sac City Park

    Right on the Raccoon River

    Nice clean campground with water and electricity at the RV sites. Some of the tent sites also have electricity. RV sites are $20 (for the 2025 season).

  • 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

  • Matt M.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Tjossem County Park

    Beautiful views

    The camping sites are a little close to each other. 10 sites with full hookups. If electrical comes out of the rear of your camper you need an extension cord or just pull the camper forward in the site. None of the sites are far from the shower/restroom facilities. Fishing in the pond had a lot of small bluegill and crappie. Perfect for the young fishermen with little patience. Using an ultralight and small jig I was catching them about every second cast. Beautiful sunrise/sunset views if you like that.

  • Cody H.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2025

    Willow Creek Campground

    It’s more of 4 1/2 stars than a four star.

    As a family, we felt like this was a great campground. It was full hook up with Wi-Fi for a reasonable price. We enjoyed all the trails that the city of Le Mars offers. The shower house was exceptionally clean. The campground itself was clean and well kept. What prevents this from being a full five star review was the beach it was really big but both nights that we were there, the cops had to come and remove people from the beach. The trash cans around the beach were completely over flowing by middle of the day Saturday and were never emptied. Overall, we really did enjoy the campground. We just will not stay on the beach side next time.

  • Cody H.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2025

    Tjossem County Park

    Small but still a good campground.

    This is a great campground for a weekend getaway. The pros of this campground are It’s full hook up. It has a brand new shower house. It has a brand new playground. The cons to this campground are the campsites are really close together. overall, it’s a great campground and would recommend.

  • Shane T.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 9, 2025

    Swan Lake State Park Campground

    Great park!

    We stayed one night, beautiful park! Great trail all the way around the lake, we took a bike ride around it was about 3 ish miles. Camp host was a gem. Bathrooms were very clean! Great view of the lake. Was not very crowded but was mid week.

  • Kent H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 17, 2025

    Stieneke Area Park

    Small, quiet, and $10.

    Quiet little campground. I only saw 3 sites, but there is room for 3 or 4 more. $10 per night and the Rangers came at about 3:30 pm to clean the vault toilet and collect my fee from the lockbox. It's about a half mile from a well traveled road, but as I write this it's 7 in the evening and there's no more traffic. I'm the only person in the campground. There's a hand pump water well. Give it a dozen pumps to get it going. I don't suppose it is potable water. There's a river behind and the sign says you can launch a kayak.

Guide to Storm Lake

Camping near Storm Lake, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campers enjoy fishing and boating at Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "The scenic trails are great for pictures, and the river is fun to kayak."
  • Hiking and Trails: Explore the trails at Emerson Bay State Recreation Area. A visitor shared, "The trails are great! We rode around the lake and enjoyed the beautiful views."
  • Disc Golf and Playgrounds: At Spring Lake County Park, families can enjoy disc golf and playgrounds. One camper noted, "There’s something for everyone to enjoy, including a playground and disc golf."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities at Willow Creek Campground. A reviewer said, "The shower house is newly renovated and very nice."
  • Friendly Hosts: Many visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. One camper at Marble Beach State Recreation Area mentioned, "There was a friendly host in the campground."
  • Peaceful Environment: Campers often highlight the tranquility of places like Gull Point State Park Campground. A visitor remarked, "By far the quietest park at the lake, which is nice if you are looking for less crowds."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: If you need to stay connected, be aware that some campgrounds, like John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, have poor cell service. One camper noted, "There is no cell service provider that functions in this park."
  • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Emerson Bay State Recreation Area fill up quickly. A visitor advised, "Book your trip well in advance."
  • Mosquitoes in Some Areas: Campers at Gull Point State Park Campground mentioned that the park is near a swampy area, making bugs a bit of a nuisance. One reviewer said, "The bugs can be rough."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds like Spring Lake County Park that offer playgrounds and swimming areas. A family shared, "This park is peaceful and has a swimming beach."
  • Pack for Outdoor Fun: Bring bikes and kayaks for activities at places like Dolliver Memorial State Park Campground. One camper said, "You can rent kayaks and paddle boats; this place is a nice quiet place to camp."
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds, like Willow Creek Campground, have picnic tables and fire pits for cooking. A visitor mentioned, "The hosts go above and beyond to make sure you are taken care of."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: RVers at Gull Point State Park Campground noted that some sites can be tight. One camper said, "The park is heavily wooded, and it was tight and nerve-wracking to navigate."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Emerson Bay State Recreation Area offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A reviewer stated, "Great price for a full hookup site."
  • Be Prepared for Slopes: Some sites, like those at Marble Beach State Recreation Area, can be sloped. One camper mentioned, "Had to use our traction boards to level the van as best we can."

Camping near Storm Lake, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a campground map for Storm Lake, Iowa?

For Storm Lake campground maps, start with the official Buena Vista County Conservation website, which maintains updated maps of the Sunrise Campground area. You can also check the Iowa DNR website for downloadable PDF maps of state-managed areas around Storm Lake. In-person options include stopping by the Swan Lake State Park Campground visitor center for regional camping information, or visiting the Odebolt Memorial Walk RV Park information board, which sometimes stocks maps of nearby camping areas. Local visitor centers and outdoor recreation shops in Storm Lake also typically offer free campground maps.

What amenities are available at Sunrise Campground in Storm Lake?

Sunrise Campground at Storm Lake offers a variety of amenities for campers. The campground provides water access, clean toilets, and is big-rig friendly with drive-in access. Sites are reservable, making it convenient for planning ahead. The campground's location on Storm Lake makes it perfect for water activities, particularly fishing for perch, walleye, crappie, and white bass. For those seeking nearby alternatives with different amenities, The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park offers partially shaded sites with both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical hookups, restrooms, showers, fresh water, and a dump station at $20 per night.

Where are the best campgrounds near Storm Lake, Iowa?

The best campground directly on Storm Lake is Buena Vista County Park Sunrise Campground, which offers excellent lake activities including fishing for perch, walleye, crappie, and white bass. For alternatives within driving distance, consider Emerson Bay State Recreation Area Campground near the Iowa Great Lakes, featuring spacious sites, clean bathrooms, and convenient boat docks. Other good options include Thirty Acres Campground at Black Hawk State Park with its beautiful lake and walking paths, or Alton Roadside Park for a budget-friendly stay with electric hookups and water access.

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