The Storm Lake region provides year-round camping opportunities across Cherokee, Buena Vista, and Sac counties. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 1,200 and 1,400 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F. Winter camping options remain limited to specific locations that maintain open facilities during colder months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Raccoon River at Sac City Park offers multiple spots for anglers. "The campground is on the banks of the Raccoon Creek. It's a pretty standard campground with the usual picnic tables and fire pits," notes Annie C., who also mentions interesting historical structures nearby.
Lake recreation: Black Hawk State Park provides swimming and boating opportunities on a 957-acre lake. "Beautiful view of the lake! Multiple options of camping sites. Clean RR and showers," writes Lynz N. about the Thirty Acres Campground, which offers year-round access.
Wildlife observation: Trails through Buena Vista County Park connect campers with natural habitats. Ashley N. reports, "The trails are very well maintained! Shower facilities are super clean!" Lori N. adds, "We almost always see wildlife when hiking."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Storm Lake area campgrounds typically maintain well-serviced restrooms. Chris W. appreciates the Sunrise Campground facilities: "I especially liked the number of bathroom/shower combos. I have been in campgrounds where shower wasn't as private as it could be. This was great and clean."
Space between sites: Many campgrounds provide adequate separation between camping spots. Lori N. mentions about Buena Vista County Park, "Sites aren't crunched together, so you have privacy." Ashley N. confirms, "The lots are spacious and have a pull through so you don't have to back up!"
Water views: Lakeside camping spots offer scenic vantage points for campers. "We had a wonderful view of lake from campsite. Camp ground was kept clean," reports Chris W. about Sunrise Campground, which features water-oriented camping from April through October.
What you should know
Dog friendly campgrounds near Storm Lake: Most campgrounds permit leashed pets throughout camping areas and trails. Joshua D. found Silver Sioux Recreation Area unexpectedly accommodating: "Was not expecting how nice this campground was compared to more primitive ones in the area. Beautiful site! Has tent camping, full rv hook ups, and a nice playground for the kids."
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience with pets, Gary E. simply states about Martin Area County Park: "Primitive camping was awesome." This park allows pets while offering both basic and upgraded accommodations.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited winter options. Daniel C. notes that at Sac City Park, "RV sites are $20 (for the 2025 season)," indicating the need to check current pricing when planning.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet-friendly parks include play areas for children. Silver Sioux Recreation Area features "tent camping, full RV hook ups, and a nice playground for the kids," according to Joshua D., making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Historical attractions: Family-oriented activities include exploring historic structures. Annie C. discovered at Sac City Park: "There are some neat buildings scattered around like an old log cabin and an amazing huge round Chautauqua meeting building."
Swimming opportunities: Storm Lake provides beach access for families with children and dogs. Kim K. observed at Black Hawk State Park: "Park is right next to the lake. Beautiful lake. Pretty busy with lots of campers. Nice walking path around the lake."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Pet owners traveling with RVs will find various connection options. Lori N. reports that Hagge County Park "has only 15 sites available with full hookups, but it is a great, quieter place than most. Nice shaded areas. There are some primitive sites too."
Site types: RV campers should research specific site conditions before arrival. Mara F. cautions about Silver Sioux Recreation Area: "The campsite seems to be more for RVs. Tent camping is just a field with a few picnic tables in it and has a bit of a walk from the parking lot with your equipment."
Road conditions: Access routes vary in quality across the region's pet-friendly campgrounds. James P. warns about Straight Park: "In the summer the road is pretty bad holes or some cavities. There is also another brand new area in town containing about 24 50 amp full hookup campsites where the old-school was torn down."
