RV parks near Storm Lake, Iowa provide camping options throughout central Iowa's prairie region. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally with closures from late October through early April due to Iowa's winter weather conditions. Storm Lake itself sits at 1,421 feet elevation in Buena Vista County, surrounded by agricultural land with limited natural tree coverage, making summer shade a consideration for campers.
What to do
Lake recreation access: At Sunrise Campground, sites provide direct lake access. "We had a wonderful view if lake from campsite. Camp ground was kept clean. I especially liked then number of bathroom/shower combos," notes Chris W.
Wildlife observation: Birders should bring binoculars when visiting the wetland areas adjacent to several campgrounds. The prairie pothole region hosts numerous migratory species, particularly during spring and fall seasons.
Local attractions: The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park offers camping with a unique attraction nearby. "The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free," explains Gary H. The religious shrine features extensive rock and gemstone work created over decades.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors to Storm Lake area RV parks. "The bathrooms are clean, and the price is right," reports Samantha B. about Emerson Bay State Recreation Area Campground.
Spacious sites: Several campgrounds offer well-sized camping spaces. Tim K. notes about Little Sioux Park Campground that there are "two loops. One has electric only sites and the second has electric/water sites. One concrete pad ADA site."
Private bathrooms: Multiple facilities offer individual shower rooms rather than communal shower areas. Chris W. commented specifically on Sunrise Campground: "I especially liked then number of bathroom/shower combos. I have been in campgrounds where shower wasn't as private as it could be."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Nearly all Storm Lake area campgrounds close for winter. Emerson Bay operates the longest season, remaining open until December 31, while most others close by mid-October.
Site surfaces vary: Prepare for diverse camping surfaces throughout the region. Gary H. notes at The Grotto of the Redemption that "Thirty amp sites are on lush grass and include a view of a the grotto, a pond and surrounding residences. The 50 amp area offers more privacy, gravel pull through parking."
Train proximity: Some campgrounds sit near rail lines. Richard and partner mention about The Grotto of the Redemption: "There are two areas. One is very close to a train line, which runs infrequently. Sites are grass, level, and reasonably well maintained."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. Richard and partner noted at The Grotto of the Redemption: "There was a park nearby with a playground."
Swimming options: Lizard Creek Ranch Camping provides recreational amenities beyond basic camping. Jeremy K. describes it as "Very nice park with a nice restaurant and many things to do in the area."
Biking opportunities: Campers with children should consider bringing bicycles. Alec S. reports about Emerson Bay: "The staff are extremely friendly and there is so much fun for the kids to bike, swim (sand beach), and fish."
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup options: Most Storm Lake area campgrounds provide electric and water only. University 40 offers one of the few locations with full sewer hookups in addition to electric and water connections.
Level sites: Most campgrounds feature relatively flat terrain. Richard and partner note at The Grotto of the Redemption: "Sites are grass, level, and reasonably well maintained. All sites are pull through."
Cell connectivity: Verizon service works reliably throughout the area. Richard and partner report: "We had 2 bar LTE with Verizon. Our hotspot was usable and performed very well."
