Northeastern Iowa offers rolling hills and limestone bluffs that create a unique camping landscape near Strawberry Point. The area sits at approximately 1,200 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Local campgrounds range from primitive sites with creek access to full-service RV parks with various recreational amenities.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Backbone State Park features trout streams popular with anglers. One visitor noted, "The stream offers good trout fishing. It is stocked regularly with rainbow trout."
Water activities: Skip-A-Way Resort offers multiple water-based recreation options during their April 15-October 15 season. A camper shared, "Some weekly activities include canoeing, tubing down the Turkey River, swimming, fishing and paddle boats in the Lake, a splash pad for kids and occasionally a dumping tank for free."
Hiking trails: The region's landscape creates memorable hiking experiences. As one Backbone visitor remarked, "We loved waking up in the morning and going for a walk along the many trails, seeing deer on the trail, and the lake."
Mini golf: Several campgrounds offer this family activity. A visitor to Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres commented, "Great owners, loads of stuff for kids (putt putt, paddle boats, horseshoes, basketball, Gaga, trampoline, playground)."
What campers like
Privacy at primitive sites: Fountain Springs County Park offers a more secluded camping experience. A visitor explained, "The several times I have camped, there have been at most a few other sites with people camping. Often, I have been alone in the campground, which is perfect for those seeking solitude."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain good hygiene standards. One Beyonder Getaway visitor said, "Bathrooms are clean and lots of warm water for showers. Great place for a night or two."
Wildlife viewing: The natural surroundings support diverse wildlife. A camper at Fountain Springs noted, "Usually, I hear (or see) turkeys and woodpeckers. Other camp visitors include whitetail deer, squirrels, raccoons, and the occasional skunk."
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds offer different experiences throughout their operating seasons. A Skip-A-Way visitor mentioned, "They have a beach for swimming. Boats for renting but they were out of order for repairs when we were here. You can rent kayaks, bikes."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance planning. At Lakeshore RV Resort and Campground, which operates May through mid-October, a visitor warned, "We drove almost 2 hours to check out the campground. We are looking for a permanent site for our RV next year. When we arrived we called the phone number listed on the closed gate. The owner came out and said we would need an appointment to drive thru."
Site leveling: Uneven sites might require equipment. At Rustic Barn Campground, a visitor reported, "Unfortunately our site 26 seemed to be the most in level, which was our only negative. We had to use all our blocks to get us as level as possible."
Water quality concerns: Water conditions can affect swimming. A Backbone State Park visitor cautioned, "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it."
Road noise: Location affects noise levels. A Beyonder Getaway visitor mentioned, "Near the highway so it has truck noise."
Tips for camping with families
Campgrounds with kid activities: Rustic Barn Campground RV Park offers numerous family-friendly features. A visitor described, "Outdoor games set-up on the grass like Cornhole, croquet, etc."
Seasonal considerations: Family-oriented programming varies by time of year. At Skip-A-Way Resort, a visitor noted, "They have permanent sites and rentals. There is tent sites and rental campers also. Sewer, water and electric."
Budget planning: Different campgrounds offer varying value. One Skip-A-Way visitor commented, "This campground has a lot of fun activities from April 15 thru Oct 15... Very family friendly and affordable."
Activity options: Campgrounds differ in available amenities. A visitor to Rustic Barn explained, "Nice rec room with TV, games, books, soft seating, pinball, ping pong, and pool table."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Backbone State Park offers variable amenities for RVs. Sites include electric hookups with water access, but limited sewer connections.
Site size considerations: Some campgrounds can accommodate larger rigs. Rustic Barn provides "large pull thru sites, level sites with plenty of room, free wifi, and some of the cleanest bath/shower houses you'll find anywhere."
Accessibility features: Special accommodations exist for those with mobility needs. At Beyonder Getaway, a visitor shared, "My daughter is in a wheelchair so we requested the accessible site. It's right next to the showers with an adapted pic-nic table and raised fire pit!"
Extended stay options: Many campgrounds around Strawberry Point offer multi-night discounts. One Beyonder visitor reported, "We were there 4 nights and added on an extra because we enjoyed it so much."
