Best Campgrounds near Sumner, IA

Camping near Sumner, Iowa, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for scenic views, hiking trails, or family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

• Hiking Trails: Explore the numerous trails available at Wyalusing State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, “Great hiking trails, overall a great place to stay,” highlighting the park's natural beauty.
• Kayaking: Enjoy kayaking on the backwaters of the Mississippi River. A visitor at Backbone State Park noted, “Awesome campground with lots of hiking trails, and access to backwaters of Mississippi.”
• Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the nearby rivers. A review for Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground mentioned, “Good trout fishing here, some sites are primitive, some have electric and water.”

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the stunning views at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground. One camper said, “Campsite D's views were unbeatable,” making it a favorite for those who love nature.
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities. A visitor at George Wyth State Park Campground remarked, “Clean shower house and flush toilets,” which is always a plus when camping.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the welcoming environment at Pikes Peak State Park Campground. One review stated, “Easy level sites, and helpful neighbors,” making it a great spot for kids.

What you should know:

• Train Noise: Be prepared for train sounds at some campgrounds. A camper at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s a train track right next to the river,” which can be quite loud at night.
• Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A visitor at Beaver Creek Valley State Park Campground noted, “There is no cell phone service,” so plan accordingly.
• Primitive Sites: Some campgrounds, like Camp Glen Wendel, offer primitive camping. A review stated, “Well spaced out camp sites, very primitive,” which is great for those looking for a more rustic experience.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A camper at Old Barn Resort said, “The bathrooms were nice, coin-operated showers,” which can be convenient for families.
• Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Pulpit Rock Campground enjoyed, “Bike trails and good trout fishing,” which kept everyone entertained.
• Pack for Comfort: Bring along items to keep the kids comfortable. A review for George Wyth State Park Campground mentioned, “The connection to hiking trails throughout the park is fantastic,” so having good hiking gear is essential.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure to check the size of the RV sites. A visitor at Backbone State Park noted, “The sites are big so you can camp far back,” which is helpful for larger RVs.
• Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups. A camper at Wyalusing State Park Campground appreciated the “electric hookups” available, making it easier to enjoy modern conveniences.
• Plan for Noise: Be aware of potential noise from nearby roads or trains. A review for George Wyth State Park Campground mentioned, “The major Hwy on two sides of the park,” which could affect your stay.

Camping near Sumner, Iowa, has a lot to offer, from beautiful views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for some noise and plan your activities ahead of time!