Best Campgrounds near Denison, IA

Camping near Denison, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and well-maintained campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do

• Hiking and Nature Trails: Many campgrounds, like Hitchcock County Nature Center, have access to scenic trails. One camper mentioned, "Camping here also gives you access to the playground and nature trails into some beautiful countryside."
• Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Anita State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy fishing and swimming. A reviewer noted, "The lake is beautiful with bike paths and walking trails around the entire lake."
• Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Lewis and Clark State Park Campground are great for spotting wildlife. One happy camper shared, "Great sites right on the water. Easy back in for my rig."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-kept restrooms and showers. A review for Hitchcock County Nature Center highlighted, "Even the pit toilets were spotless and didn’t smell."
• Friendly Hosts: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff. A visitor at Arrowhead Park Campground said, "The people who run this campground are really nice!"
• Affordable Rates: Campers love the low prices at places like Adair City Park. One reviewer mentioned, "$15 full power / $6 tents / $5 dump only."

What you should know

• First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A camper at Hitchcock County Nature Center reminded others, "Friendly reminder to bring CASH."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive facilities. A review for Lake Manawa State Park Campground noted, "There are tons of things to do here... unless you have your own kayak or boat."
• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. One camper at Hitchcock County Nature Center warned, "The only downside is bring several bottles of bug spray; the mosquitoes are terrible!"

Tips for camping with families

• Playgrounds and Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. A family at Spring Lake County Park enjoyed, "This park is peaceful... with a playground and disc golf."
• Safety and Cleanliness: Choose campgrounds known for cleanliness and safety. A parent at Lake Anita State Park Campground mentioned, "Great location, good facilities... Plenty of space in the tent area."
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise levels, especially at night. A camper at Springbrook State Park Campground noted, "Campers are loud well beyond midnight."

Tips from RVers

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lewis and Clark State Park Campground said, "My 35-foot rig made it to the back-in spot easily."
• Full Hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A camper at Lake Cunningham Campground appreciated, "Full access with concrete pad. Tons of room between spots."
• Reservations Recommended: During peak seasons, make reservations to secure your spot. A visitor at Adair City Park mentioned, "Arrived around 10 pm on a Tuesday and there were 3 spots left."

Camping around Denison, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to pack your bug spray and enjoy the great outdoors!