Camping near Sutherland, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do
- Fishing and Water Activities: Many campgrounds are near lakes and rivers, perfect for fishing and swimming. For instance, at Emerson Bay State Recreation Area, one reviewer mentioned, "Great site to spend a week," highlighting the fun of swimming and fishing in the area.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Newton Hills Campground noted, "Great trails and a short scenic road," making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
- Local Attractions: Check out nearby towns and attractions. One camper at Jackson KOA shared, "I met the previous owner of the park and his wife, and told about some cool things to do in the area," emphasizing the local charm.
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Kilen Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "Showers and bathrooms were very clean," which is a big plus for many.
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A visitor at Lazy H Campground said, "The sites are spaced out, concrete pads and pull thru!" making it comfortable for RVers.
- Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One camper at Scenic Park noted, "Host was very helpful and friendly," which adds to the overall experience.
What you should know
- Reservations: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. A camper at Emerson Bay State Recreation Area advised, "Book your trip well in advance," to secure your spot.
- Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have markets or stores nearby. A review for Marble Beach State Rec Area mentioned, "NO market," so be sure to bring your supplies.
- Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be busy and noisy, especially during weekends. A visitor at Newton Hills Campground mentioned, "It was very busy with lots of families out and about," which might not suit those looking for peace and quiet.
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and family activities. One camper at Magnolia City Campground said, "The playground was nice for the kids," making it a great choice for families.
- Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A visitor at Lazy H Campground enjoyed "picking sweet corn" and spending time on the water, which can be a fun family activity.
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids near water or trails. A camper at Stone State Park Campground mentioned, "There were vault/pit toilets close," which can be handy for families needing quick access.
Tips from RVers
- Check Hookups: Ensure your site has the necessary hookups. A camper at Jackson KOA appreciated the "good sewer hose at the dump station," which made their stay easier.
- Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for a smoother setup. A review for Lazy H Campground highlighted, "The concrete pads are level and large," making it a breeze for RVers.
- Explore Nearby Towns: Take time to visit local attractions. A camper at Kilen Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The park is quiet, clean and very easy to hike," which can be a great way to spend the day.
Camping near Sutherland, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for everyone. From fishing to family fun, there’s something for every camper to enjoy!
