Camping near Swisher, Iowa centers around the Coralville Reservoir formed by the Iowa River dam. The area features both lakeside recreation areas and wooded campsites at elevations ranging from 700-840 feet. Seasonal changes dramatically affect camping conditions, with fall offering colorful foliage views and summer providing lake access at most campgrounds.
What to do
Paddle the lake and pond: At Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres, visitors can enjoy paddle boating on the small pond. "Great clean campground with lots to do. Mini golf, basketball, paddleboat on a small pond, horseshoes, and plenty of swings and playscapes for kids," notes a camper.
Visit historical sites: The Amana Colonies provide a cultural experience just minutes from several campgrounds. A visitor to Amana RV Park & Event Center mentioned, "We used our bikes and biked around the colonies. Place was clean, showers and bathroom great. We were there after Labor Day and had section to ourselves."
Explore the Devonian Fossil Gorge: This unique geological site near the dam contains fossils exposed during the 1993 flood. A visitor to West Overlook Campground noted, "This campground is close to the dam and the Devonian Fossil Gorge," making it convenient for exploring this natural feature.
What campers like
Fall camping experiences: Cooler temperatures and changing foliage make autumn a prime camping season. A visitor to West Overlook Campground shared, "We enjoy the peace and quiet especially with the views of the lake and the fall colors."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the natural setting and animal sightings. At Lake Macbride State Park, a camper observed, "Beautiful place... saw wild turkeys and deer almost every day walking the camp grounds."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer reasonable rates with good amenities. F.W. Kent Park charges $20 for electric sites on level pads, while a camper at Lake Macbride noted, "Overall value is great at $11 per night."
What you should know
Seasonal closures and limitations: Several campgrounds have restricted operating seasons. Amana RV Park operates from April through October, while Cedar River Campground runs from "April 15 to October 15."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds are near highways. A visitor to Beyonder Getaway mentioned it's "Near the highway but road noise is minimal," while another noted, "Near the highway so it has truck noise."
Weather impacts: Rainy conditions affect campground accessibility. A visitor to Cedar River Campground shared, "This is a real family oriented campground. Although it is a primitive campground, it allows for fishing, boating and a playground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with recreational activities: Multiple facilities offer family-friendly amenities. At Beyonder Getaway, a visitor praised, "Great owners, loads of stuff for kids (putt putt, paddle boats, horseshoes, basketball, Gaga, trampoline, playground)."
Consider accessibility needs: Some campgrounds offer specialized accommodations. A reviewer at Beyonder Getaway shared, "The accessible site is right next to the showers with an adapted picnic table and raised fire pit!"
Select campgrounds with beach access: Sugar Bottom Campground offers water recreation opportunities. "Great campground, cheap sites with electric and water even for tent campers. Fantastic amenities including hot showers and nice bathrooms and a cleaning station with sink basin for camping dishes. Great beach swimming area," reported one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Off-season advantages: Camping outside peak summer months offers more space and quieter surroundings. At Little Bear Campground, a reviewer noted, "Little Bear Campground is located right off I-80 at the West Liberty exit. It had full hook ups with a fire ring and picnic table. The spot was good sized and clean."
Pull-through site availability: Several campgrounds offer easy-access sites for larger rigs. A visitor to Little Bear Campground stated, "Very conveniently located off I-80, fair price, full hook up and pull through site $33.00."
Site leveling considerations: Gravel pads may require additional leveling equipment. A reviewer mentioned about Amana RV Park, "The down sides of the park were that the roads and pads are gravel so I could see it becoming an issue during weather but we didn't have much trouble leveling."
