Toddville's camping landscape sits at around 850 feet above sea level within Iowa's Linn County. Located between the Wapsipinicon and Cedar Rivers, this region offers mixed woodland and prairie terrain. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October with peak occupancy during summer weekends when temperatures average 75-85°F.
What to do
Biking and hiking trails: At Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek), campers access various trails including single track routes. "The best thing about this campground is it's access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff," reports Kris P.
Fishing opportunities: Wakpicada Natural Area provides pond fishing options just 20 minutes from Toddville. "Well kept with good fishing. Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun anyway. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other," notes Parker H.
Water activities: The Cedar River and nearby lakes offer swimming, canoeing and kayaking. At George Wyth State Park, "There is a sand beach to swim, where they also rent kayaks & canoes. The campground is located along the Cedar river, for those who want to boat and fish on a river, as well as multiple lakes to fish and a lake to ski," explains Steve R.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many equestrian-friendly sites in the region offer well-spaced camping areas. "The sites are very spacious with some shade, a fire ring, and picnic table provided. The nearest grocery store was within 5 miles," shares Clint G. about Wanatee Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain good restroom and shower facilities despite rural settings. At Lake Iowa County Park, "Shower house and bathrooms were really nice! Wasn't expecting to want to take a shower but couldn't pass up the opportunity when we saw them. Very hot water," notes Claudia M.
Wildlife viewing: Horse owners appreciate the natural settings and wildlife. "Saw lots of deer and rabbits right outside our door. Shower rooms are very nice," reports Wendy D. about Lake Iowa County Park, which offers trails suitable for day rides.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds experience river flooding periodically. At George Wyth State Park, "because it is so close to river anytime it rains heavily there is flooding in several areas of the park. And almost every year (usually late summer, early fall) it rains enough to flood a good portion of the park," warns Jennifer T.
Reservation systems: While some equestrian camping areas require reservations, others operate first-come, first-served. At Wanatee Park, "Half of the campgrounds is first come first serve, the other half is reserve only," explains Brett S.
Bug preparation: Summer brings insects to horse-friendly camping areas. At Matsell Bridge Natural Area, "when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness of this 'best kept secret' for primitive and inexpensive camping sites," advises Carol M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children while horses rest. "For little ones, there is a large sand playground area with slides and swings. There is a sand beach to swim," explains Steve R. about George Wyth State Park.
Beginner-friendly trails: Families with horses can find gentle terrain options. At Backbone State Park, "Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River... Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site," notes Carol M.
Water activities for non-riders: Family members who don't ride can enjoy other activities. "There is a variety of things to do here. You can rent cabins, shelters, tent and RV camp, hike the trails especially the 'Backbone', explore the cave, fish trout streams, visit fish hatchery, swim at the beach, canoe, kayak or just have a picnic," shares Diane A. about Backbone State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RVers with horse trailers should prepare for some uneven terrain. "Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers," mentions Clint G. about Wanatee Park.
Hookup availability: Limited full-service options exist for equestrian camping. At South Lake Campground, "Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available," advises Edward B.
Self-registration: Horse campers often encounter self-registration systems. At Lake Iowa County Park, "Self registration at the front. Looked like a decent amount of folks here but we didn't drive very far into the park," explains Claudia M.
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