Tracy, Iowa offers several camping options within a 30-mile radius. The region contains a mix of county and state parks with lake access points and varying levels of amenities. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall can see considerable temperature fluctuations. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 800-900 feet above sea level, creating a generally flat camping experience with occasional gentle rolling hills.
What to do
Fishing at Rock Creek State Park: The 602-acre lake provides excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for crappie and largemouth bass. "Rock Creek is known for its crappie and large mouth bass fishing. The lake has lots of features like brush piles, vertical structures, mossy areas and you can go over by the bridge and fish the rocks," notes a reviewer at Rock Creek State Park Campground.
Biking on the Chichaqua Valley Trail: This 25-mile paved trail runs near several campgrounds in the area. "Nicely paved 25 mile long biking and walking Chichaqua Valley Trail runs right between the campground and the campground office," mentions a camper who stayed at Griffs Valley View RV Park.
Bird watching at Howell Station: The Des Moines River corridor provides habitat for various birds. "It's along a river for fishing and bird watching. There are large trees that provide a lot of shade for the campground," writes a visitor to Howell Station. Another adds, "Bald eagles, blue herons and pelicans line the river."
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the Tracy area receive praise for their upkeep. "Very nice state park campground on a lake. Well kept grounds, clean bathrooms no wifi but cell service is available," writes a visitor about Rock Creek State Park Campground.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate areas that don't feel cramped. "Sites are level and well marked. The property is kept up nicely. Has a cute pond and is adjacent to a bike and running trail," notes a reviewer at Griffs Valley View RV Park. Another camper at Howell Station mentions, "Gravel sites, a little bit of leveling required. Poor Verizon cell signal, no internet signal. Not much natural privacy between sites, but sites were well spaced apart."
Local food options: The region has several dining options near campgrounds. "If you get hungry, this CG and fueling station has an imbedded Iowa's Best Burger Café that does live up to its name," mentions a reviewer about Kellogg RV Park, adding, "There's also an embedded Amoco gas station and mini-mart."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Severe weather can occur in this region. A camper at Howell Station shares, "The night we stayed, there was a severe weather threat, and the staff, at the end of the night, had unlocked the storm shelters (utility area in the middle of the bathhouses) should the need arise. We ended up having to seek shelter because of a tornado warning."
Traffic and noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. "You are just 30 seconds north of I-80, the busiest highway in Iowa... it's difficult to feel 100% safe & secure here," mentions a Kellogg RV Park reviewer. Similarly, at Diamond Lake County Park, a visitor notes, "The only downside is you can hear the cars/trucks from highway 85. It's not highly trafficked so this wasn't a big deal."
Water quality varies: Lake conditions differ between parks. "The water in Lake Diamond is quite dark and murky, so unless you are an adventurous soul, I don't recommend swimming here," warns a Diamond Lake camper. At Rock Creek, another notes, "Unfortunately, the amazing swimming beach with concession stand and changing rooms with showers is gone. Due to the large population of geese, ducks, and cranes, the water is not safe to swim in."
Tips for camping with families
Check playground availability: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The grounds have play sets and swings for kids," writes a visitor to Howell Station. At Griffs Valley View RV Park, a camper notes, "The community center has nice showers, laundry, game room. Kitchen with attached TV room, oh and storm shelter."
Consider off-peak timing: "We stayed during the fall and it was practically empty. Our camp host told us early spring can be hit or miss because sometime the campground will end up flooding so keep that in mind when you plan your trip," advises a Rock Creek State Park visitor.
Private camping options: For families seeking more seclusion, Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake offers a more remote experience. "The perfect drive up private campsite you will find in Iowa. Very quiet with a beautiful view of three ponds and a sunset you will not want to miss. There are four campsites and a soon-to-be glamp site. Spacious, tranquil, and private," shares a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Kellogg RV Park: "The best sites are those located as far east and north as possible (yes, right near the laundry facilities and chicken coop). Why? Well, because they will be furthest away from I80, so less noise, plus they are on the periphery, so this offers up better views of corn country, and additionally, more tranquility."
Seasonal considerations: "We dry camped right on the water's edge for $6 a night, 2 weeks for $88! Electric sites are only 12. Their sites are 20/30/50 amp. No water or sewer at the sites but there are water spigots dispersed through the campground and full dump station as you come in/leave," explains an RV camper about Rock Creek State Park options.
Leveling requirements: "Sites have good spacing and full hookups that were installed with some thought. Only used one stinky slinky, could have hooked up water with a 6' hose, and the electrical was near the back of the site. Sites are gravel and it looked like most campers had to use blocks," reports a reviewer about River Oaks RV Park.
