Best Campgrounds near Wallingford, IA

Camping near Wallingford, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and friendly campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a quiet retreat or a spot with plenty of activities, there are options to suit everyone.

What to do:

• Explore local attractions: Check out the nearby Jeffers Petroglyphs and the historic fort in Jackson. One camper mentioned, "I met the previous owner of the park and he told me about some cool things to do in the area including the Jeffers Petroglyphs."
• Enjoy outdoor activities: Many campgrounds are close to lakes and trails. One reviewer noted, "We unloaded our bikes and enjoyed the bike trails that encircle and go through Jackson."
• Visit nearby towns: New Ulm is about an hour away and offers a charming downtown area with great restaurants and shops. A camper shared, "New Ulm is well worth the visit! Cool little downtown area with lots of history."

What campers like:

• Friendly staff: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One visitor said, "The owners are very helpful and friendly! Best camping experience yet!" at Jackson KOA.
• Clean facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus for many. A reviewer at Marble Beach State Rec Area mentioned, "The 6 room restroom/shower was clean."
• Well-maintained sites: Campers appreciate well-kept grounds. One camper noted, "The park is small, but very well maintained," at Jackson KOA.

What you should know:

• Site sizes vary: Some campgrounds have smaller or irregularly shaped sites. A camper at Iowa Marble Beach State Rec Area mentioned, "Camp sites for tents are super tiny and irregular shaped."
• Mosquitoes can be an issue: Depending on the location, bugs can be a nuisance. One camper warned, "The camp is near a swampy area so bugs kinda rough," at Gull Point State Park.
• Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or markets nearby. A visitor at Everett Park noted, "There is a small grocery store about 5 mins south of the park."

Tips for camping with families:

• Look for family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds have playgrounds and swimming areas. One camper at Flying Goose Campground & Resort said, "There is a lake you can fish, swim, rent kayaks and canoe."
• Choose quieter times: Visiting during weekdays can mean fewer crowds. A family shared, "By far quietest park at lake which is nice if you are looking for less crowds," at Gull Point State Park.
• Plan for activities: Bring bikes or games to keep kids entertained. One camper mentioned, "We rode around the lake," at Emerson Bay State Recreation Area.

Tips from RVers:

• Check site accessibility: Some campgrounds have tight spots for larger RVs. A reviewer at Gull Point State Park noted, "This park is a CCC built park. Lots of twists and turns for an RV to get to their spot."
• Look for full hookups: If you need them, make sure to confirm availability. A camper at Flying Goose Campground & Resort mentioned, "Large sites with water/electric hook up - some full hook sites."
• Be prepared for muddy conditions: Some sites can get muddy, especially after rain. A visitor at Flying Goose Campground & Resort said, "Very muddy site but they offered to let us use a rug so we didn’t get ours all muddy."

Camping around Wallingford, IA, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. Just be sure to check the specifics of each campground to find the best fit for your needs!