Glamping opportunities near Wallingford, Iowa provide convenient access to small lakes throughout Martin and Jackson counties. The landscape features prairie terrain with elevations around 1,200-1,400 feet above sea level. Most luxury camping options in this region operate seasonally from May through October, with facilities closing before winter temperatures drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access points: Perch Lake Park offers electric sites at $22 per night with a camp host on duty. One visitor noted, "At&t service. $22 with electricity. $12 w/o. Stayed here in a 26' B+. Big rigs ok here. All back in."
Frisbee golf courses: At Island View Campground in Mountain Lake, campers can enjoy the nearby recreation area. As one guest shared, "Clean Park, have fun things to do at Lawcon park across the street! Frisbee Golf, playground, and a 5mile trail around lake."
Historic sites: The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park provides electric hookups near a unique religious monument. A visitor explained, "The Grotto is interesting and inspiring. Admission is free. Two adjacent camping areas are partially shaded and will accommodate rigs of all sizes."
Beach swimming: Flying Goose Campground & Resort offers direct lake access with dedicated swimming areas. A camper described their experience: "Right on Lake Imogene, there is a boat dock and a sandy swimming beach (which we had entirely to ourselves!)."
What campers like
Clean facilities: At Land of Memories Campground, guests appreciate the well-maintained grounds. One camper shared, "We have very much enjoyed our weekends at the Land of Memories Campground. This is a very spacious, clean campground."
Peaceful atmosphere: Seasonal crowds affect the quiet atmosphere at many local glamping spots. A camper at Flying Goose Campground noted, "What a gem! We were there for a one night mid-week stay, and it was so quiet and calm because ~70% of the spots are taken by seasonal guests who are primarily at the campgrounds on the weekends."
Water views: Sunset views over water are commonly mentioned in reviews. An Everett Park visitor remarked, "It was serene and beautiful. The sunset over the water was absolutely amazing. Breathtaking scenery."
Playground access: Many campgrounds offer multiple play areas for children. One Flying Goose guest mentioned, "There are three playgrounds (one at the swimming beach), a mini golf course, and an actual phone booth."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Some campsites at The Grotto of the Redemption RV Park are positioned near train tracks. A visitor advised, "There are two areas. One is very close to a train line, which runs infrequently."
Late-night activity levels: Everett Park sometimes experiences noise issues. A camper reported, "Campfire rings and picnic tables. Bathrooms were decent. Electrical hookup only. Kids screaming and people partying super late."
Extension cord requirements: Some electric sites have outlets positioned far from parking pads. A Land of Memories camper warned, "The electric hook ups are really far from the pad so bring an extension."
Seasonal limitations: Most upscale glamping options in this region are unavailable during winter months. The Grotto RV Park offers a cost-effective alternative at $20 per night: "Rest rooms, showers, fresh water and a dump station are provided. The cost is $20 per night."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Everett Park offers dedicated areas for children, though some equipment may be dated. A visitor noted, "Playground is kind of small and old. However we had a great time and will probably be back next year when sibley farm is open again."
Recreation variety: Land of Memories Campground includes river access and recreational trails. A family camper shared, "We camp with children and this has been a very family friendly campground. It has a playground & trails to walk along the Minnesota River."
Swimming safety: No lifeguards are present at most lake swimming areas. A Flying Goose visitor pointed out, "Lake to swim in - no lifeguard offered."
Evening activity planning: Mosquito levels vary by location and time of year. A Land of Memories camper mentioned, "Bugs were bad I guess, maybe a tad worse than elsewhere we have camped but not bad enough to keep us from sitting outside in the evening."
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Jackson KOA provides full-service sites with additional amenities. A long-term visitor highlighted, "Besides your picnic table, there's a covered dining area by the pool with a gas grill."
Site surface quality: Some campgrounds have grassy sites that may become muddy after rain. A Flying Goose visitor reported, "Very muddy site but they offered to let us use a rug so we didn't get ours all muddy."
Dump station availability: The availability of sewer hookups varies widely between campgrounds. At Jackson KOA, maintenance staff are attentive to plumbing issues: "Our neighbor had a leak in his outside shower that was noticed by the maintenance man. He turned off the water and upon the camper's return, helped him fix his leak."
Water fill procedures: Many campgrounds require water tank filling before parking. An Everett Park camper advised, "Sites are electric only. Fill with water before setting up."
