Tent camping options near Wallingford, Iowa include several locations with varying terrain and amenities across northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and humidity levels often exceeding 70%. Winter camping is limited with most facilities closing between November and April due to snowfall averaging 35 inches annually and temperatures frequently dropping below freezing.
What to do
Frisbee golf access: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground features a disc golf course directly accessible from the camping area. "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course," notes Joel S., who also mentioned the availability of free firewood at the site.
Lake fishing opportunities: Iowa Lake Co Campground provides direct lake access for anglers. "It is right on a lake, has water, and a nice vault toilet," explains Bradley B., who found it ideal during a bike touring trip through Iowa.
Explore wildlife areas: Primitive camping at Devine Wildlife Area offers opportunities for wildlife observation in a natural setting. "Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up," reports Joel S., noting the swampy areas nearby require mosquito repellent.
What campers like
Electric hookup options: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground provides electrical service at campsites with shared water spigots. "Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared. Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees," according to Joel S., who paid $18 per night for his stay.
Sunset views: Bright Lake Co Park offers partial lake views through trees. "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents," writes Wally B., who found it perfect for family camping.
Solitude for tent campers: Many campgrounds in the region offer quiet experiences during weekdays. "I found this to be a great little spot to stay bike touring through Iowa... I was literally the only one there," reports Bradley B. about his Iowa Lake Co Campground experience.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At Devine Wildlife Area, "No water, no electric, no toilet. Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent. But the price is right," explains Joel S.
Seasonal considerations: Campground availability varies significantly by season. Ambrose A. Call State Park operates from April 1 to November 1, with Joel S. noting that it was "Not busy while I was here" during his visit.
Mosquito preparation: Wetland proximity requires insect protection at most campgrounds. "Bring mosquito repellent," advises Joel S. about Devine Wildlife Area, while Abby F. described Ambrose A. Call as "Buggy" despite its "nice trails."
Tips for camping with families
Space for multiple tents: Cenla Campgrounds offers spacious sites suitable for family groups. The campground provides water hookups, sewer connections, and electrical service while allowing alcohol and pets, making it versatile for family camping.
Site privacy considerations: Ambrose A. Call State Park offers limited privacy between sites. "No privacy between sites. Pit toilets. No showers," explains Joel S., though he appreciated the "nice oak trees" providing some shade.
College crowds on weekends: Some locations attract younger visitors during peak periods. "There was quite a bit of people when I was there and most of them were rowdy college kids but hey it was still a blast," shares Gabbie G. about her experience at Iowa Lake Co Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most campgrounds near Wallingford have restrictions for large RVs. Devine Wildlife Area offers undesignated camping areas where "You can bring a big rig in," according to Joel S., though he cautions about the primitive conditions.
Electrical considerations: Check amperage availability at campgrounds with electrical service. Ambrose A. Call State Park provides both 30-amp and 50-amp service, while Dog Creek Co Park only offers 30-amp hookups for RV campers.
Dump station locations: Sanitary dump facilities are limited in the region. Cenla Campgrounds provides sanitary dump stations along with water and sewer hookups, making it one of the more RV-friendly options within driving distance of Wallingford.
