Camping options near Washington, Iowa include both public parks and private facilities within a 30-mile radius. The surrounding terrain features rolling hills and farmland at approximately 700 feet elevation, with wooded areas along creek and river valleys. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F to 85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons often experience nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Shady Creek offers access to the Mississippi River with prime spots for catching catfish and bass. "Nice location to spend time fishing, watching sunsets, and paddle. Near Wild Cat Den State Park," notes James M. The campground provides easy river access for anglers.
Hiking trails: F. W. Kent Park features extensive trail systems through diverse habitats. "Forest, prairie, wetland habitats. Not far from town for quick trip if needed," shares James M. The park includes a two-mile trail circling the lake with "walking bridges made from recycled iron and memorial trees of many varieties."
Water recreation: Several parks offer swimming and paddling options during summer months. At Shady Creek, visitors appreciate the riverside recreation: "Site #12 with electric hookup was in my opinion the best site. Right on the back of the mighty Mississippi," writes Donna T.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers value the room between sites at parks like F. W. Kent Park. "Lots of space between sites," notes Shelton A., while another camper mentions "Nice campground, sites are large and staggered so you aren't staring at your neighbors and can enjoy the views."
Clean facilities: F. W. Kent Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Beautiful, very large, clean, quiet, $20 for RV Campspot with electric, sewer dump at park entrance," reports a recent visitor. The shower facilities also receive positive mentions: "Great shower house."
Proximity to cultural attractions: Amana RV Park serves as a convenient base for exploring regional attractions. "Great location to explore the area. There are sites for tents up to big rigs," notes Julie G. Another camper adds it's a "30 minute walk to the idyllic town of Amaña."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds experience railroad disruption. At Crossroads RV Park, one camper notes: "The tracks are less than 1/4-mile away. And quite a bit of freeway noise, too!" Similarly, at Shady Creek, a camper mentions: "Down side is railroad tracks on one side, which came through at 3:30 am blowing his horns."
Water access limitations: Water hookups vary significantly between parks. At Shady Creek, campers report: "Water is shared by 4 sites and was 30 ft away," and another mentions "water was dispersed through out the park, but often too far for a hose to reach."
Weather considerations: Spring and fall bring variable conditions requiring preparation. At Cedar River Campground, a visitor notes campground operations are seasonal: "Recently under new ownership, you can tell they've been working hard getting the place going again."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Cedar River Campground offers recreation facilities beyond camping. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," reports one camper, though timing matters as "the pool was closed for the evening cleaning."
Budget-friendly sites: Several parks offer economical options with decent amenities. F. W. Kent Park charges "$20 for electric hookups" while maintaining "spacious campsite" areas that families appreciate, according to a visitor.
Swimming areas: During summer months, beaches provide cooling options. One camper at F. W. Kent Park mentioned "the nice beach" though noted fall temperatures were "too chilly" for swimming during their October visit.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many rv sites near Washington, Iowa feature level surfaces. At Little Bear Campground, visitors find "clean, large, level, grassy tents sites" and note the campground offers "full hook ups with a fire ring and picnic table."
Big rig accessibility: For large motorhomes, campground approaches matter. Located right off I-80, Little Bear Campground provides "very conveniently located off I-80, Fair price, full hook up and pull through site $33.00," according to Alan B. The campground accommodates larger recreational vehicles despite its compact size.
Hookup details: RV campers should verify electrical service specifics. Amana RV Park offers "sites wide open and generally level, in and out is a breeze" with "grass and gravel sites with plenty of room for your rig." Seasonal operations typically run from April through October.
