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Best Campgrounds near Waterloo, IA

243 Reviews

The area around Waterloo, Iowa includes several camping spots worth checking out. R Campground sits close to the 'Avenue of the Saints' highway, with gravel roads throughout and mostly full hookup sites with 50 amp service. George Wyth State Park Campground has become popular with cyclists and hikers because of its trail network that connects to both Cedar Falls and Waterloo. Campers looking at Oelwein City Park Campground will find it at the south end of town, with electric and water hookups plus a shower house and vault toilets scattered around the grounds. If you want to camp near water, Lake Macbride State Park Campground puts you right by good fishing and boating areas. Many families like Pulpit Rock Campground for its quiet setting and because it's not far from things to do. Weather in Iowa changes dramatically with the seasons - spring and fall tend to be nicest for camping, summers get hot and humid, and winter camping requires serious cold-weather gear. Before lighting any campfires, check current restrictions, and always pack out what you pack in to keep these places nice for everyone.

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Best Camping Sites Near Waterloo, Iowa (127)

    1. George Wyth State Park Campground

    14 Reviews
    Cedar Falls, IA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 232-5505

    $15 - $23 / night

    "**

    • Iowa state parks are a bargain! This one is $11 for a non-electric site, $16 for an electric site. (Rates go down to $6 and $11 from 10/1-4/30.)"

    "Off a main highway, but you feel like you are a long ways from no where. If you are a biker there is a wonderful bike path."

    2. Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA

    10 Reviews
    Evansdale, IA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 233-3485

    "Just stayed one night passing through Iowa. Very pretty Campground with colorful Kabin’s and a lake for swimming or paddle boats. Level sites but not much shade."

    "Played a bit of lake-side volleyball in the evening. Beautiful sunset!"

    3. Deerwood Park

    4 Reviews
    Evansdale, IA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 493-0655

    "Nice lake very close to the campground."

    4. Big Woods Lake

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Falls, IA
    6 miles
    +1 (319) 266-6813

    "Nice park with a bike path around the lake. A few nature trails, but nothing I would call hiking. Two vault toilets placed on the bike path. One modern bathroom with showers in the campground."

    "The lake is small, no wake lake - but great for using your SUP or kayaks."

    5. Black Hawk County Park

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Falls, IA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 433-7275

    6. Big Woods Lake Campground and Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Cedar Falls, IA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 266-6813

    "Nice County camp ground (Black Hawk), Electric and non-electric sites. campground sits on edge of lake."

    7. Siggelkov County Park

    4 Reviews
    Oelwein, IA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 433-7275

    "Sigglekow Campground in Black Hawk County Iowa is one of a kind! Quite and secluded, if that's what you're looking for. To get out and decompress it's a great spot."

    "Would be nice if it had gravel parking but that's a small inconvience.. also good kyack location."

    8. Hickory Hills Park

    3 Reviews
    Evansdale, IA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 342-3350

    9. Grundy County Lake and Campground

    2 Reviews
    Cedar Falls, IA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 345-2688

    $15 / night

    "Surprisingly with it's location in relation to Hwy 20, it's actually pretty quiet. There is a paved trail that'll take you over to the lake so it's not a bad walk."

    10. McFarlane Park

    2 Reviews
    Vinton, IA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 342-3844

    "The playground was impressive and the Cedar Valley nature trail was very well kept."

    "Volleyball net, frisbee golf, bike trail, and playground!

    Be prepared for mosquitoes though! Lots of standing water and lots of mosquitoes!"

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Recent Camping Photos near Waterloo, IA

37 Photos of 127 Waterloo Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Waterloo, IA

243 Reviews of 127 Waterloo Campgrounds

Guide to Waterloo

Camping near Waterloo, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled weekend, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at George Wyth State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, “The connection to hiking trails throughout the park is fantastic.” You can enjoy nature while getting some exercise.
  • Fishing: Head to Rock Creek State Park Campground for a relaxing day by the water. A reviewer said, “Fishing is good here, as are the hiking trails.” It’s a great spot for both fishing and hiking.
  • Swimming: If you’re looking to cool off, check out Lake Macbride State Park Campground. One visitor noted, “The beach area is nice for swimming.” Perfect for a hot summer day!

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for F. W. Kent Park stated, “The bathrooms and shower were very clean with lots of hot water.” Clean facilities make for a more enjoyable stay.
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer generous space between sites. A camper at Pinicon Ridge Park mentioned, “The sites were decent in size, with some shade.” This allows for a more comfortable camping experience.
  • Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. One visitor at Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA said, “Staff was very friendly and helpful.” Good service can make a big difference.

What you should know:

  • Reservations: Some campgrounds, like Pulpit Rock Campground, operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper noted, “Sites are first come first served with no reservations.” It’s best to arrive early, especially during peak season.
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have stores or markets nearby. A review for Lake Macbride State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s no place to buy firewood nearby, so come prepared.” Bring what you need to avoid any inconveniences.
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A camper at George Wyth State Park Campground warned, “There were tremendous amounts of mosquitoes at the campground.” Bring bug spray to keep them at bay.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. One camper at Pinicon Ridge Park said, “The playground is fantastic and keeps the kids entertained all day.” It’s a great way to keep the little ones busy.
  • Water activities: Choose campgrounds near water for swimming and fishing. A review for Rock Creek State Park Campground highlighted, “The lake is pretty, and boat rentals seemed reasonable.” This adds extra fun for the family.
  • Quiet spots: Look for campgrounds that offer a peaceful atmosphere. A visitor at F. W. Kent Park mentioned, “A nice out-of-the-way campground. Very quiet.” Perfect for family bonding time.

Tips from RVers:

  • Level sites: Make sure to check the site’s levelness before parking. A camper at Lake Macbride State Park Campground noted, “The higher up the hill you are, the flatter the campsite is.” This can make a big difference in comfort.
  • Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric and water hookups. A review for Waterloo - Lost Island Waterpark KOA stated, “Sites are gravel for the RV, reasonably level, and very well maintained.” This makes RV camping much easier.
  • Dump stations: Check if the campground has a dump station available. A camper at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “Dump available on entrance/exit.” This is essential for RVers to know.

Camping around Waterloo, Iowa, has something for everyone. With beautiful parks and plenty of activities, you’re sure to have a great time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there tent camping sites available in Waterloo, Iowa?

Yes, tent camping is available in and around Waterloo. George Wyth State Park Campground offers affordable non-electric tent sites for $11 ($6 during off-season from October to April). The park is conveniently located near Waterloo and provides a wooded setting with quiet sites perfect for tent campers. For those willing to venture slightly farther, Pine Ridge Park offers tent camping sites along the Iowa River, providing a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Several other county and city parks in the area also accommodate tent camping with basic amenities. Most tent sites in the region are available on a first-come, first-served basis, though reservations are recommended during peak summer months.

What are the best campgrounds near Waterloo, Iowa?

The Waterloo area offers several excellent camping options. Prairie Bridges Park is a highly-rated, quiet small-town campground with great walking paths and scenic views, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Beed's Lake State Park Campground features a picturesque lake with a beautiful waterfall and numerous campsites to choose from, though RV sites can be close together. Other notable options include Deerwood Park near Evansdale with reservable sites and big-rig-friendly spaces, and Big Woods Lake Campground and Recreation Area near Cedar Falls, offering boat-in access. For a unique geological experience not far from Waterloo, Backbone State Park provides camping in a setting unlike anywhere else in Iowa.

What amenities are available at Waterloo, Iowa campgrounds?

Campgrounds around Waterloo offer a range of amenities to enhance your outdoor experience. Pine Lake State Park Campground provides electric hookups, flush toilets, and shower facilities, with many sites offering beautiful views of upper Pine Lake. Timmons Grove County Park features electric sites at $18/night with basic restroom facilities, though no showers. Many area campgrounds include recreational amenities like fishing access, swimming beaches, and hiking trails. Black Hawk County Park and Hickory Hills Park both offer water and toilet facilities with boat-in access options. For more upscale accommodations, Tower Rock has cabins with modern amenities. Most campgrounds in the area provide picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, with varying levels of hookups for RVs.

Are there seasonal camping options in Waterloo, Iowa?

Yes, seasonal camping options are available in the Waterloo area, with most campgrounds operating on a seasonal schedule. Riverview Park Campground offers both RV hookup sites and non-electric tent sites throughout the camping season. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park provides seasonal options with both modern and non-modern campgrounds. Many state parks in the area, including George Wyth State Park, offer reduced rates during the off-season (October through April), with prices dropping from $16 to $11 for electric sites and $11 to $6 for non-electric sites. Most campgrounds in the region are open from approximately April through October, with limited or no winter camping options due to Iowa's cold winters. Always check with specific campgrounds for their seasonal availability and winter accommodations.

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