Near West Branch, Iowa, camping options spread across county and state parks through the Cedar River watershed basin. The landscape features limestone bluffs, river corridors, and prairie restoration areas with an average summer temperature of 83°F. Most campgrounds open from April through October, though several parks maintain primitive camping options year-round.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Cedar River Campground provides direct river access. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids. There was a beautiful wetland just down from the campground," notes Jackie J.
Hiking trails: Little Bear Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby natural areas. "Should you be wanting to embrace nature, then head west to Hickory Hill Park that offers up some really nice hiking, biking and walking trails on 185 acres of pristine Midwest prairieland," suggests Stuart K.
River fishing: Local waterways support multiple fish species. One camper at Pinicon Ridge Park mentioned, "The water is great for fishing, swimming and boating. Central City also has everything you need within minutes of your site."
What campers like
Convenient locations: Campgrounds in the region provide easy highway access. "Convenient location right off I-80 at the West Liberty exit. It is right next to a trailer park. There are a few tent sites ($22/night) and RV sites($33/night)," writes Shannon G. about Little Bear Campground.
Clean facilities: Maintaining modern bathroom facilities ranks high on camper priorities. At Palisades-Kepler State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are very nice and modern and clean, maintenance was very nice to let me shower before he could clean it," reports Khenia F.
Family amenities: Campgrounds frequently include recreational options beyond traditional camping. One camper at Pinicon Ridge Park stated, "They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen. There were activities for kids of all ages, and they used a rubber composite on the ground at the playground so when kiddos fall, they aren't injured."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Terrain varies significantly across campgrounds. At Palisades-Kepler, "Campsites kinda small and hilly," notes Amber R., while at Matsell Bridge Natural Area, a reviewer found "level ground and lots of shade. Primitive bathrooms, no showers or running water."
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity increases during warm months. At Matsell Bridge, one camper reported, "When I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness."
Reservation policies vary: Some locations require advance planning. At Morgan Creek County Park, "The only problem is it's first come first serve. Hard to get a site," notes Terry M.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Parks invest in quality play equipment. At Pinicon Ridge Park, a camper shares, "Our kids had more fun at this campground than any other so far. They have the most amazing playgrounds (yes, two of them!) That we've ever seen."
Swimming options: During summer months, water recreation provides relief. "The camp offers site for all tastes: primitive and modern cabins and lodges, tents for small or large groups and couples... Surrounded by nature with forest, prairie, and lake," notes James M. about Camp Liberty.
Storm safety: Weather changes quickly in Iowa. At Pinicon Ridge Park, campers appreciate that the "clean shower house with storm shelter" provides protection during severe weather.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds provide electric service, but water and sewer connections vary. At Camelot Campground, "We were in site #5 FHU. Easy and friendly check in," reports Rachel G.
Level sites: RV campers prioritize level parking surfaces. At Pinicon Ridge Park, campers appreciate that "The site was a level rock pad witch was very spacious with a fire ring and picnic table."
Dump station access: Most area campgrounds provide dump stations at exit points. At Pinicon Ridge Park, "Great county campground with water and electric sites, dump at exit."
