Scott County Park provides several distinct campgrounds near Wheatland, Iowa, including Wilderness Campground with secluded, wooded sites set along hiking trail networks. Located approximately 20 miles from Wheatland, these camping areas contain forested sections with wildlife viewing opportunities and access to Pride Lake for fishing. The area experiences seasonal changes with camping generally available from April through October, though some facilities remain open year-round.
What to do
Fishing at Geneseo Campground: Access the Hennepin Canal directly from your campsite at Geneseo Campground, where you can expect to catch blue gill, catfish, bass and crappie. "This is an incredibly quaint, somewhat out-of-the-way location that will treat you to a heavy dose of isolation and privacy wherein you'll feel completely blessed by the nature you will be surrounded by," notes camper Stuart K.
Paddling at Central Park: Rent kayaks and canoes at Central Park in Center Junction to explore the lake and waterways. "Beautiful little lake. Nice beach area. Camping sites pretty level. Park has free WiFi," reports Leslie P. The park also features swimming areas during summer months.
Hiking at Wilderness Campground: Connect to multiple trail systems that converge at Wilderness Campground in Scott County Park. "If you're a tent camper and want to be located right in the thick of nature, while having direct access to prize hiking above just about anything else, then this is your haven," according to Stuart K.
What campers like
Natural immersion: Wilderness Campground offers more seclusion than other Scott County Park areas. "Definitely one of my favorites as a tent pitchin' outdoors enthusiast. Unlike either nearby Woodside or Bald Eagle campgrounds, which are more geared for the RV driving and 5th Wheel hauling camping community, Wilderness CG isn't very level, has decent natural barriers like tree roots, forest boundaries like thick brush and space constraints," one camper notes.
Wildlife viewing at Rock Creek Marina: The eco-center at Rock Creek County Marina and Campground features exhibits with local wildlife. "They have an Eco Center with turtles, snakes, and an aquarium that our family really enjoyed. The grounds are on backwaters of the Mississippi so there are boat ramps, docks, and areas to fish," writes Chris F.
Glamping close to Wheatland, Iowa: For luxury outdoor accommodations, Cedar River Campground offers glamping options with amenities. "This place became my wife's and daughters' favorite this year. It is a place where everyone who visits is very kind and respectful. The managers are always courteous and attentive," shares Jorge F.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most campgrounds near Wheatland close during winter months. "Woodside Campground is closed for the winter season. Campground offers host, nicely maintained heated showers and restrooms, play area, firewood, available on site, RV pads are hard surface, have fire rings, water, electric, tables," notes James M.
Mosquito concerns: Some areas, particularly those near water, can have significant insect activity. "Surrounded by nature with forest, prairie, and lake. Trails, and even guided activities," says James M. about Camp Liberty, though waterfront locations may require bug spray during summer months.
Highway noise at some campgrounds: Cedar River Campground sits close to the interstate. "We stopped over for the night, and it was a good respite. Unfortunately, the pool was closed for the evening cleaning, so we didn't get to use it. It is right off the highway, so it was loud when we were outside, but we couldn't hear it at all when we were in our Tab 400," reports Jackie J.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Cedar River Campground includes activities designed specifically for children. "Not our typical campsite but we had the kids down for the weekend and we thought a campsite with a pool and mini golf would be a fun break from the norm," writes Steve T.
Educational opportunities: The Rock Creek Marina eco-center offers nature programs for children. "The campground has an assortment of primitive and electrical sites. They also have cabins and canoe/kayak rental, a visitor shop with food/drink and a mini museum of the local wildlife. Great place for the family," according to Ryan.
Swimming options: Little Bear Campground provides seasonal swimming facilities. "Little Bear Campground is located right off I-80 at the West Liberty exit. There is a pool (closed for season), and a playground for kids," Shannon G. notes. Central Park also features a beach area for swimming during warmer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Woodside Campground: The campground layout favors larger RVs. "This CG is one of 6 that you have to choose from here at Scott County Park, wherein Woodside is definitely more geared for the RVs – especially the much larger ones, so if you have a very big rig, this likely is the best CG for you – with each site offering FHUs with electric, water & sewage, fire rings and picnic tables," advises Stuart K.
Full hookups available: Little Bear Campground offers complete RV services. "Very conveniently located off I-80, Fair price, full hook up and pull through site $33.00," reports Alan B. The campground includes both back-in and pull-through sites.
Solar power innovation: Woodside Campground utilizes renewable energy. "Newer CG offers RVs including big rigs basics like electric, water, sewer, fire rings, hard pads. Not much shade though trees are planted," explains James M., noting the campground's solar-assisted facilities.
