RV camping near Whittemore, Iowa offers year-round options across varied terrain. Located in north-central Iowa, campgrounds in the region typically sit between 1,100-1,300 feet elevation with prairie landscapes and small lakes. Weather varies seasonally with humid summers reaching 80°F and winter temperatures often below freezing, affecting campground operations and site conditions.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: Pilot Knob State Park Campground features multiple trails through wooded areas. "Great hiking trails. Picnic area. We have gone a grew times a year and love it!" notes camper Nichole L.
Fishing access: Kennedy County Park provides fishing areas with boat ramps. One visitor reports, "Multiple kids parks, beach area, fishing areas with boat ramps, trails, kids butterfly garden."
Historical exploration: The Grotto of Redemption in West Bend attracts visitors interested in regional history. "The Grotto is a fascinating achievement worth a look if you are in the area," according to Richard.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Grotto Campground offers a quiet environment with shaded spots. A camper noted, "Very clean restrooms/showers. Only one other camper here. Shaded spots, great Wi-Fi, good cell service."
Observation points: Pilot Knob State Park features an observation tower constructed by the CCC. According to Lee D., "The observation tower, entrance gates, and picnic shelter were all constructed by the CCC and were beautiful."
Value pricing: County and state parks offer affordable camping options. At Pilot Knob, "non electric sites are $10.00 and electric are $18.00," making it "a great place to spend the weekend or a week!" according to Roger.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate only from spring through fall. Three Fingers Campground runs "from April 1 to November 1," while other parks like Fieldstone RV Park operate from "May 15 to October 15."
Train proximity: Some campgrounds are located near railway lines. At Grotto Campground, campers report being "located right next to nice trees and train tracks" but note that "only one train came by and it wasn't loud."
Internet connectivity: Cell service and Wi-Fi access vary by location. At Kennedy County Park, one camper experienced "No cell service provider functions in this park. The WIFI is shared between dozens of sites, speed averages right around 5mps."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kennedy County Park features playgrounds suitable for children. A visitor mentioned the park "has a nice playground and access to a beautiful golf course! And FREE WIFI!"
Nature education: Pilot Knob State Park offers wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper reported, "When driving to my site two fawns were laying near the playground."
Swimming opportunities: Some parks feature swimming areas for family recreation. According to Michael W., Pilot Knob has "an amazing sand bottom swimming pond surrounded by sand beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Pilot Knob State Park Campground, site layout requires attention. "Not all sites are level, and most do not have delineated parking pads," notes one RVer. "The layout of the campground would be challenging if all sites were occupied."
Hookup availability: Three Fingers Campground & RV Park offers full-service sites. Beverly W. reports, "This is primarily a long-term RV site with a few transient sites. People are friendly, bathrooms and showers are well-maintained."
Navigation challenges: Kennedy County Park has limited signage for RVs. One camper observed, "The one-way roads are narrow and unmarked. Several times during our two-night stay, drivers were forced to pull off to permit a 'wrong-way' vehicle to pass."
