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Established Camping

South Lake Campground — Backbone State Park

Warning 3 Alerts are In Effect

There are 3 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!

Both campgrounds are closed from December 1 - March 31 each year. Exception: The 2 youth group sites in the South Lake campground accept reservations year round.

If you are unable to reserve a cabin online because the reservation window has closed, you must call the Backbone Concessionaire at 319-361-4794 regarding cabin availability. All last minute cabin rentals must be a minimum of 2 nights, are handled by park staff and must be done prior to arriving at the park.

The South Lake and Six Pines campgrounds are 100 percent reservable and accept reservations April 1 - November 30 until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival.

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

South Lake Campground at Backbone State Park is surrounded by forested terrain with a mix of hills and flat areas. Temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Nearby attractions include Backbone Lake and the park's hiking trails, offering opportunities for fishing and exploring nature.

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Location

South Lake Campground — Backbone State Park is located in Iowa

Detail location of campground

Directions

To the South Gate Entrance South Lake Campground, Cabins, Beach, Office 1.3 miles north out of Dundee on W69. To East Gate Entrance Backbone trail head and picnic area's 1.5 miles north on W69 from South Gate Entrance. To the West Gate Entrance Six Pines Campground, CCC Museum and picnic areas take 187 North from Hwy 20 to C57, Take C57 5 miles East to park entrance. North Gate Entrance Richmond Springs, Auditorium and picnic areas take Hwy 3 East from Strawberry Point. Go North on W68 to North Gate Approximately 2 miles.

Address

1347 129th St
Dundee, IA 52038

Coordinates

42.6025697 N
91.5416878 W

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Connectivity

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    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
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    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Last on 6/29/25

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Last on 6/29/25

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Equestrian

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Reservations


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4.5

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 29, 2025

Backbone Southlake Camp review

Great shady spots - register on line - clean bathrooms and showers - no full hook ups - must fill water tanks before parking and 30/50 power available

Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is South Lake Campground located in Backbone State Park?

South Lake Campground is located within Backbone State Park, Iowa's oldest state park. The campground is situated in the southern section of the park, near one of the park's lakes. Backbone State Park itself is in northeastern Iowa, between Strawberry Point and Dundee. The campground can be accessed via the park's main entrance roads, with clear signage directing visitors to the South Lake area. For specific directions, it's recommended to check with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources or use GPS coordinates for the most direct route.

What amenities are available at South Lake Campground in Backbone State Park?

South Lake Campground offers clean bathrooms and shower facilities that are well-maintained. All camping spots are reservable, and the campground provides shady sites for comfortable camping. Electrical hookups (30/50 amp) are available, but there are no full hookups. Campers with RVs should note that they need to fill water tanks before parking. The campground maintains clean sites that are well-spaced. For reservations, you'll need to register online through Iowa's state park reservation system. The overall cleanliness and organization of the campground contribute to its positive camping experience.

What recreational activities can I enjoy near South Lake Campground?

Backbone State Park offers numerous recreational opportunities near South Lake Campground. The park features beautiful natural surroundings perfect for hiking, with trails that showcase the park's unique limestone ridge (the "backbone") and scenic overlooks. Fishing is popular in the park's lakes, and water activities like kayaking and canoeing are available depending on seasonal conditions. Wildlife viewing and bird watching opportunities abound throughout the park's diverse habitats. The park also offers picnic areas for day use. During appropriate seasons, photography, nature study, and simply enjoying the peaceful woodland setting make South Lake Campground an excellent base for outdoor recreation.