Nine Eagles State Park in Davis City, Iowa offers specialized horse camping facilities about 40 miles from Chula, Missouri. The equestrian section includes spacious campsites with electric hookups available at $21 per night for seniors. The park's trails are ideal for various riding skill levels with water access throughout, though campers should bring their own feed and plan for tack storage.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Wallace State Park features a 6-acre lake stocked with fish. "The lake for it's size, had some nice fish," notes Reece G. from Wallace State Park Campground.
Explore hiking trails: The trail systems range from casual walks to more challenging terrain. "Trails are well marked. There three levels to choose from based on distance," explains a visitor at Wallace State Park. Trail difficulty varies by park, with most offering clear signage indicating route length and terrain type.
Swimming opportunities: Several parks offer swimming access during summer months. "Nice lake to swim and fish. Absolutely beautiful park and really nice trails," reports Tina T. about Nine Eagles State Park Campground. Water access is typically available from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: The bathroom amenities receive positive reviews at many locations. "Showers were clean and in their own stalls with locking doors, shelves and ample hooks. The water got nice and hot and the shower heads were even and held good pressure," comments Sarah H. about Wallace State Park Campground.
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of specific sites. "I love how many of the basic sites are secluded or at least mostly separate from other sites. Many have treeline surrounding so your site is closed off from others, ensuring some privacy," notes Erin P. about Wallace State Park.
Quiet atmosphere: For those seeking tranquility, certain parks deliver. "This is our go to campground when we just want to get away for the weekend. The campsites are shaded and pretty secluded," explains Brandi F. when describing her experience at Wallace State Park.
What you should know
Free dispersed camping options: For budget-conscious campers, Bonanza Conservation Area offers no-cost sites but with limitations. "Multiple campsites available along the highway, but the marked site is one of the best, right by a great fishing lake. Very quite, no amenities," shares Lloyd W.
Park maintenance varies: Some facilities receive more attention than others. "The basic sites aren't used much as they seemed less kept than the electric sites. Finding a place to pitch a tent in the electric loop was a challenge but we did find one that had enough level grass," notes Uhura G. regarding Nine Eagles State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Check operating dates before planning your trip. Nine Eagles State Park operates from April 1 to December 31, while some parks like Wallace State remain open year-round. Water availability may be limited during cooler months, as Uhura G. discovered: "the water wasn't turned on in the basic site loop... it was also off at the swimming beach."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for younger visitors. Wallace State Park features "a updated playground for the kids," according to Chad K., making it suitable for families with children needing activity options between nature explorations.
Site selection for families: Choose locations with adequate space for both equipment and play. At Bonanza Conservation Area, camping is restricted to designated areas. "It is against their rules to camp anywhere but on a gravelly parking lot. We camped just off the road and got a citation," warns Kevin C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal spotting during evening hours. "Wildlife was abundant in the evening. We saw many deer, frogs and squirrels. At dark, nature sounds were unbelievable with songs of bullfrogs, owls, and flying creatures of all sorts," reports Sarah H. from Wallace State Park.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup details: Sites with electricity often fill quickly. At Nine Eagles State Park, electric sites include both 30-amp and 50-amp options, while Wallace State Park notes, "You can get water and electric at most sites."
Leveling challenges: Terrain varies significantly between campgrounds and specific sites. "We switched from site 46 to site 53 as it was far more level and fairly private since it abutted woods," shares Kevin S. from Wallace State Park. RVers should carry leveling blocks and scout sites upon arrival.
Dump station access: While not all campgrounds offer full hookups, some provide sanitary dump stations. Nine Eagles State Park maintains a dump station for campers, though specific site hookups vary. "Power hookup no water or sewer at site but both are available in the campground," notes Terry about site 54 at Nine Eagles.
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