Near the Missouri River, South Sioux City offers seasonal glamping options with direct water access and varied terrain. Campers encounter mild summers with occasional humidity and temperatures averaging 80-85°F during peak season. Winter camping is limited as most sites close from November through March.
What to do
Boating and fishing access: Lewis and Clark State Park Campground provides boat ramp access to Blue Lake. One camper noted, "Access to water close by. Large playground for kids. Campground host had firewood. Picnic table & firepit with grill rack in good condition. Nearby boat ramp to load kayak onto Blue Lake."
Hiking multi-use trails: Clay County Park features a trail system connecting to the Missouri River. A visitor mentioned, "Electric, water, and dump station available here. In the trees, shaded, and a short walk along a pleasant trail to the Missouri River. The trail system, which is accessible from campground, is great."
Playground recreation: Multiple campgrounds offer playground facilities for children. At Little Sioux Park Campground, "Two playgrounds. Very nice field of wild comb flowers blooming near the shower house," according to a review.
What campers like
River views: The Missouri River provides scenic backdrops at several sites. A camper at Scenic Park observed, "The park also has tennis courts, soccer fields, and baseball fields. There is a swimming pool and playgrounds, along with trails. The trails I loved were along the river."
Clean facilities: Many campsites maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. A visitor to Scenic Park wrote, "We have stayed here multiple times, always accommodating, always clean. The sites closer to the river tend to be quieter. This is a city-run park and offers plenty to do."
Well-maintained grounds: Campgrounds receive regular upkeep. One camper described Lewis and Clark State Park: "It's clean, well maintained, and just a good environment. I love the trails, the fishing, and all the opportunities of things to do."
What you should know
Variable site quality: Some campgrounds have inconsistent maintenance. At Onawa-Blue Lake KOA, a camper reported, "Spots are essentially on top of each other. Luckily it was me sandwiched between family members but the spots are garbage."
Weather considerations: Spring can bring muddy conditions. A visitor warned, "The place was almost completely flooded. And with not that much rain either."
Reservation requirements: Most sites operate first-come, first-served, though some accept reservations. Clay County Park notes, "Camping reservations must be made before setting up on a campsite. Reservations are accepted up to 90 days in advance of arrival."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Sioux City North KOA provides numerous recreational facilities. A camper shared, "Nice pullthru campsites, with lots of activities, large pool."
Budget considerations: Cost varies significantly between sites. At Lewis and Clark State Park, a visitor noted, "Oh my the rate was 19.00 for full 50 amp hookup. Beautiful state park in the water nice level sites paved."
Kid-friendly amenities: Select sites with playground access. A camper at Crawford Creek Recreation Area reported, "Multiple play areas for kids. Water good for fishing, kayaking and swimming. Nice cabins for rent."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer pull-through sites with full hookups. At On-Ur-Wa RV Park, a camper explained, "Super clean park and very well taken care of. John came in and helped me, asked me if I was a GoodSam member and charged me $43.34 for a full-hookup, super long pull thru."
Setup considerations: Pay attention to site dimensions and surface types. At Scenic Park, one RVer observed, "Sites are easy to park in. Plenty of trees and grass. Some noise from train and city, but very bearable. Easy access from and to Sioux City and highway."
Extended stay options: Some locations accommodate longer visits. A camper at Clay County Park noted, "A lot of the sites were taken by either people who lived there full time or people who leave their camper there for the whole summer."
