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- Clear Lake State Park Iowa
The best camping in Clear Lake State Park Iowa, IA
Discover the Serene Beauty of Clear Lake State Park.
The best camping in Clear Lake State Park Iowa, IA
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Clear Lake State Park Iowa adventure.
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Stories from the community
Edward
October 2025
30 ft Class A
With pets
Had the best stay here at Walking Eagle Pond. Very peaceful and quiet. The hosts were nice and even let us pick some apples of their apple tree and we made the best homemade apple turnovers!
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Hans
October 2025
16 ft car
Very friendly hosts, cool property with lots of walking trails and cute animals
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Josh
October 2025
Tent
Great land, and always will enjoy seeing all the animals! Definitely will have to make a stop here again in the future!
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Natasha
October 2025
Tent
Awesome private campsite, right next to the river! Clear line of communication with Tyler the whole time. Next time I'll bring a wagon to haul my gear out there, but definitely worth it! My dog loved all the space to run and all the swimming he got to do!
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Blake
September 2025
Tent
With pets
Shannon has a great little spot on offer. We took our twin toddler two year olds camping for the first time at this location and it was perfect well groomed grass with organic apple trees and a brand new pavilion made our evening very comfortable. There’s also a fire pit and we were able to roast s’mores.
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Ramsey
September 2025
Tent
I absolutely loved camping at Tyler’s place! It felt so welcoming and private, shout out to Conor being the lil farm cat that showed us around lol
Will definitely be returning for another awesome night
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Lauren
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Tyler and Sarah were so nice, meeting us the moment we arrived. We were given the option of a few sites and essentially, anywhere really. The space we set up camp at was like a shire tucked away not far from the main yard and bathroom. But somehow felt totally secluded. Our music didn't even cut through the trees.
The dogs got to run their butts off, we soaked up the gurgling creek and hooting owls. We will definitely be back.
My personal highlight-
The cows. Next time I need to meet and pet the pig!
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Kim
August 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Very clean, well taken care of. Mark was very responsive with any questions. We had a great time and will be back!
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Zachary
August 2025
16 ft car
It was a perfect campsite right by the water. Had electric and water hook ups. Would definitely camp here again! Thank you
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Linda
July 2025
40 ft travel trailer
With pets
Very very clean, Ryan & family very friendly, you can tell they take much pride in their farm & sharing it with making campsites to share. The aroma walking thru the pines was amazing. Definitely stay there again.
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Jayne
July 2025
24 ft Class B
WONDERFUL FIRST TIME EXPERIENCE WITH HIP CAMP!!! Ryan’s family was the bonus on top of amazing camp sites and beautiful countryside.
We loved everything about our 1 night stay, and we will be back! Clean, pristine grounds, pickleball, walking trails. A fire was already started and Ryan’s came out to share snores with us! Loved their pups! The tree farm and we bought fresh sweet corn to take with us!
An amazing experience!
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Abby
July 2025
33 ft travel trailer
With pets
Scenic and isolated spot next to a river! A great spot to get away.
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Kirsten
July 2025
Tent
This was a great place to stay. Tyler greeted us upon arrival and showed us around pointing out several options for setting up our tent. We were disappointed that it rained the next day so we had to leave without the chance to explore the trail and meet the animals. We’ll have to go there again.
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Terry
July 2025
22 ft travel trailer
We enjoyed the camp site, the welcoming host and meeting the well cared for rescue animals! Easy to find location, would certainly stay again.
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Amy
June 2025
20 ft Class B
With kids
Passing through Iowa we found Dillon Tree farm to supplement us with water & electric. Family friendly, family owned business. Quiet off off the highway between US-65 and I-35.
Nice place to have some peace a quiet overnight. We were the only ones that night but spots are spaced very well.
Highly recommend if you need a quiet, safe place for the night.
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Cindy
June 2025
27 ft Class B
We’ve been traveling for over a month in our RV. So far The Tree Farm is our favorite stay! The property is stunning and easily accessed. There’s plenty of room and lots of walking paths, if you’re so inclined. Ryan and his family are very kind and responsive. There was a giant thunderstorm during our stay. This was the perfect place to ride it out. Ryan even offered us refuge should the storm get to gnarly! Also, if you need to dump your tanks, there is a little free dump station in the town of Iowa Falls, just as you enter the town. It’s in a little park next to the National Guard armory, only a few miles away.
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Rob
June 2025
14 ft travel trailer
With pets
Tyler was a great host and the site was just what I was looking for! A peaceful place for a getaway complete with a Noah’s Ark full of animals!!
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Tyrsa
June 2025
29 ft travel trailer
With pets
We had a great stay at Lazy J's! It was very peaceful and nice to be close to so many different animals. Our kids and dogs loved spending time here and being out in nature. We will definitely be back again sometime!
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Raymond
May 2025
Tent
With pets
Tyler was an excellent host. He greeted us upon arrival, gave us the layout of the land. The campsite by the river front was amazing. It’s about 97% shaded with a fire pit right by the river. It’s a great place to unwind and recharge. He even makes his own maple syrup from trees on his land, which is fantastic. And, if you happen to be in the mood to feed some of his animals he’s s rescued, you can purchase some food to give to his critters.
We will definitely be going back out to unwind at the riverfront sight again.
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Kimberly
May 2025
37 ft fifth wheel
Host was quick to respond and very accommodating. Spot couldn’t have been more perfect. Easy access for our 37 ft fifth wheel to get in and out easily. Great tree farm with a walking path and peaceful surrounding. Would book again.
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Other options near Clear Lake State Park Iowa
The best camping in Clear Lake State Park Iowa, IA guide
Overview
About
Swim, camp, repeat. A simple equation that adds up to a killer summer vacay down at Clear Lake State Park. One of the most popular places to camp in all of Iowa and for good reason, it has a 900-foot sandy swimming beach right next to the campground! Bingo! This is a no brainer for a mighty fine way to pass the hot summer days with ease. When you need more breathing room hop on your boat to explore the 3,643-acre lake surface and cast your line for a multitude of fish living here. You could cruise over to the 3-acre Woodford Island, a primo spot for fishing. Or just stay on the beach and relax the days away with your book and your frosty beverage while taking in the scenery of rolling hills and breezy oak groves around you. There is no wrong choice here.
Notable campgrounds
- Lakeside Campground: Offers stunning views of the lake and easy access to water activities.
- Oakwood Campground: Shaded sites nestled among mature oak trees provide a serene camping experience.
- Clearview Campground: Ideal for families, with playgrounds and open spaces for children to play.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early, especially for peak summer weekends, as sites fill up quickly.
- Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
- Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and spots may open up.
- Explore nearby camping options if Clear Lake State Park is fully booked.
When to go
The best time to visit Clear Lake State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the lake is bustling with activity. However, for those seeking solitude, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer a peaceful escape, with the added bonus of colorful foliage. Winters can be harsh, with the park often blanketed in snow, limiting access to some amenities.
Know before you go
- Check the park's website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
- Life jackets are a must for all water activities – safety first!
- Accessible facilities are available, but it's best to confirm ahead of time.
- Remember to pack insect repellent and sunscreen for your outdoor adventures.
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast to avoid any unexpected surprises.
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