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- Wilson Island State Recreation Area
The best camping in Wilson Island State Recreation Area, IA
Discover the natural charm of Wilson Island State Recreation Area.
The best camping in Wilson Island State Recreation Area, IA
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Wilson Island State Recreation Area adventure.
Camper favorites near Wilson Island State Recreation Area
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Ryan
October 2025
Tent
Tasha was very accommodating and met me when I got there. They have a cool hang out area next to the house. I was just passing through and this was great.
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Deann
October 2025
33 ft fifth wheel
With pets
We enjoyed a quiet night in a beautiful country setting. The host Corey was very hospitable and welcoming. The site and grounds are very well kept. I’m glad we found this site passing through. I definitely recommend stopping in if you get the chance.
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Christopher
October 2025
With pets
We loved how unique and charming the lodge felt. Rob has done an amazing job creating a getaway, that simply shifts your focus onto nature, literally in his own backyard. We highly recommend to anyone looking for a quick weekend getaway!
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Leslie
October 2025
30 ft travel trailer
With pets
I stayed at the Fence Post in October, after water was shut off for the winter. HOWEVER, when I made the reservation, the host was very quick to tell me this… so I was prepared! Kathy was great about giving instructions to get to the spot (make sure you don’t come in too close to the building!), and how to leave if backing up was a problem. The area behind me was very spacious so it was “easy” to back out and drive out! ( I say “easy,” because I’m new at travel trailering and backing up isn’t ever really easy for me - yet!!). I was very pleased with how level it was - from a picture I had seen, I didn’t expect that! Woo hoo! Lots of green space available to walk the dogs. This was a one-night stay - just passing through. I noted that others discussed traffic noise. It is true, it is not too far off the road BUT, I didn’t hear a thing (& I didn’t have tv or music on!!)! I am happy to recommend it to other hipcampers! Thanks Kathy… and I hope you have a great winter!
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james
October 2025
1 night at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
Secluded little area facing wooded area. Unique and cool structure. And great communication.
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Scott
September 2025
16 ft campervan
With pets
It was a very short stay and I got there late and left early, but the host was very understanding of my late arrival. The night sky was awesome. I loved hearing the coyotes. My dog didnt so much.
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Samantha
September 2025
26 ft fifth wheel
Super easy virtual check in. Easy to locate and spacious lot
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Tayler
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
This was a really cool find! You would never think you would be right in town by pictures. When you go to the restroom you’ll get greeted with the sweetest dog!:) there is so many cool things to look at in the yard and cabin!
One thing I would tell future campers is if you want to use a blanket be sure to bring one. There was one on the main bed but only big enough for one person. I didn’t ask if there were any extras tho.
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Bonnie
September 2025
30 ft fifth wheel
With pets
They were very helpful and friendly. Only stayed one night, we had no issues!
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Crystal
September 2025
2 nights at Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
Best way I can sum up Robs property is that it's just like camping, except there is a bed, air conditioning, and heat provided. Rob has set the cabin up very well, and there is a small table with chairs and some books and games if interested.
My partner and I like to tent camp, but when it's too hot or cold for us, we find simple cabins that provide a space to cool off or warm up but still space to cook outside and live "simply" Robs property gave us the perfect chance for that.
As a warning to others though, that maybe wouldn't bring a car full of camping supplies to stay, the cabin does not come equipped with cooking supplies, plates, cups, etc. There are restaurants close by, but If you're looking to just relax and stay in, you'll have to be prepared or plan to door dash food.
The space is cozy and feels extremely private, even though it's at the end of Robs property. It feels like you're away from the city. The bathroom is accessible through the garage, and is apart of the main house. It is clean, and Rob even put towels out for us. The large sink in the restroom was a great place to do dishes. While the site description includes water and a picnic table, there was not a picnic table, and the water is from the houe (you have to locate it, it's not right near the cabin)
This is a hipcamp listing, not a 5 star Airbnb. If you are searching for a 5 star BnB, this ain't it. But a great hipcamp? Absolutely!
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Diego
September 2025
25 ft travel trailer
With pets
Overall it was a good experience. There was the river so close and a very secluded area. This was just a layover stop for 2 nights to recharge. One thing to note is the trains are loud that go through there, but I was too tired to care much
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Wendy
September 2025
Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
It was so nice to get away for a weekend and Rob’s land was a great “in between” - it feels very much part of the land and surrounding nature, while being very accessible to main roads. Would definitely recommend!
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Cullen
August 2025
With pets
Beautiful, brand new-feeling tiny home! Very accessible from the highway.
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Sharon
August 2025
30 ft pop-up camper
With kids
I Was here for a quick overnight while driving through town. It’s right off the interstate and easy to find. The property was well cared for and bathroom was clean. Kathy was very responsive and the directions for parking and hooking up were clear.
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Lonnie
August 2025
Tent
It's a nice place to stay. It's essentially her backyard. It overlooks the passing road and she has some backyard furniture with back lighting around. You don't have to worry about setting up tables and chairs. If you need a bathroom you do need to run down to a nearby gas station. A partially enclosed spot to set up a camping potty would be a nice addition. All in all, it was a pretty good camp. Tasha is very friendly and hospitable. Would recommend.
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Nicole
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
Rob was a great host! Communication was excellent. The property was super cute and well cared for. The lodge is tucked back in a very private nook in the trees. We enjoyed the grill and fire pit onsite. We were lucky enough to see a family of deer in the woods, and loved interacting with the two sweet goats on the property. It’s a perfect little oasis close to Omaha! Thanks for sharing your beautiful property, Rob!
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Kelly
August 2025
Weekend Trip to Arrowhead Lodge of SW. Iowa.
This was a neat little spot to stop for a night. Basic and private, with a little porch to sit on while listening to all the summer insects, and a barred owl visit in the middle of the night. The host's communication was great and directions were clear.
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Cassandra
July 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
The spot was level and easy to access and Corey was incredibly kind and a great host. Area was safe also. We will be back and definitely recommend!
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Kelcie
July 2025
24 ft campervan
The Fence Post is conveniently located right off highway 29. It was a perfect spot to post up for the night on my journey across the US. There is a nice field right in front of the parking spot. A few reviews mention highway noise. You can hear it but it didn’t feel bothersome and with a fan on, I couldn’t hear it at all.
I would stay here again!
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Taylor
July 2025
32 ft Class C
With pets
Kathy’s Fence Post was safe and easy to hook up. Very quiet and great for a stop along a trip. She also had great recommendations for additional stops on my trip. I highly recommend the fence post if you are looking to stay a night or two.
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Other options near Wilson Island State Recreation Area
The best camping in Wilson Island State Recreation Area, IA guide
Overview
About
Foragers, explorers and laidback campers are going to love the simplistic solitude at Wilson Island State Recreation Area. Sure you can hunt or spend a revved up day on the Missouri River, but we think the quiet trails filled with bald eagles, cottonwoods, and mushrooms you can pick are the way to go. There’s plenty of spots for picnics and overnight stays in the sandbars comfy campgrounds. Nearby Desoto Wildlife Refuge makes a weekend here full of fun and fauna! Pick a direction and head out, Wilson Island is a real gem in any direction you choose!
When to go
The best time to visit Wilson Island State Recreation Area is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities, though it can be quite busy. Winters are cold and quiet, ideal for those seeking solitude amid the frost-kissed landscape.
Know before you go
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Be aware of any park alerts or closures by visiting the official website or contacting the park office.
- Wilson Island is a day-use area, so plan your activities between dawn and dusk.
- Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the park clean and protect the wildlife.
- Accessible facilities are available, but it's best to confirm current conditions and availability beforehand.
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