When you go camping in Iowa, save time in your schedule to visit at least one festival. Iowa's yearlong schedule of events offers something for everyone while staying at one of the RV parks in Iowa. In October, take the Fall Foliage Cruise on the Spirit of Dubuque. The Lighting Ceremony and Lighted Holiday Parade in Washington is scheduled in November. In Clinton, join January's Bald Eagle Watch or the Dubuque's Ice Fest. In March, join the Cabin Fever Buster in Adel. In Missouri Valley, enjoy Free Music in the Park. And if you're there in August, campgrounds in Iowa serve as the best place to overnight while attending the Des Moines County Fair.
One of the first things you may notice while you're camping in Iowa is that it's very easy to travel the highways and byways, but that doesn't mean it's boring. Zigzag through preglacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa on the Driftless Area Scenic Byway. Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark alongside the Missouri River. The Lewis and Clark Trail passes near several marinas, nature preserves, and historic parks. RV parks in Iowa are located near the River Bluffs Scenic Byway, which is a loop tour in the roller-coaster scenery of northeastern Iowa. The Woodlands Scenic Byway crosses the Mormon Trail and curves through woodlands and Amish country, all adjacent to campgrounds in Iowa.
No matter where you travel in Iowa, you'll be near museums, historic sites, and art galleries. In Ames, visit the Octagon Center for the Arts and see local, regional, and national art exhibitions. America's largest memorial to black and female soldiers is Fort Des Moines Museum and Education Center in Des Moines. Princeton is home to the Buffalo Bill Cody Homestead. See Devonian fossils and historic beehive kilns while exploring the Fossil & Prairie Park Preserve and Center in Rockford.
But there's more than cerebral activity while camping in Iowa. With hundreds of miles of multi-use trails for hiking and biking you'll get your heart rate going in no time. These trails are great for cross-country skiing and snow shoeing in winter. Travel the Raccoon River Valley Trail, a 56-mile-long paved trail along the branches of the beautiful Raccoon River through three counties. So pack your hiking shoes and bicycles while staying at RV parks in Iowa.
If the idea of an RV trip for you must combine water and family, then campgrounds in Iowa can do all that. Adventureland Park in Altoona features more than 100 rides, shows and attractions. Visit Lake Mills Family Aquatic Center and conquer the 193-foot flume waterslide.
Iowa's capital city, Des Moines, offers plenty of venues to exercise your mind and your body. Not only that, there are many options to shop 'til you drop, dine at five-star restaurants, or attend a concert or play.