Lake Iowa is fully prepared for another busy camping season, with fresh upgrades, scenic views, and outdoor programs for visitors of all ages.
Lake Iowa Campground Welcomes Summer Visitors
LADORA, Iowa — Lake Iowa is open and ready for campers as the summer season begins. The campground, located south of Ladora, is operated by Iowa County Conservation and provides full access to power and water starting in May.
Campground Details and Amenities
The campground offers 122 sites with electric hookups and two tent sites. During camping season, which runs from May through September, electric sites cost $20 per night and tent camping is $10. In the off-season, prices drop to $10 for electric and $7 for tents.
Campers use a self-registration kiosk upon arrival. Firewood is available for $8 per bundle, though campers may also bring their own.
New Improvements to the Park
This year, Iowa County Conservation has made several enhancements. Trees and shrubs were removed to open up views of the lake, replacing what officials called “a wall of vegetation.” Playground sand was replaced with mulch to address sand bee issues.
Additional upgrades include:
- 50-amp electrical hookups added at 26 sites
- Reflective site markers for easier visibility
Cabins and Facilities
Lake Iowa has two lakeside cabins available for $110 per night. Each includes a bathroom, kitchenette, and sleeping space for up to eight people.
The campground also features two shower houses, picnic shelters, bird watching blinds, and rental jon boats. The beach opens on Memorial Day weekend, though it has no lifeguard and prohibits pets and glass containers.
Outdoor Activities and Nature
Park activities include fishing, hiking, hunting in designated seasons, and disc golf. The park also has marked trailheads, including equestrian trails. Park Ranger Philip DeJarnatt says Lake Iowa is a great place for stargazing due to low light pollution.
Campers Return Year After Year
Sue and Rick Van Dee, from Tama, have been visiting Lake Iowa for over 30 years. They return multiple times each year and host family reunions at the park. “It’s quiet and pretty,” Sue said, praising the well-kept facilities. Rick added, “It’s a nice park.”
Educational Events and Summer Camps
Lake Iowa hosts events and camps throughout summer. The 12th Annual Outdoor Adventure will be held Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will include activities like archery, turkey calling, and insect netting. Adults are welcome even without children.
Summer day camps include:
- Story time for ages 3-5
- Prairie and pond exploration for ages 6-9
- Fishing, birding, kayaking, and foraging for ages 10-13
Thanks to the Friends of Iowa County Conservation Foundation, camps are free.
Lake Iowa Nature Center
The Lake Iowa Nature Center will be open Saturdays from June 7 through August 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with programs starting at 11 a.m. Topics will include wildflowers on June 7 and snakes on June 21.
Community Support and Volunteers
Local students from Williamsburg, English Valleys, and Iowa Valley helped prepare the park by spreading mulch, clearing fire pits, and cleaning up. Director Jacob Slings praised the effort, saying, “Everybody’s put in a lot of work just to make Iowa County better.”
Catch Summer Fun at Lake Iowa
Lake Iowa is a hub for families and outdoor lovers, offering scenic beauty, camping, boating, and a rich lineup of educational programs and events.
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