Why Okoboji Is the Ultimate Lakeside Camping Destination
Okoboji’s clear waters and pristine beaches make it an attractive destination for lakeside camping.
Various activities are available to campers, including kayaking, canoeing, paddle boating, fishing, geocaching, and hiking.
If you’re planning to go on a camping adventure, there are a variety of Okoboji campgrounds for lakeside getaways, with many popular choices including state parks, resorts, and private campgrounds.
Top 7 Okoboji Campgrounds
1. Gull Point State Park Campground
Gull Point State Park Campground is a popular campground known for its scenic beauty and the Barney Peterson Nature Trail.
The campground has electric and non-electric sites. It is well shaded and features paved roads. Some of the amenities include a playground, modern restrooms and shower facilities, and a sanitary dump station.
You can make an advance campsite reservation through the park’s online reservation system. Half of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Emerson Bay State Recreation Area
Emerson Bay State Recreation Area Camping offers a wide range of campsites for tent and RV camping. Some sites have sewer and water hook-ups, as well as 50-amp electric services.
The sandy beach is just a stone’s throw away, perfect for swimming or simply soaking up the sun.
3. Arnolds Park Campground
Arnolds Park Campground offers 15 spaces and is open from May through September, 15 spaces on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities include tent sites, 20- to 50-amp electric hookups, restrooms, hot showers, dock and boat ramp, picnic tables, fire pits, and playground.
4. Marble Beach State Recreation Area
Marble Beach State Recreation Area is located on the shore of Spirit Lake, the largest natural lake in Iowa.
It is the largest campground in the Iowa Great Lakes region, offering 224 campsites with electric and non-electric options, modern restrooms and shower facilities, and a sanitary dump station.
5. Fieldstone RV Park
Located in Arnolds Park, Fieldstone RV Park offers 200 deluxe, seasonal RV sites, with easy access to the Iowa Great Lakes, public parks, amusement parks, golf courses, and boat ramps.
The RV sites include full hook-ups complete with water, sewer, and individual electric meters. Other amenities include laundry room, bath facilities and more.
6. Camp Boji RV Park
Camp Boji is a seasonal RV park ideal for families or retirees looking to explore northern Iowa.
The park has 48 RV sites that provide full hookups, a clean bathhouse, laundry facilities, wireless Internet, cable TV, picnic tables, fire pits, and a storm shelter.
Other amenities include dock access to West Lake Okoboji, a weekend coffee shop, and an on-site store. Small dogs are permitted.
7. Elinor Bedell State Park Campground
Elinor Bedell State Park Campground has eight RV sites, each with full hookups, bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, and fire pits.
The sites can fit a rig up to 70 feet long, and campers can stay up to 14 days.
Best Times to Camp in Okoboji
In general, the best times to camp in Okoboji, IA, are during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn, in the months of April and May, and September and October.
The warm weather and longer days in spring are perfect for exploring the lakes and enjoying outdoor activities, and the fall season presents beautiful nature colors, crisp air, and fewer crowds.
Others might prefer camping in summer, from June through August, when the weather is ideal for water sports, swimming, and enjoying the lake. However, these are peak months and so the campgrounds can be a bit crowded, and prices may be higher.
Tips for Booking Your Okoboji Campground Stay
Do your research on the facilities and amenities offered by the campground you are considering.
Typical amenities include restrooms, showers, and hookups for RVs. Some campgrounds offer additional amenities, such as campfires, playgrounds, and access to recreational areas.
It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially if you’re planning to go lakeside camping on a weekend or during the peak months.
Check the specific Okoboji campground’s reservation system for availability and booking procedures. Book early to ensure you secure a reservation.
Packing Checklist for a Lakeside Camping Trip
It is essential to carefully plan and list the things you will need to bring with you on your lakeside camping trip to ensure your comfort and safety.
We have prepared the checklists below to help you get started:
- Tent
- Sleeping bags
- Headlamps/flashlights
- Lantern
- Camp chairs
- Camp table
- Utility bags for storage
- Stove with fuel/propane
- Matches/lighters
- Charcoal/firewood
- Campfire grill/BBQ grill
- Pots and pans with lids
- Cooking utensils
- Plates/bowls
- Silverware/plastic silverware
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
- Cooler
- Water
- Ice
- Water jugs/water bucket
- Camp-friendly food
- Biodegradable soap
- Sponge
- Dish towels
- Shoes/boots
- Jeans/pants
- Shorts
- T-shirts
- Socks
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Water shoes/flip-flops
- Gear for water activities
- Hat
- Sweatshirt/jacket
- Underwear
- Sleep clothes
- Rain gear
- Swimsuit
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- First-aid kit
- Umbrella
- Directions to the campground
- Map
- Compass
- Books
- Games
- Cards
Conclusion
Okoboji, IA, is an amazing place to go on a lakeside camping adventure, with its clear waters, various recreational activities, and scenic views.
Beyond its lakeside campsites, Okoboji is home to wonderful real estate options. If you’d like to learn more about the properties in the area, give us a call today at 712-336-4000 or send us an email at team@okobojire.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, one of the pet friendly Okoboji campgrounds is Camp Boji RV Park. Please note that only small dogs are allowed.
Most Okoboji campgrounds have Wi-Fi, like Camp Boji RV Park and Fieldstone RV Park.
The peak camping season in Okoboji is from early May to late September.
Reservations are often required for campgrounds in Okoboji, IA, particularly during peak season. While some campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, it is highly recommended to make advance bookings.
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