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Elk Rock State Park Iowa (IA) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Elk Rock State Park is a fantastic destination for RV camping due to its rich history, natural beauty, and variety of activities. The park’s history dates back to the early 1900s when it was donated to the state by the descendants of the area’s original settlers. The park’s cultural significance lies in its association with the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area, as well as its importance to the early settlers who farmed and mined the land.

One of the most unique features of the park is the massive elk rock for which it is named. This natural occurrence is the result of thousands of years of erosion and geological activity. The park’s diverse landscape is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including deer, turkeys, and a wide array of birds.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Elk Rock State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Elk Rock State Park.

Camping Accommodations

37

'

Max RV length

37

'

Max trailer Length

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Generator use

Food storage

Sewer hookup

Dogs & cats

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Transportation

  • Driving/Transportation

Elk Rock State Park is easily accessible by private vehicle with several entrances located throughout the park. Visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options including cars trucks and RVs. However it’s important to note that there are restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 45 feet for RVs. Additionally some park roads are narrow and winding so visitors should exercise caution when driving.

  • Parking area

RV parking is available at the park with designated areas for RVs. Overnight parking outside of designated campsites is not allowed. RV camping is recommended as it provides a comfortable base for exploring the park using alternative transportation methods.

  • Public Transportation

Public transportation options within the park include shuttle buses and walking paths. These eco-friendly transportation methods make it easy to explore the park without relying on a personal vehicle.

Top Campsites in Elk Rock State Park

  • Reservations camping

The most popular campsites near Elk Rock State Park that require reservations are

Prairie Ridge Campground

With 81 sites this campground is a favorite among campers for its beautiful views and proximity to the lake. It offers modern amenities such as electric hookups showers and a dump station. The campground is pet-friendly and RVs up to 60 feet are permitted. It’s open from April to October. Hiking biking and fishing are popular activities here.

Walnut Woods State Park Campground

Located just a few miles from Elk Rock this campground has 29 sites with electric hookups. It’s perfect for those who love nature as it’s situated in a beautiful forest. The campground is pet-friendly and can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. Amenities include showers and a dump station. It’s open from April to October.

Des Moines West KOA

This KOA is a great option for families as it offers a variety of activities such as mini-golf a jumping pillow and a pool. It has 90 sites including full hookups for RVs up to 70 feet. The campground is pet-friendly and open year-round.

Ankeny KOA Journey

This KOA is perfect for those traveling with pets as it offers a dog park and pet-friendly cabins. It has 70 sites including full hookups for RVs up to 70 feet. Amenities include a pool hot tub and laundry facilities. It’s open from April to October.

  • First-come first-served

If you’re looking for first-come first-served campsites in Elk Rock State Park here are a few options

Elk Rock Loop

This campground has 25 sites including some with electric hookups. It’s open year-round but amenities are limited during the off-season. RVs up to 30 feet are permitted. Pets are allowed.

White Oak Campground

With 20 sites this campground is perfect for those who prefer a quieter camping experience. It’s open from April to October and can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet. Pets are allowed.

Sugar Maple Campground

This campground has 18 sites and is open from April to October. It’s perfect for tent camping but RVs up to 20 feet are also permitted. Pets are allowed.

  • Alternate camping

If the campsites inside Elk Rock State Park are full there are alternative camping options nearby

Whispering Creek Campground

This private campground is located about 20 minutes from Elk Rock and offers full hookups for RVs up to 45 feet. It’s open year-round and offers amenities such as a pool hot tub and laundry facilities. Pets are allowed.

Backcountry Camping

For those who prefer a more rugged camping experience backcountry camping is available in the nearby Walnut Woods State Park. Permits are required and campers must hike at least 1/2 mile from any road or trailhead. Pets are allowed.

Thomas Mitchell Park Campground

This campground is located about 30 minutes from Elk Rock and offers electric hookups for RVs up to 35 feet. It’s open from April to October and offers amenities such as a playground and picnic area. Pets are allowed.

  • General activities

Hiking

Elk Rock State Park offers a variety of hiking trails for RV campers to explore. The most popular trail is the 2.5-mile loop that leads to the summit of Elk Rock offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The trail is rated as moderate and is suitable for all skill levels.

Fishing

The Des Moines River runs through the park and is a popular spot for fishing. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including bass catfish and crappie. The park also has a fishing pier and boat ramp making it easy to access the river.

Biking

The park has several miles of mountain biking trails that wind through the forest and offer a challenging ride. The trails are suitable for all skill levels and offer a variety of terrain including steep hills and technical sections.

Camping

Elk Rock State Park has over 100 campsites including RV sites with electric and water hookups. The campsites are located in a beautiful wooded area and offer easy access to the park’s trails and amenities.

Boating

The Des Moines River is also a popular spot for boating. The park has a boat ramp that provides access to the river and boaters can enjoy a leisurely float or a more adventurous ride down the rapids.

  • Alternative activities

Alternative

Sightseeing

Elk Rock State Park is home to several scenic overlooks including the popular Elk Rock Scenic Overlook which offers stunning views of the Des Moines River Valley. The park also has a variety of interpretive signs and exhibits that provide information about the area’s history and natural features.

Nature Watching

The park is home to a variety of wildlife including deer turkey and bald eagles. RV campers can take a leisurely stroll through the park’s trails and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat.

Photography

Elk Rock State Park offers a variety of picturesque spots that are perfect for photography. The park’s scenic overlooks waterfalls and wildlife provide endless opportunities for photographers to capture stunning images.

Picnicking

The park has several picnic areas that are perfect for a leisurely lunch. The picnic areas are located near the river and offer beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Bird Watching

The park is home to a variety of bird species including hawks owls and songbirds. RV campers can take a guided bird watching tour or explore the park’s trails on their own to observe the birds in their natural habitat.

Season-specific experiences in Elk Rock State Park

  • Spring activities

When RV campers flock to Elk Rock State Park during the spring they’re often drawn to the park’s picturesque landscapes rich history and abundance of recreational activities. One popular attraction is the Narrows Pioneer Cemetery a historical site that dates back to the 1800s. Here visitors can pay their respects to the early settlers of the area while taking in the beauty of the surrounding forest.

Another must-see destination is the park’s suspension bridge which spans the Des Moines River and offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding scenery. For those who enjoy fishing the park’s many streams and ponds are teeming with bass crappie and catfish.

Hiking enthusiasts will love the park’s extensive network of trails which wind through the forest and offer stunning views of the park’s natural beauty. The Elk Rock Trail is a particularly popular option as it leads to the park’s namesake rock formation and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Finally no trip to Elk Rock State Park would be complete without a visit to the park’s famous elk herd. These majestic creatures can often be spotted grazing in the meadows making for an unforgettable wildlife-viewing experience.

  • Summer activities

When the summer months arrive Elk Rock State Park becomes a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who love to swim boat and fish. One of the park’s most popular summer activities is swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Red Rock. Here visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the lake or simply relax on the sandy beach.

For those who prefer to stay active the park offers a variety of water sports including kayaking paddleboarding and boating. The lake’s calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners while more experienced paddlers can explore the lake’s many coves and inlets.

Fishing is also a popular pastime at Elk Rock State Park with anglers flocking to the lake’s many fishing spots in search of bass crappie and catfish. The park’s marina offers boat rentals bait and tackle making it easy for visitors to enjoy a day on the water.

Hiking is another popular activity at the park with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Lake Red Rock Trail for example is a 26-mile trail that circles the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding scenery.

Finally no summer trip to Elk Rock State Park would be complete without a visit to the park’s iconic lighthouse. This historic structure which dates back to the 19th century offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

  • Fall activities

Fall in Elk Rock State Park offers a plethora of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular option is hiking the trails that meander through the park’s forested areas showcasing the vibrant fall foliage. The 2.5-mile Flagpole Hill Trail leads to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Des Moines River. Another must-visit is the historic Stone Bridge built in 1885 which spans the Des Moines River and provides a picturesque backdrop for photographs. The park’s lake is perfect for fishing boating and kayaking allowing visitors to relish in the crisp autumn air. Additionally the nearby town of Pella hosts an annual Tulip Time Festival which attracts thousands of visitors to celebrate Dutch heritage and culture. Lastly the park’s campsites offer full hookups and amenities making it an ideal location for RV campers to enjoy the seasonal beauty of Elk Rock State Park.

  • Winter activities

During the winter season Elk Rock State Park transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for RV campers looking for a unique outdoor experience. Cross-country skiing is a popular activity with groomed trails suitable for all skill levels. The Flagpole Hill Trail mentioned earlier is a favorite among skiers with its scenic views of the snow-covered landscape. Ice fishing is another winter activity that draws visitors to the park’s frozen lake. For a break from the cold the nearby town of Pella offers cozy accommodations and Dutch-inspired cuisine. Lastly the park’s campsites remain open for RV campers during the winter allowing visitors to take advantage of the peaceful snow-covered surroundings.

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