Fogle Lake Park Campground

Hello, fellow Iowans! If your ideal outdoor escape involves a serene lake, excellent fishing, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for families, then it’s time to put Fogle Lake Park Campground in Diagonal on your radar. This delightful park, a true gem in Ringgold County, offers a charming and quiet setting, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy Iowa's natural beauty without the hustle and bustle often found at larger, more commercialized campgrounds. From the perspective of local users, Fogle Lake Park Campground is gaining recognition as a fantastic spot for a relaxing staycation, especially for those with a love for fishing.

Fogle Lake Park Campground truly shines for its tranquil environment and its reputation as a fishing haven. As one local noted during their "Iowa staycation tour," despite rainy and windy weather, the "crappies were bitin'," and they even landed "some big blue gill, bass, and even landed a small walleye." This speaks volumes about the quality of the fishing experience here. Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply hoping to introduce your kids to the joys of reeling in a catch, this park offers a promising opportunity. We’ll dive into the specifics that make Fogle Lake Park Campground a compelling choice for your next Iowa outdoor adventure, from its inviting location to its family-friendly features.

Fogle Lake Park Campground is located at 610 8th St, Diagonal, IA 50845, USA. Diagonal is a small, quiet town nestled in Ringgold County, in the southwestern part of Iowa. This rural setting is exactly what many Iowans seek when looking to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in nature. The campground is situated on the shores of Fogle Lake, a 44-acre no-wake lake, ensuring a peaceful environment for all visitors.

For residents across Iowa, reaching Diagonal typically involves a scenic drive through the heart of our state's picturesque agricultural landscapes. While it offers a feeling of being pleasantly off the beaten path, Fogle Lake Park Campground remains accessible via well-maintained county roads. This makes it a feasible destination for weekend trips or longer stays, without the stress of navigating heavily trafficked routes. The fact that the park is described as having "a few easy to navigate pathways" further suggests a well-designed and user-friendly layout upon arrival. Its peaceful location ensures that your camping experience will be truly serene, allowing you to enjoy the sounds of nature and the tranquility of the lake, all within a reasonable driving distance for most Iowans. The charm of a small Iowa town combined with a natural lakeside setting makes Fogle Lake Park Campground an appealing choice for local outdoor enthusiasts.

• Campsites: Fogle Lake Park Campground offers 45 sites, available year-round. These are "graveled camp spots" and each includes a picnic table and fire ring.

• Water/Electric Hookups: The sites are equipped with water/electric hookups, providing essential conveniences for campers. Water is also available at a central location.

• Dump Station: A dump station is on-site for the convenience of RV and travel trailer campers.

• Bath/Shower House: A "bath/shower house" is available and notably "open year round," offering modern and convenient restroom facilities.

• Picnic Tables and Grill: Each campsite is furnished with a picnic table and a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and dining.

• Sand Volleyball Court: For recreational fun, the park includes a sand volleyball court.

• Basketball Court: A basketball court is also available, providing another option for active play.

• Playground Areas: The campground features "2 small playground areas," making it appealing for young families.

• Fishing: Fishing is a primary activity, with access to Fogle Lake. Fish species include Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Black Crappie, and even Walleye. A "fish cleaning station" is provided.

• Boat Ramp: A boat ramp is available for easy access to Fogle Lake, which is a "no wake" lake.

• Shelter Houses: Three shelter houses are available, likely reservable for group gatherings or picnics.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The standout highlight is undoubtedly the quality of fishing. Reviewers specifically mentioned catching "crappies," "big blue gill," "bass," and even a "small walleye," indicating a healthy and diverse fish population in Fogle Lake. The presence of a fish cleaning station further enhances the experience for anglers.

• Quiet and Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground is described as "quiet" and "nice for young families," providing a peaceful environment where children can safely run around and explore. The two small playground areas contribute to its family appeal.

• No-Wake Lake: Fogle Lake is a 44-acre "no wake" lake, ensuring a calm and tranquil environment ideal for fishing, small pond boats, kayaking, canoeing, and peaceful enjoyment of the water without the disturbance of high-speed motorboats.

• Well-Maintained Grounds and Pathways: Visitors have noted that "it appears they are working the camping grounds," with "a few easy to navigate pathways," suggesting a commitment to upkeep and a pleasant environment for walking and exploring.

• Year-Round Amenities: The bath/shower house being "open year round" is a significant convenience, especially for off-season campers, ensuring comfort regardless of the time of year.

• Generous Site Amenities: Each site having a picnic table, grill, and fire ring enhances the traditional camping experience, allowing for easy outdoor cooking and campfire enjoyment.

• Relaxing Views: A "100-year-old truss bridge with benches for relaxing with a view of the 44 acre lake" offers a picturesque spot for quiet contemplation and enjoying the scenery.

For inquiries or to plan your visit to Fogle Lake Park Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 610 8th St, Diagonal, IA 50845, USA

Phone: (920) 407-1211 (Note: The provided phone number for Fogle Lake Park Campground is (920) 407-1211, which appears to be a Wisconsin area code. It's advisable to cross-reference this with local Ringgold County Parks or Iowa DNR information for the most accurate contact. The typically associated phone number for Fogle Lake and Marlin E. Fogle Recreation Area is (641) 734-5491.)

Mobile Phone: +1 920-407-1211

For Iowa residents, Fogle Lake Park Campground in Diagonal is an outstanding choice, perfectly suited for those seeking a tranquil and productive outdoor experience, especially if fishing is a priority. Its location in southwestern Iowa makes it a convenient and scenic drive from many parts of the state, offering a genuine escape to rural tranquility without excessive travel time. This accessibility is key for Iowa families planning weekend getaways or even longer staycations.

The core appeal for locals undoubtedly lies in its reputation as a fishing hotspot. As one happy camper noted, catching "crappies," "big blue gill," "bass," and even a "small walleye" in one visit highlights the lake's abundant and diverse fish population. For Iowans who cherish their time on the water with a rod and reel, Fogle Lake provides an exceptional opportunity for a successful and enjoyable fishing trip. The "no-wake" designation of the 44-acre lake further enhances its appeal for anglers and those with small boats, ensuring a peaceful and uncrowded experience on the water.

Beyond the fishing, the campground's "quiet" and "nice for young families" atmosphere is a significant draw. With two small playgrounds and easy-to-navigate pathways, it offers a safe and engaging environment for children to explore, while parents can relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. The availability of water/electric hookups, a dump station, and a year-round bath/shower house provides essential comforts, balancing the rustic charm with practical conveniences that Iowans appreciate. Fogle Lake Park Campground truly embodies the essence of a peaceful Iowa outdoor retreat, offering excellent fishing, family-friendly amenities, and a quiet escape that makes it an ideal destination for any local looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping in our beautiful state.