Lakeside Campground

For Iowans yearning for that quintessential lakeside escape, where the sparkle of sun on water and the rustle of leaves create the perfect backdrop for relaxation, look no further than Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park in Correctionville. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vibrant recreational hub nestled in the heart of Woodbury County, offering a diverse array of activities and amenities for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. It's a spot where cherished family memories are made, and the simple joys of nature are easily embraced.

Little Sioux Park, home to Lakeside Campground, is celebrated as a "very well kept and maintained" destination, often described as a "local family campground" and a "true locals favorite." While some might playfully note that it isn't a "real beach" in the ocean sense, the park proudly boasts a designated swimming beach on its 10-acre lake, providing ample opportunities for aquatic fun. Visitors consistently highlight its "nice swimming area" and "two playgrounds, perfect for keeping the kids entertained." The presence of "beautiful wild comb flowers blooming near the shower house" adds to the aesthetic appeal, complementing the practical amenities like "clean facilities, including restrooms and showers." Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park truly offers a comprehensive and delightful outdoor experience for all Iowans.

Lakeside Campground is specifically located within Little Sioux Park, at 1450 Nelson Park Rd, Dow City, IA 51528, USA. It's important to note that while the address points to Dow City, the park is more accurately described as being approximately 2 miles southwest of Correctionville, Iowa, on Highway 31. This places it centrally within Woodbury County, making it a highly accessible destination for residents across Western Iowa and beyond.

The accessibility of Little Sioux Park is a significant advantage for Iowans. Major state highways, including US-20 and SR-31, provide straightforward routes directly to the park. From Sioux City, it's a mere 34-minute drive, and even from Omaha, NE, or Sioux Falls, SD, it's a manageable journey of under two hours. This ease of access means less time on the road and more time enjoying the beautiful outdoors. The park is situated in a picturesque rural setting, surrounded by the classic Iowa landscape of rolling terrain and agricultural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat that is still conveniently connected to nearby towns for any necessary supplies or services. Furthermore, the Union Bridge Trail connects the park to the town of Correctionville with a ten-foot-wide concrete path that winds through scenic areas and crosses the Little Sioux River with a spectacular bridge, providing excellent opportunities for walking or biking into town directly from the park.

Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park offers an extensive array of services and facilities, designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. The park is meticulously maintained by the Woodbury County Conservation Board, ensuring high standards for all amenities.

• Diverse Camping Options: The park boasts 95 campsites spread across two campgrounds: Bellamy and Riverside. This includes 53 full hookup sites (water, sewer, and electric) and 42 sites with electricity and water, accommodating various RV sizes and needs. There are also approximately 14 non-electric/tent sites available for traditional tent campers, offering flexibility for all preferences.

• Modern Restrooms and Showers: Visitors consistently praise the "clean facilities, including restrooms and showers." These modern amenities provide essential comfort and convenience for campers.

• Camping Cabins: For those who prefer a "glamping" experience, four one-room camping cabins are available for rent from May 1 to October 31. These cabins offer a few comforts of home, providing a cozy retreat within the park.

• Designated Swimming Beach: A highlight of the park is its designated swimming beach on Stern Lake, open typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This provides a safe and fun area for cooling off and enjoying the water.

• Boat Ramp and Lake Access: Stern Lake (a 10-acre lake) offers excellent angling opportunities, and a boat ramp is available for launching watercraft (electric trolling motors, oars, and paddles only).

• Playground Equipment: Multiple modern playground areas are located near the campgrounds, ensuring children have plenty of safe and engaging options for play.

• Picnic Areas and Shelter Houses: Numerous picnic tables are available at campsites, and four shelter houses can be rented for group gatherings, family reunions, or events, providing covered space for outdoor meals.

• Dump Station: A sanitary dump station is available for RV campers, making waste disposal convenient before heading home.

• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is available for purchase at the park ($5/bundle), ensuring campers have access to fuel for their campfires.

Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park is rich with features and highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout Iowa.

• Premier Lakeside Recreation: The 10-acre Stern Lake is the park's vibrant heart, offering not just a designated swimming beach, but also fantastic opportunities for electric-motor boating, kayaking, and paddle-boating. It's a perfect spot to cool off on a hot Iowa day or enjoy a peaceful paddle.

• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: Stern Lake is regularly stocked and provides excellent fishing for Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Channel Catfish. Anglers consistently report good catches, with particularly "monster" sized Bluegill from the dam area in early spring, making it a highly rewarding fishing destination.

• Extensive Trail System: The park features numerous hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, including marshes, native trees, shrub plantings, and reconstructed native prairies. The Union Bridge Trail also offers a scenic concrete path connecting the park to Correctionville, perfect for walking, running, or biking.

• Family-Friendly Environment: With multiple modern playgrounds, a swimming beach, and ample open spaces, the campground is ideal for families. It's often cited as a "very family friendly campground" and a "local's favorite" for its ability to entertain all ages.

• Historical and Ecological Interest: Beyond recreation, the park incorporates historical elements like a one-room historical schoolhouse. Its diverse ecological setting, including marshes and native prairies, offers unique opportunities for nature observation and learning.

• Winter Activities: While primarily a summer destination, Little Sioux Park also offers winter activities like cross-country skiing and ice fishing, extending its recreational appeal year-round.

• Variety of Campsite Experiences: Whether you prefer the full convenience of RV hookups, the simplicity of a tent, or the comfort of a primitive cabin, the wide array of campsite options ensures that every visitor can find their ideal outdoor lodging.

• Well-Maintained Grounds and Facilities: Reviews consistently praise the "super nice park, very well kept and maintained" grounds and the "clean facilities, including restrooms and showers," ensuring a pleasant and comfortable stay.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park, please use the following contact details for the Woodbury County Conservation Board, which manages the park:

• Phone: (712) 258-0838 (Woodbury County Conservation Board Office)

• Park Office Phone: (712) 372-4984 (for specific park-level inquiries)

• Address: 4500 Sioux River Road, Sioux City, IA 51109-1657 (WCCB Office)

• Park Address (for navigation): 1450 Nelson Park Rd, Dow City, IA 51528, USA (or 1746 O Brien Ave. Correctionville, IA 51016)

• Email: crawfco@frontiernet.net (for Crawford County Conservation, which manages Nelson Park, for more direct contact regarding this specific park within the Woodbury County system)

Online reservations for campsites and cabins can be made through the Woodbury County Conservation website (www.woodburyparks.org), which is highly recommended due to the park's popularity.

For our fellow Iowans, Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable destination for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, its convenient location near Correctionville, easily accessible from major routes across Western Iowa, means that a fantastic outdoor escape is never far from home. This geographical advantage allows for effortless weekend trips or extended family vacations, maximizing relaxation and minimizing travel time.

Secondly, the sheer breadth of recreational opportunities available at the park truly caters to the diverse interests of Iowa families. The beautiful 10-acre Stern Lake, with its designated swimming beach, excellent fishing, and options for non-motorized boating, provides countless hours of refreshing fun, embodying the quintessential Iowa lake experience. Beyond the water, the extensive hiking trails, multiple playgrounds, and open spaces ensure that every family member, from the youngest children to active adults, finds something to enjoy.

Furthermore, the range of camping options — from full hookup RV sites to rustic tent spots and cozy cabins — offers flexibility for every preference and budget, making quality outdoor experiences accessible to all. The consistently praised clean facilities and well-maintained grounds managed by the Woodbury County Conservation Board reinforce a commitment to providing a top-tier experience that locals can trust and return to year after year.

In conclusion, Lakeside Campground at Little Sioux Park is more than just a place to camp; it's a vibrant community hub where nature's beauty, recreational fun, and family bonding seamlessly intertwine. It represents an ideal local getaway, inviting Iowans to create new memories, reconnect with nature, and savor the unique charm of our state's outdoor treasures. It's a true gem that truly captures the spirit of Iowa's natural allure.