Refreshing lakes, pristine beaches, and epic winter activities make camping near Okoboji a must.
Try a camping getaway to the small town of Okoboji in northern Iowa. Nestled between the eastern and western arms of Okoboji Lake, it’s a freshwater oasis full of activity. Campers can kayak the interconnected lake system (there are five in total), bike on the Iowa Great Lakes Trail, and build sandcastles on the beach at Emerson Bay State Recreation Area. The recreation area’s campground features electrical hookups, dump stations, bathrooms, showers, and boat ramps for RV and tent camping. Once December rolls around, Okoboji turns into a winter wonderland. The annual 40 inches of snow makes the perfect environment for ripping around on groomed snowmobile trails and cross-country skiing routes. For more year-round outdoor activities and accommodations, head to Big Spirit Lake just 20 minutes north. Get cozy in a private cabin rental with central heat, or cruise the RV to Marble Beach State Recreation Area for pull-through campsites that have 50-amp hookups and access to restrooms and hot showers.