The best camping near Geode State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Geode State Park adventure.

Discover Geode State Park's serene lake and lush trails.  

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East Grove Farms Winery and Vineyard

1 site · Tent600 acres · Salem, IA
Located in Southeast Iowa, East Grove Farms Winery and Vineyard specializes in honey wine (also known as mead) made from various fruits like Elderberries. Our headquarters is the O.A. and Emma Garretson House, which has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The farm itself is the oldest continuously-settled farm in Iowa, and was established in 1837. The farm served as a station on the Underground RR and farm founder Joel C Garretson was the stationmaster. All are welcome to visit during our open hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 pm (or by appointment) for free wine and mead tastings. During the summer we offer wagon rides, and in the winter (weather permitting) we offer sleigh rides. East Grove Farms focuses on sustainable agricultural practices, and strives to be pesticide-free whenever possible. Feel free to wander through the fields, go hiking through the timber, fish for dinner in our pond. Learn more about this land: East Grove Farms invites you to pitch your tent in the former hazelnut thicket that our ancestors and the East Grove community safely hid freedom seekers from Missouri in the 1840's.   It is located 1/4 m north of the winery near the vineyard and tree line and you can usually drive to the camp on a grass path thru the elderberry patch.  It offers complete privacy and has a fire ring, picnic table, a prep table, and shade.  Firewood is available for sale at $10 per pallet. There is a porta potty at the camp site but no running water or electricity. For those interested in the underground RR, there is an excellent museum in nearby Salem, the Lewelling Quaker Museum, a National Park Service noted site for abolitionist activity.
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 / night

The best camping near Geode State Park guide

Overview

About

When you arrive at Geode State Park you will feel like you just cracked open a boring looking rock to find a glittering jewel in the center of it. Jackpot! This beautiful spot of lush vegetation with the sparkling gem of Lake Geode at its center has outdoor recreation for everyone, including swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and even winter sports for all season fun. Follow these activities by a mandatory picnic by the water and a few evenings of campsite shenanigans with the fam and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable outdoor trip for the books. In case you are wondering, yes there are actually geodes here which is how the park got its name, although most have likely been removed ages ago. It is now illegal to remove any geodes from the park, so you will just have to check out some prime examples at the park office. No biggie, more time for playing on the water!

When to go

The ideal time to visit Geode State Park is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its peak. Summer months can be busy and hot, while winter may bring closures due to snow.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Be aware of park alerts and closures, especially during extreme weather conditions.
  • Accessibility varies across different areas of the park; some trails may not be suitable for all visitors.
  • Facilities such as restrooms and picnic areas are available, but it's wise to bring essentials like water and snacks.
  • Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty for others.

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