A small park in central Iowa holds plenty of surprises for campers, anglers, and admirers of geology alike. Dolliver Memorial State Park is the perfect place for a quiet retreat to rest, relax, and take in Iowa’s natural wonders.

In this guide, you’ll learn what makes Dolliver so special, where to camp, and the best things to do in the park. Read on to get started on your next adventure!

Dolliver Memorial State Park Facts 

Before your trip, learn a little bit about this Iowa gem with these Dolliver Memorial State Park facts!

• Dolliver Memorial State Park is a 594-acre park in Webster County, Iowa established in 1925.
• The park is famous for its unique bluffs, scenic canyons and flatlands, and its historical Native American mounds. 
• These ceremonial mounds overlook the Des Moines River Valley and are nearly 1000 years old. 
• Easy river access makes the park a popular choice for anglers and kayakers alike.
• Enjoy over six miles of trails that wind through interesting sandstone formations throughout the park.

Best Dolliver Memorial State Park RV Parks and Campgrounds 

Now that you’ve learned a bit about what makes Dolliver so special, it’s time to find the perfect spot to call home. Our list of the best RV parks near Dolliver Memorial State Park makes planning a breeze!

Dolliver Campground

Amenities: Dolliver’s own campgrounds are the most highly-rated, convenient option in the area. The grounds’ pads are all back-in gravel sites. But worry not! The park rangers are all very friendly and happy to help you in. Each site offers a bird’s eye view above the valley formed by the Des Moines River. Enjoy electric hookups, modern bathrooms with showers, and the perfect spot to explore any area of Dolliver Memorial State Park easily.

Capacity: 33 RV sites

More Information: Dolliver Campground

Kalona City Campground

Amenities: Looking for an RV campground near Dolliver Memorial State Park with built-in activities? Kalona City Campground is the choice for you! It’s chock full of things to do for kids and adults alike. Take your pick between tennis, basketball, volleyball, and a visit to the nearby city pool. Kalona’s affordable rate makes this another big draw. Water and electric hookups are available at all sites. And don’t forget to say hello to the campground’s local chicken before you settle in. 

Capacity: 38 RV sites

More Information: Kalona City Campground

Diamond Lake Park

Amenities: Diamond Lake is another affordable RV park near Dolliver State Park for budget-conscious campers. Anglers rejoice! The park’s lake is open all year round for fishing and boating. Their fish cleaning station ensures you have a convenient place to prepare for a night of grilling. Throw your catch on any of the site’s built-in fire pits. Packing a kayak or bicycle is a great way to enjoy the view around the lake by land or water during your stay. Electric hookups, two showers, and two dumping stations are available for all campers. 

Capacity: 80 RV sites

More Information: Diamond Lake Park

Sudbury Court Motel & RV Park

Amenities: This next RV park near Dolliver Memorial State Park is situated in a quiet clearing in Marengo County. Enjoy full hookups at all sites along with an on-site laundry room, a game room, and a shaded BBQ site. Wi-Fi is reported to be spotty. So, that makes this a good option to unplug and unwind. If open, spacious sites under a blue sky are your thing, Sudbury Court would be a good stop for you. 

Capacity: 20 RV sites

More Information: Sudbury Court Motel & RV Park

Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow

Amenities: Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow is one more family-friendly RV park near Dolliver Memorial State Park. The park is a popular choice for long-term residents for its quiet and clean atmosphere, and hefty list of amenities. You could even keep your party busy all day without ever leaving the grounds. Check out their sandy beach, fishing pond, outdoor games, recreation room, and sports courts any time of day. Enjoy full hookups at every site for an ultra-convenient stay.

Capacity: 105 RV sites

More Information: Beyonder Getaway at Sleepy Hollow

Best Time To Visit Dolliver Memorial State Park 

Iowa has four dynamic seasons which means four options for your visit with distinct differences between them. Our handy guide below will let you choose the best time to visit Dolliver Memorial State Park.

Winter

Winter camping at Dolliver Memorial State Park brings frigid temperatures well below freezing (about 32 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit). So, if you’re interested in experiencing winter’s quiet solitude, pack plenty of layers and blankets.

Spring

By mid-May, spring camping in Dolliver Memorial State Park becomes a welcoming prospect. Enjoy temperatures around 60 degrees on average. Starting in late April, you can start taking in the sights of lush wildflowers all around. 

Summer

Summer is the peak season in Dolliver Memorial State Park for good reason. Temperatures rest around a pleasant 70 to 80 degrees making it the best time to enjoy some time on the lake. Keep your visit in June or July for the lowest rate of rainfall.

Fall

Fall is your best option for off-peak camping in Dolliver Memorial State Park. Bookings are slow by October. Plan near this date or later in October for the best balance between low crowd sizes, fall foliage, and a comfortable climate.

Things To Do in Dolliver Memorial State Park 

Now that all your planning is done, it’s on to the fun! Use our list of things to do in Dolliver Memorial State Park to get you started.

• Hike the Center Trail. This serene, wooded trail is an easy hike suitable for any skill or fitness level. You’ll find the entrance just north of the park’s restroom facilities. Keep an eye out for native wildlife like deer and hawks as you go. 
• Walk the Copperas and Indian Trail Loop. For more of a challenge, try this 2.5-mile hike with slight elevation changes. Varied geographical features make this a challenging and interesting hike from beginning to end. Take in the sights of shrouded woods, craggy cliffs, man-made bridges, and more.
• See the Copperas Beds. Don’t forget to take a closer look at the park’s most interesting feature, the sandstone “Copperas Beds.” Along the 100-foot high bluff formed by Prairie Creek, you’ll find craggy, porous, and spotty bits raised along the surface. These are “efflorescences” of iron sulfate caused by heavy rainfall over the years –– the first of its kind discovered in Iowa. 
• Explore the Native American Mounds. Head to the upland timber area to find three ceremonial mounds from ages past. The exact purpose of the mounds is unknown. But, take some time to enjoy their scenic location overlooking the river while they spark your imagination about the Native Americans who once called the park home.
• Enjoy the River. Pack your fishing gear or a kayak before you go camping in Dolliver Memorial State Park. Easy river access makes enjoying some time angling a breeze. Trout, sunfish, smallmouth bass, perch, and more are all ripe for the taking.

Tips for Visiting Dolliver Memorial State Park 

You must be eager to get the adventure started by now. But before you pack your bags, check out these final tips for visiting Dolliver Memorial State Park to ensure a smooth, safe trip.

• Cell phone reception is spotty and unreliable in Dolliver Memorial State Park. Download the AllTrails App to stay on track without worry.
• The park is teeming with wildlife and birds. You have a great chance of spotting local fauna on any of the park’s hikes. Pack some binoculars to fully enjoy observing nature.
• Practice eco-friendly camping. Make sure to pick up any garbage you have and leave without a trace.
• If you’re going on the water, pack a life jacket. The water is frigid in colder months and can make a fall into the lake very dangerous.

RV Rental for Dolliver Memorial State Park  

That wraps up our guide to this wonderful little spot in Webster, Iowa. And if you’re looking for the best way to experience it all, try a Dolliver Memorial State Park RV rental.

Cruise America’s RVs are perfect for any party size or budget. Whether you’re an RV newbie or road warrior, you’ll find the perfect home away from home with us. 

Experience the convenience of home anywhere with a fully-functional kitchen, bathroom with shower, living space, and beds to camp in comfort no matter where you roam.

Reserve an RV rental for your Dolliver Memorial State Park camping trip today!