Best Camping Near Ely, IA

Explore Ely, IA: Discover Nearby KOA Campgrounds for Unforgettable Camping Adventures and Outdoor Fun.

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

4.8

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Ely, Iowa

4 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Ely, Iowa

  • Nevada Northern Railway Museum - Located in Ely, NV, this museum offers a glimpse into the steam railroad era with well-preserved locomotives and historic train rides.

  • Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park - Situated about 18 miles south of Ely, these beehive-shaped ovens were used in the late 19th century for silver ore processing. The park also offers hiking and picnicking opportunities.

  • Garnet Hill - A nationally recognized rockhounding area near Ely where visitors can find dark red garnets embedded in volcanic rock.

  • Cave Lake State Park - This year-round park features a 32-acre reservoir ideal for trout fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. In winter, enjoy ice skating and cross-country skiing.

  • Lehman Caves - Part of Great Basin National Park, these limestone caverns are known for their stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours are available daily.

  • The Ghost Train of Old Ely - Experience a ride on vintage trains through scenic routes around downtown Ely and Robinson Canyon. Tours include visits to historic railroad facilities.

  • Great Basin National Park - Known for its dramatic mountain peaks and diverse habitats, this park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of alpine lakes and limestone caves.

Ways to camp near Ely, Iowa

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can enjoy a round of golf at the Diamond Trail Golf Club and South Hills Golf Course.

The Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens offers a beautiful display of plants and flowers.

The Galesburg Balloon Race is an exciting event for those interested in hot air balloons.

The Waterloo Convention & Visitors Bureau provides details on local attractions and events.

You can visit the Carl Sandburg State Historic Site to learn more about history in the area.

Trainland USA offers an engaging experience for families with its model train displays.

Plan a trip to Ely, Iowa

Plan a trip to Ely, Iowa

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Ely offers a charming escape for camping enthusiasts looking to explore the Midwest's natural beauty. With four KOA campgrounds nearby—Waterloo / Lost Island KOA Resort, Newton / Des Moines East KOA Journey, Lena KOA Holiday, and Galesburg East / Knoxville, IL KOA Holiday—there's no shortage of options for a comfortable stay.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are ideal for visiting Ely. These seasons offer mild weather perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Summer brings warmer temperatures suitable for swimming and boating adventures.

Weather Expectations: In spring, expect cool mornings with pleasant afternoons. Summer heats up but is balanced by refreshing breezes. Fall showcases vibrant foliage with crisp air—a photographer’s dream! Winter can be chilly; however, it provides a serene landscape perfect for those who enjoy solitude.

Packing Essentials:

  • Spring/Fall: Layered clothing is key as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
  • Summer: Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are must-haves.
  • Winter: Warm coats, gloves, hats—and don’t forget your camera to capture snowy vistas!

Planning Tips:

  1. Reservations: Book your campsite early at one of the nearby KOAs to secure your spot during peak seasons.
  2. Activities & Attractions: Explore local attractions such as museums or take scenic drives through picturesque landscapes.
  3. Safety First: Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or other outdoor activities.

Ely’s welcoming atmosphere combined with its proximity to well-equipped KOA campgrounds makes it an excellent choice for both seasoned campers and families seeking adventure in nature’s embrace!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Ely, Iowa with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Ely, Iowa, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.