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Backbone SP - South Lake CG
Public Campground

Backbone SP - South Lake CG

Stawberry Park, Iowa
4.6 (62 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Backbone SP - South Lake CG

Campground in Iowa.

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Backbone State Park's South Lake Campground offers a peaceful retreat into nature for RV travelers seeking authentic outdoor experiences. This public campground sits within one of Iowa's most scenic state parks, where rolling hills, pristine waters, and dense woodlands create an idyllic setting for a memorable camping adventure.

The South Lake area provides an excellent base for exploring the natural wonders that make Backbone State Park special. The park's namesake ridge formation towers dramatically above the landscape, creating stunning vistas that change with each season. Whether you arrive in spring to witness wildflowers blooming along hiking trails, summer for water activities, fall for spectacular foliage, or winter for peaceful solitude, there's always something to appreciate about this beautiful corner of Iowa.

Water activities are a primary draw for visitors to this campground. South Lake itself offers opportunities for fishing, with visitors regularly catching bass, bluegill, and other native species. The calm waters are also perfect for kayaking or canoeing if you bring your own watercraft. For those who prefer land-based activities, the park features miles of scenic hiking and walking trails that wind through forests and along ridgelines, offering varying difficulty levels for different fitness levels and interests.

The campground itself maintains a rustic charm that appeals to RV travelers who want to disconnect from daily life while still enjoying essential camping amenities. The 96 sites provide plenty of space for different RV sizes, and the park's layout allows for a sense of privacy and seclusion even during busier seasons. The surrounding forest canopy creates natural shade and a cooler microclimate, which is particularly appreciated during hot summer months.

Strawberry Park serves as the gateway to this camping experience, and the surrounding Delware County region offers additional attractions worth exploring. Local dining options, small-town charm, and nearby natural areas provide opportunities to venture beyond the campground while still maintaining easy access to your RV base. This location appeals to nature lovers, fishing enthusiasts, hiking families, and anyone seeking a genuine connection with Iowa's natural heritage.
96

Total Sites

4.6

Rating

62

Reviews

Park Details

Total Sites 96

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Stawberry Park is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Iowa weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Stawberry Park.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Stawberry Park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Backbone SP - South Lake CG Reviews

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Dawn J

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Dawn J

Backbone is a beautiful state park well designed for camping, hiking, and outdoor gatherings. The South Lake Campground has a large number of very well maintained spots for both RVs and tent campers. RV spots are fairly level, and many have electric hookups. Water spigots are available, and there is a dump station on site. The campground has 2 separate restrooms/ shower facilities. Both are clean... Backbone is a beautiful state park well designed for camping, hiking, and outdoor gatherings. The South Lake Campground has a large number of very well maintained spots for both RVs and tent campers. RV spots are fairly level, and many have electric hookups. Water spigots are available, and there is a dump station on site. The campground has 2 separate restrooms/ shower facilities. Both are clean and worked well. Many of the camp sites are shaded, which helps during the summer heat. The campground is located close to the lake where you can fish or rent kayaks and canoes. There are also a couple of trailheads within walking distance to the campground. Backbone's campground is one of our favorite places to stay.

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Danie Parsons

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Danie Parsons

Ok so I moved here from Idaho. I didn’t realize it would be so hot at the end of June, do not recommend tent camping (even with a fan!) also, most of the lower area campground isn’t level for a tent, and the park ranger was difficult to deal with concerning moving our camp spot and having a ticket at the post. He drove by and woke us up (already knowing us and our situation) at 8am to tell us we d... Ok so I moved here from Idaho. I didn’t realize it would be so hot at the end of June, do not recommend tent camping (even with a fan!) also, most of the lower area campground isn’t level for a tent, and the park ranger was difficult to deal with concerning moving our camp spot and having a ticket at the post. He drove by and woke us up (already knowing us and our situation) at 8am to tell us we didn’t put the ticket on the post. Of course I had previously asked twice and he told me to keep the ticket on me and inside the box near entrance. Ehh… whatever. Nice scenery. Beach still has sign warning about water conditions. Nobody was swimming in the daytime that I noticed. Both bathrooms including shower are minimal, don’t expect much there! The bugs weren’t terrible but finding wood to buy was! Only cash was accepted at nearby home selling firewood. Overall, Some cool history to check out- also enjoyed the cave and the springs. The spring water felt soooo good!! Also, we needed a special trout license so we weren’t able to fish for those and they are super small there anyways. I guess that’s what I get for moving to the Midwest! Might come back mushroom hunting but probably not to camp, swim or fish.

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Linda Fischer

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Linda Fischer

Nice clean campground. Backbone State Park is a great place for hiking, kayaking, & fishing. Also had lots of wildlife, deer, eagles, & birds of all kinds. Will definitely come back and enjoy a vacation here again.

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Nick Chill

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Nick Chill

The South Lake Campground, at Backbone State Park, is a beautiful campground with modern amenities, and positioned close to park attractions. The sites have spacious options, helping the campground feel calm even when full. The restrooms are very clean and bright, and the upkeep on the facilities is regular. You'll be thankful if you choose Cabo near the restrooms with a private bathroom and showe... The South Lake Campground, at Backbone State Park, is a beautiful campground with modern amenities, and positioned close to park attractions. The sites have spacious options, helping the campground feel calm even when full. The restrooms are very clean and bright, and the upkeep on the facilities is regular. You'll be thankful if you choose Cabo near the restrooms with a private bathroom and shower in one lockable room. Even better, the showers are free to use. Firewood was not available on the campground on August 14th, 2021. Instead, we had to drive 5 miles to Strawberry Point. Camp hosts are close by and ready to help.

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ja berg

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by ja berg

Semi clean single stall bathrooms with flush toilet and shower. Since showers in with toilets can get dirty with use but cleaned everyday. Good stay. Some sights close to neighbor. Would stay here again. Can reserve some sights and some are first come first serve.

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