0.0
County Park
Blackhawk County Park
De Soto, Iowa
Campground in Iowa.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Fontana County Park Campgrounds
Campground in Iowa.
Fontana County Park Campgrounds offers a wonderful escape in the heart of Iowa's countryside, providing a peaceful retreat for RV travelers seeking authentic Midwestern hospitality. Located in Independence, this county park serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty and charming character of northeast Iowa.
The campground itself provides a comfortable setting with 54 sites, giving you plenty of options whether you're traveling solo, with family, or in a larger group. The park's well-maintained grounds and 4.7-star rating from guests reflect the care and attention that goes into making your stay enjoyable. You'll find the setting conducive to both relaxation and adventure, with a genuine small-town atmosphere that many RV travelers specifically seek out when exploring Iowa's back roads.
Independence sits in a region rich with natural attractions and local character. The surrounding area offers opportunities to explore Iowa's rolling landscapes, discover local farms and agricultural heritage, and experience the genuine warmth of rural Midwestern communities. This location works wonderfully for visitors interested in outdoor recreation, whether that means enjoying nearby parks, fishing opportunities, or simply taking scenic drives through the countryside.
The area appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families enjoy the safe, welcoming environment and access to wholesome outdoor activities. Retirees appreciate the peaceful setting and slower pace of life. History enthusiasts find plenty of interest in the region's heritage and small-town landmarks. Whether you're using the park as a home base for exploring northeast Iowa, taking a break on a longer journey, or simply looking for a quiet place to settle for a while, Fontana County Park Campgrounds provides the kind of genuine, unpretentious camping experience that keeps guests returning.
Independence itself maintains that classic Iowa small-town charm, with local dining options, shops, and services nearby. The community is welcoming to visitors and maintains a strong connection to its agricultural roots and regional history. This makes for a truly authentic experience of rural Iowa life.
The campground itself provides a comfortable setting with 54 sites, giving you plenty of options whether you're traveling solo, with family, or in a larger group. The park's well-maintained grounds and 4.7-star rating from guests reflect the care and attention that goes into making your stay enjoyable. You'll find the setting conducive to both relaxation and adventure, with a genuine small-town atmosphere that many RV travelers specifically seek out when exploring Iowa's back roads.
Independence sits in a region rich with natural attractions and local character. The surrounding area offers opportunities to explore Iowa's rolling landscapes, discover local farms and agricultural heritage, and experience the genuine warmth of rural Midwestern communities. This location works wonderfully for visitors interested in outdoor recreation, whether that means enjoying nearby parks, fishing opportunities, or simply taking scenic drives through the countryside.
The area appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families enjoy the safe, welcoming environment and access to wholesome outdoor activities. Retirees appreciate the peaceful setting and slower pace of life. History enthusiasts find plenty of interest in the region's heritage and small-town landmarks. Whether you're using the park as a home base for exploring northeast Iowa, taking a break on a longer journey, or simply looking for a quiet place to settle for a while, Fontana County Park Campgrounds provides the kind of genuine, unpretentious camping experience that keeps guests returning.
Independence itself maintains that classic Iowa small-town charm, with local dining options, shops, and services nearby. The community is welcoming to visitors and maintains a strong connection to its agricultural roots and regional history. This makes for a truly authentic experience of rural Iowa life.
54
Total Sites
4.7
Rating
529
Reviews
Park Details
Total Sites
54
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Independence 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 Independence.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Independence. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Fontana County Park Campgrounds Reviews
Sign in to Review
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Diane Nichols
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Diane Nichols
Wow! This place was phenomenal. The animals, the water, shelters and the nature center was one of the best we've ever seen. I'm going back and taking the grands- they'll love it just as much. There's also a secret kids nature scape area in the way back behind the cabins that allows kids to explore a little further. What a great park!! 5 stars.
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Royce Moore
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Royce Moore
Spreading out from home base on where we camp. This park is sweet, quiet, laid back and they have things like, animals, staffed nature center. The camp sites are large, biggest I've ever seen. No current full hookup sites, but later this summer a bunch are being added. When we were here some Amish were camped out and a young girl came around selling home baked goods. We got some cinnamon rol... Spreading out from home base on where we camp. This park is sweet, quiet, laid back and they have things like, animals, staffed nature center. The camp sites are large, biggest I've ever seen. No current full hookup sites, but later this summer a bunch are being added. When we were here some Amish were camped out and a young girl came around selling home baked goods. We got some cinnamon rolls and had for breakfast, wow good stuff. Don't think that is a regular occurrence, but it was a nice treat. Didn't detect Wi-Fi, but there was a strong 5G signal for those who need it. We will be coming back to camp here.
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Alexis Ann
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Alexis Ann
Seems like a nice place for family gatherings, fishing, and hiking. There is a small conservation area with some animals (raccoons, skunks, coyote, foxes, etc.). Some of the enclosures seemed a little small for some of the animals, but overall they looked well taken care of, clean, and comfortable. The area near the water and playground was clean. We will be back at some point to fish.
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Jason Ellison
Mar 23, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jason Ellison
Our family had a great time at Fontana. There were a kot of cool taxidermy animals and birds to see as well as interactive stations for kids. The kids also liked watching all the outdoor animals, especially the goofy racoon.
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Richard Bruehahn
Mar 23, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Richard Bruehahn
Great park I have been going to since I was a kid. They have nice trails for a short hike to get out in nature. Love stopping and seeing the animals. Never tried the cabins but they look well maintained. Great picnic areas as well.
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Thomas Foster
Mar 18, 2026
2.0
Google Review by Thomas Foster
no word from park ranger no regulation code , I rent a lot and i got a 50 amp hookup then someone else hooks up to my post with 30 amp I reported to the park authorities that this is probly against regulations and unsafe for that matter , and I rented the lot for my use not others . oh I just want to update that one camper to a lot so why is there 2 campers in one lot , is it even safe to have the... no word from park ranger no regulation code , I rent a lot and i got a 50 amp hookup then someone else hooks up to my post with 30 amp I reported to the park authorities that this is probly against regulations and unsafe for that matter , and I rented the lot for my use not others . oh I just want to update that one camper to a lot so why is there 2 campers in one lot , is it even safe to have the campers boxed in like the have it , there's no regulation out here. sorry another update this is how close they are
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Thomas Foster
Mar 18, 2026
2.0
Google Review by Thomas Foster
no word from park ranger no regulation code , I rent a lot and i got a 50 amp hookup then someone else hooks up to my post with 30 amp I reported to the park authorities that this is probly against regulations and unsafe for that matter , and I rented the lot for my use not others . oh I just want to update that one camper to a lot so why is there 2 campers in one lot , is it even safe to have the... no word from park ranger no regulation code , I rent a lot and i got a 50 amp hookup then someone else hooks up to my post with 30 amp I reported to the park authorities that this is probly against regulations and unsafe for that matter , and I rented the lot for my use not others . oh I just want to update that one camper to a lot so why is there 2 campers in one lot , is it even safe to have the campers boxed in like the have it , there's no regulation out here. sorry another update this is how close they are
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Thomas Foster
Mar 18, 2026
2.0
Google Review by Thomas Foster
no word from park ranger no regulation code , I rent a lot and i got a 50 amp hookup then someone else hooks up to my post with 30 amp I reported to the park authorities that this is probly against regulations and unsafe for that matter , and I rented the lot for my use not others . oh I just want to update that one camper to a lot so why is there 2 campers in one lot , is it even safe to have the... no word from park ranger no regulation code , I rent a lot and i got a 50 amp hookup then someone else hooks up to my post with 30 amp I reported to the park authorities that this is probly against regulations and unsafe for that matter , and I rented the lot for my use not others . oh I just want to update that one camper to a lot so why is there 2 campers in one lot , is it even safe to have the campers boxed in like the have it , there's no regulation out here. sorry another update this is how close they are
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Jamie Shannon Volz
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jamie Shannon Volz
Great hiking trail for kids and adults. They have a paved trail and also an unpaved trail past the bridge by the cabins. There are animals to look at and playgrounds here also. Great spot for fishing and kayaking. They have a picnic area also.
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Jamie Shannon Volz
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jamie Shannon Volz
Great hiking trail for kids and adults. They have a paved trail and also an unpaved trail past the bridge by the cabins. There are animals to look at and playgrounds here also. Great spot for fishing and kayaking. They have a picnic area also.
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Jamie Shannon Volz
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jamie Shannon Volz
Great hiking trail for kids and adults. They have a paved trail and also an unpaved trail past the bridge by the cabins. There are animals to look at and playgrounds here also. Great spot for fishing and kayaking. They have a picnic area also.
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Greg Hinton
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Greg Hinton
A nice little nature park, with a walking path around the lake. They recently added a new campground up along the lake, to go along with the Creekside Campground. Some animals u can walk thru and see. There is also an indoor nature center to check out. The spillways has a lookout shelter at the top, with picnic tables and a place to hang out, out of the weather. Fun little spot.
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Greg Hinton
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Greg Hinton
A nice little nature park, with a walking path around the lake. They recently added a new campground up along the lake, to go along with the Creekside Campground. Some animals u can walk thru and see. There is also an indoor nature center to check out. The spillways has a lookout shelter at the top, with picnic tables and a place to hang out, out of the weather. Fun little spot.
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Greg Hinton
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Greg Hinton
A nice little nature park, with a walking path around the lake. They recently added a new campground up along the lake, to go along with the Creekside Campground. Some animals u can walk thru and see. There is also an indoor nature center to check out. The spillways has a lookout shelter at the top, with picnic tables and a place to hang out, out of the weather. Fun little spot.
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Jim Copley
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jim Copley
Very nice wooded campground with over a dozen deep electric sites and as many tent sites.
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Jim Copley
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jim Copley
Very nice wooded campground with over a dozen deep electric sites and as many tent sites.
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Jim Copley
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jim Copley
Very nice wooded campground with over a dozen deep electric sites and as many tent sites.
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Jennifer Brade
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jennifer Brade
Rented the cabins and had a blast. They're very nice. Great fishing. On Sat night a lady sold us homemade cinnamon rolls out of her buggy.
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Jennifer Brade
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jennifer Brade
Rented the cabins and had a blast. They're very nice. Great fishing. On Sat night a lady sold us homemade cinnamon rolls out of her buggy.
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Jennifer Brade
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Jennifer Brade
Rented the cabins and had a blast. They're very nice. Great fishing. On Sat night a lady sold us homemade cinnamon rolls out of her buggy.
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