Dallas County Fair Campgrounds Introduce
Looking for "camping near me" in the Adel, Iowa area? Dallas County Fair Campgrounds, located on US-169, Adel, IA 50003, USA, offers a local option that has garnered mixed but informative feedback from recent visitors. You can reach them at (515) 993-3728 or +1 515-993-3728. While some campers have praised the helpfulness of volunteers and the accessibility of the location, others have pointed out limitations, particularly for larger RVs, and challenges with communication.
Environment: Well-Manicured and Accessible, But Potentially Crowded
The environment of Dallas County Fair Campgrounds is described by one reviewer as "well manicured and clean," suggesting that the grounds are generally kept in good condition. Its location is also noted for its convenient access, being "about 5 miles from I-80 with easy access," which could be a significant advantage for travelers. However, another reviewer paints a different picture regarding the size and spacing of the campsites, stating that "most sites are small" and configured as "buddy sites so door to door." This arrangement implies a lack of privacy between adjacent campsites, where opening your awning might lead to it hitting your neighbor's RV. This close proximity could be a drawback for those seeking a more secluded camping experience. The presence of "grass" sites with 50 amp service is mentioned as a positive, indicating that some sites offer good utility connections and a softer ground cover.
Services and Amenities: Volunteer-Run with Limited Communication
The services and amenities at Dallas County Fair Campgrounds appear to be somewhat basic, as it is noted that the campground "is run by volunteers no Host or staff." While one reviewer specifically praised a volunteer named Victoria for being a "real compliment" and helpful in finding a site, the lack of dedicated staff seems to contribute to communication issues. A concerning point raised by a reviewer is that "NO ONE ANSWERS THE PHONE OR EMAILS," which could make it difficult to make reservations, get information, or resolve any issues. This lack of consistent communication is a significant factor to consider. Beyond the availability of 50 amp sites on grass, specific amenities like restrooms, showers, or other recreational facilities are not detailed in the reviews. The volunteer-run nature suggests a more basic level of service compared to commercially operated campgrounds.
Features and Activities: Convenient Location, Limited Space for Big Rigs
A key feature of Dallas County Fair Campgrounds is its accessibility from I-80, making it a potentially convenient stop for those traveling through the area. The helpfulness of at least one volunteer is also a notable positive. However, a significant limitation highlighted is that "It is not for big Rigs," with the assessment that it was "impossible to park our 42 ft." The small size of most sites and the buddy site configuration, where you're parked close to your neighbor, further underscore this limitation. If you have a larger RV, this campground may not be suitable. For smaller RVs or tents, the well-manicured and clean environment, along with the easy access from the interstate, could be appealing. However, the potential lack of privacy due to the close proximity of sites is something to be aware of. The absence of on-site staff and the difficulty in contacting the campground could also impact the overall experience.
Promotional Information: Consider for Smaller Rigs, Be Aware of Limitations
For local users seeking "camping near me" in Adel, IA, Dallas County Fair Campgrounds offers an easily accessible and reportedly clean option. The presence of helpful volunteers, like Victoria, who can assist with site selection, is a definite plus. The availability of 50 amp sites on grass might be attractive to some RVers. However, potential campers, especially those with larger RVs (over 42 ft certainly, and likely those generally considered "big rigs"), should be aware that the campground is described as not suitable for them due to small site sizes. Additionally, the "buddy site" configuration means limited privacy. A significant concern raised is the difficulty in contacting the campground via phone or email due to its volunteer-run nature, which could pose challenges for reservations or inquiries. If you have a smaller RV or are tent camping and value easy access and a well-maintained environment, Dallas County Fair Campgrounds could be an option. However, be prepared for close neighbors and potential communication hurdles. It would be prudent to try and establish contact beforehand if possible, given the reported issues with phone and email responses.
Dallas County Fair Campgrounds Photos









Dallas County Fair Campgrounds Location
Dallas County Fair Campgrounds
US-169, Adel, IA 50003, USA
Dallas County Fair CampgroundsUS-169
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Dallas County Fair Campgrounds Reviews
We have stayed here three times. The last two times we were greeted, without reservations, by Victoria who found a great 50 amp site for us on grass. Victoria is a real compliment to this campground.This campground is about 5 miles from I-80 with easy access. Well manicured and clean.
Aug 18, 2021 · Cal VandenBergNO ONE ANSWERS THE PHONE OR EMAILS. It is run by volunteers no Host or staff. It is not for big Rigs, most sites are small and if you want to open your awning you would hit the neighbors door. We found it impossible to park our 42 ft. Finally gave up and left, no one to request a refund from as No one answers the phone. So we lost $210.00. Be aware that the sites are buddy sites so door to door.
Jun 26, 2024 · Peggy GretsingerWe stayed here for 2 weeks, and let me tell you. We had the most entertaining time at this park. We were in spot #19 - Right next to the bathrooms, and on the end. Most sites have hook ups on the wrong side of the spot. We pulled through and drove on the grass. It would have been impossible for us to back in our trailer with how tight it is when everyone is home and a ton of horse trailers and other trucks parked.When we arrived, the park was nasty. Full of full-timers who had their personal garbage spread throughout. But after a few days. They all packed up and left - it was so odd. However, there is one set of campers who just moved to another spot and like to go to the bathroom for 1 minutes and 10 seconds exactly every 20-35min. It is the strangest thing. So if you're parked in 19, be prepared for a lot of foot traffic.All in all, it was a beautiful park to walk around in. It was cool to see the fairgrounds empty and open. You're able to just walk through and see things. Park is very quiet during the week.Restrooms were "clean". They are old and could use a good paint job to freshen up and or a good pressure wash to get out the spider webs and what not. A little attention can go a long way to make things feel better even if a paint job couldn't happen. The water pressure here is out of this world. We have never been to a park with amazing water pressure.
Aug 22, 2023 · The Traveling StippelsWe camped in site 35. It was supposed to have water and electric but we only had electric. (if it is there it is well hidden). Also it is right by an awesome fun pillow bounce trampoline. The campground kids liked the trampoline so much they kept going way after quiet hour. Also the position of the entrance of the fence for the bounce pad meant the kids had to walk over our power cord in the dark.
Sep 02, 2023 · DanelleGrumpy old man as the camp host was incredibly rude!! You really should not have someone in that position that clearly can't communicate with the public. Our site we originally reserved online we would never of fit in, both RVs on opposite sides and they had all their chairs and picnic tables where our site was suppose to go. Luckily there was other open spots and we were able to move. Sites very small and close together!
Jul 03, 2023 · Bethany Reasoner
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