Ivans
4.5354 reviews1125 198th Place, Knoxville, IA 50138
Ivans
$20.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for RV electric sites range from $20 to $24 during peak season. Additional reservation service fees include $8 for online bookings, $9 via...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$24.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider6418287522
About this campground
Nestled beneath the impressive Red Rock Dam on the Des Moines River's southern banks, Ivans Campground offers an intimate escape with 21 thoughtfully equipped campsites. Each site comes complete with 50-amp electric hookups, while modern amenities including flush toilets, hot showers, and fresh drinking water ensure comfort meets adventure. Whether you're casting a line into the river's productive waters, exploring winding forest trails on foot or bike, or simply soaking in the riverside ambiance, this hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for your Iowa outdoor experience.
Ivans Campground includes sites for RVs and tents, with 21 electric sites. It caters to both individual and family campers. There are no group camping options, cabins, or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceYour riverside retreat places you at the crossroads of Iowa's rich cultural tapestry. Just minutes away, the charming town of Pella invites you to stroll through authentic Dutch architecture, sample traditional pastries, and experience Old World hospitality in the heart of America. Meanwhile, Knoxville roars to life as the 'Sprint Car Capital of the World,' where the thunder of engines and the thrill of dirt track racing create an entirely different kind of excitement. This unique blend of serene nature, European heritage, and American motorsports culture offers something special for every member of your camping party.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's grand spectacle as thousands of American White Pelicans grace the skies during their remarkable spring and fall migrations, transforming the river into a birdwatcher's paradise. Summer brings a perfect balance of warm sunshine and cooling shade from the mature hardwood canopy, creating ideal conditions for everything from morning hikes to lazy afternoon fishing sessions. The changing seasons paint the landscape in ever-shifting colors, making each visit a unique adventure.
ElevationPositioned strategically along the Des Moines River valley, the campground's riverside setting creates a natural amphitheater where the gentle sounds of flowing water provide a constant, soothing soundtrack to your stay. The terrain offers both level camping areas and slightly elevated spots that provide enhanced river views and cooling breezes.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of mature hardwood trees creates a living canopy above the campground, filtering sunlight into dappled patterns that dance across your campsite throughout the day. The Des Moines River serves as both backdrop and playground, its banks offering prime wildlife viewing opportunities. From November through March, majestic bald eagles patrol the waters, while spring and fall bring clouds of migrating pelicans. Year-round residents including white-tailed deer and wild turkeys frequently make appearances at dawn and dusk, reminding visitors that this riverside sanctuary truly belongs to nature.
Geological RegionThe landscape tells a story written by water and time, where the Des Moines River has carved its path below the monumental Red Rock Dam. This dynamic environment showcases Iowa's diverse ecology, from the rich river bottom soils that nourish towering hardwoods to the rocky outcroppings that provide perfect perches for fishing and wildlife observation. The interplay between the engineered marvel of the dam and the wild beauty of the surrounding forests creates a fascinating study in how human innovation and natural splendor can coexist harmoniously.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides accessible trails and parking. Some sites are level, making them suitable for individuals with mobility concerns.
Sites SizeSites are described as small to moderately sized, with comments stating 'spots are way too small unless you are with a group,' and 'the site was very level, and its depth was very adequate for our pop-up.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are mixed. While some guests appreciated the spacing, such as 'neighbors weren’t right on top of each other,' others noted that sites are 'pretty close together.'
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose site #6 for river views. Sites are shaded, but some may lack sufficient space for larger RVs.
Best CampsitesSite #6 is noted for its proximity to the river with great views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of eight persons per campsite is allowed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with 21 sites closely spaced. Sites are shaded by mature hardwood trees.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: April 24 - October 5 (reservable). Closed season: October 6 - April 23.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not permitted. All reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 service fee applies for cancellations or changes. A late cancellation forfeits the first night's recreation use fee. Changes include adding/removing nights or switching sites. Reservations must be canceled by midnight one day prior to arrival to avoid late fees.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Ivans Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. It is also close to the Volksweg Trail, a 15-mile paved path for biking and walking.
Hiking
Several trails in the surrounding area offer hiking opportunities. The Volksweg Trail, running 15 miles from Pella to the Des Moines River, is a highlight. One reviewer stated, 'Access to the bike trail was awesome.'Fishing
Fishing is popular at this campground, with species such as crappie, walleye, largemouth bass, and catfish available. One reviewer noted, 'Caught some nice-sized catfish.'Swimming
Swimming is accessible due to proximity to the river, though there are no specific on-site swimming facilities mentioned.Biking
Biking is a featured activity, with access to the Volksweg Trail. Cyclists can explore both paved and off-road paths.Boating
Boating is supported by the campground's proximity to the Des Moines River, which connects to Lake Red Rock. Activities like canoeing and kayaking are available.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently spot wildlife such as bald eagles and white-tailed deer. One reviewer mentioned, 'Great views of wildlife and fishing.'Water Sports
Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available in the nearby water trails.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted. Limited firewood is available on-site.
- Quiet hours are listed but not consistently enforced, according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsNo on-site water fill or dump station. Cell service is limited to non-existent. Wildlife presence includes deer, turkeys, and waterfowl.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Knoxville, which is approximately 15 minutes away. Specific facilities are not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 24 through October 5 annually.
Trash and recyclingThere are no on-site dumpsters for trash disposal. Reviews warn visitors that they must dispose of their trash off-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located just below the Red Rock Dam along the Des Moines River, offering fishing and water views.
Common complaintsSites are reported as too small for larger RVs. Lack of water fill/dump station and limited cell service are recurring issues. Some reviews mention noise policy not being enforced and long grass.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful in most reviews, though some visitors reported their absence during stays.
Campground Map
1125 198th Place, Knoxville, IA 50138
Driving directionsThe campground is accessed off of Highway T15 by turning east onto Jewell Drive and then turning north on 198th Place.
The campground is accessible from paved roads and appears to have straightforward access points from Highway T15. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Knoxville (15 minutes), Pella (10 minutes), Des Moines (1 hour)
Nearby supplies
The closest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are in Knoxville and Pella, both within a 15-minute drive.
Camper Reviews
4.5
54 reviews
Ivans is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ivans Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to recreational opportunities. Guests appreciate the shaded sites and easy access to fishing, hiking, and biking. However, lack of cell service and small site sizes are common complaints.
Review Summaries
Based on 54 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, the quiet and relaxing environment, and the abundance of recreational activities. Many appreciate the friendly and helpful campground hosts.
Based on 54 reviewsCommon Concerns
The most common complaints include the lack of a dump station, no individual water hookups, poor cell service, and small or closely spaced campsites. Some visitors also mentioned long grass and...
Based on 54 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood to ensure availability. Plan for no cell service or internet connectivity. Dispose of trash off-site, as there are no dumpsters. "Kids bring your wheels" for biking trails,...
Based on 54 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors noted that bald eagle sightings are common from November through March. The campground is busiest during the spring and summer, particularly around events like the Pella Tulip Festival.
Based on 54 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Great little campground right on the river! Nice big shade trees on almost every site.' - Lance Martin. 'Nice restrooms. Great parking. Very relaxing. Love coming here.' - Matthew Whitt. 'The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #6 is frequently mentioned for its proximity to the river. However, some sites are noted for being small or less shaded than others.
Based on 54 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible trails and level sites are appreciated. One guest stated, 'the site was very level, and its depth was very adequate for our pop-up.'
Based on 54 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and the campground environment is generally accommodating for pet owners.
Based on 54 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025