How much does camping cost at Prairie Rose State Park?

Camping fees at Prairie Rose State Park range from $16-$19/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Prairie Rose State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Prairie Rose State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Prairie Rose State Park?

Prairie Rose State Park is open Likely May through September based on firewood sales season.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Prairie Rose State Park?

Yes, Prairie Rose State Park has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Prairie Rose State Park have?

Prairie Rose State Park has 95 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Prairie Rose State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Prairie Rose State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Prairie Rose State Park?

Prairie Rose State Park offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Prairie Rose State Park?

Popular activities at Prairie Rose State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Prairie Rose State Park

Q: Can I have a campfire at Prairie Rose State Park?

Fire policies at Prairie Rose State Park: "Camp sites have fire rings" and firewood bundles are sold for $5. Funds support park maintenance (Review by Sarah Wright).. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.41

117 reviews

680 Road M47, Harlan, Iowa, 51537, United States

BReport Card

Tent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Iowa Fishing Camping Iowa Tent Camping Iowa +2 more

Quick Facts

1,250 ft

Price

$16 - $19/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Prairie Rose State Park Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,250 ft

Price

$16 - $19/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Prairie Rose State Park Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Prairie Rose State Park

$16.00 - $19.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$16 per night for electric-only sites; $19 per night for full hook-up sites (Review by Steve Fisher). Pricing is reasonable and includes community...

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Hookup Site Fee$19.00

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Provider

7127732701

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Campground Map

680 Road M47, Harlan, Iowa, 51537, United States

Prairie Rose State Park

680 Road M47, Harlan, Iowa, 51537, United States

Nearby places

Harlan, IA (3 miles, approximately 5 minutes)

Walnut, IA (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

Omaha, NE (approximately 60 miles, 1 hour drive).

Nearby supplies

Hy-Vee, Bomgars, Dollar General, Casey’s General Store, and other convenience stores within 15 miles (Review by William Pauley). Fuel available

bait and tackle shops nearby for fishing needs.

Weather at Prairie Rose State Park

Best Time to Camp at Prairie Rose State Park

Summer brings daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-90s°F and overnight lows in the 50s-60s, with July and August offering the warmest lake temperatures for swimming and boating. Late spring through early summer is popular for camping when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are milder. Summer can be humid, especially after rain, which brings mosquitoes and chiggers. Bug spray is recommended. Upper campground sites catch better breezes than lower ones. Winter sees occasional use for quiet walks and ice fishing, though most facilities close.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming/boating; warm lake temps and busy amenities, though bugs/algae can be an issue.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Likely May through September based on firewood sales season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Cabin rentals available year-round. Firewood concessions open May through September, 7 days a week, 9 AM to 8:30 PM daily.

About Prairie Rose State Park

Prairie Rose State Park sits around a 218-acre lake near Harlan in western Iowa, with the Loess Hills visible on the horizon. The park has 95 campsites split between two campgrounds, plus cabins. Sites range from $16-$19 per night and include tent, RV, and full-hookup options. Dedicated in 1962, it's a local favorite for fishing, swimming, and boating.

Prairie Rose State Park provides a range of camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The east campground caters to RVs with electric and full hookups, while the west campground is geared toward tent campers with non-electric and electric sites.

Historical Significance

The park was constructed in the late 1950s and dedicated in 1962, with the 218-acre lake built specifically for recreation. Nearby Walnut hosts an annual antique festival, and Shelby County Speedway runs Saturday night races during the season.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-90s°F and overnight lows in the 50s-60s, with July and August offering the warmest lake temperatures for swimming and boating. Late spring through early summer is popular for camping when wildflowers bloom and temperatures are milder. Summer can be humid, especially after rain, which brings mosquitoes and chiggers. Bug spray is recommended. Upper campground sites catch better breezes than lower ones. Winter sees occasional use for quiet walks and ice fishing, though most facilities close.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park's 218-acre lake anchors a landscape of restored prairie grasses that shift from gold to green with the seasons. At 1,250 feet elevation, the terrain rolls gently, with several sites offering water views across the lake. The nearby Loess Hills, formed from thousands of years of windblown silt deposits, rise to the west and are visible from parts of the park. Wildflowers appear in late spring and early summer. The prairie and shoreline attract migrating birds and other wildlife throughout the year.

Geological RegionSituated in Western Iowa's remarkable landscape, Prairie Rose State Park offers front-row seats to one of North America's geological wonders. The nearby Loess Hills, formed by windblown silt deposits over thousands of years, create a dramatic backdrop to the park's gentler terrain. This unique setting places visitors at the intersection of restored prairie ecosystems and ancient geological formations, where every trail reveals new perspectives on Iowa's natural heritage.

Scenic Views"Almost every campsite has water views" (Review by Sonia Wilson). Also features "spectacular sunsets" (Review by Barb Leininger).

Lodging & AccommodationsTwo cabins are available for rent and include amenities such as heat/AC, microwave, dorm fridge, table and chairs, and bunk beds. Cabins accommodate 5 people (maximum 7) and are located near a pit latrine and fishing jetty. Campers must bring their own bedding and kitchen supplies.

Programs & ActivitiesNo specific cultural or educational programs were mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

9:00 AM (firewood sales start at camp host site).

Stay Limit

Cabin renters must provide their own bedding, pillows, towels, and toiletries.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Cabins accommodate up to 7 guests
campsites vary.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutTwo campgrounds curve around the lake on lower and upper drives. Tent sites in the west area are spacious and well-separated. RV sites vary: some are closely packed, others roomier. Gravel pads are common. One shower building serves the entire campground, which some campers find insufficient for 95 sites. Vault toilets supplement the main restrooms.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online; payment is simple and straightforward (Review by Jordan Brown).

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up tent spots are easy to secure (Review by Sarah Wright). Campground fills up on the weekends (Review by Jenny Underhill).

Cancellation PolicyReservations required and can be made in advance; no specific cancellation policy provided in the source.

AccessibilityThe park provides handicap access, including paved pathways.

Site SizeCampsites are described as roomy with some variation depending on location. Tent sites in the west campground are large and private, while RV pads in some areas are gravel and require leveling blocks.

PrivacySite privacy varies; tent sites are noted for being private and spacious, while some RV sites are closely packed, described by one user as 'packed in like sardines.

Total Campsites95 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose spots closer to bathrooms for convenience. RV users should bring leveling blocks for gravel pads.

Best CampsitesSite #13 has lake views. Site #4 sits near the bathrooms, which matters since restrooms are a hike from many sites. The tent sites in the west campground are large and private. Some RV sites are tightly spaced, and gravel pads require leveling blocks. Upper campgrounds get better airflow and shorter walks to facilities.

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When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Prairie Rose State Park offers a wide variety of amenities to enhance the camping experience. There are facilities for picnicking, shelters with electricity, shower houses, restrooms, potable water, and firewood sales. The park features modern restrooms with showers in the east campground, and non-modern restroom facilities in the west campground. Firewood is available for purchase from May to September. A dump station is located in the east campground, while the campgrounds also include community hydrants for water. Sites are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, and the park provides handicap access along with other facilities like fish cleaning stations, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Prairie Rose State Park offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its 218-acre lake and surrounding trails. These include hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, boating, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The park also accommodates snowmobiling and cross-country skiing during winter months.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"LOTS of bugs during heat and humidity after rainy periods" (Review by Sarah Wright). Chiggers noted as severe by some users (Review by Rena Harrod).

Fire Policy"Camp sites have fire rings" and firewood bundles are sold for $5. Funds support park maintenance (Review by Sarah Wright).

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are "Quiet at night" noted by multiple reviewers (Review by John Meng-Frecker, Jesse Cuckler).

Emergency ServicesHospital and medical clinic available within 10 miles in Harlan, IA.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are conveniently located within the park. One user noted an issue with an overflowing garbage bin during their stay.

Water FeaturesCampsites near the 218-acre lake, surrounded by fishing jetties and boating ramps. Features include restored prairie trails and hiking loops around the lake.

Camp HostHost Julian described as "awesome and extremely helpful" (Review by Comica Robinson). Firewood sales available at host site from May through September.

Cell CoverageNo direct information was provided regarding cell phone service at the park.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

117 reviews

Recommended

Prairie Rose State Park is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the park's cleanliness, natural beauty, and variety of activities. However, some concerns were raised about bugs, algae in the water, and the need for additional restroom facilities.

Review Summaries

Based on 117 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 117 reviews.

Site #13Loved
Site #13 is praised for its water views and proximity to a water pump.
Site #4Mentioned
Site #4 offers views of the Loess Hills, but sites on the upper road are recommended for better breezes and restroom access.

What Campers Love

Clean and well-maintained facilities, great lake views, good fishing opportunities, spacious campsites, family-friendly environment, and helpful staff.

Based on 117 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues with bugs (especially chiggers and mosquitoes), algae in the lake affecting swimming, and a need for more restroom and shower facilities.

Based on 117 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Choose sites closer to the upper campgrounds for better breezes and proximity to restrooms. Bring bug spray for chiggers and mosquitoes. Use leveling blocks for RVs on gravel pads. Consider visiting...

Based on 117 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season due to the lake activities, but it is also the peak period for bugs and algae. Fall offers quieter camping and beautiful foliage.

Based on 117 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Wonderful campground! 95 camp spots, some are walk-up. Nice shower house with good pressure and unlimited hot water.' - William Pauley. 2. 'The tent sites are big and private.' - Jay H. 3....

Based on 117 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews addressed accessibility features directly.

Based on 117 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The park is described as dog-friendly, and most pet owners seem responsible. However, one instance of a loose dog chasing geese was reported.

Based on 117 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Prairie Rose State Park

$16.00 - $19.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$16 per night for electric-only sites; $19 per night for full hook-up sites (Review by Steve Fisher). Pricing is reasonable and includes community...

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Hookup Site Fee$19.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

7127732701

Go if

Anglers, families, and tent campers who want a real lakeside site for under $20 a night. Site 13 has water views and a nearby pump; upper-drive sites get better breezes and are closer to the shower house. Seven miles of trail cover hiking and biking.

Skip if

One shower building for 95 sites is a genuine squeeze on busy summer weekends. Add chiggers, humid-season mosquitoes, and occasional algae closing the swim beach, and summer comfort takes work. Pack bug spray and leveling blocks if you're hauling an RV.

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Campgrounds

Prairie Rose State Park

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 66% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 98 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade A+.Booking
Grade A-.Crowds & noise
Grade A-.Value

Watch-outs

Grade C-.Safety
Grade C.Staff & hosts
Grade B-.Bugs & weather

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Iowa grades overall

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