Prairie Rose State Park

4.36

92 reviews

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

Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Iowa Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Iowa Hiking Camping Iowa

Quick Facts

1,250 ft

Price

$16 - $19/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Prairie Rose State Park Direct Line site

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

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Prairie Rose State Park Direct Line site

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

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.36

Recommended

Based on 92 reviews

539 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspaciouslake

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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

Prairie Rose State Park

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

Driving directionsFrom Interstate-80 take exit 46 (Walnut exit). Go north on county road M-47 8 miles to park entrance.

"Not even 15 minutes from Interstate 80" (Review by William Pauley). Roads are paved, and the campground is accessible year-round.

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.

Best Time to Camp at Prairie Rose State Park

Prairie Rose transforms with the seasons, from winter's crystalline landscapes perfect for peaceful contemplation to summer's sun-drenched days ideal for swimming and water sports. Late spring through early summer emerges as the sweet spot for camping, when wildflowers paint the prairie and gentle breezes carry the songs of migrating birds. While summer's warmth brings occasional humidity and insect activity after rainstorms, savvy campers know these minor inconveniences pale beside the joy of long days on the water and comfortable nights under canvas.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, boating and fishing; popular but also peak bugs and algae issues.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Quieter camping and good foliage; lower bug pressure makes fall appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Late spring brings active season and prairie growth; good but may precede peak bugs/algae season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Cabins open year-round; trails used for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling; limited lake activities.

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

Nestled in the heart of Iowa's rolling countryside, Prairie Rose State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its sparkling 218-acre lake and endless recreational possibilities. Since its dedication in 1962, this cherished destination has welcomed generations of families seeking adventure and tranquility. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, diving into refreshing waters on a summer afternoon, or gathering around a campfire under starlit skies, Prairie Rose delivers the perfect escape. Choose from two well-appointed campgrounds offering both modern amenities and rustic charm, or retreat to one of the park's cozy cabins for a memorable getaway.

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 SignificanceBorn from a vision in the 1950s, Prairie Rose State Park stands as a testament to Iowa's commitment to preserving natural spaces for public enjoyment. The centerpiece lake, carefully crafted over years of construction, opened to eager visitors in 1962 and has since become a beloved regional landmark. The surrounding area pulses with local culture – antiquers flock to nearby Walnut's renowned annual festival, while Saturday nights echo with the roar of engines at Shelby County Speedway, where generations of racing families compete under the lights.

Weather and SeasonsPrairie Rose transforms with the seasons, from winter's crystalline landscapes perfect for peaceful contemplation to summer's sun-drenched days ideal for swimming and water sports. Late spring through early summer emerges as the sweet spot for camping, when wildflowers paint the prairie and gentle breezes carry the songs of migrating birds. While summer's warmth brings occasional humidity and insect activity after rainstorms, savvy campers know these minor inconveniences pale beside the joy of long days on the water and comfortable nights under canvas.

Natural Features and SceneryPrairie Rose captivates visitors with its stunning tapestry of land and water. The restored prairie grasses dance in the wind, creating waves of gold and green that mirror the gentle ripples on the lake's surface. From certain vantage points, the legendary Loess Hills rise on the horizon, their ancient ridges telling stories of wind and time. As one visitor eloquently noted, the 'beautiful water views' create perfect moments for reflection, whether you're watching sunrise paint the lake in shades of rose or enjoying sunset's golden finale from your campsite.

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.

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 levels of camping areas surrounding the lake, with lower and upper drives curving around the lake (Review by Ron Ridgway).

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.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

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.

HikingThere are approximately 7 miles of hiking trails that are also open to biking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The interpretive trail along the lakeshore is particularly popular for observing wildlife and restored prairie landscapes.

FishingFishing is a key attraction, with the lake offering bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Six fishing jetties and two fish cleaning stations provide added convenience for anglers.

SwimmingThe park features an unsupervised beach for swimming and sunbathing. Some users reported that the water quality was poor at times, with algae issues.

BikingBiking is allowed on the trails, which range from level to hilly terrain, suitable for all skill levels.

BoatingBoating is permitted, with two boat ramps providing access to the lake. Any size motor is allowed at no-wake speeds.

Wildlife viewingThe park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, which are often seen in the evenings. Birdwatching is another popular activity.

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.

Weather at Prairie Rose State Park

Reviews

4.4

92 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 92 reviews

What Campers Love

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

Based on 92 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 92 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 92 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 92 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 92 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

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

Based on 92 reviews