Gull Point State Park

4.12

65 reviews

1500 Harpen Street, Milford, Iowa, 51351, United States

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,414 ft

Price

$10 - $16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,414 ft

Price

$10 - $16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Gull Point State Park

$10.00 - $16.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees range from $10 to $16 per night depending on site type (electric or regular).

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

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

4.12

Satisfactory

Based on 65 reviews

444 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanbeachfriendly

Some mention

noisereservation

"User reviews of Gull Point State Park highlight its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and range of activities. However, some reviewers criticized noise levels, the difficulty of site leveling, and issues with park hosts."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1500 Harpen Street, Milford, Iowa, 51351, United States

Gull Point State Park

1500 Harpen Street, Milford, Iowa, 51351, United States

Driving directionsLocated on the west side of West Lake Okoboji off of Hwy 86.

Access may be slightly challenging due to nearby road construction, as noted in user reviews. Roads within the campground are reportedly narrow and uneven.

Nearby places

Spirit Lake, Milford, Wahpeton, Okoboji, West Okoboji, and Arnolds Park. Distances in miles and travel times not provided.

Nearby supplies

Grocery stores, fuel stations, and other essentials available within a 10-mile radius.

Best Time to Camp at Gull Point State Park

Experience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasons at Gull Point, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful wonderland of snow-dusted trails and frozen lake vistas, perfect for those seeking solitude and crisp air. As spring melts into summer, the park comes alive with warm sunshine and gentle humidity that practically begs you to dive into refreshing lake waters. These long, golden days create the perfect backdrop for swimming, boating, and making memories around the campfire.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Many activities available but reviewers note crowds and noise in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Quieter season with scenic foliage and trails; reviewers recommend spring/fall for calm stays.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring noted as quieter with good wildlife viewing and pleasant weather before peak season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Park becomes a peaceful, snow-dusted area with cross-country skiing opportunities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season not explicitly defined.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Seasonal information not explicitly provided; appears open year-round.
Current Alerts: No active alerts mentioned.

About Gull Point State Park

Nestled in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes Region, Gull Point State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern amenities and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a powered site for your RV or a more rustic experience in the non-electric areas, this beloved destination caters to every camping style. Fresh showers and clean facilities await after days spent exploring pristine beaches, launching your boat into crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking in the serenity that has made this park a cherished getaway for generations of Midwest families.

The campground caters to a mix of camping styles, including tent, RV, and small-group camping. Primitive and backcountry options are not noted.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the iconic Gull Point Lodge, a stunning testament to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps workers who shaped this landscape in the 1930s. This architectural gem stands as more than just a building—it's a living piece of American history where Depression-era ingenuity meets timeless design. Today, the lodge's rustic elegance continues to host celebrations and gatherings, allowing visitors to create their own stories within walls that have witnessed nearly a century of park history.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasons at Gull Point, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful wonderland of snow-dusted trails and frozen lake vistas, perfect for those seeking solitude and crisp air. As spring melts into summer, the park comes alive with warm sunshine and gentle humidity that practically begs you to dive into refreshing lake waters. These long, golden days create the perfect backdrop for swimming, boating, and making memories around the campfire.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain provides varied vantage points throughout the park, creating intimate camping spaces and scenic overlooks across the lakes region.

Natural Features and SceneryMajestic burr oaks spread their ancient canopies overhead, creating a natural cathedral that filters sunlight onto winding trails below. The park's position between sparkling lakes offers campers front-row seats to nature's daily performances—from dawn mists rising off the water to spectacular sunsets painting the sky. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem, where patient observers might spot everything from graceful herons fishing in the shallows to songbirds filling the air with their melodies. Each campsite feels like its own private retreat, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Iowa's lake country at its finest.

Geological RegionGull Point State Park sits at the convergence of the Iowa Great Lakes—a remarkable geological wonder where ancient glaciers carved out a chain of pristine water bodies. East Spirit Lake, Big Spirit Lake, and the renowned West Okoboji Lake create a aquatic playground unique in the Midwest. Miles of trails wind through this lake-dotted landscape, revealing hidden coves, wildlife corridors, and stunning vistas that showcase why this region has captivated visitors since the late 1800s. The interplay of water, woodland, and prairie creates an ecological tapestry that changes with every season and rewards exploration.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not explicitly stated.

Check-out

Not explicitly stated.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay duration not explicitly stated.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Exact number of guests per site not specified.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are described as tight and hilly. Some sites are better suited for smaller campers and tents.

Reservation PlatformsOnline reservation system available.

Walk-in AvailabilityMixed reviews—some users report difficulties with online reservations and note that walk-up sites may be preferable.

Cancellation PolicyRules for cancellation not provided.

AccessibilitySome areas of the park offer handicap access, but specific campsite-related accessibility details are not documented.

Site SizeCampsites are generally smaller and described as tight, with some being on slopes or uneven. 'Very, very few sites that are even remotely level,' according to one reviewer.

PrivacyLimited privacy at campsites as most sites are close to neighbors. 'You are quite close to your neighbors, but that is expected at a state-run park.

Recommended SitesAvoid sites near the playground if seeking quiet. Choose sites with fewer slopes for easier setup.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

A variety of recreational opportunities are available, ranging from hiking and biking to wildlife viewing and beach activities. The park's location near lakes allows for water-based recreation, including boating and fishing.

HikingA 1.5-mile self-guided interpretive trail is available, offering insights into the area's natural and cultural history. 'The interpretive trail is full of things to check out, so take a brochure,' one user recommended.

FishingThe Iowa Great Lakes Region is described as a prime fishing destination. Fish species include walleye, northern pike, bass, and panfish. 'West Okoboji, Spirit Lake and the many other lakes in the area are some of the prime fishing spots in Iowa.'

SwimmingSwimming areas include a notable beach at the park, praised for its sand quality and water temperature. 'Water was a nice temperature, sand was perfect,' a user noted.

BikingThe Iowa Great Lakes Region boasts an expansive trail system. Reviewers haven't provided specific details on terrain or difficulty.

BoatingThe park provides access to lakes suitable for various boating activities, from canoes to powerboats. Several boat ramps are nearby, but none are located within the park.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include deer and a variety of songbirds. 'Deer walking around almost every time we are there,' noted one user.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include flooding at campsites during rain, uneven terrain, and narrow roads. Wildlife sightings include deer.

Active AlertsNo active alerts mentioned.

Fire PolicyFire pits available at campsites.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Reportedly not enforced, leading to late-night noise complaints.

Emergency ServicesHospital available within 10 miles.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the park, but further details on recycling facilities are not included.

Water FeaturesClose to West Lake Okoboji and other Iowa Great Lakes. Multiple nearby beaches and boat ramps.

Camp HostMixed feedback—one host described as calm and helpful; another criticized for intrusive behavior.

Weather at Gull Point State Park

Reviews

4.1

65 reviews

Satisfactory

Gull Point State Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Gull Point State Park highlight its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and range of activities. However, some reviewers criticized noise levels, the difficulty of site leveling, and issues with park hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 65 reviews

What Campers Love

The park's cleanliness, scenic trails, beach access, and family-friendly environment are commonly praised. 'LOVE THIS PLACE! It's our home away from home every July,' one user remarked.

Based on 65 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise levels, campsite spacing, and limited water hookups are frequent complaints. 'If you love to tent camp, get out in nature, and have a great night's sleep SKIP this campground,' one review...

Based on 65 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bug spray for certain seasons, and consider first-come, first-serve sites for better options. 'Some spots on a little slope, and most of the spots available online are not as nice as same-day...

Based on 65 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are mixed due to high visitor numbers and noise. Spring and fall may offer quieter experiences. Winter activities like cross-country skiing are highlighted for off-season visits.

Based on 65 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Shower and restroom facilities always clean and in well-functioning order.'; 'The interpretive trail is full of things to check out, so take a brochure.'; 'Definitely my favorite of all...

Based on 65 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 51 received a negative review for being unprepared, with piles of dead leaves. Site 85 was noted for its proximity to playgrounds and amenities.

Based on 65 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews from users with disabilities are available.

Based on 65 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and one reviewer appreciated the socialization opportunities for their dog: 'Dog-friendly for sure, was glad that my dog got some socializing with the others.'

Based on 65 reviews

0 review

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Last updated February 17, 2026

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