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South Sabula Lake Campground

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South Sabula Lake Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (563) 652-3783

Address 1516 South Ave, Sabula, IA 52070, USA

Website https://www.mycountyparks.com/County/Jackson/Park/South-Sabula-Lake-Park.aspx

Hours Monday, 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday, 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday, 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday, 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday, Closed
Saturday, Closed
Sunday, 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM

South Sabula Lake Campground Location & Map

IowaJackson CountySabulaSouth Avenue

South Sabula Lake Campground About

For Iowa residents seeking a refreshing escape into the heart of nature, South Sabula Lake Campground stands out as an exceptional choice. Nestled on the scenic shores of South Sabula Lake and with close access to the mighty Mississippi River, this campground offers a serene and engaging outdoor experience for families, solo adventurers, and groups alike. It's more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub for outdoor activities and a tranquil retreat from the everyday hustle.

Imagine waking up to the peaceful sounds of water, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and observing local wildlife right at your doorstep. South Sabula Lake Campground provides a unique blend of natural beauty and convenient facilities, making it a highly desirable spot for those looking to reconnect with the outdoors in Iowa. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this well-maintained campground promises a memorable experience for all who visit. Its intimate size and proximity to the water make it a truly special place to unwind and explore.

The charm of South Sabula Lake Campground lies in its idyllic setting. Being surrounded by water on all sides provides a unique camping ambiance, setting it apart from many other campgrounds in the region. This intimate connection to the lake and river means endless possibilities for water-based fun, while the well-kept grounds and friendly atmosphere ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Location and Accessibility

South Sabula Lake Campground is conveniently located at 1516 South Ave, Sabula, IA 52070, USA. This prime spot places it right on the shores of South Sabula Lake, with the Mississippi River just across the way. Sabula itself is a unique "island city" in Iowa, connected by a causeway to the mainland, making the campground easily accessible by car.

The accessibility of the campground is a significant advantage for Iowa locals. Its relatively small size means that navigating within the campground is straightforward, and reaching your campsite is generally hassle-free. For those traveling from various parts of Iowa, the drive to Sabula offers scenic views and a pleasant journey. Once at the campground, the nearby town of Sabula provides convenient access to local services, including repair shops if needed, and other essentials, ensuring that even if unforeseen circumstances arise, help is close by. The proximity to the Mississippi River also means that boaters and anglers have direct access to a vast waterway, enhancing the overall outdoor experience.

Services Offered
  • Campsites with Electric and Water Hookups: The campground provides sites equipped with both electric and water hookups, catering to both RV and tent campers seeking modern conveniences.
  • Clean Restrooms: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness of the restroom facilities.
  • Warm Showers: The showers offer warm water, a welcome amenity after a day of outdoor activities.
  • Firewood Sales: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, typically at a rate of $5 for 12 pieces, making it convenient for campers to enjoy campfires.
  • Lawn Maintenance: Regular lawn crews ensure the campground grounds are well-maintained and tidy.
  • Security Presence: Law enforcement (cops) and DNR (Department of Natural Resources) personnel are noted to patrol the area regularly, contributing to a safe and secure environment.
  • Playground: A very nice playground is available for children, providing entertainment and a safe space to play.
  • Boat Ramp: A concrete boat ramp offers easy access to South Sabula Lake and the Mississippi River for boating enthusiasts.
  • Picnic Shelter: A picnic shelter is available for group gatherings or sheltered dining.
Features / Highlights
  • Waterfront Access: Being surrounded by water, the campground offers immediate access to South Sabula Lake and is very close to the Mississippi River, making it ideal for water-related activities.
  • Kid-Friendly Environment: With a nice playground and a safe atmosphere, it's a great place for families with children, allowing kids to play freely.
  • Wildlife Observation: Campers have reported seeing a variety of wildlife, including snapping turtles, water snakes, and pelicans, adding a unique natural element to the camping experience.
  • Rock Hounding: The beach across the way from the campground offers opportunities to find cool rocks, a simple yet engaging activity for all ages.
  • Proximity to Water Sports Rentals: Up the way from the campground, there are places to rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats, providing easy access to various water sports.
  • Safe and Secure: The regular presence of police and DNR ensures a safe camping environment, giving visitors peace of mind.
  • Cleanliness: The campground is consistently noted for its cleanliness, from the grounds to the shower facilities, enhancing the overall comfort of the stay.
  • Small and Intimate: Its relatively small size contributes to a feeling of safety and a more personal camping experience.
  • Friendly Atmosphere: Reviewers have highlighted the friendly demeanor of the staff, including the camp host, which creates a welcoming environment.
  • Pokémon Go Opportunities: For tech-savvy campers, the mention of "Pokemon max near by" indicates additional entertainment value.
Promotions or Special Offers

As of 2025, the reported nightly rate for a campsite with electric and water hookups at South Sabula Lake Campground is $25. While specific, ongoing promotions are not widely publicized, visitors are encouraged to contact the Jackson County Conservation directly or check their official website for any potential seasonal discounts or special offers. Campground rates and availability can sometimes vary based on demand or time of year.

For groups or extended stays, it's always a good idea to inquire if any special rates apply. Additionally, keep an eye on local Iowa tourism websites or conservation department announcements, as they occasionally feature packages or promotions for state and county parks. Direct communication with the campground staff at the provided phone number is the most reliable way to learn about any current promotions or booking details that might not be advertised elsewhere.

Contact Information

Address: 1516 South Ave, Sabula, IA 52070, USA

Phone: (563) 652-3783

Mobile Phone: +1 563-652-3783

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

South Sabula Lake Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Iowa locals seeking an accessible, enjoyable, and secure outdoor experience. Its prime location in Sabula offers immediate access to both South Sabula Lake and the vast Mississippi River, providing a wealth of recreational opportunities without extensive travel. For families, the clean facilities, including warm showers and a well-maintained playground, ensure comfort and entertainment for children, allowing parents to relax knowing their kids are safe and engaged. The noted presence of law enforcement and DNR patrols further enhances the sense of security, which is a significant draw for local families.

The campground’s intimate size creates a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of community that many Iowans appreciate. Even in unexpected situations, such as a car breakdown, the proximity to local services and the friendly demeanor of staff, as highlighted in customer reviews, demonstrate the supportive environment. Whether it's the thrill of spotting snapping turtles and pelicans, the simple joy of finding cool rocks by the beach, or the convenience of nearby canoe and kayak rentals, South Sabula Lake Campground offers diverse activities that cater to various interests. It represents an authentic slice of Iowa's natural beauty and outdoor recreation, making it a perfect local getaway for any Iowan looking to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

Customer Reviews

4.0
103 reviews
A
Autty Bozza
May 30, 2025

My family was in an awful pickle when our car broke down. This site was close to the repair, walkable, with decent showers, bathrooms and stuff to keep the kids entertained. Lawn crews came by and cleaned it up on Tuesday. Everyone was friendly. $25 a night in 2025 with electric and water. Fire wood is $5 for 12 pieces. Pokemon max near by. We saw snapping turtles, water snakes and pelicans of all things. Found some cool rocks at the beach across the way and a place to rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boats up the way too.

E
Eliseo Dominguez
Jun 12, 2022

Very clean campground. Not a very big place so makes it perfect. U have water all around you. Very nice play ground for kids to play. Showers had warm water too. Camp host was amazing. Feels very safe. Cops drove by at least twice/day and the DNR was ther just checking making sure everybody was safe.

J
Josie G
Oct 05, 2022

Small campground with water and electric sites. 2022 rates are $25. (first come first served kind of place, no reservations) the Campground is nestled between South Sabula Lake and the Mississippi. Camp hosts are friendly and helpful. P.S. since you're near the lake, there will be a fishy smell. It's too be expected

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Tamra Parker
Oct 16, 2023

We went out there for the morning just to check it out and watch the birds. There were egrets and pelicans everywhere which was very cool. We liked the campground a lot and will definitely go back to camp.

T
Tena Kropp
Sep 30, 2024

We met some friends here for a campfire and roasted marshmallows. The sunset on the lake and the wildlife were amazing. Even the occasional train was charming. We were so happy that this campground accommodated our group. We will be back!