Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds

Hello, fellow Iowans! If you’re looking for a practical, clean, and well-maintained spot for your next camping trip or event, then the Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds in Boone, Iowa, are a hidden gem you need to know about. This isn’t just a place to stay during the annual fair; it’s a dedicated campground open for much of the year, offering modern amenities and a convenient location that appeals to both short-term visitors and those looking for a longer stay.

We Iowans appreciate straightforward, reliable facilities, and the Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds deliver exactly that. Visitors consistently praise it as a "wonderful, clean, convenient place to host an event," highlighting its suitability for gatherings. Beyond events, it serves as an excellent base for exploring everything Boone and the surrounding Central Iowa region have to offer. Whether you're here for a specific event like the "Monster truck show" at the fair, enjoying the "animal barns" with grandchildren, or simply seeking a comfortable place to set up camp, you'll find the facilities "clean" and the experience overall "a great time." This campground offers a blend of accessibility and comfort that makes it a practical choice for many local adventurers.

The Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds are strategically located at 1601 Industrial Park Rd, Boone, IA 50036, USA. Situated on the northeast corner of the sprawling fairgrounds, this location provides excellent accessibility while maintaining a sense of peace and quiet.

Boone, Iowa, is known for its rich history, particularly its railroad heritage, and its position as a gateway to various recreational opportunities. The fairgrounds are conveniently close to everything in Boone, making it easy for campers to access local grocery stores, drug stores (like Hy-Vee and Walgreens within a couple of miles), and other essential services. Furthermore, the campground is only about 15 minutes away from Ames and Iowa State University, and approximately 40 minutes from the Des Moines metro area. This makes it an ideal central hub for exploring much of Central Iowa, whether you’re visiting for a fair event, academic purposes, or simply enjoying the local attractions like Ledges State Park, the Boone Racetrack, or the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad. Its location on Industrial Park Road ensures easy access for RVs and trailers.

The Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds are designed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience, offering a range of services for both short and extended stays.

• Over 90 Campsites: The campground boasts nearly 100 camper sites, accommodating various needs and preferences.

• Full Hookups Available: Many sites offer comprehensive hookups, including electrical service (20, 30, or 50 Amp hookups), water hookups, and sewer hookups. It's noted that water and sewer hookups may not be available at every single campsite, so it's good to clarify upon booking.

• Clean Shower House and Flushing Toilets: A major highlight, consistently praised in reviews, is the availability of a modern, clean shower house with flushing toilets. These facilities are included in the camping fees, ensuring a comfortable stay even for tent campers or those without onboard bathrooms.

• Dump Station: A convenient dump station is available on-site for RVs. For those not camping at the fairgrounds, the dump station can be used for a fee, though it is typically locked and requires a call ahead for access.

• Registration and Reservations: Pre-registration for campsites can be done online. For walk-up registrations, campers must complete a form and submit payment in a drop-box at the Shower House upon arrival. All payment is due in advance. For fair-time camping, it's particularly important to contact the fair office to get on a waiting list due to high demand.

• Flexible Stay Limits: The campground offers flexibility for various stay durations. There is generally a 14-day stay limit on most sites (1-76 & 87-96). However, for longer stays, sites 77-86 are designated for extended-term campers, and arrangements can be made by contacting the Fair Office. Long-term discounts may also be available.

• Pet-Friendly: While general fairgrounds rules during events might be stricter, the campground itself is noted as pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions (it's always best to confirm any specific rules or restrictions).

The Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds stand out not just for their amenities, but also for their unique position within a vibrant community hub.

• Modern, Clean, and Well-Maintained: This is a consistent highlight, with visitors praising the campground's overall cleanliness and the quality of its facilities. This attention to detail ensures a pleasant experience for all.

• Prime Location for Local Exploration: The campground’s setting provides easy access to a variety of local attractions in and around Boone, making it an ideal base for exploring Central Iowa. Highlights include:

  • Ledges State Park: A beloved Iowa state park known for its unique geological formations, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
  • Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad: Offering historic train rides, including scenic excursions and special events like the popular Pufferbilly Days.
  • Boone Speedway: A local racetrack for motorsport enthusiasts.
  • Iowa State University (Ames): Just a short drive away, offering collegiate events, cultural attractions, and dining options.
  • Des Moines Metro Area: Within a 40-minute drive, providing access to a wider range of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

• Integrated with Fairgrounds Events: A unique feature is the campground's direct connection to the Boone County Fairgrounds. While most camping is non-fair time, staying here during the annual Boone County Fair (typically in July) offers unparalleled access to all the fair's attractions, including concerts, grandstand shows, animal barns, and family entertainment like monster truck shows. This allows campers to truly immerse themselves in the fair experience.

• Flexible Camping Options: With various site types—primitive, electric-only, electric & water, and full hookups—the campground caters to different preferences and budgets, ensuring there's a spot for nearly every type of camper.

• Seasonal Operation: The campgrounds are typically open from April 1 to November 1, providing a long season for enjoying Iowa's spring, summer, and fall weather, unless unusually cold temperatures necessitate an earlier closure.

The Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds offer competitive rates and some long-term stay options that provide value for campers in Iowa.

• Tiered Pricing: Rates are structured based on the level of hookups:

  • Primitive Camping (no hookups): $10/night
  • Electric Only (20, 30, or 50 amps): $20/night, or $100/week (7 nights), or $325/month (30 or 31 nights)
  • Electric & Water: $25/night, or $125/week (7 nights), or $500/month (30 or 31 nights)
  • Full Hookups (Electric, Water & Sewer): $30/night, or $175/week (7 nights), or $700/month (30 or 31 days)

• Long-Term Stay Discounts: As indicated by the weekly and monthly rates, the campgrounds provide significant discounts for extended stays, making it a cost-effective option for long-term campers or those working in the area. Special arrangements for stays longer than 14 days can be made by contacting the Fair Office.

• Fair-Time Camping: While rates differ during the annual fair, securing a spot allows unique access to events. Interested campers should contact the fair office well in advance to inquire about availability and get on a waiting list.

It is always recommended to call the Boone County Fairgrounds directly or visit their official website for the most up-to-date pricing, availability, and specific details regarding long-term arrangements or fair-time camping.

For reservations, inquiries about event hosting, or any other questions regarding the Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1601 Industrial Park Rd, Boone, IA 50036, USA
• Phone: (515) 432-5899
• Mobile Phone: +1 515-432-5899

For the most efficient service, especially during peak season or around fair dates, calling ahead is highly advisable. You can also likely find more information and possibly online booking options through the official Boone County Fairgrounds website.

For Iowans seeking a convenient, clean, and versatile camping experience, the Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds stand out as an excellent choice. Its suitability for locals lies in its practical amenities, flexible stay options, and superb accessibility to both regional attractions and the vibrant events held at the fairgrounds itself.

We Iowans value efficiency and a good value, and these campgrounds offer both. The choice of primitive, electric, or full-hookup sites means campers can select exactly what they need, whether they're looking for a quick overnight stop or a longer, more settled stay. The availability of clean shower houses and a modern dump station ensures a comfortable experience for everyone, a detail that many local campers prioritize. The fact that it's "a wonderful, clean, convenient place to host an event" also speaks to its versatility for local groups and organizations.

Beyond the excellent facilities, the campground's location is a major draw. Being right in Boone means easy access to local shops and services, while also serving as a fantastic launchpad for exploring beloved Iowa landmarks like Ledges State Park and the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad. And for those who love the excitement of the annual fair, camping right on the fairgrounds offers an unparalleled, immersive experience that truly brings the community spirit of Iowa to life. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a base for local exploration, or simply a reliable spot to enjoy the outdoors, the Boone County Fairgrounds Campgrounds are a highly recommended option for any Iowan looking for their next great camping adventure.