Howell Station Campground - Lake Red Rock

For Iowans seeking an unparalleled outdoor experience, Howell Station Campground at Lake Red Rock stands out as a premier destination. Nestled below the Red Rock Dam on the north side of the Des Moines River, this beautiful and meticulously maintained campground offers a serene and engaging environment for campers of all types. Whether you're a seasoned RVer looking for full hookups, a family with tents seeking a peaceful retreat, or a nature enthusiast eager for bird watching and trail adventures, Howell Station provides the perfect setting. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it's a gateway to exploring the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Lake Red Rock Iowa's largest lake and a true gem.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what makes Howell Station Campground a top choice for local Iowa residents. From its convenient location and accessibility to its wide array of services and unique features, we'll delve into why this campground consistently receives high praise from visitors. We understand that finding a clean, well-equipped, and enjoyable camping spot is paramount for a successful outdoor adventure, and Howell Station Campground is dedicated to exceeding these expectations, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest.

Howell Station Campground - Lake Red Rock boasts an exceptionally convenient and picturesque location at 1081 198th Pl, Pella, IA 50219, USA. Situated just a few miles from the charming and historic Dutch community of Pella, Iowa, the campground offers both the tranquility of nature and easy access to local attractions. Its position below the Red Rock Dam provides stunning views of the Des Moines River and the expansive Lake Red Rock.

For Iowans, the accessibility of Howell Station is a significant advantage. It's a reasonable drive from larger population centers like Des Moines, making it an ideal choice for a weekend escape or a longer vacation without extensive travel. The paved roads leading to and within the campground ensure smooth navigation for RVs and trailers of all sizes. This strategic location means less time on the road and more time enjoying the numerous activities and peaceful ambiance that the campground and surrounding area offer. Visitors consistently praise its accessibility, noting its convenience for both quick trips and extended stays.

Howell Station Campground is committed to providing a comfortable and convenient experience for all its guests, offering a comprehensive suite of services and amenities. The reviews from real customers highlight the quality and availability of these offerings:

• Campsites with Electric Hookups: The campground offers 143 campsites with 20, 30, and 50 amp electric hookups, accommodating a wide range of RVs and trailers. This is a crucial amenity for modern camping, ensuring power for your RV's needs.

• Potable Water: Clean, filtered potable water is readily available, ensuring a fresh and good-tasting water supply for all campers.

• Clean Bathrooms and Showers: Guests consistently praise the cleanliness of the restrooms and bathhouses. Each bathhouse includes two showers, ensuring comfort and convenience for freshening up after a day of outdoor activities. While the water is noted to be lukewarm by one reviewer, the overall cleanliness is highly valued.

• Two Dump Stations: For RVers, the availability of two nearby dump stations is a significant convenience, making waste disposal efficient and straightforward.

• Spacious and Level Sites: Reviewers frequently mention the generous size and level nature of the campsites, providing ample room for RVs, tents, and outdoor living space, with many sites offering good shade.

• Playgrounds: For younger campers, the presence of playgrounds adds to the family-friendly appeal of the campground, providing dedicated areas for children to enjoy.

• Boat Ramp: Direct access to a boat ramp for Lake Red Rock enhances recreational opportunities for those interested in boating, kayaking, and canoeing.

• On-site Management/Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts and staff contribute significantly to the positive experience, offering assistance and ensuring a well-maintained environment.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground welcomes furry family members, allowing pets on site (though leash and cleanup rules generally apply).

• Firewood: A limited supply of firewood is available at the campground, making it convenient for those quintessential campfire experiences.

Howell Station Campground - Lake Red Rock offers numerous features and highlights that make it a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts in Iowa:

• Exceptional Bird Watching: A significant highlight noted by multiple visitors is the incredible bird watching opportunities. The area is a haven for diverse birdlife, including pelicans, gulls, eagles, ducks, and geese. Professional photographers are often seen capturing the avian beauty, underscoring the richness of the wildlife here. Bald eagles are commonly observed from November through March.

• Paved Interconnected Trail System: The campground provides access to a wonderful paved interconnected trail system, including the Volksweg Trail, which stretches for many miles along Lake Red Rock. This trail is perfect for biking, hiking, and enjoying scenic walks with stunning views of the lake and surrounding natural beauty.

• Stunning Views of the Des Moines River: Situated below the Red Rock Dam, the campground offers picturesque views of the Des Moines River, adding to the serene and beautiful atmosphere.

• Proximity to Pella, Iowa: Just a few miles from the historical Dutch town of Pella, campers can easily explore its unique shops, bakeries (like Jaarsma Bakery), and cultural attractions, offering a delightful off-campground experience.

• Excellent Fishing Access: With its location on Lake Red Rock and the Des Moines River, the campground provides prime access for anglers. The lake is known for crappie, largemouth and striped bass, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, and bluegill.

• Spacious and Quiet Atmosphere: Many reviewers praise the quiet and relaxing environment, with generous spaces between campsites, ensuring a peaceful stay.

• Well-Maintained Grounds: The campground is consistently described as "beautiful," "clean," and "very well kept," with well-mowed areas, contributing to a pleasant camping experience.

Howell Station Campground, being managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, offers a significant and widely appreciated discount for eligible campers.

• America the Beautiful Pass Discount: For holders of the America the Beautiful Pass (including the Annual Pass, Senior Pass, Access Pass, Military Pass, etc.), the cost to camp is 50% off the listed price. This provides incredible value, as noted by a reviewer who paid only $12 a night.

It is always advisable to confirm current rates and any other potential discounts directly with the campground or through the Recreation.gov website when making your reservation. Given that this is a Corps of Engineers managed site, credit cards are typically the only accepted form of payment (no cash).

To plan your next unforgettable camping adventure at Howell Station Campground - Lake Red Rock, here's how to get in touch:

• Address: 1081 198th Pl, Pella, IA 50219, USA

• Phone: (641) 828-7522 (This number is consistently provided for inquiries and reservations.)

• Reservations: All campsites are 100% reservable and can be booked online via Recreation.gov or by calling toll-free (877) 444-6777. It is strongly recommended to make a reservation prior to occupying a site, as same-day reservations are allowed but sites can fill up quickly.

It's always a good practice to call ahead for the most current information regarding site availability, specific amenities, and any potential changes to park policies.

For Iowans seeking a convenient, clean, and amenity-rich outdoor experience, Howell Station Campground - Lake Red Rock is an undeniable top choice. Its strategic location near Pella and Lake Red Rock offers a perfect blend of natural serenity and cultural exploration. The campground's commitment to cleanliness, spacious sites, and essential services like full hookups and well-maintained bathrooms ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both RV and tent campers.

Beyond the practical amenities, the unique highlights of Howell Station truly make it shine for locals. The exceptional bird watching opportunities, direct access to miles of paved biking and hiking trails, and the stunning views of the Des Moines River create an immersive outdoor experience. The significant discount offered with the America the Beautiful Pass makes it an incredibly affordable option for many Iowa residents. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat to reconnect with nature, an active weekend of biking and fishing, or a family-friendly getaway close to home, Howell Station Campground provides everything you need for a memorable and highly satisfying camping trip in the heart of Iowa. Its consistent positive reviews from fellow Iowans speak volumes about its quality and appeal, making it a truly suitable destination for your next adventure.