Jellystone Park™ Monticello, Monticello, IA

For Iowa families seeking an unparalleled camping experience that combines outdoor adventure with endless entertainment, Jellystone Park™ Monticello stands out as a premier destination. More than just a campground, this is a full-fledged family camp-resort designed to create unforgettable memories for all ages. From thrilling water activities to engaging character interactions and a packed schedule of events, Jellystone Park™ Monticello redefines what a camping vacation can be for locals across Iowa.

The enthusiasm from past visitors perfectly captures the essence of this park. One excited guest raved, "We stayed at Jellystone in Monticello over the 4th, and the fireworks were AMAZING! Lots of fun water activities, especially the giant inflatable obstacle course! Plenty to do for all ages." This highlights the park's commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment, with their fireworks display being a notable highlight. Another family, new to the Jellystone experience, found themselves pleasantly surprised, noting, "This was the first time my family had decided to stay local and try out their wibit course! I did not realize all of the fun activities they had and then the people that typically are there the entire season give tips and tricks. My kids enjoyed the shop, breakfast pizza made fresh and the candy bar bingo." This speaks to the park's diverse offerings and the welcoming community, including seasoned campers who are happy to share their knowledge.

Whether you're looking to dive into exciting water features, participate in themed activities, or simply relax around the campfire, Jellystone Park™ Monticello provides a dynamic environment where boredom is simply not an option. It's a destination where every day is an adventure, making it the perfect spot for Iowa families to escape the everyday and create cherished moments together.

Jellystone Park™ Monticello is strategically located at 22128 IA-38, Monticello, IA 52310, USA. This address places the park conveniently along Iowa Highway 38, ensuring excellent accessibility for campers traveling from various parts of Iowa and neighboring states. The campground's position beside the scenic Maquoketa River further enhances its appeal, offering a beautiful natural backdrop for outdoor recreation.

Monticello itself is a charming small town nestled in Jones County, ideally situated between two of Iowa's larger cities: Dubuque to the northeast and Cedar Rapids to the southwest. This central location means that Jellystone Park™ Monticello is within a comfortable driving distance for a significant portion of Iowa residents. For example, the drive from Cedar Rapids is typically less than an hour, making it an easy weekend getaway. From Dubuque, the journey is similarly straightforward.

The accessibility of the park extends beyond just major cities. Its location on IA-38 also provides convenient access to local amenities in Monticello, including grocery stores, gas stations, and other services that campers might need during their stay. Furthermore, the area around Monticello offers additional attractions. As one reviewer noted, taking "a side trip to the Field of Dreams Movie Site, which was a cool experience," is a popular option, showcasing how the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring regional highlights. Other nearby attractions include the Monticello Golf Club and the Monticello Heritage and Cultural Center. The balance of a tranquil river setting with easy access to both town conveniences and regional points of interest makes Jellystone Park™ Monticello a prime location for Iowa families planning their next outdoor adventure.

Jellystone Park™ Monticello offers an extensive array of services and amenities, ensuring a jam-packed and comfortable experience for every guest. Here’s a comprehensive look at what you can expect:

RV Sites: A wide variety of RV sites, including full hookup options with 50, 30, and 20 amp electric, water, and sewer connections. Sites typically include picnic tables and fire rings.
Tent Sites: Dedicated tent sites, often primitive (without electric hookups) but providing a traditional camping experience with picnic tables and fire rings, often in scenic, shaded areas.
Cabin Rentals: Numerous cabins available, ranging from rustic to fully-equipped luxury options. These include glamping cabins, South Shore Cindy Bear™ Cabins, and select pet-friendly lodging for those who travel with their furry friends.
Water Attractions: A major highlight, featuring a large swimming pool, a thrilling Wibit Water Course (an inflatable obstacle course on the lake), a splash pad, and a sandy beach for relaxation. Water features are generally open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting.
Character Interactions: Daily visits and activities with Yogi Bear™, Boo Boo™, and Cindy Bear™ characters, including dances, bubble parties, and popular wagon rides.
Diverse Recreational Activities: An impressive list of on-site activities for all ages:
- Jumping Pillows
- Mini-Golf
- Basketball and Volleyball Courts
- Multiple Playgrounds
- Arcade/Game Room
- GAGA Ball Pit
- Candy Bar Bingo
- Gel Blasters
- Tie Dye and other arts & crafts
- Outdoor Movie Nights
- River Tubing (rentable tubes)
- Paddle boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and Corcl's for rent on the lake
- Fishing (in the private lake, no Iowa license required; river fishing requires state license)
Convenience Amenities:
- General Store (Ranger Station): Stocked with groceries, camping supplies, souvenirs, ice, firewood (no outside firewood allowed), and live bait.
- Campfire Canteen: Offering quick meals and snacks like pizza and chicken fingers.
- Clean Comfort Stations: Well-maintained restrooms with free hot showers.
- Modern Laundry Facilities.
- Dump Station and Propane Station.
- Free Park-Wide High-Speed Wi-Fi.
- Golf Cart Rentals (4-seater and 6-seater, valid driver's license required).
- Curbside trash pick-up.
Themed Weekends & Special Events: A packed schedule of themed weekends throughout the season, including holiday celebrations (like amazing 4th of July fireworks), character birthdays, and unique events (e.g., Carnival Weekend, Halloween in May).
Pet-Friendly Policy: Welcomes pets with specific guidelines to ensure a harmonious environment for all guests.

Jellystone Park™ Monticello is renowned for its exceptional features and highlights, making it a standout family camping destination in Iowa:

World-Class Water Activities: The giant inflatable Wibit Water Course on the lake is a massive hit, providing exhilarating fun for kids and adults. Coupled with a large swimming pool and a splash pad, it ensures endless aquatic entertainment, especially praised by visitors.
Immersive Character Experience: The regular appearances and interactive activities with Yogi Bear™, Boo Boo™, and Cindy Bear™ are a major draw, particularly for young children. These character interactions, from wagon rides to dance parties, create a magical and memorable atmosphere.
Packed Activity Schedule: The park is designed for non-stop fun, offering a vast array of activities. As one reviewer enthused, "Plenty to do for all ages," from jumping pillows and mini-golf to candy bar bingo and outdoor movie nights. This diverse programming ensures that boredom is kept at bay and kids stay "off their devices."
Spectacular Fireworks Displays: Especially noted for its "AMAZING" Fourth of July fireworks, the park provides truly memorable pyrotechnic shows that enhance holiday celebrations.
Variety of Accommodations: Whether you prefer the comfort of a full-hookup RV site, the rustic charm of a tent site, or the convenience of a fully-equipped cabin (including luxury and pet-friendly options), the park offers diverse choices to suit every family's needs. The availability of both "older" and "newer cabins" allows for different experiences, with the older ones noted as being "nice quiet and away from everyone else."
Convenient On-Site Amenities: The General Store, Campfire Canteen for fresh breakfast pizza and other meals, clean comfort stations, laundry facilities, and propane/dump stations all contribute to a hassle-free and comfortable stay.
Golf Cart Rentals: Highly recommended by guests ("Totally worth it!"), golf cart rentals provide a fun and easy way to navigate the expansive park, enhancing the overall experience and encouraging exploration.
Themed Weekends: The park's commitment to regular themed weekends adds an extra layer of excitement and novelty to each visit, encouraging repeat stays throughout the season.

Jellystone Park™ Monticello is well-known for offering a variety of promotions and special deals, making its extensive amenities and activities more accessible for Iowa families. These promotions often change, so always check their official website or contact them directly for the most current offers. However, here are common types of promotions you might find:

Mid-Week Special: Often provides significant discounts (e.g., 50% off one night) for stays booked Monday through Wednesday. (Use promo code: MIDWEEK)
Stay and Play Packages: For extended stays (e.g., 5-night Sunday-Thursday bookings), guests can receive perks like a free golf cart and wristbands for the Wibit Water Course and other water toys for the duration of their stay. (Promo code: STAYANDPLAY2025)
Stay and Ride Packages: Similar extended stay offers (e.g., 3-4 night weekdays) that include a free golf cart for the entire stay. (Promo code: STAYANDRIDE2025)
Free Weekday Campsite: Book 3 or more consecutive weekday nights (Sunday-Thursday) for RV or tent reservations and get one weekday free. (Promo code: FREEDAYSTAY2025)
Seasoned Traveler Savings: Guests aged 55 and older who book two or more consecutive weekday nights may receive a percentage off their campsite, plus perks for accompanying grandchildren like all-stay Wibit Bands and an "Average Bear Card" for savings on activities and food.
Military & First Responder Discount: Offers discounts (e.g., 10% for military, 5% for first responders) for active and retired personnel with valid ID. (Promo codes: SALUTE, SAVELIVES5)
Seasonal Rates: Available for extended stays (minimum 90 days or full season), providing substantial discounts off daily rates for full hookup or electric-only sites.
Early Bird Booking Incentives: Occasional offers for booking packages by a specific date, such as discounts on wristbands or other amenities.
Activity Cards: "Smarter than the Average Bear Card" and "Adventure Card" can be purchased to bundle popular activities and treats at a discounted rate.

It's important to review the terms and conditions for each promotion, as some may not be combined or might have blackout dates, especially around holidays or peak event weekends.

For reservations, detailed information about specific site types or cabin rentals, current promotions, or any other inquiries, please use the following contact information for Jellystone Park™ Monticello:

Address: 22128 IA-38, Monticello, IA 52310, USA

Phone: (319) 465-4665

Mobile Phone: +1 319-465-4665

Email: reservations@jellystonemonticello.com

We highly recommend contacting the park directly, especially during peak season or if you're interested in specific themed weekends or cabin types, as these are highly popular and can book up quickly. Speaking with their friendly and helpful staff will allow you to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on availability, rates, and any special offers that might apply to your desired stay. They can also provide guidance on making the most of your family's adventure at this premier Iowa camp-resort.

Jellystone Park™ Monticello is an exceptional and highly suitable destination for Iowa locals looking for an action-packed, family-friendly camping experience. Its unique blend of extensive amenities, engaging activities, and beloved character interactions sets it apart from traditional campgrounds, making it a true vacation resort right in your backyard.

For Iowa families, the sheer volume of entertainment options means that children of all ages will be constantly engaged and entertained. The presence of the Wibit Water Course, swimming pool, splash pad, and a myriad of on-land activities like jumping pillows and mini-golf, provides endless opportunities for fun and active play. Parents will appreciate the convenience of having so much to do on-site, minimizing the need for extensive travel during their vacation. The positive feedback on fireworks and the various unique activities like "candy bar bingo" reinforce its appeal as a fun-filled family hub.

Furthermore, the park’s commitment to hospitality, as evidenced by seasonal campers giving "tips and tricks," fosters a welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere. The diverse accommodation options, from RV sites to comfortable cabins, cater to different preferences and budgets, ensuring that a memorable family getaway is accessible to many. Even if you choose an "older cabin," the benefit of being "nice quiet and away from everyone else" demonstrates the park's ability to offer varied experiences. The highly recommended golf cart rentals also add to the convenience and enjoyment, allowing families to easily explore the expansive park and encouraging kids to stay "off their devices."

In conclusion, Jellystone Park™ Monticello provides Iowa locals with a vibrant, amenity-rich, and unforgettable camping adventure that goes far beyond a typical campground. It’s the ideal choice for families seeking a destination where fun is guaranteed, memories are made, and convenience is key, all within the beautiful landscape of Iowa.