MADISON COUNTY FAIR CAMPING

For Iowans looking for a practical and welcoming place to set up camp, especially if they enjoy local events and easy access to charming small towns, Madison County Fair Camping offers a superb option right in Winterset, Iowa. While often buzzing during the annual Madison County Fair, this location also provides a "nice little camping area" outside of fair week, making it a versatile choice for a quick stopover or an extended stay. Whether you're attending an event at the fairgrounds or exploring the famous covered bridges of Madison County, this campground offers a convenient and friendly base.

Guests appreciate its straightforward approach to camping, focusing on providing essential amenities in a comfortable setting. The simplicity of the camping experience here is a highlight for many, allowing visitors to easily enjoy their surroundings without unnecessary frills. If you value a "good fair" experience or simply need a reliable spot to park your RV or pitch your tent in a prime Iowa location, Madison County Fair Camping is worth considering.

Madison County Fair Camping is centrally located at the Madison County Fairgrounds in Winterset, IA 50273, USA. Winterset is widely recognized as the heart of Iowa's covered bridge country and the birthplace of cinematic legend John Wayne. This prime location offers unparalleled access to some of Iowa’s most famous landmarks and attractions.

For Iowa residents, the fairgrounds are easily accessible via well-maintained state and county roads leading into Winterset. Once in town, the fairgrounds are a prominent landmark, ensuring simple navigation. The convenience of being directly on the fairgrounds means that during event times, you are right in the middle of the action, whether it's the annual fair, a rodeo, or another community gathering. Outside of fair events, the location still provides quick access to Winterset's charming downtown square, local shops, restaurants, and, of course, the iconic covered bridges that dot the surrounding countryside. This accessibility makes it a highly convenient base for both event-goers and those exploring the rich cultural and natural heritage of Madison County.

Madison County Fair Camping provides essential services designed to accommodate both RV and tent campers, offering flexibility and basic comforts for your stay.

• RV Sites with Full Hookups: The campground offers sites with "Full Water/Electric/Sewer" hookups, providing comprehensive services for RV travelers. This means convenient access to water, electricity, and sewer connections directly at your site.

• Electric Only Sites: For those who don't require sewer hookups, "Electric Only" sites are also available, catering to a variety of camping needs.

• Tent Sites: Dedicated tent sites are provided for traditional campers, offering a more rustic experience. It's noted that tents must be moved weekly for longer stays.

• Newly Upgraded Campsites: Recent improvements include "Newly Upgraded Campsites!" and "More camping sites with electric," indicating continuous efforts to enhance guest experience.

• Upgraded Wi-Fi on the Grounds: The fairgrounds have invested in "Upgraded Wi-fi on the grounds," which is a significant amenity for staying connected during your stay.

• Restroom Facilities: While specific details on the condition are limited in the brief reviews provided, fairgrounds typically offer restroom facilities for campers. One external review for the fairgrounds itself notes "New restroom facilities (wheelchair accessible)" in other buildings on site, suggesting a general standard of modern facilities.

• On-site Amenities: The fairgrounds offer various amenities that campers can potentially utilize, such as a playground and a walking circuit around the fairgrounds.

• Fair Week Specific Regulations: Special rules apply during the Madison County Fair, including specific entry times for campers (no earlier than 6:00 pm on the Saturday before the fair starts to avoid extra charges).

Madison County Fair Camping offers several distinct features that make it a unique and appealing option for Iowan campers, especially those interested in local events and culture.

• Event-Centric Camping: The most significant highlight is the ability to camp directly on the fairgrounds, offering unparalleled access to the Madison County Fair and other events like rodeos, concerts, and car cruises. This allows visitors to "stay close to all the action!"

• Flexible Hookup Options: The availability of "Full Water/Electric/Sewer" as well as "Electric Only" sites provides versatility for different types of RVs and camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for a broad range of campers.

• Affordable and Flexible Rates: With daily, weekly, and monthly rates offered, the campground caters to short visits as well as longer stays, making it a cost-effective choice for extended periods. One review noted "Water, gas and Sewer was $15 daily, $105 weekly, and $420 monthly," which indicates competitive pricing.

• Convenient Winterset Location: Being in Winterset means campers are just moments away from the town's famous covered bridges, the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum, local shops, and dining, providing ample off-site entertainment and necessities.

• Welcoming Atmosphere: While feedback is brief, the comment "Nice little camping area 👌" suggests a positive and pleasant environment, likely reflecting the general hospitality found in fairground settings.

• Upgraded Amenities: Recent upgrades to "More camping sites with electric" and "Upgraded Wi-fi on the grounds" show a commitment to improving the camper experience, ensuring modern conveniences are available.

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is open from April 1 to November 1 outside of fair week, providing ample opportunity to visit during prime Iowa camping seasons.

Madison County Fair Camping operates with a clear and consistent pricing structure, rather than offering typical commercial "promotions." However, its rates and offerings provide inherent value and flexibility for campers.

• Non-Fair Camping Rates:

  • Tent: $15/night ($85/week – with weekly tent movement required)

  • Electric Only: $17/night ($100/week)

  • Full Water/Electric/Sewer: $20/night ($120/week, $480/month)

• Fair Week Camping Rates: During the annual Madison County Fair (typically mid-July), specific rates apply to accommodate the high demand and include fair admission. For example, previous fair week rates have been around $125 for electric hookups or $175 for full hookups, which often includes one fair pass.

• Seasonal Openings: The campground is open from April 1 to November 1 annually, except during the fair itself, providing a long season for visitors to plan their trips.

• No Refunds for Fair Camping: It's important to note that fair camping spots and passes are typically non-refundable, and spots cannot be moved or traded.

• Early Entry Charges for Fair Camping: Campers for the fair cannot be on the fairgrounds before 6:00 pm on the Saturday before the fair starts, or a $50 per day extra charge will apply.

For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, reservation policies (especially concerning fair week), and availability, it is highly recommended to contact Madison County Fair Camping directly.

Ready to experience the unique blend of fairground charm and convenient camping in Winterset? Here's how you can get in touch with Madison County Fair Camping:

• Address: Winterset, IA 50273, USA (located at the Madison County Fairgrounds)

• Phone: (515) 468-5997

• Mobile Phone: +1 515-468-5997

For specific inquiries regarding camping availability, rates, and any special regulations, particularly during the Madison County Fair, calling the provided phone number is the most direct method. You can also visit the official Madison County Fair website for details on fair camping regulations and general non-fair camping information.

For Iowans, Madison County Fair Camping offers a uniquely suitable and practical option for their camping needs, perfectly blending convenience with local charm and events. Its prime location directly at the Madison County Fairgrounds in Winterset means that locals are not only close to home but also strategically positioned to enjoy all that the area has to offer. This includes the world-famous covered bridges, the historic Winterset square, and, crucially, the vibrant atmosphere of the Madison County Fair itself. Being able to camp right where the action is during the fair is an unmatched convenience for event enthusiasts.

Beyond fair week, the campground serves as an excellent base for exploring Madison County's beautiful landscapes and historical sites without extensive travel. The availability of diverse hookup options (full, electric-only) for RVs and dedicated tent sites caters to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring comfort for many. The competitive daily, weekly, and monthly rates offer flexible and affordable options for both short visits and longer stays, which is a significant advantage for locals planning multiple trips or extended getaways. Furthermore, recent upgrades to camping sites and the addition of Wi-Fi on the grounds demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the camper experience. For Iowans who appreciate a straightforward, well-located camping spot that offers easy access to local events and the iconic attractions of Winterset, Madison County Fair Camping presents a convenient, welcoming, and practical choice for their next local adventure. It truly is a "nice little camping area" that offers big convenience.