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Menlo City Campground

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Menlo City Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (641) 524-2411

Address Unnamed Road, Menlo, IA 50164, USA

Website https://www.cityofmenloia.com/city-park

Hours

Menlo City Campground Location & Map

IowaGuthrie CountyMenloUnnamed Road

Menlo City Campground About

For Iowans and travelers passing through our beautiful state, finding a convenient, quiet, and affordable place to rest your RV is always a priority. Look no further than Menlo City Campground, a charming and practical stop nestled right in the heart of the small, friendly farm town of Menlo, Iowa. This unassuming gem offers a straightforward and comfortable experience, making it an excellent choice for an overnight stay or a brief respite from your travels. Whether you're exploring the local area or simply need a peaceful place to park for the night, Menlo City Campground provides essential amenities in a low-key setting.

Many Iowa residents enjoy the freedom of RV travel, and knowing about dependable, budget-friendly campgrounds like Menlo City can significantly enhance their adventures. This campground caters to those who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency, offering a no-frills yet entirely functional environment. It's the kind of place where you can quickly set up, enjoy a peaceful evening, and be ready to continue your journey refreshed. Its focus on essential services and a quiet atmosphere makes it a popular choice among those seeking a tranquil and convenient stopover.

Location and Accessibility

Menlo City Campground is conveniently located at Unnamed Road, Menlo, IA 50164, USA. Situated right in the middle of the small farm town of Menlo, its accessibility is one of its key advantages, especially for those traveling on nearby interstates. While specific mileage from the nearest interstate isn't provided, reviews indicate that it's "well worth driving the couple of miles of the Interstate" to reach this peaceful haven. This suggests it's just far enough off the main thoroughfare to offer quiet seclusion, yet close enough for easy access.

Being in the heart of a small town means you're not entirely isolated, though it's important to note that the immediate vicinity doesn't boast extensive services. As one reviewer aptly put it, "make sure you have everything you need, there is nothing around for miles." This emphasizes the rural charm of Menlo and the campground's focus on providing a quiet, self-sufficient experience. The setting itself contributes to the overall peacefulness of the stay, allowing campers to truly unwind away from the hustle and bustle of larger towns or cities. Its location makes it an ideal stop for those traversing Iowa, offering a genuine small-town experience without significant detours.

Services Offered

Menlo City Campground focuses on providing essential services that cater primarily to RV travelers, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

  • Full Hookups: Each of the 8 RV lots at Menlo City Campground comes equipped with full hookups. This means campers have access to electric, water, and sewer connections directly at their site. This is a significant convenience, allowing for extended stays without the need to frequently move your rig for waste disposal or water refills.

  • Electric and Water Connections: All sites provide both electric and water hookups, which are fundamental for any RV stay. This ensures you can power your appliances, run air conditioning or heating, and have immediate access to fresh water throughout your visit.

  • Self-Pay System: The campground operates on a self-pay system, simplifying the check-in process. This allows for flexibility in arrival times and promotes a trusting, low-overhead operation, contributing to the affordable rates.

  • Satellite Bathroom: While there are no showers, the campground provides a satellite bathroom. This offers a basic restroom facility for campers, adding a layer of convenience for those not fully self-contained in their RVs.

The streamlined services contribute to the campground's affordable nightly rate, making it an excellent option for travelers seeking essential amenities without unnecessary frills.

Features / Highlights

Menlo City Campground, while modest in size, offers several key features that contribute to its appeal, particularly for RV travelers seeking a straightforward and peaceful experience.

  • 8-Lot RV Park: The campground consists of 8 designated RV lots. This small size contributes to a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere compared to larger commercial parks. It allows for a more personal and tranquil experience, which is highly valued by those seeking peace and quiet.

  • Full Hookups on Every Lot: A significant highlight is the availability of full hookups (electric, water, sewer) on all 8 sites. This provides maximum convenience for RVers, allowing for a self-sufficient and comfortable stay without the need to relocate for services.

  • Leveled Gravel Pads: The sites are described as "leveled gravel pads." While not all sites may accommodate the largest rigs, having leveled pads significantly simplifies the setup process for campers, ensuring a stable and comfortable parking spot for their RV.

  • Accommodates Various Rig Sizes: While three of the spots might not accommodate "big rigs," the fact that a 39-foot fifth wheel could comfortably park on lot six indicates that many standard to larger RVs will find suitable accommodations here.

  • Adjacent to a Park with Playground: The campground's proximity to a public park with a playground is a notable benefit, especially for families traveling with children. This offers an immediate recreational outlet right next to your campsite.

  • Picnic Tables: Each lot is equipped with picnic tables, providing a convenient outdoor dining and gathering space right at your campsite. This encourages outdoor living and makes meal times easier.

  • Super Quiet and Peaceful: Despite being in a small town, the campground is consistently described as "super quiet and peaceful." This is a major draw for those looking to escape noise and enjoy a truly relaxing overnight stay. The primary exception noted is the occasional train, which passes by early in the morning.

  • Very Clean: Reviewers highlight the cleanliness of the park, indicating that the facilities are well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant experience for all visitors.

These features collectively make Menlo City Campground a practical, comfortable, and highly recommended stop for RVers seeking a quiet and affordable overnight stay in rural Iowa.

Promotions or Special Offers

Menlo City Campground maintains a consistent and attractive pricing structure rather than relying on fluctuating promotions. The primary and most significant "offer" is its highly affordable nightly rate of $25.00 for full hookups. This transparent and consistent pricing makes it an excellent value for RVers seeking essential amenities without inflated costs.

Given its self-pay system and focus on a no-frills, quiet experience, the campground does not typically advertise complex promotional deals or seasonal discounts in the traditional sense. The value is inherent in its low price point coupled with the provision of full hookups (electric, water, and sewer) and a peaceful environment.

It is important for prospective campers to note that Menlo City Campground operates on a "FIRST COME ONLY" basis, with no reservations accepted. This policy itself acts as a kind of consistent offer – the promise of a spot if you arrive and one is available, without the need for advance planning or booking fees. Check-out is consistently at 12 noon, ensuring a regular turnover of sites.

For any specific inquiries or to confirm the current nightly rate, campers are encouraged to contact the campground directly using the provided phone numbers. While there might not be "special offers" in the marketing sense, the campground's foundational offering of affordability and convenience remains its consistent and most appealing feature.

Contact Information

For any inquiries about Menlo City Campground, or to confirm current conditions, you can reach out using the following contact details:

  • Address: Unnamed Road, Menlo, IA 50164, USA

  • Phone: (641) 524-2411

  • Mobile Phone: +1 641-524-2411

As the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a self-pay system, direct communication is most useful for general information rather than booking. The phone numbers provide a direct line to inquire about capacity or any other questions you may have before your arrival.

Conclusion: Why Menlo City Campground is Suitable for Locals

Menlo City Campground is an excellent choice for Iowans, particularly those who own RVs and appreciate the value of a straightforward, peaceful, and affordable place to stay. Its suitability for locals stems from several key aspects that align well with the needs and preferences of residents exploring their own state or needing a convenient stop during longer journeys.

Firstly, its location in the quiet farm town of Menlo offers a genuine rural Iowa experience. For many Iowans, this peaceful setting is a welcome respite from busier areas, providing a chance to truly unwind. The "super quiet and peaceful night" that visitors report is a major draw, allowing for restful sleep and a relaxed atmosphere that can be hard to find at more heavily trafficked campgrounds.

The combination of full hookups (electric, water, and sewer) at an incredibly affordable rate of $25.00 per night is arguably its strongest selling point for locals. This budget-friendly price point makes RV travel more accessible and sustainable, whether it’s for a quick weekend getaway or as a convenient overnight stop on the way to other Iowa destinations. The self-pay system adds to this convenience, allowing for flexible arrival times without the need for advance bookings, which suits spontaneous travel plans.

While the campground is modest, its essential features like leveled gravel pads, a nearby playground for families, and picnic tables enhance the user experience without adding unnecessary costs. The clear understanding that "there is nothing around for miles" means locals know to arrive prepared, which is often part of the self-sufficient spirit of RV camping anyway. The single satellite bathroom, while basic, provides an additional convenience for those who need it.

In essence, Menlo City Campground embodies practical, no-frills camping that delivers on its promises of peace, affordability, and essential amenities. It's a reliable option for Iowans looking for a quiet overnight stop, a brief escape into the serene countryside, or simply a dependable and economical base while exploring the central Iowa region. It's a testament to the charm of small-town Iowa, offering a quiet and comfortable haven for those on the road.

Customer Reviews

4.0
18 reviews
D
Diane Crawford
Jun 21, 2023

The park has 6 leveled gravel pads, electric and water. We parked a 39' fifth wheel on lot six. Three of the spots would not accommodate big rigs. No showers and one satellite bathroom. It's next to a park. Very clean and quiet except for the train. You are almost on the tracks and it came through at 6:45 am. It's self pay. $25.00. Great for an overnight.

J
Jarred Hendricks
May 14, 2023

An 8 lot RV Park, in the middle of the small farm town of Menlo, with full hook-ups, a playground, picnic tables. This park is FIRST COME ONLY, no reservations and check-out is at 12 noon. For $25 per night it was well worth driving the couple of miles of the Interstate. Super quiet and peaceful night. One thing though, make sure you have everything you need, there is nothing around for miles.

D
Dawn Kinert Castro
Oct 17, 2023

This was a great surprise. Small cute RV park with full hookups. Right by the railroad tracks with a railroad run around midnight & 6am. Definitely worth the quick overnight stay and only $25 a night.

J
Joy Walker
Sep 08, 2024

This is a wonderful little park in small town Menlo. It's about 5 miles off I80 down a country road. You will pass through a small overpass 14' that is quite tight, but there's rarely anyone else on the road. Turn into the gravel road off Sherman Road at the railroad tracks. Sites are plenty spacious, we fit our 30ft trailor truck together & wouldn't have to unhook if needed. The playground is clean & would be great for kids. There's a brand new basketball court here too. Freight trains come through twice a night 3am & 5am and they are VERY loud - they also blow the horns the whole time - they pass within a few minutes but be aware, it can be quite startling, even after reading other reviews and knowing about it. Great overnight spot - VERY quiet. Porta potties are disgusting, avoid those. We camped at Menlo City Campground in a Travel Trailer.

J
JalexJ
Jun 23, 2020

Nice, easy, inexpensive. Not a lot of sites and available on 1st come 1st serve basis. We stopped on a holiday weekend and there were several site available (surprise, surprise). It appears as if WIFI might be accessible from the library next door, but I couldn't get it work (holiday weekend). There's not a lot happening in Menlo, but the several people I ran into walking the dog and otherwise were super friendly. There was a train in the morning. For me, it was cool because I like trains. Me and the dog drank coffee and watched the train.