Summit Campground

Hello, fellow Iowans! Are you searching for a fantastic camping destination that offers both the comforts of modern amenities and a wide array of outdoor activities, all conveniently located in our beautiful state? Look no further than Summit Campground, nestled within the expansive West Lake Park in Davenport, Iowa. This popular campground provides a wonderful opportunity to escape the everyday, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories with family and friends, right here in the heart of the Quad Cities region.

Summit Campground is a well-regarded destination known for its clean facilities, helpful staff, and diverse camping options, making it suitable for both seasoned RVers and those who prefer the rustic charm of tent camping. While some tent campers might find it more developed than a primitive site, its amenities and access to park features make it a comfortable and engaging choice for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Its strategic location within West Lake Park means campers have immediate access to a wealth of recreational opportunities, from exploring lakes to enjoying playgrounds and disc golf courses.

In this comprehensive article, we aim to provide you with all the essential details about Summit Campground. We’ll cover its convenient location and accessibility, detail the services and features that make it stand out, highlight any available promotions, and provide vital contact information. Our goal is to equip you with everything you need to plan a successful and enjoyable camping trip right here in Iowa. Get ready to discover why Summit Campground is a top contender for your next local outdoor adventure!

Summit Campground is located within West Lake Park at an Unnamed Road, Davenport, IA 52804, USA. This places it in a prime spot within the extensive West Lake Park system, providing campers with immediate access to 620 acres of natural beauty and recreational facilities. Davenport, being a significant hub in the Quad Cities metropolitan area, ensures excellent accessibility from various parts of Iowa and neighboring states, making it a convenient choice for many Iowans.

Navigating to Summit Campground can sometimes be a point of inquiry for first-time visitors. The campground is best accessed via Gate 5 on 110th Avenue within West Lake Park. While some visitors have noted that finding the gate numbers requires a quick exit onto the main road, rest assured that once you’re on the park grounds, the signage and the helpfulness of the camp hosts will guide you. It’s often recommended to approach from the south, allowing for an easier pull-over to the office before heading to Gate 5.

The campground’s proximity to Davenport and the wider Quad Cities area means that while you’re enjoying the tranquility of nature, you’re never far from essential services, dining options, shopping, and unique attractions. This balance of natural retreat and urban convenience is a significant benefit, allowing campers to easily stock up on supplies or explore local sights like a nearby Camping World, antiquing spots, or even the Quad Cities Airshow. The well-maintained paved roads within West Lake Park also ensure a smooth journey for all types of vehicles, including large RVs and those towing trailers.

• Full Hookup Campsites: Summit Campground is well-equipped with sites offering full hookups, which typically include electrical (30 & 50 amp), water, and sewer connections. This amenity is highly valued, especially for RV campers, as it provides the comforts of home. It’s worth noting that the water spigot can sometimes be shared or a distance from the parking spot, so bringing an extra-long water hose is a practical tip.

• Dedicated Tent Camping Areas: While some tent campers might find the overall campground more developed, there are designated areas suitable for tent setups. These sites offer a safe and established space for traditional camping, often with convenient access to facilities.

• Clean Bathroom and Shower Facilities: The campground provides modern restrooms and shower houses. Reviews consistently highlight their cleanliness. While some note that the water temperature in showers can be "finicky," they are functional and provide hot water and good pressure, which is essential for a comfortable stay. The showers are locking stalls, offering a degree of privacy.

• Helpful and Engaged Staff/Camp Host: Visitors often praise the friendly and helpful nature of the staff at the office and the presence of an engaged camp host. This ensures that assistance is readily available, from guiding late arrivals to addressing requests like firewood delivery.

• Newly Installed Playground: Families with children will appreciate the newly installed playground, providing a modern and safe area for kids to play and enjoy themselves. Its proximity to some campsites allows for easy supervision.

• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes equipped with a fire ring for campfires and a picnic table, perfect for outdoor meals and evening gatherings under the stars.

• Dump Station: For RV campers, a convenient dump station is available within the park. It's noted that the dump station might be on the entrance side when leaving, so campers should be prepared with long waste tubes.

• Camp Store with Essentials: A small camp store, located in the main office, offers essential items for campers. The office itself has generous operating hours, typically from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, providing accessibility for various needs.

• Prime Location within West Lake Park: Summit Campground’s greatest highlight is its setting within the vast 620-acre West Lake Park. This means campers have immediate access to a multitude of park amenities and activities, including multiple lakes for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boats (electric motors only allowed).

• Beautiful Beach with Inflatable Waterpark: Just a short distance from the campground, accessible by road or trails, is a lovely beach area. During warmer months, it features an inflatable waterpark, offering tremendous fun for families and a refreshing way to enjoy the lake. Boat rentals are also available at the boathouse.

• New Trails for Biking and Hiking: The park boasts newly built trails, perfect for both biking and hiking enthusiasts. These trails offer scenic routes and opportunities for exercise and exploration within the natural environment.

• Disc Golf Course: For those who enjoy disc golf, West Lake Park features a 24-hole disc golf course, adding another popular recreational option for campers.

• Quiet and Well-Managed Environment: Despite its popularity and sometimes being full, the campground maintains a remarkably quiet atmosphere. This, combined with the presence of an engaged camp host and DNR rounds, contributes to a well-managed and peaceful stay.

• Proximity to Quad Cities Attractions: Beyond the immediate park, Summit Campground offers convenient access to the diverse offerings of the Quad Cities. This includes shopping, antiquing, restaurants, the Botanical Gardens, and other local events like the Quad Cities Airshow, ensuring there’s always something to do nearby.

• Variety of Site Types: The campground offers pull-through sites, which are excellent for larger RVs with trailers, providing ample space. Sites are generally level with gravel pads and concrete patios, enhancing comfort and ease of setup. Many sites also offer shade.

• Accessible Facilities: The park features handicap accessible comfort stations, ensuring that facilities are available for all visitors.

As part of the Scott County park system, Summit Campground offers several specific discounts that are highly beneficial for local residents and certain groups. While general public promotions aren't widely advertised in real-time, the following are known and consistent offers:

• Military Discount: Summit Campground provides a military discount. While you might not be able to apply it directly online initially, the staff can set it up for you (potentially over the phone or in person) so that it automatically applies to future bookings. This is a valuable benefit for active and retired service members.

• Senior Citizen Camping Discount (62 & Over): Campers aged 62 and over are eligible for a discount on their camping fees. This common public park offer makes camping more affordable for seniors.

• Scott County Resident Camping Discount: Residents of Scott County often receive a discount on camping fees, further encouraging local use of the park facilities.

• "Book 7 consecutive nights for the price of 6": This common promotion allows campers who stay for a week to get one night free, offering good value for longer stays.

To confirm current rates, specific discount eligibility, and to ensure any applicable offers are applied to your reservation, it is always best to contact Summit Campground directly. Their helpful staff can guide you through the booking process and provide the most up-to-date information on any available specials, helping you get the best value for your Iowa camping adventure.

To make a reservation, inquire about site availability, or get more details about Summit Campground and its offerings, please use the following contact information:

• Address: Unnamed Road, Davenport, IA 52804, USA (located within West Lake Park, accessed via Gate 5 on 110th Ave)

• Phone: (563) 326-8611 (This number is typically for West Lake Park general inquiries and camping reservations.)

• Mobile Phone: +1 563-326-8611 (This often directs to the same main park office number.)

Given the campground's popularity, especially during peak season and around local events like the Quad Cities Airshow, it is highly recommended to call in advance to check availability and make reservations. The office typically operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, providing ample time for inquiries and check-ins.

For Iowans seeking a truly comprehensive and convenient camping experience, Summit Campground within West Lake Park in Davenport stands out as an exceptional choice. Its location means minimal travel time for residents across a significant portion of Iowa, particularly those in the eastern half of the state and the entire Quad Cities metro area. This allows for more spontaneous weekend escapes and maximizes the time spent enjoying the outdoors, rather than on the road.

The campground’s appeal for locals lies in its remarkable blend of robust amenities and a vast recreational playground. Unlike more primitive sites, Summit Campground offers the sought-after convenience of full hookups, clean and accessible bathhouses with hot showers, and a friendly, engaged staff. This level of comfort makes it an ideal introduction to camping for newcomers, while still satisfying the needs of seasoned campers looking for a hassle-free experience. The newly installed playground adds significant value for families, ensuring children have dedicated, safe spaces to play.

Furthermore, being part of West Lake Park means that an incredible array of activities is literally at your doorstep. From exploring beautiful lakes for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating to enjoying the new biking and hiking trails, or even a round of disc golf, there's always something to do. The presence of a vibrant beach with an inflatable waterpark during warmer months provides a unique and exciting draw, creating memorable summer experiences without having to travel far.

Beyond the park, the easy access to the Quad Cities' diverse offerings – from shopping to cultural events – means you can seamlessly blend your nature retreat with urban exploration. This versatility is a major advantage for local users. Coupled with attractive discounts for military personnel, seniors, and county residents, Summit Campground represents not just a place to stay, but a valuable community resource for outdoor recreation. It’s a place where you can easily find your perfect escape, embrace Iowa's natural beauty, and foster a lifelong love for the outdoors, all within a short drive from home.