Wayne County Fair Campgrounds

For us Iowans, the local fairgrounds often hold a special place in our hearts – they're not just venues for annual celebrations but sometimes hidden gems for everyday recreation. Beyond the lively atmosphere of the county fair, many of these fairgrounds offer practical and affordable camping opportunities. If you’re looking for a no-frills, convenient, and budget-friendly spot to set up camp in southern Iowa, the Wayne County Fair Campgrounds in Corydon, Iowa, might be just what you need.

The Wayne County Fair Campgrounds provide a straightforward and accessible option for campers, especially during the non-fair season. While it's important to note that the campgrounds have specific closure dates for the annual fair (typically from late July to mid-August), outside of this period, they offer a welcoming space for RVs and tents alike. It's a place where you can find essential amenities, allowing for a comfortable stay without the added cost of resort-style extras. Reviews often highlight the simplicity and accessibility, confirming it's a practical choice for many. Imagine having a dependable spot with water and electric hookups, providing a comfortable base for exploring the local area or simply enjoying a quiet night under the Iowa sky.

This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Wayne County Fair Campgrounds for our fellow Iowans. We'll cover its location and accessibility, the practical services offered for campers, any notable features, information on how to inquire about pricing and availability, and finally, why this spot is particularly suitable for locals looking for an easy and affordable camping solution.

The Wayne County Fair Campgrounds are located at QM88+7G, Corydon, IA 50060, USA. This address places the campgrounds directly within the heart of Corydon, the county seat of Wayne County, Iowa. Its central location within the town offers a unique blend of rural tranquility and convenient access to local amenities.

Corydon is a welcoming small town in southern Iowa, providing a quintessential Midwestern experience. The fairgrounds are typically situated with relatively easy access from major roads leading into Corydon, making it straightforward for campers, including those with RVs and trailers, to arrive and depart. Being in town means that essential services such as grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries are likely just a short drive away, adding a layer of convenience that more remote campgrounds might lack. While specific directions will depend on your starting point in Iowa, the well-maintained road network in the region ensures a smooth journey. The simplicity of access and its placement within a friendly community contribute significantly to the appeal of Wayne County Fair Campgrounds for local Iowans looking for an accessible camping spot that isn't too far off the beaten path.

The Wayne County Fair Campgrounds offer a range of essential services designed to provide a comfortable and convenient camping experience, particularly for those seeking fundamental amenities.

• Campsites with Water and Electric Hookups: The campgrounds offer sites that include both water and electric hookups. This is a significant convenience for RVs and trailers, ensuring access to necessary utilities. There are over 100 campsites available during non-fair times.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available on-site, which is crucial for RV campers to dispose of wastewater. This service is typically open when the campground is operational.
• Shower House and Restrooms: Modern shower and restroom facilities are available for camping guests, providing essential comfort during your stay. It's advisable to communicate ahead of time to ensure these facilities are clean and open, as they are managed by the fairgrounds.
• Day, Weekly, and Extended Stay Camping: The campgrounds are available for various lengths of stay, catering to short weekend trips, weekly excursions, or even longer durations during the non-fair season.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis (Non-Fair Camping): During the non-fair season (April 1 through October 1), campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering flexibility for spontaneous trips. However, the week of the fair is an exception and requires pre-registration.
• Fair Season Camping (Pre-registration Required): During the annual Wayne County Fair (typically late July to mid-August, with closure from July 27 - August 12, 2025), camping is by pre-registration and pre-payment only due to limited hook-ups. Campers from prior years often have priority for their previous space.
• RV Age Policy (Note for 2024 Season onwards): For camping units 12 years or older, 4 photographs (of all sides of the unit) must be submitted for approval to RVfairgrounds@gmail.com, which may take up to 24 hours. This policy applies to reservations starting in the 2024 camping season.

The Wayne County Fair Campgrounds, while offering a practical and no-frills camping experience, present several highlights that make it a suitable choice for various types of campers in Iowa.

• Affordable Camping Rates: Non-fair camping fees are very competitive, typically around $20.00 per night for sites with water and electric hookups. This makes it a highly economical option for individuals and families.
• Convenient Hookups: The availability of water and electric hookups at many of the over 100 campsites is a significant advantage, particularly for RV and trailer owners seeking essential utilities for a comfortable stay.
• Accessibility to Fairgrounds Amenities (Seasonal): During non-fair times, campers have access to the general fairgrounds area, which can be spacious and offer open areas for walking or enjoying the quiet.
• Community Hub (Fair Season): For those who visit during the annual fair, the campgrounds offer an unparalleled opportunity to be immersed in the local community event. While requiring specific booking, this provides unique access to fair activities and atmosphere.
• Proximity to Corydon: Being located directly in Corydon means campers have easy access to local services, shops, and potentially small-town attractions, providing convenience for supplies or a quick meal.
• Versatility for Stays: The option for day, weekly, and extended stays, outside of the fair period, allows for flexible travel planning, catering to both short visits and longer-term needs.
• Dedicated Management: The presence of specific contact persons for non-fair camping inquiries (like Dan at 641-414-1240) indicates a direct line of communication and dedicated management, which can be very helpful for campers.

As a campground primarily associated with a county fair, the Wayne County Fair Campgrounds typically operate on a standardized fee structure rather than offering frequent commercial promotions or discounts. However, there are aspects of their pricing and operation that can be considered beneficial for campers:

• Affordable Nightly Rates: The stated fee of $20.00 per night for water and electric hookups (during non-fair periods) is already quite competitive and generally lower than many private RV parks, effectively acting as an inherent "value offer."
• Flexible Stay Lengths: The option for "day, weekly and extended stay camping" allows visitors to tailor their trip duration to their needs, potentially making longer stays more convenient and cost-effective than booking multiple single nights elsewhere.
• First-Come, First-Served (Non-Fair): For spontaneous travelers, the first-come, first-served policy during non-fair times (April 1 to October 1, excluding fair week) means you don't necessarily need to book far in advance, providing flexibility.
• Pre-Registration for Fair Week: While not a "promotion," the pre-registration system for the busy fair week (which closes the campground for general use from July 27 - Aug 12, 2025) ensures dedicated spots for those attending the fair, and prior year campers often have priority. This is a benefit for fair enthusiasts.

For the most precise and up-to-date information on rates, availability, and specific policies (especially regarding the fair closure or the 12-year RV unit policy), it is strongly recommended to contact the Wayne County Fairgrounds directly.

Contact Dan for non-fair camping inquiries at 641-414-1240 or send a message to the Wayne County Fair Facebook Page. For fair-time camping and questions related to the RV age policy, refer to the fair's official website or the contact information below.

For information, reservations, or any inquiries regarding Wayne County Fair Campgrounds, particularly concerning non-fair camping or specific fair-time arrangements, please use the following contact details:

Address: QM88+7G, Corydon, IA 50060, USA (This is a Plus Code; the physical address is generally associated with the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Corydon).

For Non-Fair Camping Inquiries (April 1 - October 1, excluding fair week):

Phone: (641) 414-1240 (Dan's cell number, specifically for non-fair camping questions).

You can also send a message to the Wayne County Fair Facebook Page for non-fair camping questions.

For Fair-Time Camping and General Fairgrounds Inquiries:

While a general fair office number for the Corydon, IA fairgrounds wasn't explicitly provided, often fairgrounds have a main office number or rely on direct contacts like Dan for camping. For fair-specific information, it's often best to check the official Wayne County Fair (Corydon, Iowa) website, as fair schedules and specific contact persons for fair-time camping may be listed there. Note that a phone number (734) 697-7002 and email RVfairgrounds@gmail.com were found in some search results, but these appear to be associated with the Wayne County Fairgrounds in Belleville, MI, not Corydon, IA. Always confirm you are contacting the correct Wayne County Fairgrounds.

For Iowans seeking a straightforward, affordable, and conveniently located camping option, the Wayne County Fair Campgrounds in Corydon, IA, stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice. It offers a practical solution for both short-term getaways and longer stays, embodying the kind of accessible outdoor recreation that many in our state appreciate.

Firstly, its primary advantage lies in its affordability and the provision of essential hookups. With competitive nightly rates that include water and electric hookups, it presents a budget-friendly alternative to more elaborate private campgrounds. This makes it an excellent option for families and individuals who prioritize practicality and value without compromising on basic comforts for their RV or tent camping setup. The availability of a dump station and shower facilities further enhances its appeal for a comfortable stay.

Secondly, the campgrounds' location right in Corydon offers a unique blend of rural peace and urban convenience. Campers can enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the fairgrounds during non-fair periods, yet have easy access to the town for supplies, dining, or any unexpected needs. This accessibility reduces travel time and stress, allowing Iowans to maximize their time enjoying the outdoors close to home.

Finally, the flexibility of "first-come, first-served" non-fair camping, combined with the option for planned fair-week stays (with pre-registration), caters to diverse planning styles. It’s a versatile spot that can accommodate spontaneous trips or provide a solid base for enjoying one of Iowa's cherished annual traditions. For locals looking for a reliable, no-fuss camping experience with essential amenities and excellent value, Wayne County Fair Campgrounds is a highly recommended destination.