Volga River State Recreation Area
00 review10225 Ivy Road, Fayette, Iowa, 52142, United States
Volga River State Recreation Area
$20.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$35.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee structure varies depending on campsite type, with standard sites starting at $20 and equestrian sites going up to $35. Additional costs for full hookups are applicable. Prices are explicitly stated in user reviews and authoritative sources.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Northeast Iowa's dramatic landscape, Volga River State Recreation Area beckons with two distinct camping experiences. Albany Campground welcomes both equestrian enthusiasts and traditional campers, offering a rustic retreat where the clip-clop of horses mingles with the sounds of nature. For those seeking modern comforts, Lakeview Campground provides full-service sites complete with electric, water, and sewer hookups, ensuring you can enjoy the wilderness without sacrificing convenience.
Volga River State Recreation Area offers equestrian camping, tent sites, and RV-friendly options, including modern amenities at Lakeview Campground and non-modern amenities at Albany Campground.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable region has earned the endearing nickname "Little Switzerland" from generations of Iowans who've marveled at its unexpected terrain. The moniker reflects not just the area's physical beauty, but also its cultural significance as a treasured anomaly in Iowa's landscape—a place where visitors discover that the Midwest holds surprises beyond their imagination.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasons in this enchanting landscape. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and gentle breezes, while summer brings warm days perfect for exploration. Autumn transforms the dense canopy into a brilliant tapestry of golds and crimsons, and winter blankets the rugged terrain in pristine snow, creating a serene wonderland for those who embrace the cold.
ElevationThe varied topography creates natural vantage points and hidden valleys throughout the recreation area, offering campers diverse terrain to explore and stunning views that change with every trail.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by a landscape that defies typical Iowa expectations. Ancient rock outcroppings jut dramatically from hillsides draped in dense forest, creating a natural playground for adventurers. The rugged terrain forms intimate valleys and soaring ridges, while the canopy overhead filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor—a photographer's paradise and nature lover's dream.
Geological RegionWelcome to Iowa's best-kept secret: a geological wonderland where ancient forces carved a landscape more reminiscent of the Appalachians than the Midwest. The Volga River State Recreation Area showcases Northeast Iowa's "Little Switzerland," where dramatic rock formations, steep valleys, and dense forests create a striking contrast to the gentle rolling hills and agricultural plains that dominate the rest of the state. This unique topography offers visitors an unexpected adventure in a region where nature wrote a different story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe floating fishing pier, shoreline sidewalk, and jetties are described as universally accessible.
Sites SizeNo specific information on the size of campsites is provided.
Sites PrivacyNo information about campsite privacy is provided.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesEquestrian campers should choose Albany Campground due to dedicated facilities for horses and trail access. Non-equestrian campers may prefer Lakeview Campground for modern amenities.
Best CampsitesAlbany Campground is highly regarded for equestrian camping, with electrical hookups and trail access.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Official data does not specify maximum guests per site.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two separate areas: Albany Campground and Lakeview Campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online on Iowa state park websites or by contacting the park office.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up or first-come-first-served availability is not detailed.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not explicitly mentioned.
Amenities available
Showers
Dump station
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The recreation area supports various activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing. Frog Hollow Lake features a diverse fishery and boating opportunities at no wake speeds. The Volga River offers scenic kayaking and canoeing routes. 22 miles of multi-use trails are available for equestrian riders, mountain bikers, hikers, and winter sports enthusiasts. An archery range with a 20-target trail and public hunting opportunities also enhance the recreational offerings.
Hiking
The area features 22 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and equestrian use in summer, and groomed trails for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in winter. Reviews praise the trails as well-maintained and scenic.Fishing
Fishing is available at Frog Hollow Lake (bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, channel catfish) and the Volga River (smallmouth bass, rock bass, channel catfish). Frog Hollow Lake also features a floating fishing pier.Biking
Mountain biking is popular on the 22-mile multi-use trail system. The trails are described as rugged and suitable for all-terrain biking.Boating
Boating at Frog Hollow Lake is permitted at no wake speeds. A three-lane boat ramp, floating fishing pier, and accessible shoreline facilities are available. Canoeing and kayaking are popular on the Volga River.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife. 'Lots of wildlife to view but watch out for the grumpy raccoon on Frog Hollow Trail!' one user humorously notes.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and trail use for winter recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular on the Volga River, while Frog Hollow Lake allows for no-wake boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire policies are not explicitly mentioned.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area includes wildlife such as raccoons; caution is advised around trails and water bodies.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles, there is a hospital, medical clinic, and an ATM for emergency cash needs.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing is not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details are available on on-site trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresFrog Hollow Lake is located in the northern section and offers fishing and boating opportunities. The Volga River meanders through the southern portion, ideal for kayaking and canoeing.
Common complaintsMissing amenities like mounting blocks and showers for equestrian rides; limited facilities for non-equestrian campers.
Host"Great Ranger and camp host. Very nice groomed trails" - Reviews emphasize the helpfulness of staff.
Campground Map
10225 Ivy Road, Fayette, Iowa, 52142, United States
Driving directionsFrom State Highway 150 between Fayette and West Union, turn east on Ivy Road one mile to entrance of Recreation Area
The campground is accessible via paved roads from State Highway 150. The entrance is located on Ivy Road, which is reportedly well-maintained. There are no seasonal closures explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources.Nearby places
Cedar Rapids (70 miles south), Dubuque (90 miles southeast), Waterloo (55 miles southwest)
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles of the campground, supplies including fuel, grocery stores, firewood, ice, snacks, and bait & tackle are available.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Volga River State Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Volga River State Recreation Area are generally positive, highlighting the quiet, clean environment, well-maintained trails, and suitability for equestrian camping.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users highlight the well-maintained trails, peaceful setting, and modern facilities at Lakeview Campground. Equestrian campers appreciate the trail system and hitching posts.
Common Concerns
Some users note the lack of showers at Albany Campground, limited amenities for equestrian use, and reports of wildlife encounters.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring essential supplies as some amenities like firewood may not be available on-site. Reach out to the park office for trail conditions and winter accessibility.
Seasonal Insights
Winter activities are well-supported with groomed trails for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Summer is ideal for hiking, biking, and fishing.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Volga River Campground was exactly what I was hoping to find. Quiet, peaceful, clean and nicely kept.' - Mitch
2. 'Fantastic trail system large enough that your horse will not be bored.' - John...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews praise the Albany Campground for equestrian facilities and the Lakeview Campground for modern amenities. Specific site numbers are not mentioned.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is noted at Frog Hollow Lake with universally accessible fishing piers and shoreline facilities, but reviews do not provide further details.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025