Wallashuck
4.55222 reviews890 190th Ave, Pella, Iowa 50219
Wallashuck
$20.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range between $20 and $24 for standard electric sites during peak season. Additional fees may apply for reservations, cancellations, and modifications.
About this campground
Nestled within a canopy of majestic hardwood forests along the shores of Lake Red Rock, Wallashuck Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 83 well-appointed electric campsites. This waterfront haven serves as your gateway to endless adventures, where days unfold with the gentle splash of fishing lines, the rhythmic hum of boat engines exploring hidden coves, and peaceful evenings watching wildlife emerge from forest shadows. Whether you're seeking the thrill of water sports, the serenity of forest trails, or simply a place to reconnect with nature, Wallashuck delivers an authentic outdoor experience.
Wallashuck Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, from tent camping to RV setups. It offers electric hookups, well-shaded areas, and spacious sites.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of Dutch heritage and American motorsport culture. Just a short drive away, the charming town of Pella transports visitors to the Netherlands with its authentic windmills, tulip gardens, and Old World architecture that tells the story of determined settlers who shaped this corner of Iowa. Meanwhile, Knoxville pulses with the high-octane energy of Sprint car racing, where the roar of engines and the smell of racing fuel create an entirely different but equally passionate cultural experience. This unique blend offers campers the chance to explore both serene European traditions and heart-pounding American sports heritage.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the fresh blooms of late April through the golden hues of mid-October, Wallashuck Campground welcomes visitors to experience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasonal beauty. Summer brings vibrant warmth that invites long days on the water and balmy nights under star-filled skies. While the heat can be intense during peak summer months, the lake's cooling breezes and shaded forest campsites provide natural relief. The campground's seasonal schedule ensures you'll experience the area at its most hospitable, though Mother Nature always has the final say on opening and closing dates.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation that characterizes Iowa's gently rolling landscape, creating an accessible outdoor experience for visitors of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of hardwood trees creates a natural sanctuary where dappled sunlight filters through leaves, painting ever-changing patterns on the forest floor. This verdant ecosystem comes alive with wildlife encounters that transform ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Majestic bald eagles patrol the skies from November through March, while graceful waterfowl create rippling symphonies across the lake's surface. White-tailed deer emerge at dawn and dusk, their cautious steps through the underbrush rewarding patient observers. Wild turkeys strut through clearings, and countless other creatures make their homes in this thriving habitat, offering endless opportunities for wildlife photography and quiet observation.
Geological RegionWallashuck Campground claims its place on the shores of Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake and a testament to human ingenuity working in harmony with nature. This impressive reservoir, carved by the Des Moines River and enhanced by the Army Corps of Engineers, stretches across 15,250 acres when full, creating a water wonderland in the heart of the Midwest. The surrounding hardwood forests represent centuries of natural growth, their roots anchored in the rich Iowa soil that tells the geological story of ancient prairies, glacial movements, and river valleys. This diverse landscape of water and woodland creates microclimates and ecosystems that support the area's abundant wildlife and provide visitors with varied terrain to explore.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility is noted as a concern for some visitors. For example, one reviewer commented, "I was very disappointed because I have to use a walker and love to fish, so where is shore fishing at?"
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as generally spacious and suitable for both tents and RVs. Specific comments include "nice large level pads" and "spacious spots."
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a good level of privacy and shade, with one camper mentioning, "The sites are spacious and far enough apart that the kids could play without bothering other campers."
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor better experiences, choose sites with good shade and avoid heavily sloping or waterlogged sites. Consider proximity to facilities.
Best CampsitesSites with lake views and shade are highly appreciated, especially sites like #33 and #36.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at the campground, with a total limit of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of eight persons per campsite is allowed.
Groups
No specific information about group site details was available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are surrounded by grassy areas, some with gravel. Sites feature picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: April 24 - October 19 (Reservable); Out of Season: October 20 - April 23
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWallashuck does not have a reservation window; reservations are required prior to occupying a site.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the arrival date incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Wallashuck Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for all ages. Visitors can engage in hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, boating, and fishing. The campground is adjacent to the Volksweg Trail, a 15-mile paved trail that stretches to the Des Moines River and offers scenic routes for biking and walking.
Hiking
The 15-mile-long Volksweg Trail is a highlight for hikers and bikers, offering a scenic journey from Pella to the Des Moines River and Cordova Recreation Area. Visitors have praised the trail, noting, "The bike trails are great," and "Fantastic bike riding paths." Some reviews mentioned cracks in the trail, which may affect the biking experience.Fishing
Lake Red Rock provides fishing opportunities for crappie, largemouth and striped bass, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, and bluegill. Anglers noted, "Good fishing, good company and lots of relaxation," but accessibility for shore fishing was a concern for some.Swimming
Swimming is possible in Lake Red Rock, though designated areas or facilities for swimming were not explicitly mentioned in the source materials. Some reviews noted challenges with water entry points.Biking
The Volksweg Trail is a major attraction for bikers, described as "great for biking," and connecting the campground to scenic areas. Some reviewers highlighted cracks and bumps in the trail, which may impact comfort during long rides.Boating
Excellent boating opportunities are available at Lake Red Rock. Campers can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and other water sports along the designated water trails. However, it was noted that Wallashuck itself does not have a boat launch, requiring visitors to use nearby facilities.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by abundant wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, and migratory waterfowl. Seasonal highlights include bald eagles (November-March) and American White Pelicans during migration. "Lots of birds to view and a nice look at the lake too!" noted one camper.Winter Activities
Bald eagle viewing is a notable winter activity, with peak visibility between November and March.Water Sports
Water trails cater to kayaks and canoes. The lake offers a variety of non-motorized water sports, making it ideal for recreational paddling.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is available on-site, and visitors are encouraged to bring local firewood to prevent pest introduction.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsStray cats, mold in showers, standing water, chiggers, and heavy insect presence during the summer. Poison ivy patches are also noted near facilities.
Active alertsNo current warnings or advisories mentioned.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 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
Emergency services are likely available in nearby Pella or Knoxville, but explicit details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 24 - October 19
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information about trash and recycling facilities was provided. However, some user reviews mentioned the availability of trash dumpsters and requested additional bins.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Lake Red Rock, which offers kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsMold in showers, insect issues, lack of water hookups, and uneven campsites.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and welcoming.
Campground Map
890 190th Ave, Pella, Iowa 50219
Driving directionsTake County Highway G-28 4 miles west of Pella, then go 0.8 miles south on 190th Avenue.
The campground is accessible via County Highway G-28 and 190th Avenue. Roads are paved and easily navigable, but specific notes about seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not provided.Nearby places
Pella: 10 minutes
Knoxville: 15 minutes
Des Moines: approximately 1 hour
Nearby supplies
Groceries, restaurants, and supplies can be found in nearby Pella, Iowa, which is 10 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
222 reviews
Wallashuck is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Wallashuck Campground is highly rated for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and scenic surroundings. Visitors appreciate the proximity to Pella and the Volksweg Trail. However, some concerns include bugs, outdated facilities, and limited water and sewer hookups at sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 222 reviews
What Campers Love
Key positives include clean and well-maintained facilities, spacious sites, good shade, and friendly staff. Proximity to attractions like the Volksweg Trail and Pella is frequently praised.
Based on 222 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues raised in reviews include the prevalence of bugs, particularly mosquitoes and chiggers, issues with the cleanliness of showers, and the lack of water and sewer hookups at campsites....
Based on 222 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend booking in advance due to the campground's popularity. Some advise bringing extra bug repellent and water supplies due to insect issues and the lack of water at individual sites.
Based on 222 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer experiences are mixed due to the prevalence of bugs, while spring and fall are highlighted as ideal seasons for their cooler weather and scenic views. Winter is noted for bald eagle viewing.
Based on 222 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Nice clean campground!" 2. "The bike trails are great." 3. "The showers are gross, small and have mold on the curtains." 4. "The sites are spacious and far enough apart that the kids could play...
Based on 222 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 33 offers a beautiful lake view but has a fire pit located inconveniently. Site 46 has drainage issues, making it less suitable for tents.
Based on 222 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews highlight the lack of shore fishing access for individuals with mobility issues, as noted by one camper using a walker.
Based on 222 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025