Whitebreast Camp
4.40157 reviews971 Highway S71, Knoxville, IA 50138
Whitebreast Camp
$20.00 - $288.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$288.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $20 to $288 depending on site type (standard electric or group). Additional service fees for reservations and cancellations apply. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's fee.
About this campground
Nestled along the sprawling shores of Lake Red Rock—Iowa's magnificent inland sea—Whitebreast Camp beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront adventure and woodland tranquility. Here, where pristine waters meet ancient hardwood forests, visitors discover a natural playground offering world-class boating, premier fishing, scenic hiking trails, and exhilarating biking paths that wind through some of Iowa's most breathtaking landscapes.
Whitebreast Camp caters to a variety of camping preferences, offering options for tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceWhitebreast Camp serves as your gateway to two of Iowa's most distinctive communities. Just minutes away lies the charming town of Pella, where authentic Dutch windmills, tulip-lined streets, and Old World architecture transport visitors to the Netherlands. Meanwhile, nearby Knoxville pulses with the high-octane excitement of Sprint car racing, earning its reputation as the Sprint Car Capital of the World. This unique blend of European heritage and American motorsport tradition creates an unforgettable cultural backdrop for your camping adventure.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of changing seasons at Whitebreast, where spring arrives with crystalline skies and gentle breezes perfect for lakeside adventures. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days ideal for water activities, punctuated by refreshing afternoon showers that cool the evening air. Fall transforms the hardwood canopy into a spectacular tapestry of gold and crimson under crisp, clear skies. While winter's quiet beauty offers solitude seekers a peaceful retreat, visitors should note that snowy conditions may occasionally affect access to certain areas.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering hardwood forests create a natural cathedral at Whitebreast, their leafy canopies providing cool shade and framing spectacular vistas of Lake Red Rock's shimmering waters. This pristine ecosystem serves as a haven for remarkable wildlife—watch in awe as majestic bald eagles soar overhead, elegant white pelicans glide across the water, graceful deer emerge at twilight, and wild turkeys strut through the underbrush. Every sunrise and sunset paints the lake in breathtaking colors, creating picture-perfect moments that will long outlive your visit.
Geological RegionWhitebreast Camp occupies a stunning position where the historic Des Moines River has carved its path through Iowa's heartland, creating the spectacular Lake Red Rock reservoir. Dense hardwood forests blanket the shoreline, their roots anchored in rich river valley soil that has nurtured this ecosystem for centuries. From elevated viewpoints throughout the camp, panoramic vistas reveal the lake's vast expanse, while the surrounding wetlands and woodlands attract an incredible diversity of wildlife, including magnificent bald eagles and countless species of waterfowl that make this region a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible facilities, such as handicap showers. However, there are some concerns about the steepness of trails to certain areas, like the beach.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with roomy locations that accommodate campers comfortably.
Sites PrivacySeveral reviews highlight the privacy of the campsites due to their spacing and tree coverage.
Total Campsites132 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with lake views for sunsets (e.g., site 068, loop COAL). Avoid sites with reported drainage issues (e.g., site 049).
Best CampsitesSites with lake views and spacious layouts, such as site 068, are highly rated.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of eight persons per campsite.
Groups
The campground includes two group sites equipped with 30 or 50-amp electric hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes 132 campsites and two group sites with electric hookups. Sites are organized into loops (e.g., COAL, MEAD, PONC).
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 24 to October 5 during peak season. Closed for reservations from October 5 to April 23.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov via website or contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not permitted; reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Reservations can be modified through Recreation.gov.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
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
Whitebreast Camp offers a rich recreational experience. Activities include fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Volksweg Trail provides additional hiking and biking opportunities.
Hiking
Several miles of trails are available for hiking and biking, such as the Volksweg Trail which stretches 15 miles west from Pella to the Des Moines River.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound with species like crappie, walleye, largemouth and striped bass, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike, and bluegill.Swimming
Swimming areas are available, including the Whitebreast Beach. However, some reviewers noted issues like bird droppings affecting the usability of the beach.Biking
The 15-mile paved Volksweg Trail is ideal for biking, offering scenic views and a connection to nearby areas.Boating
Boating opportunities are excellent, with facilities like a boat ramp available. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, including waterfowl like the American White Pelican, bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and turkeys. Seasonal migrations add to the viewing experience.Beach activities
The Whitebreast Beach offers opportunities for sunbathing and other activities, although some reviews highlight cleanliness issues.Winter Activities
Winter activities aren't specifically addressed, but bald eagles can be observed from November through March.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are supported by the lake's designated water trails along the shoreline.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood available for purchase on-site.
- Quiet hours are None explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsStanding water and drainage issues reported at some sites. Wildlife, including spiders and raccoons, may pose minor nuisances.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.3 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 available in Knoxville, including hospitals and police stations. Rangers are accessible on-site or through provided phone contacts.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 24 to October 5.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are located outside the campground entrance, which some reviewers found inconvenient.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Lake Red Rock with close access to the Whitebreast Beach and boat ramp.
Common complaintsComplaints include drainage issues, malfunctioning electrical hookups, and lack of water hookups. Some noise concerns reported.
HostHosts and volunteers frequently praised for friendliness and cleanliness. Hosts also assist with reservations and maintenance.
Campground Map
971 Highway S71, Knoxville, IA 50138
Driving directionsFrom Knoxville, take County Highway T-15 northeast for 8 miles. Turn north onto County Highway S-71 and continue 2 miles, following signs to the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is located 10 minutes from Pella and 15 minutes from Knoxville. Roads are suitable for vehicles but parking or driving on grass is prohibited.Nearby places
Pella (10 minutes), Knoxville (15 minutes), Des Moines (1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies in Knoxville and Pella, offering groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Firewood available for purchase on-site, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own supply to avoid transporting out-of-state wood.
Camper Reviews
4.4
157 reviews
Whitebreast Camp is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Whitebreast Camp are generally positive, highlighting its cleanliness, spacious sites, and friendly staff. Complaints include issues with water drainage, electricity, and trash disposal locations.
Review Summaries
Based on 157 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean showers and restrooms, spacious sites, beautiful lake views, and helpful staff. The proximity to attractions like Pella and Knoxville is frequently appreciated.
Based on 157 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include standing water issues at campsites, unlevel gravel areas, inconvenience of trash dumpster locations, and electricity malfunctions. Some reviewers also noted issues with...
Based on 157 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood due to limited supply, choosing campsites with lake views, and visiting nearby attractions such as Pella's Dutch bakery.
Based on 157 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highly recommended, particularly during the tulip festival in Pella. Summer brings bugs and heat, while winter activities are limited.
Based on 157 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great flat space near Lake Red Rock. Water spigots in several places, and picnic tables and even garbage cans in the camp." - Sarah Howk "The sites are spacious and have great lake views." - Kathy D...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 68 is noted for its beautiful views but has complaints about fire pit location. Site 85 has issues with broken concrete. Sites in the Coal Ridge loop are frequently praised for their quietness...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible facilities are appreciated, but some users find the lack of ventilation in bathrooms problematic, and trails to the beach are too steep for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 157 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but enforcement of leash rules is inconsistent. Some campers found unrestrained dogs problematic.
Based on 157 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025