Lewis And Clark State Park
00 review21914 Park Loop, Onawa, Iowa, 51040, United States
Lewis And Clark State Park
$25.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 from $25 to $35 depending on site types and amenities. Additional fees may apply for lodge reservations.
About this campground
Where history meets modern comfort along the tranquil shores of Blue Lake, Lewis and Clark State Park invites you to camp in the footsteps of America's most famous explorers. Wake to misty mornings over the water, enjoy hot showers after a day of adventure, and gather around evening campfires knowing that Meriwether Lewis and William Clark once gazed upon these same Missouri River landscapes. The park's well-maintained facilities include clean restrooms, convenient dump stations, and all the amenities today's adventurers need while staying connected to the wilderness that shaped our nation's story.
The Lewis and Clark State Park campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including RV camping with full hookups, tent camping, and group events. The lakeshore setting is a key attraction.
Historical SignificanceStep back to 1804 when the Corps of Discovery navigated these waters on their legendary journey west. Today, a magnificent full-size replica keelboat stands as a testament to their courage and determination, allowing visitors to marvel at the craftsmanship and imagine the challenges faced by the expedition. Interpretive displays and authentic historical boat replicas transform your camping experience into a living history lesson, where children and adults alike can touch the past and understand the magnitude of Lewis and Clark's achievement.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the park's dramatic seasonal personality throughout the year. Summer brings warm, languid days with temperatures climbing to the mid-80s, creating perfect conditions for lakeside relaxation despite occasional humid spells. As autumn arrives, the air grows crisp and clear, painting the landscape in golden hues. Winter transforms the park into a peaceful retreat where temperatures dip into the 30s, offering solitude seekers pristine, frost-kissed mornings and star-filled nights around warming campfires.
ElevationThe park rests at the gentle elevations of the Missouri River valley, where the landscape rolls softly between water and prairie, creating comfortable camping conditions year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryBlue Lake's serene oxbow waters tell the ancient story of the Missouri River's ever-changing course, creating a haven for diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty. Towering cottonwoods and willows provide dappled shade along the shoreline, while native shrubs burst with seasonal colors. Early risers are rewarded with deer grazing in meadows, playful rabbits darting through underbrush, and curious squirrels chattering overhead. Bird enthusiasts will discover a symphony of species, from majestic herons fishing in the shallows to colorful songbirds filling the air with melody.
Geological RegionCarved by millennia of the Missouri River's restless wanderings, Blue Lake showcases nature's patient artistry as a peaceful oxbow lake cut off from the main channel. This geological wonder provides a unique window into the river's dynamic history, where ancient meanders became today's tranquil camping paradise. The surrounding landscape bears witness to countless floods and course changes that shaped the very ground where Lewis and Clark made their historic passage, creating rich bottomlands and diverse ecosystems that continue to evolve with each passing season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park provides handicap access and modern restrooms. However, no specific user reviews address the quality or usability of these accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are well-spaced, and some are located along Blue Lake, providing scenic views.
Sites PrivacyThe campground has well-spaced sites. One user commented, 'Sites are well spaced out.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoosing lakeside sites is advised for better views and proximity to the water.
Best CampsitesSites along Blue Lake are praised for their views and proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No explicit limits mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is not specified.
Groups
No specific details about group site capacity or vehicle limits are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground lies along the lakeshore but specific details about site numbering or looping are absent.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through the Iowa DNR website.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is mentioned in reviews but not detailed in terms of site numbers or patterns.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy is not explicitly described, but one review notes difficulty changing reserved sites.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Lewis and Clark State Park have access to a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and wildlife observation. The park also hosts historical and cultural programs, with a full-size reproduction of Lewis and Clark's keelboat for visitors to explore.
Hiking
Trails in the park are suitable for leisurely hikes, where visitors can observe a variety of trees, shrubs, and wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Birdwatching is also a popular activity.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Blue Lake, which is noted for its recreational appeal. However, no details are provided about the types of fish available.Swimming
Swimming is available at the park's beach, which features soft sand. One review describes the beaches as 'nice and well cared for.'Boating
Boating is a popular activity on the 250-acre Blue Lake. The park has a double boat ramp, and there are no restrictions on motor size.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation opportunities include deer, rabbits, squirrels, and various bird species. Canada geese are frequently mentioned in reviews.Beach activities
The beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. However, some reviews note that the beach's condition depends on lake levels, with one user stating, 'Beach was grown up due to low lake levels.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The park features interpretive displays about the Lewis and Clark Expedition and a full-sized reproduction of their keelboat. Visitors can also view replicas of other boats used during the expedition.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are likely feasible on the lake, but no explicit details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire grills are available at picnic grounds. Specific campfire rules are not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos are frequently mentioned in user reviews as a nuisance. Low lake levels and overgrown grass during drought were also cited as issues.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Nearest emergency services include a hospital and medical clinic within 10 miles of the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available within the facility, but no detailed information on recycling facilities or pickup schedules is provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Blue Lake, with access to a beach and double boat ramp.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations, overgrown grass, low lake levels, and poor site maintenance were reported in user reviews. Difficulty in changing reserved sites and lack of host presence were also noted.
HostCampground hosts Gary and Pat are positively mentioned in reviews for their helpfulness and maintenance efforts.
Campground Map
21914 Park Loop, Onawa, Iowa, 51040, United States
Driving directionsOn I-29 take the 112th exit for Onawa, Iowa and turn west on Highway 175. Approximately 3 miles west, turn right on Park Loop and you will see signage for Lewis and Clark State Park.
The park is accessible via paved roads, specifically from Interstate 29 and Highway 175. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Onawa (5 miles east), Blencoe (5 miles east and 7 miles south), Turin (12 miles east), Sioux City (41 miles north), Council Bluffs (65 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel for vehicles and boats, and camping supplies are available within 10 miles of the park.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lewis And Clark State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users have mixed experiences at Lewis and Clark State Park. Positive themes include its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and recreational opportunities. However, some users criticize maintenance issues and mosquito prevalence.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently highlight the park's quiet and clean environment, the scenic setting along Blue Lake, and the variety of recreational opportunities. One user remarked, 'Nice campground, very...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor maintenance, uncut grass, and high mosquito levels. One reviewer noted, 'Not well maintained. Long grass needed mowing, LOTS of mosquitoes!'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend enjoying the park's amenities, such as the beach and boating facilities, but suggest bringing mosquito repellent due to the high prevalence of mosquitoes.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer can be challenging due to mosquitoes and maintenance issues, while spring and fall are praised for their quieter atmosphere and comfortable weather conditions.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great campground and visitors center has Great Lewis and Clark boat display.' - William Whaley
2. 'Showers are hot, toilets are clean, and makes a camping trip for the family comfortable.' - Kate...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Sites along Blue Lake are praised for their views and frequent sightings of Canada geese. One user commented, 'Some sites are along Blue Lake with lots of Canada geese coming and going.'
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility-related reviews are provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pets or pet-friendly features are available.
Last updated August 10, 2025