Stone State Park
00 review5001 Talbot Road, Sioux City, Iowa, 51103, United States
Stone State Park
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Tent-only sites cost $12 per night as confirmed by user reviews. This is described as a low fee compared to alternatives such as parking lots or hotels.
About this campground
Nestled in Iowa's dramatic Loess Hills, Stone State Park beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. Whether you're seeking a rustic retreat in one of the cozy camping cabins or pitching your tent beneath towering trees, you'll find modern amenities seamlessly woven into the natural landscape. Well-appointed restrooms and refreshing hot showers ensure comfort after a day of exploration, while scattered picnic areas invite you to dine al fresco among the whispering pines and ancient oaks.
Stone State Park offers a variety of camping options including RV and tent sites, as well as cabins. Primitive camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceYour journey through Stone State Park places you directly on the legendary Loess Hills National Scenic Byway, a route that tells the story of Iowa's most remarkable geological treasure. These ancient hills, formed by windblown silt deposits over thousands of years, hold secrets of prehistoric times and represent one of only two such formations in the entire world—the other being in China. This designation as a National Scenic Byway underscores the park's role as both a natural wonder and a cultural landmark.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Stone State Park in its own distinctive palette. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, though occasional afternoon showers can sweep through, bringing out the earthy scent of the forest—and yes, a few extra mosquitoes. As autumn arrives, the canopy explodes into fiery colors, while winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge, creating perfect conditions for those who love the stark beauty of frost-covered hills and the satisfying crunch of snow beneath their boots.
ElevationThe park's rolling terrain creates an ever-changing landscape of peaks and valleys, offering hikers varying levels of challenge and photographers endless opportunities for that perfect vista shot.
Natural Features and SceneryLose yourself in a verdant wonderland where ancient trees arch overhead, creating natural cathedral ceilings along winding roads that reveal new wonders at every turn. The dense woodland canopy filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor, while breaks in the trees frame breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Loess Hills. This unique ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife—from deer stepping quietly through morning mist to hawks circling high above the distinctive geological formations that make this landscape unlike anywhere else in North America.
Geological RegionStone State Park sits within the crown jewel of western Iowa's natural heritage—the magnificent Loess Hills. Stretching approximately 200 miles along Iowa's western border, these hills represent one of the planet's most remarkable geological phenomena. The rugged, almost mountain-like terrain seems to belong to another world entirely, carved by ancient winds into dramatic ridges and deep valleys. This rare landscape supports a unique ecosystem where prairie meets forest, creating a biodiversity hotspot that draws nature enthusiasts, scientists, and adventure seekers from around the globe.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is handicap accessible, as noted in the authoritative source.
Sites SizeSites are described as small, with reviews noting, 'Most sites are really really small' (Margot Robison) and 'Camp sites are tight to back into but doable' (Jeri McDaniel).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to the proximity of campsites. Multiple reviewers, such as Amanda Reinhart and Jeannie Pratt, noted that sites are too close together, making it easy to hear neighbors' conversations.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites during weekdays for privacy; tent sites are better suited for small groups or single tents.
Best CampsitesSite #19 is identified as the most decent option by user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
2-night minimum for tent camping as stated in user reviews.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sites are generally small, and user reviews note tents and small trailers as the main accommodation type.
Groups
The youth group campsite is available for chaperoned organized youth groups. Specific details on the capacity are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are small and close together; some only accommodate tents on gravel or a parked car.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are recommended as there are limited sites.
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.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Stone State Park offers a wide range of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park features more than 15 miles of trails and areas for fishing in the Big Sioux River and Turtle Lake. Interpretive trails and a nature center enrich the visitor experience.
Hiking
The park features over 15 miles of trails, including the self-guided Carolyn Benne Nature Trail with interpretive signs. Greg S mentioned, 'This is a very scenic place to camp and hike,' while Katy Themm described the trails as 'beautiful and wind their way through the park, connecting different areas.' Trails cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.Fishing
Fishing is supported, with the Big Sioux River offering opportunities for catfishing and Turtle Lake providing options for panfishing. Katy Themm highlighted, 'Turtle Lake is gorgeous and has fish if you like fishing.'Biking
The park offers mountain biking on 6 miles of dirt trails and a 17-mile loop for road bicyclists. Bicyclists can explore a network of trails in the area.Boating
Boating activities such as canoeing and paddle boating are available in the park. Amanda Kay Swan mentioned these activities as part of the park’s attractions.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the park. Katy Themm noted the presence of 'turtles, geese, deer, frogs, and lots of bird species.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center offers educational displays on the Loess Hills’ cultural and natural resources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and paddle boating are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits with grates are provided.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is common along trails, and bugs are problematic after rain.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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, the nearest hospital is available in Sioux City.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available. Specific recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresTurtle Lake is a notable water feature with fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSites are small and close together; bathrooms and showers are often dirty, with mold reported in showers.
HostNo campground host available.
Campground Map
5001 Talbot Road, Sioux City, Iowa, 51103, United States
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 29, take exit 151, which is Hwy. 12 north. Go north on Hwy. 12 approximately 4 miles to the park entrance.
Access to the park is relatively easy via paved roads from Interstate 29 and Highway 12. The winding roads within the park offer scenic views, but some may find it challenging when driving larger RVs due to tight turns as described in user reviews.Nearby places
Sioux City is located within approximately 10 miles
other nearby cities are unlisted.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as firewood, snacks, drinks, and fuel are available within 10 miles of the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Stone State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the picturesque setting, abundant trails, and wildlife but often criticize the small size of campsites and cleanliness of facilities. Greg S described the park as 'very scenic,' while Amanda Reinhart mentioned the 'very small campground' and issues with bathroom cleanliness.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Beautiful scenery, abundant trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and affordable camping options.
Common Concerns
Small and crowded campsites, inconsistent cleanliness of bathrooms and showers, and lack of a dump station for RVs.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood and soap/hand sanitizer. Avoid weekends for a quieter experience. Site #19 was specifically noted as decent among generally small sites.
Seasonal Insights
Weekday visits are recommended for a quieter experience due to the close proximity of campsites. Summer months may have higher bug activity, especially after rain.
Camper Quotes
1. 'If you're just good people who would rather tent camp than hotel camp, this is the best place I've seen from eastern Washington to here.' - Carry Phillips
2. 'The trails are beautiful and wind...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #19 is noted as decent. Most other sites are described as small and cramped.
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews addressing accessibility were provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific user reviews addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features were provided.
Last updated August 10, 2025