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Camp SpotterCamping Near MeIowaDickinson CountySpirit LakeCamping in U.S. 71Cenla Campgrounds
Cenla Campgrounds ico

Cenla Campgrounds

3200 US-71, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, USA

4.0
We wanted to just check out the area for one night they put together two sites so we could do so! People are great.Campground has lots to offer. Nice little store,and if they don’t have what you need a short walk to kwik Trip and you have it all!! Staff was very nice and super informative! We are so glad we stopped here and will be back! They don’t have a lot of overnight or weekender sites so call way ahead! trust me very worth it!!! Rick and lyn - Rick Koller
Cenla Campgrounds Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Cenla Campgrounds Introduce

For Iowans seeking an exceptional camping experience in the heart of the beloved Iowa Great Lakes region, Cenla Campgrounds in Spirit Lake stands out as a top-tier choice. This well-established campground offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, extensive amenities, and a truly welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and returning visitors. Whether you're planning a weekend escape with your RV, a family tent adventure, or a seasonal stay, Cenla Campgrounds provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring all that the Spirit Lake area has to offer.

The positive feedback from real customers vividly paints a picture of what makes Cenla Campgrounds so special. One couple, Rick and Lyn, praised the flexibility of the staff, noting, "We wanted to just check out the area for one night they put together two sites so we could do so! People are great." This willingness to accommodate speaks volumes about the commitment to guest satisfaction. They further highlighted the campground's offerings, stating, "Campground has lots to offer. Nice little store, and if they don’t have what you need a short walk to Kwik Trip and you have it all!!" Such convenience is a significant plus for any camper. Their enthusiasm was clear: "We are so glad we stopped here and will be back! They don’t have a lot of overnight or weekender sites so call way ahead! trust me very worth it!!!" This strong recommendation underscores the value and enjoyment found at Cenla.

Another review emphasized the physical attributes of the park, noting "Lots of shade trees! Nicely planned lots, plus ample parking, nice bathrooms with VERY clean showers, nice play area for children." These details highlight the thoughtful design and meticulous upkeep of the grounds. The presence of ample shade is a highly sought-after feature, especially during warmer Iowa summers, providing a comfortable environment for relaxation. The emphasis on "VERY clean showers" is a testament to the high standards of cleanliness maintained throughout the facilities, a critical aspect for any campground.

From the friendly and informative staff to the well-planned layout and diverse amenities, Cenla Campgrounds consistently delivers a quality camping experience. Its reputation as a place where visitors are eager to return, often booking well in advance, firmly establishes it as a premier destination in the Iowa Great Lakes. For Iowans searching for a reliable, enjoyable, and well-equipped campground, Cenla Campgrounds offers everything needed for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Cenla Campgrounds is ideally situated at 3200 US-71, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, USA. This prime location places it directly within the heart of the renowned Iowa Great Lakes region, a major recreational hub in Northwest Iowa. Being located on US-71, a main thoroughfare, ensures excellent accessibility for campers traveling from various parts of Iowa and beyond.

The campground’s address in Spirit Lake means it is nestled among some of Iowa's most popular lakes, including West Okoboji Lake, East Okoboji Lake, and Center Lake, which it overlooks. This provides immediate access to a wealth of water-based activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and various water sports. For Iowans, this means that a premier lakeside getaway is just a convenient drive away, whether coming from larger cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, or Omaha, or from closer communities within the region.

One of the particularly appealing aspects of its location, as highlighted by a customer, is its proximity to essential conveniences. A "short walk to Kwik Trip" means campers have easy access to groceries, fuel, and other supplies without needing to drive. This proximity to local businesses enhances the convenience factor, allowing campers to focus more on relaxation and recreation. Furthermore, the campground's setting within Spirit Lake offers quick access to local dining, entertainment, shopping, and other attractions that define the vibrant Okoboji area. This blend of natural beauty and urban convenience makes Cenla Campgrounds an exceptionally practical and desirable location for a vacation or weekend trip for locals.

Services Offered

  • Full Hookup RV Sites: Offers numerous RV sites with 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections. Many sites are pull-through, accommodating RVs up to 75 feet, and some are lakeside.
  • Tent Sites: Dedicated areas for tent camping, providing options for traditional outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Seasonal Operation: Open seasonally from April 15th to October 15th, aligning with Iowa's prime camping weather.
  • On-site Store: A "nice little store" providing convenient access to camping essentials, snacks, and other necessities.
  • Modern Restrooms and Showers: Features "nice bathrooms with VERY clean showers," which are well-maintained for guest comfort.
  • Swimming Pool: A refreshing swimming pool is available on-site, perfect for cooling off on warm days.
  • Recreation Room: Includes a recreation room, possibly with video games or other entertainment options.
  • Laundry Facilities: Convenient on-site laundry services are available for campers.
  • RV Dump Site: Provides a designated area for RV waste disposal.
  • Dock Access: Features a dock, likely offering access to Center Lake for fishing or light watercraft.
  • TV Hookups: Cable TV hookups are available at many sites, enhancing entertainment options.
  • Free WiFi: While connectivity may vary, free Wi-Fi is offered at the sites.
  • Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each site typically includes a picnic table and fire ring for outdoor dining and campfires.
  • Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed, though campers should inquire about specific restrictions or fees.
  • Reservations Accepted: Given its popularity, reservations are accepted and highly recommended, especially for overnight or weekender sites.

Features / Highlights

  • Spacious and Nicely Planned Lots: Customers praise the "nicely planned lots" and the ample space provided, ensuring privacy and comfort.
  • Abundant Shade Trees: Features "lots of shade trees," a significant advantage for comfort during sunny Iowa days and offering a pleasant ambiance.
  • Exceptional Cleanliness: Consistently highlighted in reviews for "VERY clean showers" and overall well-maintained facilities.
  • Friendly and Informative Staff: Praised for being "very nice and super informative," with a willingness to accommodate guest needs.
  • Convenient On-site Store: A "nice little store" adds to the convenience, supplementing needs that can't be met via a "short walk to Kwik Trip."
  • Proximity to Kwik Trip: Easy walking access to Kwik Trip for additional supplies, food, and essentials, making stays hassle-free.
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: Includes a "nice play area for children" and a swimming pool, making it ideal for families.
  • Overlooks Center Lake: Offers scenic views and direct access to Center Lake for various water activities.
  • Prime Iowa Great Lakes Location: Situated in a highly sought-after recreational area, providing easy access to all the attractions of Spirit Lake and Okoboji.
  • High Demand for Overnight/Weekender Sites: Customers advise calling "way ahead" due to limited availability for shorter stays, indicating its popularity and desirability.
  • Good Sam Rating: Holds high Good Sam ratings for facilities, restrooms, and appearance, reflecting its quality.

Contact Information

Address: 3200 US-71, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, USA

Phone: (712) 336-2925

Mobile Phone: +1 712-336-2925

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Cenla Campgrounds in Spirit Lake is an exceptionally suitable destination for Iowa locals seeking a high-quality, convenient, and amenity-rich camping experience. Its prime location on US-71 in the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes region means that a memorable escape into nature is always within easy reach, minimizing travel time and maximizing vacation enjoyment for residents across the state.

For Iowans, the compelling blend of comfort and convenience that Cenla offers is a major draw. The "nicely planned lots" with "lots of shade trees" create a pleasant and relaxing environment, a welcome respite during the warmer months. The consistently praised "VERY clean showers" and well-maintained facilities ensure that even while roughing it, campers can enjoy a high standard of hygiene and comfort, making it a great option for families and those new to camping. The ease of access to a "nice little store" on-site, complemented by a "short walk to Kwik Trip," means that any forgotten item or sudden craving is quickly satisfied, adding a layer of convenience that significantly enhances the camping experience.

Furthermore, the diverse range of services and features, from full hookup RV sites to tent camping and a swimming pool, caters to a wide array of preferences, making it an ideal choice for various groups. Families will particularly appreciate the "nice play area for children," ensuring younger campers are well-entertained. The fact that the campground overlooks Center Lake and offers dock access means water activities are readily available, a major plus for those who love fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the lakeside views.

The glowing customer reviews, highlighting the "great people," "super informative staff," and the strong desire for return visits ("will be back!"), reinforce Cenla Campgrounds' reputation as a trustworthy and enjoyable local business. The advice to "call way ahead" for overnight sites speaks to its immense popularity among locals, signifying that those who know, go. For any Iowan looking for an unforgettable camping adventure that combines natural beauty with top-notch amenities and exceptional service, Cenla Campgrounds in Spirit Lake is undoubtedly a premier choice, promising a vacation that is truly "very worth it."

Cenla Campgrounds Photos

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Cenla Campgrounds Location

Cenla Campgrounds

3200 US-71, Spirit Lake, IA 51360, USA

Cenla Campgrounds Reviews

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