Three Fingers Campground

For Iowans seeking a truly welcoming and enjoyable camping experience, Three Fingers Campground in Forest City stands out as a hidden gem. This "wonderful little campground" has quickly become a favorite for many, lauded not just for its well-maintained sites and amenities, but primarily for the exceptional hospitality of its owners, Denise and Jon. In a state known for its friendly disposition and beautiful, open landscapes, finding a campground that fosters such a strong sense of community and personal care is a real treat for local residents.

The positive sentiment surrounding Three Fingers Campground is overwhelmingly clear in customer reviews. One grateful camper shared, "Wonderful little campgrounds. I had a great time. Everyone in the park was very friendly. Stayed in the little cabin and wouldn't mind having a little house set up like this back home. Lol! The owners, Denise and Jon, are doing a great job. Always hands on throughout the park. Will be coming back. Thank you for a great experience." Another repeat visitor enthusiastically added, "Awesome campgrounds!!! We Love spending our summers here. Owners, Denise & Jon, are always on top of things, & available when we need them. They always greet us with smiles, ask how we are doing, & ask us if there is anything we need." These testimonials paint a vivid picture of a place where genuine care and dedication to guest satisfaction are paramount.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging overview of Three Fingers Campground, detailing its convenient location in Forest City, the wide array of services and amenities it offers, and the unique features that make it such a beloved spot for both transient visitors and seasonal campers. We will also provide essential contact information and explain why this campground is perfectly suited for locals seeking a memorable and comfortable outdoor retreat in North Iowa. From its picturesque setting to its community-focused activities, Three Fingers Campground offers more than just a place to stay—it offers an experience.

The active involvement of owners Denise and Jon, who are "always on top of things" and "always greet us with smiles," creates an atmosphere where campers feel truly valued. This personal touch, combined with the continuous efforts to improve and maintain the park, makes Three Fingers Campground a standout choice for those looking for a reliable and enjoyable camping destination in Iowa.

Three Fingers Campground is conveniently located at 35604 135th Ave, Forest City, IA 50436, USA. This address places it in a serene, rural setting just outside the town limits of Forest City, in Winnebago County, North Central Iowa. The campground's location strikes an ideal balance between peaceful seclusion and accessible proximity to essential services and local attractions.

For Iowa locals, reaching Three Fingers Campground is straightforward. It is situated approximately 15 miles south of Interstate 90, a major east-west thoroughfare, making it easily accessible for those traveling from various parts of the state or from neighboring Minnesota. While being in a "very small farming community," the roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, and the "road is nice and wide," ensuring plenty of room for maneuvering RVs and trailers. The owners have also actively trimmed trees to enhance ease of access for larger rigs.

Despite its peaceful countryside setting, Three Fingers Campground benefits from its proximity to Forest City. This means campers are never far from necessary amenities. While not directly "in town" like some city parks, a short drive allows access to grocery stores, gas stations, and local dining options. One relevant note for accessibility is the presence of a restaurant across the street (Buckets Bar & Grill), offering a convenient dining option without having to drive far.

Furthermore, Forest City is home to the Winnebago Industries factory, a significant draw for many RV enthusiasts. Three Fingers Campground is an excellent base for visitors interested in touring the factory or seeking RV service, combining recreational appeal with practical convenience. The overall accessibility of Three Fingers Campground, blending a quiet rural environment with practical proximity to local services and attractions, makes it a highly desirable and easy-to-reach destination for Iowans.

Three Fingers Campground offers a comprehensive array of services designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and engaging camping experience for all guests, from short-term visitors to long-term seasonal campers. The owners, Denise and Jon, are noted for being "always on top of things" and ensuring these services are well-maintained.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground boasts 120 RV sites, all of which are full service with water, sewer, and electrical connections (including 50 amp service for transient campers). Most sites are waterfront or have water views, enhancing the scenic appeal. Sites are level and feature concrete pads, and they are generously sized (at least 40' x 120'), making them "big rig friendly" and "well suited for today's larger motor homes."

• Cabin Rental: A unique offering is the "beautiful restored cabin on a private peninsula." This one-bedroom cabin is fully restored with new furniture and is surrounded by a 20-acre pond, providing a comfortable and private retreat for those without an RV or tent.

• Modern Restrooms and Heated Showers: The campground features a nice shower house with "2 single stall rooms" and "heated showers," ensuring privacy and comfort for guests.

• Laundry Facilities: On-site laundry facilities are provided, a highly valued amenity for longer stays or for refreshing clothes after outdoor activities.

• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available 24 hours a day at their hotspot, located behind the office on a beautifully landscaped patio. This allows campers to stay connected.

• Enclosed Shelter House with Full Kitchen: A major convenience is the enclosed shelter house, available to campers free of charge. It features a full kitchen with a refrigerator, range-top stove, wall oven, and a huge BBQ grill, making it ideal for group gatherings and communal cooking.

• Recreational Equipment Rental: The campground offers complimentary kayaks and paddle boats for use, providing easy access to water activities on the pond during business hours.

• Fire Rings and Picnic Tables: All sites are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires and outdoor dining.

• Soft Water: The entire campground provides soft water, which is a pleasant amenity for showering and washing.

• Fax Service: A unique touch is the offer to send a fax for campers free of charge, demonstrating the owners' commitment to guest convenience.

These extensive services, combined with the owners' hands-on approach, contribute to Three Fingers Campground's reputation as one of the finest in Northern Iowa.

Three Fingers Campground boasts an impressive array of features and highlights that contribute to its charm and make it a highly desirable destination for campers seeking a welcoming and active community in Iowa.

• Exceptional Owner Hospitality: Repeatedly emphasized by visitors, the owners, Denise and Jon, are the campground's shining stars. They are described as "friendly," "helpful," "always on top of things," and consistently greeting campers with "smiles." Their hands-on approach and genuine care create an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel like family and fostering strong loyalty.

• Waterfront or Water View Sites: A significant majority of the 120 RV sites are either directly on the waterfront or offer beautiful views of the 20-acre pond. This provides a picturesque setting and easy access to water-based activities directly from many campsites.

• Private Peninsula Cabin: The availability of a "beautiful restored cabin on a private peninsula" surrounded by the pond is a unique highlight, offering a secluded and comfortable lodging option for those who prefer not to tent or RV camp. Its cozy design has even inspired campers to wish for a similar "little house back home."

• Abundant Recreational Activities: The campground offers a wide range of activities for all ages. This includes a "huge playground for kids," a basketball court, a volleyball court, and a dog park. The complimentary use of kayaks and paddle boats on the pond further enhances recreational opportunities. They even have a chicken coop for campers to enjoy, featuring turkeys, chickens, and ducks!

• Community Garden: Seasonal campers can enjoy the use of a community garden, fostering a sense of shared activity and allowing them to grow their favorite plants during their stay.

• Organized Activities and Events: Three Fingers Campground stands out for its active activities committee, which plans numerous events for campers. These include campground breakfasts during holiday weekends, food trucks, Friday night B-I-N-G-O, BBQ Cook-offs, potlucks, adult wine/beer walks, fishing contests, kayak races, movie nights for kids, and water kickball competitions. This robust activity schedule creates a lively and engaging community environment.

• Scenic Sunsets and Sunrises: The location provides picturesque views, with "some of the most picturesque sunsets and sunrises are viewable at Three Fingers Campground," adding to the aesthetic appeal of a stay.

• Commitment to Improvement: The current owners, who purchased the campground in Spring 2022 after it had been in the same family for decades, are dedicated to continuous improvement. Their focus on landscaping (planting over 1400 trees and shrubs as of 2025), building improvements (like a dog park and community fire pit), and enhancing activities demonstrates a long-term vision for the campground's quality.

These features collectively make Three Fingers Campground a highly attractive and dynamic destination for campers seeking an exceptional experience in Iowa.

For reservations, inquiries, or any further information about Three Fingers Campground in Forest City, Iowa, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 35604 135th Ave, Forest City, IA 50436, USA

Phone: (507) 304-0829

Mobile Phone: +1 507-304-0829

Additional Contact Info (from public data):

Another phone number sometimes listed: (641) 590-6653

Email: rochestermn@koa.com (Please note: This email was found on a KOA-related search result, which might be an error or outdated. It's best to verify directly with the campground or through their official website if available.)

Website: http://threefingerscampground.com/ (Recommended for most accurate and up-to-date information, including online booking)

Office Hours:

• Monday - Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Sunday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Seasonally Open: April 15th - October 15th.

Given their popularity, especially during July and August and holiday weekends, it is highly recommended to call ahead and make a reservation. The owners are noted for being very accommodating, so reaching out directly for any specific needs or arrangements is always the best approach.

Three Fingers Campground is exceptionally suitable for Iowa locals, offering a blend of authentic community, comprehensive amenities, and a personal touch that makes it a highly desirable destination within the state. Its unique strengths cater directly to what many Iowans look for in a memorable camping experience.

Firstly, the unparalleled hospitality of owners Denise and Jon creates an immediate sense of belonging. Review after review praises their friendly, hands-on approach and genuine care for their campers. For Iowans, who often value strong community ties and warm interactions, this makes Three Fingers Campground feel less like a temporary stop and more like a cherished second home or an extension of their local community. The fact that they are "always on top of things" and readily available ensures a smooth and enjoyable stay, building trust and encouraging repeat visits.

Secondly, the wide array of amenities and engaging activities provided are perfect for local families and groups. From the "huge playground for kids" to the complimentary kayaks and paddle boats, and the highly praised organized events like Bingo, BBQ cook-offs, and movie nights, there's always something to do. This extensive recreational offering, often lacking in more basic campgrounds, means that locals can enjoy a full vacation experience without having to leave the park, fostering deeper connections and creating lasting memories. The ability to reserve seasonal sites also allows Iowans to establish a regular summer retreat, strengthening their ties to the campground and its community.

Moreover, the campground's location, while offering a peaceful rural escape, remains conveniently accessible from various parts of Iowa. This balance means locals don't have to embark on arduous journeys for a relaxing getaway, and they still have easy access to necessary services in nearby Forest City. The scenic waterfront sites and views of the 20-acre pond provide a beautiful backdrop, appealing to Iowans who appreciate the natural beauty of their state's landscapes.

In essence, Three Fingers Campground is more than just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant, welcoming community built on exceptional hospitality and a commitment to providing a fun and relaxing environment. For Iowa locals seeking a friendly, amenity-rich, and community-focused camping destination, Three Fingers Campground truly hits all the right notes, making it a standout choice for their outdoor adventures.

Three Fingers Campground

35604 135th Ave, Forest City, IA 50436, USA