Where southern Iowa's rolling hills meet the shores of a 289-acre lake, Lake Wapello State Park Campground provides both forested and open sites with varying levels of lake access. The campground accommodates RVs up to 45 feet with full hookups and offers multiple camping options including drive-in, walk-in, and boat-in sites.
Several campsites sit close to the water, giving campers direct access to fishing and paddling opportunities. Molly L. found "spacious campground with clean facilities" during her visit, noting the abundance of wildlife visible from both water and trails. The lake supports populations of muskrat, beaver, swans, and geese, while bald eagles, deer, and various amphibians frequent the surrounding woodlands. Anglers report consistent fishing success, and the park maintains a swimming beach for summer visitors.
The Lakeshore Trail circles the entire lake, requiring 2-3 hours to complete for hikers who want the full loop experience. Kayaking provides another perspective on the lake's wildlife activity, particularly in the quieter coves and inlets. The campground operates from April through December, with reservations available for planning ahead.
Access roads can be rough depending on conditions, so campers may want to scout their route beforehand. For those exploring the broader region, campgrounds around Drakesville offer additional options within the area's lake country.
Description
Lake Wapello was named in honor of the famous Native American Chief Wapello and boasts outdoor opportunities for just about any outdoor enthusiast. The parks 1,150 acres could easily be called the "country club" of Iowa's state parks. The beautiful wooded hillsides, shaded picnic areas and lake provide a quiet elegance which makes Lake Wapello one of southern Iowa's best-kept secrets.
Several watershed erosion control structures were installed throughout the park. These improvements have made water quality fishing superb. Canoeing, kayaking, fishing and pleasure cruising are very enjoyable on this lake.
Concessions
Open Memorial Day weekend thru Labor Day weekend; Thursday thru Sunday and holidays, noon to 8 PM. Rentals include paddle boats, kayaks. stand-up boards and john boats with or without trolling motors. Items for sale include drinks, snacks, ice cream, fishing supplies, and many items for the campers and cabin renters, also children's beach toys/games. Questions can also be answered through the Friends of Lake Wapello Facebook page.
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 2 Alerts are In Effect
There are 2 alerts for this campground. Camp safely!
Modern restrooms at the beach and the campground shower house are closed. (Posted 10/15/25)
This campground is 100 percent reservable and accepts reservations April 1 - October 31 until 10:00 pm CST the day of arrival.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundLake Wapello State Park Campground is located in Iowa
Directions
Four miles north of Bloomfield or fifteen miles south of Ottumwa on Highway 63, take 180th street west, go six miles to the town of Drakesville, continue west on 180th five miles, 180th turns into Eagle Blvd. Go one mile on Eagle Blvd and the entrance to the park is on the left.
Address
15356 Campground Rd
Drakesville, IA 52552
Coordinates
40.81600044 N
92.589 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 44 min from Des Moines, IA
- 1 hr 46 min from Iowa City, IA
- 2 hrs 6 min from Ames, IA
- 2 hrs 7 min from Cedar Rapids, IA
