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Marion County Park
Overview
Marion County Park offers a peaceful and well-maintained retreat in the heart of Knoxville, Iowa. Managed by the county conservation board, this park provides a spacious, green environment that balances convenient city access with a quiet, natural setting. It is a popular choice for visitors attending events at the nearby racetrack or those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Des Moines River valley. The park's atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a reliable home base for both short stays and longer explorations of the region.
Location & Surroundings
Situated on the western edge of Knoxville, the park sits just minutes away from the world-famous Knoxville Raceway. Despite its proximity to the city's main attractions, the grounds are buffered by mature trees and rolling lawns, offering a sense of seclusion. Its location is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the rural charm of Iowa while remaining close to grocery stores, local dining, and essential services. The surrounding landscape features the gentle topography characteristic of southern Iowa, providing a serene backdrop for morning walks or evening relaxation.
Amenities & Park Features
The park is equipped with several amenities designed for comfortable RV living. Most sites offer electrical and water hookups, with both 30-amp and 50-amp service available to accommodate different rig sizes. While there are no on-site sewer connections at individual pedestals, a centrally located modern dump station is provided for guest use. Park facilities include:
- Modern restroom and shower facilities
- Spacious picnic shelters and grills
- Basketball courts and baseball diamonds
- Large playground for children
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Adventure is never far away when staying at Marion County Park. Racing fans will appreciate the short drive to the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum. Nature enthusiasts can head just a few miles north to Lake Red Rock, Iowa’s largest reservoir, which offers excellent boating, fishing, and hiking trails. The Volksweg Trail provides miles of paved paths for cyclists and runners. Additionally, the historic downtown area of Knoxville features unique shops and local eateries that showcase authentic Iowa hospitality and small-town charm.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is an excellent fit for racing enthusiasts who want a quiet place to retreat after a day at the track. It also appeals to families and retirees who prefer the simplicity and space of a county park over the crowded rows of a commercial resort. If you value a budget-friendly stay with plenty of room to stretch out, this location provides the perfect balance of utility and comfort. It is particularly well-suited for those traveling with pets or children who need open green spaces to burn off energy.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
{BLUT:UND:BODEN} “BLOOD-N-SOIL” [ALLIANCE]
{LoneVolfsson} Campground Review: Rolling into Marion County Park, a soul with roots in the wild and spirit in the ancient winds will feel right at home. The setting is classic Iowa—broad spaces dotted with sturdy trees, plenty of room for sunlight, ritual, and a quiet wander at dawn or dusk. Sites sprawl across the landscape, offering both reservations and first-come options, accommodating rigs big and small, as well as a fair number of tents for genuine earth-sleepers. Each spot boasts electric and water, some with full hookups and all the basics: fire ring, picnic table, and a good hit of prairie breeze. Shade is modest but sufficient for most; those who honor Sunna will find both shelter and open sky. For the heathen and the wayfarer, amenities include clean restrooms, a solid modern shower building (though a few reviews note some long-term wear), and a dump station. A friendly host holds camp—give ‘em a nod, glean the local wisdom if the ancestors nudge you that way. Families and solo nomads both find activity here—playgrounds, fishing in the small lake, old village displays for a brush with regional lore. During the Sprint Car Nationals, expect a crowd almost tribal in its noise and excitement, but in the off-week quiet, this park becomes a fine place for reflection and small rites. Downtown Knoxville is a short drive for supplies or a pint; in every direction, the hills and woods invite wandering. In the right season—April to October—you’ll have the run of the place for a fair price: $25–$30 a night, with discounts for elders and good folk who plan ahead. Marion County Park is a well-kept, good-spirited campground—heathen-friendly, hospitable to all wanderers, and offering space for both sunrise blessing and campfire tale. Not a place for wild feasts or rowdy revels, but a peaceful waypoint for the wandering kin
Bob Moore
Very nice camp. The site was level, easy to back into it. The showers are individual ones. Nice hot water. Very clean camp.
Bob Brullo
It was a great place to stay very clean. I booked a stay for next year already.
Linda Brooks
Do not reserve unless you know for sure you will be camping at this crappy park! If you need to cancel, you will not get all of your money back (not even close). We canceled 3-1/2 months before our scheduled camping date which the park had plenty of time to fill that site. Their cancellation notice on the website is not clear, therefore they manage to not give full refunds. Shortly after we booked, we were told by several people to never camp at this park because they put campers on the grass, put as many campers they can squeeze in and do not refund money if cancel. So wish we would have talked to these people before we booked and read the reviews.
Christine Briggs
Wow..these people are ridiculous..I canceled my reservation today and only get 30 back for refund as I paid 94..they are suckers for your money..i can see 20 but 64 dollars and you have 2 weeks..I canceled over a month ago. Who do I talk to about this ? My sister does alot of camping here but will no longer be after.