Tucked around the cornfields and farmlands of Iowa are many acres of forests and wetlands to explore. Tent campers and RV travelers alike will delight in all the natural wonders of this Midwestern state. The addition of a few key accessories can help make your next camping trip in Iowa more fun and more comfortable.
Cool Down in the Heat
The summertime temperatures in the 80s and above, paired with high humidity, make Iowa a hot, sticky state. RV travelers who are particularly sensitive to the heat can retreat to their air-conditioned cabins for a cool down. With an indoor-outdoor fan, you can create a cool breeze wherever you are sitting. (See References 2) On days when the heat is stifling, use a camping shower to wash away the sweat and feel refreshed. (See References 4)
Keep the Bugs Away
According to the Iowa State University Department of Entomology, mosquitoes, biting flies and ticks are a few of the annoying insects that inhabit the Iowa wilderness. (See References 3) In areas where bugs make it difficult to dine or sit outside, set up a screen-in porch or tent. Sensitive campers can wear a mesh covering, shaped like a hoodie, to protect their arms without adding a heavy extra layer. (See References 5) Care Plus even makes a treated sock that repels biting insects for up to 50 washes. (See References 4)
Humidity
In addition to its discomfort, the high humidity of Iowa can prevent the quick drying of towels, wet clothes and swim gear. Keep clothes from mildewing by hanging up a clothes line. Either secure in the trees, or opt for one that sticks with suction cups to the outside of the camper. (See References 4)
Travel towels are made of a synthetic material to be light and dry quickly, making them a camper's best friend. Similarly, travel shirts dry quickly and breathe well in the humid air. (See References 4)
Rain Gear
Springtime visitors to Iowa need to pack rain gear to stay dry during the wet season. Hikers can get ponchos to cover their bodies and backpacks. Eagle's Nest makes an ingenious rain fly, which keeps you dry whether you are resting in its hammock or cooking underneath. The special paper of an all-weather journal protects your notes when wet.
At night, an LED lantern illuminates the campsite in any weather. (See References 5)
Fishing
With Iowa's many blue-ribbon rivers and lakes, campers heading to the woods will want to bring along their poles and tackle boxes. You will find popular fishing spots in lakes, ponds and the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. According to the Department of Natural Resources, there are almost 150 species of fish in Iowa. Channel catfish and bullheads are the most popular species of sport fish. Choose your bait based on what and where you will be fishing. (See References 1) A utility tool comes in very handy for removing hooks and scaling fish and folds up small. (See References 4)
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