Otho is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Otho is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Discover great camping spots near Otho, reviewed by campers like you.
Millions of years before the plains of Iowa were inhabited by the Sauk, Fox and Sioux peoples, much of the American Midwest was covered by a shallow inland sea. It was at this time that the area’s sandstone deposits began forming. Fast-forward to just 13,000 years ago, with the inland sea now long gone, Ice Age glacial meltwater raced across the dry plains, carving and scouring channels and canyons into the sandstone terrain. One of these canyons can be found in Iowa’s Ledges State Park. This 1,000-acre nature preserve and recreation area is located on a wide bend on the Des Moines River, and is just 40 miles north of the city of Des Moines. The park is subject to frequent flooding when the river breaches its banks, but is otherwise a popular year-round outdoor recreation destination. Visitors to Ledges can enjoy a variety of hiking, fishing and paddling opportunities, as well as explore a prehistoric river canyon that showcases nature’s ability to sculpt the landscape.
The campground at Ledges State Park features 94 tent and RV sites situated among deciduous woods not far from the Des Moines River. Campers can choose from full-hookup, partial-hookup, or primitive tent sites. Most sites are back-in; only a few are pull-through for larger vehicles. Tent sites are located in both in the main camp area, and in a secluded walk-in area. There is also a youth group site. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and cooking grills, and all have access to water faucets, flush restrooms, showers, and trash receptacles; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. The campground also features a kids’ playground, outdoor amphitheater, and is within walking distance of trails and picnic areas. Some roads and/or facilities may not be open or available in the winter. Reservations are accepted, however the park saves about half of the sites for first-come, first-served campers; sites are $11–$19/night.
$12 - $18 / night
$20 / night
The largest and most popular area managed by the Webster County Conservation Board is John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. Construction of Kennedy Park began in 1962 and the park was officially dedicated in 1965. This park is a 400 acre multiple use recreation area. The 53-acre Badger Lake provides the focal point for a wide variety of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, picnicking, hiking, canoeing and boating (no gas motors) as well as an the 18 hole Lakeside Municipal Golf Course.
$20 - $100 / night
Welcome to Jester County Park, a gem for campers looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. This place has got it all, from hot showers to electric hookups, making it a comfortable spot for both tent and RV campers. You can even bring your pets along, and yes, you can enjoy a cold beer by the campfire since alcohol is allowed.
The park is packed with activities to keep everyone entertained. There are hiking trails, a large playground for the kids, and even an equestrian center if you're into horseback riding. For those who love a bit of sport, there's a golf course and an archery range. In the winter, you can try your hand at snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. And if you're into wildlife, the nature center with bison and elk is a must-see.
Located near Granger, IA, Jester County Park is just a short drive from the city of Ankeny, making it convenient for a quick getaway. The campground itself is nestled on the north end of Saylorville Reservoir, offering some beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Some sites are shaded by numerous trees, providing a cool retreat during the hot summer months.
Visitors have praised the park for its clean facilities and friendly atmosphere. The sites are spacious, with picnic tables and fire rings, and there's even a market on-site for any last-minute supplies. Whether you're here for a weekend or a couple of weeks, Jester County Park offers a fantastic camping experience with plenty to see and do.
$20 - $25 / night
Millions of years before the plains of Iowa were inhabited by the Sauk, Fox and Sioux peoples, much of the American Midwest was covered by a shallow inland sea. It was at this time that the area’s sandstone deposits began forming. Fast-forward to just 13,000 years ago, with the inland sea now long gone, Ice Age glacial meltwater raced across the dry plains, carving and scouring channels and canyons into the sandstone terrain. One of these canyons can be found in Iowa’s Ledges State Park. This 1,000-acre nature preserve and recreation area is located on a wide bend on the Des Moines River, and is just 40 miles north of the city of Des Moines. The park is subject to frequent flooding when the river breaches its banks, but is otherwise a popular year-round outdoor recreation destination. Visitors to Ledges can enjoy a variety of hiking, fishing and paddling opportunities, as well as explore a prehistoric river canyon that showcases nature’s ability to sculpt the landscape.
The campground at Ledges State Park features 94 tent and RV sites situated among deciduous woods not far from the Des Moines River. Campers can choose from full-hookup, partial-hookup, or primitive tent sites. Most sites are back-in; only a few are pull-through for larger vehicles. Tent sites are located in both in the main camp area, and in a secluded walk-in area. There is also a youth group site. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits and cooking grills, and all have access to water faucets, flush restrooms, showers, and trash receptacles; a dump station is located near the campground entrance. The campground also features a kids’ playground, outdoor amphitheater, and is within walking distance of trails and picnic areas. Some roads and/or facilities may not be open or available in the winter. Reservations are accepted, however the park saves about half of the sites for first-come, first-served campers; sites are $11–$19/night.
$12 - $18 / night
The largest and most popular area managed by the Webster County Conservation Board is John F. Kennedy Memorial Park. Construction of Kennedy Park began in 1962 and the park was officially dedicated in 1965. This park is a 400 acre multiple use recreation area. The 53-acre Badger Lake provides the focal point for a wide variety of outdoor activities including camping, fishing, picnicking, hiking, canoeing and boating (no gas motors) as well as an the 18 hole Lakeside Municipal Golf Course.
$20 - $100 / night
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Otho, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Otho, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 70 campgrounds and RV parks near Otho, IA and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Otho, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Otho, IA is Ledges State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 39 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Otho, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Otho, IA.
What parks are near Otho, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Otho, IA that allow camping, notably Saylorville Lake and Lake Red Rock.
