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Top Free Dispersed Camping near Washington, IA

2 Reviews

Want to go dispersed camping near Washington? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Washington's most popular destinations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Washington, IA (2)

    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area

    1. Eldon Wildlife Management Area

    2 Reviews
    •10 Photos•
    3 Saves
      Camper-submitted photo from Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest
      Camper-submitted photo from Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest

      2. Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest

      1 Review
      •5 Photos•
      17 Saves

      The White Oak Campground located in the Donnellson Unit is not available for reservations. All camping is on a first-come, first-serve basis. (11 sites or less) and nonmodern.

      Shimek State Forest is located in Lee and Van Buren Counties in southeast Iowa near the town of Farmington. Although the forest's original and most important function is to serve as an example of forest management for Iowas citizens, recreational opportunities abound in the forest. Visitors come from a wide area to hunt, fish, hike, ride the equestrian trails, mountain bike, camp, picnic, study nature and enjoy the outdoors. Visitors can expect to find oak-hickory forests and bottomland hardwood timber forests but will also find several areas where native prairie plants can be found and about 1,000 acres which have been planted to conifers. In this extremely varied habitat wildlife is abundant. Bring your camera or spotting scope! The forest is managed by the Iowa DNR Forestry Bureau and is comprised of five separate units with a total of 9,148 acres. The forest headquarters is located about one mile northeast of Farmington on county road J56. The four lakes in the Farmington and Donnellson Units are stocked with bass, channel catfish and panfish. There are no designated swimming areas. The entire forest is open to hiking and hunting (except in the camping areas).

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Washington

    2 Reviews of 2 Washington Campgrounds

    • K
      Camper-submitted photo from brinton timbers park
      May. 31, 2024

      brinton timbers park

      Great park no showers though

      I stayed at the main site that google maps took me to. Three spots but the park is big there might be more sites around it. It is near skunk river I only stayed there for a night but where I was to get to the river you have to hike or bike to it. I’ve heard you can ride horses here. They have fire rings, picnic tables, and a bathroom that’s deep and composting. No sinks or showers. Bugs were wild at night but it is summer. No one disturbed us and it was free the best park of it all. Hoping to make it back there to go through the trails. I believe you can hike and camp too in the area.

    • Amanda B.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest
      May. 12, 2024

      Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest

      Peaceful Paradise

      Nice little campground in Iowa. We stayed for three nights, there's vault toilets, and the fire rings are tiered and really nice. It's wooded and tucked away. There's a lot of nice little trails and a couple lakes. There's a $10 a night fee on the honor system so I would not consider it free. We would come back.

    Guide to Washington

    Camping near Washington, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Hiking and Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Lake Macbride State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "There were rangers checking out the area every so often," which adds a sense of safety while you enjoy nature.
    • Fishing and Water Activities: At Sugar Bottom Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A camper noted, "The beach was a plus for the kids as well," making it a great spot for family fun.
    • Disc Golf: If you enjoy disc golf, F. W. Kent Park has a course available. One reviewer said, "There is disc golf as well," highlighting the variety of activities in the park.

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Sugar Bottom Campground remarked, "Clean, individual stall bathrooms," which is a big plus for many.
    • Spacious Sites: Many campers enjoy the spaciousness of the sites. One reviewer at Lake Macbride State Park Campground mentioned, "Doesn't feel like a bunch of campers crammed together," making it a comfortable experience.
    • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A visitor at Iowa Shady Creek said, "Very courteous camp host," which adds to the welcoming atmosphere.

    What you should know:

    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Wildcat Den State Park Campground, have limited amenities. A camper noted, "Rustical without electricity," so be prepared for a more primitive experience.
    • Noise Levels: If you're sensitive to noise, be aware that some campgrounds are near train tracks. A visitor at Clarks Ferry mentioned, "The trains were just relentless," which could be a downside for light sleepers.
    • Reservations Recommended: Popular spots like Amana RV Park & Event Center can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. One camper advised, "Check-in was quick and easy," emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Bring Bug Spray: Bugs can be a nuisance, especially in the summer. A camper at Wildcat Den State Park Campground warned, "Lots of gnats and other flying bugs," so come prepared.
    • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. One visitor at F. W. Kent Park mentioned, "Lots of stuff to do, including hiking, swimming, kayaking," which can help keep everyone busy.
    • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Lake Macbride State Park Campground appreciated the nearby store for forgotten items, saying, "Not too far from a store to buy things we forget to get."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Sugar Bottom Campground noted, "Had to put blocks under the passenger-side tires," which can be a hassle if you're not prepared.
    • Use Electric Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Iowa Shady Creek, offer electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "Good amenities: electric, tables, fire rings," making it easier for RVers to enjoy their stay.
    • Be Mindful of Traffic: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or event centers. A reviewer at Amana RV Park & Event Center said, "Non-camper traffic is annoying," so consider this when choosing your site.

    Camping sites near Washington, IA, provide a variety of experiences, from peaceful retreats to family-friendly adventures. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone to enjoy!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Washington, IA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Washington, IA is Eldon Wildlife Management Area with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.