Campgrounds near Amana, Iowa offer options for overnight stays in Iowa's rural heartland, characterized by rolling hills and river valleys at elevations between 700-850 feet above sea level. The area experiences four distinct seasons, with summer humidity levels frequently reaching 80-90%, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Most campgrounds are situated along waterways like the Cedar River, Wapsipinicon River, and various lakes or ponds.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Access the Wapsipinicon River at Matsell Bridge Natural Area, where campers find secluded spots with riverside access. "The 4th of July weekend it was us, one other camper and the random one nighters... Overall very good experience," reports Randi C.
Mountain biking trails: Ride the single-track trails connecting to Wanatee Park. "The best thing about this campground is it's access to the squaw creek man bike single track. The sites are nice, and easy access to town if you forgot stuff," notes Kris P.
Kayaking and canoeing: Paddle along Chicken Creek at Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area where non-motorized boats are welcome. "There are three separate campgrounds... Across the road from these two campgrounds is the main boat access and fishing dock for Chicken Creek. Only non-motorized boats are allowed here," explains Jessica H.
Wildlife viewing: Spot local wildlife at Lake Iowa County Park where trails lead through diverse habitats. "There are wild raspberries and mulberries, lots of wildlife. We had a blue jay that visited us regularly at our campsite, along with deer walking through," shares Leslie P.
What campers like
Clean shower facilities: Lake Iowa County Park maintains exceptional bathhouse facilities. "Shower house and bathrooms were really nice! Wasn't expecting to want to take a shower but couldn't pass up the opportunity when we saw them. Very hot water," says Claudia M.
Quiet atmosphere: Wakpicada Natural Area offers peaceful camping with minimal crowds. "Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other. I consider it a little hidden gem," writes Parker H.
Proximity to bike trails: Wanatee Park connects to extensive regional trail systems. "Very well kept and quiet campground... Lots of opportunity to ride the numerous bike trails nearby and hike in wanatee park and nearby pinicon," notes Kristy E.
Natural settings: Matsell Bridge Natural Area provides rustic camping along the river. "Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River... take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness of this 'best kept secret' for primitive and inexpensive camping sites," advises Carol M.
What you should know
No horse facilities available: None of the campgrounds near Amana, Iowa offer dedicated horse camping facilities or corrals. For equestrian-friendly options, you'll need to travel beyond the immediate area.
Seasonal flooding concerns: River-adjacent campgrounds like Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area may experience closures due to high water. "When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds," reports Jessica H.
Summer humidity challenges: Prepare for high humidity from June through August. "We were not adequately prepared for the humidity in August. Being from Colorado where we live at much higher altitudes & we didnt expect the humidity to affect us as it did. Not a bad thing, we were just used to 15% max and that weekend we saw 90% with 90 degrees," explains Clifton B.
Campfire smoke concerns: Sites at Lake Iowa County Park can be close together, affecting air quality. "Around 2:30am there was so much smoke in our van from nearby campfires that I woke up sick and my dog threw up all over the bed. At 3am we decided we needed to move to an electric site because it was too much to have the windows open," warns Randall K.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. "There are 24 sites, and they run $20 per night... There's a playground, and firewood for purchase," mentions Jessica H. about Saulsbury Bridge.
Wildlife education: Use Lake Iowa County Park's trails for nature learning opportunities. "Not too far off the highway. Very clean and quiet. The campground is above the lake but a short trail will take you to the lake... Lots of trails to walk with the dog including a nice trail along the lake," shares Ken G.
Site selection matters: For families wanting lake views, be strategic about site selection. "Very few sites have a view of the lake. To walk to the lake or near by pond you must go down hill, which could be a problem for any one with mobility issues... I would say if you can try and get sites, 67-70. They have beautiful views," advises Leslie P.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Keokuk County Belva Deer Park offers both primitive and serviced options. "$12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance," notes Keith B.
Level sites: Check campground reviews for site levelness information. "We camped at this park for 9 nights with W/E on site with a dump upon exit/entrance. Our site was unlevel but was able to get the RV right with tri-levelers," shares Clint G.
Site spacing considerations: Wanatee Park offers well-spaced sites. "There are a variety of sites to choose from, nice trees, and a beautiful wildflower field to walk through. Bathrooms are stationed without so it's never a far walk and the shower house was really nice," explains Colleen L.
