Tent camping near Ankeny, Iowa offers several uncrowded options within easy driving distance. Most local campgrounds are situated in gently rolling terrain with elevations between 800-950 feet above sea level. The camping season typically runs April through October, with July and August temperatures averaging 83°F during daytime hours. Sites range from wooded settings to lakeside locations with varying degrees of privacy and amenities.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, campers find multiple species including largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing... The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas," notes reviewer Willy W.
Observatory star-gazing: The astronomical observatory at Ashton Wildwood Park opens Saturday evenings (except first Saturday of month) for public viewing. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom," shares Willy W.
Hiking trail networks: Local conservation areas feature interconnected trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement," notes Deb K. about Ashton Wildwood Park's beginner-friendly paths. Many trails feature wildlife observation points and seasonal wildflower displays.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Camping costs remain affordable at county parks near Ankeny. "It's only $7/night!" mentions Deb K. about Ashton Wildwood Park, while Colfax Quarry Springs sites run approximately $10 per night with self-registration. Many locations accept cash payment only, so bring exact change.
Clean facilities despite primitive setup: Kuehn Conservation Area receives praise for maintaining sites despite minimal infrastructure. "Nice quite sites along the Raccoon River. Has hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife, small Bear Creek nature center," comments James M. Similarly, Christopher M. notes about Colfax Quarry Springs: "Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites."
Spacious tent areas: Sites accommodate multiple tents with room to spread out. "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," mentions Christopher M. about the terrain at Colfax Quarry Springs Park, while sites at other locations provide flat spots for multiple tent setups.
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Most campgrounds lack drinking water hookups. "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," advises Willy W. about Ashton Wildwood Park. Some locations have seasonal spigots near main facilities but not at individual sites.
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Otter Creek Park offers basic toilet facilities but no showers. "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" notes Steve H., though recent updates indicate camping may be temporarily unavailable. Always check current status before planning your trip.
Reservation requirements differ: Many campgrounds operate first-come, first-served from April through October. Jerry V. found Colfax Quarry Springs Park "very clean, easy to reserve" for site #13, while other locations cannot be reserved ahead of time, requiring early arrival especially on summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment near camping areas. At Mariposa Recreation Area, "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," according to Willy W. Several locations also offer junior naturalist programs during summer months.
Beginner-friendly fishing spots: Fishing access for children exists at many locations. "It had a nice access spot for fishing," notes Jerry V. about site #13 at Colfax Quarry Springs, mentioning his successful trip with two boys. Most locations permit fishing without special licenses for children under 16.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and interpretive trails supplement camping experiences. "The campground has some very nice spots... There are a couple of hiking trails in the park that are maintained. One goes to a creek and a bird watching station," explains Willy W. about Ashton Wildwood Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Ankeny provide minimal RV amenities. At Twin Anchors Campground, "The campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs," according to Abby F., though tent campers should note this orientation means less privacy. Many county parks limit RV length to under 30 feet.
Tent-priority campgrounds: Several locations deliberately focus on tent camping rather than RV accommodation. "Tent only none of that RV B.S.," states Luke C. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park, highlighting its fishing-oriented, more primitive camping experience that appeals to those seeking quieter surroundings.
Sandy terrain considerations: The quarry origins of some campgrounds create challenging surfaces. "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," warns Jerry V. about Colfax Quarry Springs, suggesting RV leveling blocks and specialized tent stakes for secure setups.
