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Best Campgrounds in Iowa

2,379 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Iowa's campground landscape includes a mix of well-developed state parks and county-managed recreation areas. Parks like Ledges State Park, Maquoketa Caves, and Pike's Peak offer established camping options with varying amenities and hookup availability. Many campgrounds throughout the state accommodate both tent and RV camping, with locations such as Hitchcock Nature Center, Jester County Park, and Backbone State Park also featuring cabin accommodations for visitors seeking more comfort. Several campgrounds near lakes and rivers provide water-based recreation opportunities, particularly at parks like Lake Anita and Lewis and Clark State Park.

Camping season for many Iowa state parks runs from April through December, with some parks open year-round. Reservations are recommended, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Electric hookups are common at developed sites, though availability of water hookups and shower facilities varies by location. Weather considerations include hot, humid summers and cold winters with potential for snow and ice from November through March. Access to most campgrounds involves paved or well-maintained gravel roads suitable for standard vehicles. One camper noted, "Level cement pads with hookups. Short walk to the lake and playgrounds. Bar and grill 1/4 mile away."

Many Iowa campers appreciate the state's waterfront camping options, with several highly-rated campgrounds situated near lakes and rivers. Facilities at county and state parks generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness and maintenance. Multiple reviewers highlighted the abundant recreational opportunities available at Iowa campgrounds, from hiking trails to fishing access. One visitor to Hitchcock Nature Center shared, "The hosts are so polite and helpful and they keep the place immaculate. Even the pit toilets were spotless and didn't smell." Campground prices remain reasonable compared to neighboring states, with several reviewers noting the value proposition of Iowa's camping options. Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in wooded areas and near water sources during summer months, so adequate insect protection is advisable.

Best Camping Sites in Iowa (753)

    1. Ledges State Park Campground

    41 Reviews
    Boone, IA
    Website
    +1 (515) 432-1852

    $18 - $38 / night

    "One of my favorite locations to camp in Iowa as a Boy Scout growing up was Ledges State Park. Since I hadn't been back in years, I decided to check it out and spend a night camping there."

    "One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."

    2. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground

    35 Reviews
    Baldwin, IA
    Website
    +1 (563) 652-5833

    $20 - $28 / night

    "cave system of Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa."

    "This is a great weekend stay, with short trails that show some beautiful and unusual scenery for central Iowa. The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out."

    3. Hitchcock County Nature Center

    33 Reviews
    Honey Creek, IA
    Website
    +1 (712) 328-5833

    $10 - $50 / night

    "I pulled in late at night easy to navigate stayed the next day and did some trails apparently the land formations are 1 of only 2 in the world how about that Iowa."

    "We camp all the time at different locations, and I 100% recommend this campground! The hosts are so polite and helpful and they keep the place immaculate."

    4. Jester County Park

    31 Reviews
    Granger, IA
    Website
    +1 (515) 323-5300

    $20 - $25 / night

    "A couple minor complaints that I developed would be that it is right next to the golf course so there is a lot of near by traffic, and people like to cruise on motorcycles and drive muscle cars through"

    "Iowa county parks are amazing. They pour money into them and it really shows. Clean, I mean immaculate. Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level."

    5. Pikes Peak State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    McGregor, IA
    Website
    +1 (563) 873-2341

    $20 - $38 / night

    "Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa’s state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!"

    "It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."

    6. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park

    29 Reviews
    Dundee, IA
    Website
    +1 (563) 924-2527

    $16 - $25 / night

    "Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa. There are two campgrounds."

    "The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere."

    7. Lake Anita State Park Campground

    29 Reviews
    Anita, IA
    Website
    +1 (712) 762-3564

    $15 - $36 / night

    "This campground has both RV full hookup and electric sites very close to the lake. Campsites offer a great view of lake and close access to docks."

    "Beautiful campground on a man-made lake in Iowa. Very sparsely populated in the middle of the week even during the month of June. A wonderful bike trail circumvent the lake. About 4 miles long."

    8. Sugar Bottom Campground

    24 Reviews
    North Liberty, IA
    Website
    +1 (319) 624-2102

    $14 - $260 / night

    "Very nice COE campground north of Iowa City in the Lake Coralville area. Beautiful setting, lots of options for sites."

    "Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing. Near Iowa Raptor Project that conducts raptor programs and site with walking tour and live raptors, and Macbride State Park as well."

    9. Des Moines West KOA Holiday

    24 Reviews
    Earlham, IA
    Website
    +1 (515) 834-2729

    "Roadside Oasis, a place to rest a weary head, food, showers, etc. Cabins always help get you in and get out early without setting up camp."

    "I love the beautiful surroundings here. Definitely worth the visit."

    10. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Onawa, IA
    Website
    +1 (712) 423-2829

    $15 - $52 / night

    "Well kept & family friendly camping in Iowa!"

    "There’s a pretty big playground near all the sites. When I went in the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too! Extremely nice amenities; flush toilet and showers."

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  • Stuart K.The Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 23, 2026

    Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park

    The Most Peaceful Campground in Scott County Park

    If you're the kind of camper who measures a campground by the number of trees instead of the number of amenities, Wilderness CG continues to be THE hidden campground gem within Scott County Park. Surrounded by mature hardwood forest, generous-sized campsites with decent privacy and miles of interconnected hiking trails, this campground delivers a camping experience that feels far more secluded than you'd expect to find just minutes from the Quad Cities. While my original review from just over a year ago goes into considerable detail about each aspect of the campground and the park itself, I thought I'd follow up that review with a quick summary of what continues to stand out most.

    Here's a topline of HIGHLIGHTS and LOWLIGHTS along with a smattering of new photos.

    HIGHLIGHTS: (1) Easily the most wooded, private and peaceful campground within Scott County Park, making it an outstanding choice for tent campers, in particular, and anyone seeking a true forest setting; (2) Spacious campsites tucked beneath a dense tree canopy (expert tip: be sure to look up at any potential 'widow makers' before setting up camp) that provides excellent shade, natural privacy and a genuine 'away from it all' atmosphere; (3) Immaculately maintained restroom and shower facilities with dependable hot water that rival many commercial campgrounds; (4) Outstanding access to some of the park's best hiking trails, allowing campers to step directly from their campsite into miles of beautiful woodland; and (5) Scott County Park itself offers an impressive collection of amenities, including: 2 fishing lakes (and 2 smaller ponds), a championship 9-hole golf course, massive family-friendly swimming pool, various scattered playgrounds, an abundance of picnic areas in and outside of excellent shelters and friendly park staff ... all just a short drive from your campsite.

    LOWLIGHTS: (1) The heavily wooded terrain means some sites are uneven with exposed roots, making leveling RVs and 5th wheelers more challenging than at neighboring campgrounds; (2) There is no lake or waterfront access directly within Wilderness Campground, so paddlers and anglers will need to drive to other areas of the park; (3) The abundance of trees and leaf cover can make portions of the campground appear a little less manicured, even though it is very well maintained - when we were there in the Autumn, we wished we would have brought our rake!; (4) Only one of the campground's restroom buildings includes shower facilities, so some campers may have a short walk or drive depending on their site; and (5) Larger RVs may find neighboring campgrounds such as Bald Eagle or Woodside better suited to their size and setup.

    Happy Camping!

  • RThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 21, 2026

    Wanatee Park (formerly Squaw Creek)

    Very nice basic campground

    Driving thru. Stayed for a quick stop over. County Park. Loop A takes reservations. Loop B first come first served. It was a long trek to the bathroom and showers which were well maintained. Great price $35

  • AThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 20, 2026

    Buffalo Shores County Park

    Great spot to camp with a view of the Mississippi

    We just stayed a quick night on the way driving across country. We pulled up in the dark, and were awakened the next day by an amazing view of the Mississippi River. Some camping spots have water, They all have electricity, and there is one bathroom with showers. Portapotties and dumpsters are situated throughout. There is a slightly confusing registration process of a QR code on you camping spot. Overall, a great place to stop.

  • Tripp F.
    Aug. 20, 2026

    Lake Darling State Park Campground

    Primitive camping

    Lake Darling is by far the best, cleaners, friendliest campground I hand every stayed at.... Traveling all the way from New Mexico they really make everything easy and welcoming thanks Iowa for welcoming us

  • Tripp F.
    Aug. 20, 2026

    Marr Park

    Marr park

    Has bathrooms that are clean... Beautiful landscape and quiet

  • DThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 20, 2026

    Riverview Ridge

    A few concerns for tent camping

    Arrived late at night and struggled to find correct site as there were no numbers posted. Also no external lighting or picnic table. Bathrooms were clean and office help was accommodating when reservation was made.

  • s
    Aug. 19, 2026

    Creek Valley Campground

    Fine grounds, my spot taken

    I reserved online same day; didn’t show up until dusk/dark - @8:30pm on a Tuesday evening. My assigned pull through site was occupied and office closed. So I looked, found an open site and pulled in. Just overnight and I least @8:15am next morning so did not see any employee.

  • KThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 19, 2026

    Quercus Wilderness Area

    Love it!

    If you love being in nature this is the best place to be! It's almost completely all natural. And only $15 per night.

Guide to Iowa

Camping in Iowa offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for a weekend getaway or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure, Iowa's campgrounds have something to offer.

What to do

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Ledges State Park Campground, have scenic trails. One camper mentioned, “The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals.”
  • Fishing and Boating: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, you can rent boats and kayaks. A reviewer noted, “Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities.”
  • Playgrounds and Family Activities: Campgrounds like Jester County Park have playgrounds and trails for kids. One family shared, “Campgrounds amazing views airsoft gun and archery ranges snowshoeing equestrians and cross-country skiing.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Des Moines West KOA Holiday said, “Bathhouses were clean and private.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A camper at Cherry Glen Campground mentioned, “This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet.”
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. One reviewer at Bob Shelter Recreation Area said, “Friendly hosts & Rangers.”

What you should know

  • Limited Cell Service: Some areas have poor reception. A camper at Iowa Ledges State Park noted, “Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected.”
  • Busy During Peak Season: Popular spots can get crowded. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “The campground area is clean... but the RV section of campground was nearly full.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area advised, “You must reserve these sites in advance.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for spots like Jester County Park that have playgrounds. A parent shared, “Kids playground, hiking trails, Equestrian Center, golf course and nature center. Plenty to do.”
  • Pack for Activities: Bring bikes or outdoor games. A family at Yellow Banks County Park enjoyed, “Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table.”
  • Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have food options nearby. A camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday mentioned, “Small store with Hunt Brothers pizza to order.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits. A reviewer at Walnut Woods State Park noted, “The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups for convenience. A camper at Lake Ahquabi State Park appreciated, “The bathroom/showers were decent.”
  • Be Ready for Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. A visitor at Walnut Woods State Park mentioned, “The road around the campground is paved, but very narrow.”

Camping in Iowa is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Iowa for tent camping?

Ledges State Park Campground stands out as one of Iowa's premier tent camping destinations with well-shaded sites, excellent hiking trails, and hike-in spots that offer privacy while still being relatively close to parking. The park's natural beauty and wooded setting create an ideal tent camping atmosphere. Beed's Lake State Park Campground offers picturesque tent camping by a beautiful lake with a scenic waterfall. For a quieter experience, Prairie Bridges Park provides a peaceful small-town campground with great walking paths and natural scenery. Most tent-friendly campgrounds in Iowa feature level sites, access to water, restroom facilities, and often fire rings and picnic tables. Be aware that wildlife, particularly raccoons, can be plentiful at wooded campgrounds.

What amenities are available at Iowa's top-rated campgrounds?

Iowa's top campgrounds offer excellent amenities to enhance your camping experience. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground provides electric hookups, lakefront sites, and an impressive playground system with multiple setups for different age groups. West Overlook Campground, maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, features electric sites with convenient dump and water stations at the entrance. Many Iowa campgrounds include clean restrooms, picnic areas, and well-maintained trails. Several parks offer water access for fishing and boating, playground equipment, and nearby convenience stores. Higher-rated campgrounds typically provide shaded sites, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Some campgrounds also feature shower facilities, though availability varies by season.

Where are the most scenic campgrounds located in western Iowa?

Western Iowa offers several scenic camping destinations with diverse landscapes. Hitchcock County Nature Center near Honey Creek provides stunning views of the Loess Hills, a unique landform found primarily in western Iowa, with excellent hiking trails that showcase the rolling topography. Lake Anita State Park Campground features beautiful lakeside camping with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The western region's landscape transitions from the flatter central areas to more varied terrain near the Missouri River, creating scenic bluffs and valleys. Many western Iowa campgrounds offer water features including lakes, rivers, and small waterfalls. The area's expansive skies make for spectacular sunsets and stargazing opportunities, especially at campgrounds away from larger towns.

When is the best season for camping in Iowa's state parks?

Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best camping conditions in Iowa state parks. Summer provides warm temperatures ideal for water activities, while Waubonsie State Park Campground offers beautiful hiking even in February for cold-weather enthusiasts, though most campers avoid winter months. Fall brings spectacular colors, as experienced at Diamond Lake County Park where the autumn foliage creates stunning views around the freshwater lake. Most state parks are less crowded in spring and fall, offering more peaceful experiences while still providing comfortable temperatures. Be prepared for occasional summer thunderstorms and higher humidity in July and August. Many campgrounds reduce services or close completely during winter months.

Keep Exploring

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