48 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Eldon Wildlife Management Area offers free primitive tent camping for visitors with pets. Located near Bloomfield, Iowa, this dispersed camping area provides secluded sites with basic amenities and pet-friendly policies. Lake Wapello State Park Campground, Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground, and Waubonsie Trail Park also welcome campers with dogs, featuring electric hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. Most campgrounds in the area maintain standard pet policies requiring leashes no longer than 6 feet, proper waste disposal, and pets to be under control at all times. Small lots for hunters with dogs to park provide secluded spots perfect for camping without utilities.
The hiking trails throughout these campgrounds provide excellent opportunities for exercising pets. Lake Wapello's Lakeshore Trail encircles the entire lake with a 2.1-mile loop ideal for daily dog walks, while Lacey Keosauqua State Park features well-maintained trails even late into the season. Waubonsie Trail behind the park offers a short hike to a covered bridge, perfect for stretching legs after a long day of travel. Water activities are abundant with Lake Wapello providing kayaking opportunities where campers can spot wildlife including muskrats, beavers, swans and geese. The equestrian area at Waubonsie offers quieter camping options for those seeking more seclusion with their pets. Seasonal considerations include summer beach access at several parks and camping availability primarily from April through October, though some parks remain open year-round.
"Some campsites are close to the lake. Several hiking paths-Lakeshore Trail goes around the whole lake, so be sure to reserve 2-3 hours to conquer this path-more if you like to take in the scenery. "
"I have camped at lake wapello for 32 years in a row over my birthday in September it is the cleanest friendliest best wildlife great fishing wonderful campsites a place that I will always return to."
from $15 - $100 / night
Check Availability"We drive to the end of Umber Ave and found two spots perfect for camping. We chose the one nestled next to the corn field. Perfect dispersed camp site with no road noise or visitors."
"Lacey-Keosaqua State Park is a gem located in Southeast Iowa in Van Buren County. It is off the beaten path but it is one of oldest Iowa State Parks."
"Nice drive in gorgeous country. 23$ site without water 28 w/ water 35 full hookups. Decent showers nice playground for kids lakeside spots as well. The host sells firewood and 2 sizes of ice."
from $15 - $36 / night
Check Availability"Has a lake you can fish at right in campground. Although it is right next to a major road, but also extremely close to downtown and anything you might need."
"Waubonsie trail behind park is a short hike to the covered bridge and Dutchman's Store. Perfect Way to stretch your legs after a long day on the road. Bathrooms and showers were exceptionally clean."
"We hiked the equestrian trails one afternoon and the regular trails the next day. I camped in the equestrian campground and loved it with my popup. Outhouse type toilets are available there."
"Campsites were spaced well apart with plenty of room on pad around campsites, cell service was four bars and air tv 30 channels"
"Very nice campground with lake to fish and boat on. Has beach access also."
from $22 - $230 / night
Check Availability"It is located in Putnam/Schuyler Counties in northeast Missouri along the Chariton River and borders southern Iowa."
"Bathrooms within walking distance. Even have a pistol and rifle range. Bathrooms could be cleaned more, but only complaint."
"Honey Creek State Park is located on the north side of Rathbun Lake in southern Iowa. Boat ramp at the park is large (6 lanes) with several docks to assist loading and unloading."
"Campground Review: Honey Creek State Park is on Rathbun Lake, a very popular place to boat, fish and camp in Southern Iowa. We camped in the Group Campground with out Boy Scout Troop."
from $14 - $50 / night
Check Availability"close to the river with lots of fun history and shops to keep you busy."
"Historical walking bridge that is amazing. No wifi.. poor Internet although I did have one bar so could be worse .I have total by Verizon."
TravelerWe stayed on the primative group side of the lake. There is a small pond that we were able to let some of our scouts get started in kayaks and canoes before getting into the main lake. Great fishing and walking paths. Iowa has done a great job fixing up this area. The cabins are small but clean.
TravelerNice 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.
LegendLacey-Keosaqua State Park is a gem located in Southeast Iowa in Van Buren County. It is off the beaten path but it is one of oldest Iowa State Parks. The Park and campground are well maintained and clean. We visited over Labor Day weekend and the park was only two-thirds full. It was a variety of Tent campers and RV's. The camp sites are spaced really well so you don't feel like you are on top of one another. They have electric and non-electric sites and the shower is very clean. There are almost 80 sites in the campground.
Don't miss the hiking trails and the Beach House and swimming lake. Don't miss lake Sugema, the Indian Mounds or the Ely Ford Mormon Trail crossing.
GuideConservation Areas in Missouri are enjoyable if you're looking for lovely scenery, and can get by with few or no amenities. Rebel's Cove is no exception: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/rebels-cove-ca. It is located in Putnam/Schuyler Counties in northeast Missouri along the Chariton River and borders southern Iowa. Camping is allowed in the parking area and the grassy areas next to the parking areas. A map of the 4,225 acre conservation area showing the parking/camping sites is found here: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/files/downloads/conservation-areas/7944map.pdf The only amenity, is a unisex toilet at site E. The best camping, in my opinion is at one of 5 sites: At site A, where there is a wonderful overlook for handicap access overlooking the Chariton River swampland, at site E where there is the bathroom, but also quite a bit of mowed grass areas, at site G, where there is an old iron bridge over the Chariton that has a wooden walkway over the river, at site B where there is a neat shelter where the superstructure is constructed out of old barn timbers and where there is a lovely view of the hillside, and at site I, which is right up next to the River. Quite a few people use kayaks on the river. The river is 20 miles or so downriver from Rathbun dam in Iowa, and outflows from the dam vary the amount of water in the Chariton. The Chariton is largely channelized, but not here, so you get a good idea of what the River used to look like.
GuideConservation Areas in Missouri are enjoyable if you're looking for lovely scenery, and can get by with few or no amenities. Unless you're a hunter, I'd avoid camping there during the November deer season or spring or fall turkey seasons. Otherwise summer camping is fine. Indian Hills Conservation Area is no exception: https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/indian-hills-ca It is located in Scotland County in northeast Missouri and consists of rolling hills along the two branches of the Fabius River. Camping is allowed in the parking areas and the grassy areas next to the parking areas. A map of the 3,974 acre conservation area showing the parking/camping sites is found here (If you can't access this link, there is also a link to the map on the main page above): https://nature.mdc.mo.gov/sites/default/files/downloads/conservation-areas/8622map.pdf
The only amenities, are two unisex toilets. The CA is on the west side of Missouri State Highway 15. This highway starts in Mexico, MO and runs northbound through the county seats of Paris, Shelbyville, Edina and lastly Memphis, MO, in Scotland County. As you leave Edina, in Knox County, northbound, you'll pass through Baring and then Greensburg. About a half mile north of Greensburg you'll enter into Scotland County and the CA will be on your left (west). Missouri blacktop T, an east/west highway, is on the north side of the CA. There is a gravel road that runs west on the county line that is just south of the CA. Missouri blacktop C is an east/west highway about a half mile south of the CA area (which ends in Greensburg). There are 4 north/south roads that access the CA. The east border is Missouri Highway 15. The next road to the west is Seven Oaks. It connects on the north to Highway T and on the south end it turns to the east at the county line and connects to Highway 15. The next road is Indian Creek Road and connects on the north to Highway T. It goes through the northwest part of the CA and loops back to Highway T. There is a Tee intersection with Otter Creek Road that runs to the east and then turn back south to end just short of the Fabius River. The westernmost road is Old Trail Road which runs along part of the west side of the CA. The map shows that the road turns east and becomes Ivy Road. Actually it is a Tee intersection and is easy to miss. Old Trail Road continues to the south. At this intersection there is a farmstead and at first glance one would think that Ivy Road is a drive. It is not. Ivy Road continues to the south leaving the CA. At the county line there is a Tee intersection. You can turn left or right. If you turn left, the road will shortly turn to the right (south) and the road becomes Knox County Autumn Rd. If you turn right you'll shortly come to another Tee intersection. Turn left and the road becomes Ash Rd. Both Autumn and Ash will connect to Blacktop C at the south end. Turn Left on C and you'll find yourself back in Greensburg. Turn right and C will intersect with Missouri Highway 11. In Scotland County, the gravel roads that intersect with Highway T don't have the names as shown in the map, but have street numbers. Seven Oaks is easy to miss, but it's almost exactly 1 mile west of the intersection of Highway T and Missouri 15. Indian Creek Road is well marked as an entrance to the CA. Old Trail Road is in the community of Bible Grove. I've included a picture of the old school in Bible Grove located a couple hundred yards to the south of Highway T. I've also included pictures of all the gravel road intersections on Highway T.
My favorite camping spot is the one at the far west edge of the CA. It has a well maintained unisex bathroom and a lovely view. Next there is a parking area on Otter Creek Road where it turns from east/west to north/south. There is a walking trail that connects this road to Seven Oaks at this location. Next there is a parking area at the midpoint on Seven Oaks I like, and finally there is the parking area on Highway 15. The good thing about this area is that it is easy to get to, being right on 15, and has a bathroom. The other parking areas are fine, but there are no bathrooms and the views are not that great. I've included pictures of 4 of my favorite parking areas, as well as the turnoffs from Highway T.
GuideHoney Creek resort run by the state of Iowa (not to be confused with Honey Creek State Park nearby) is not your typical camping spot. There is a resort hotel with an indoor waterpark, cabins for rent, and an RV Park. The hotel and the RV park are right on the lake. Rathbun is maybe the nicest lake in Iowa (I would say Okoboji, however that has become an overcrowded mess).
The RV sites: There are not many of them, 20 I think. But they are all paved, level, full hook ups, spacious, with a view of the lake. I don't even think we exchanged harsh words setting up it was so easy. ;) There are even a couple sites on the side that have equipment for fall hunters. Trees around the RV area, but not in. Fire ring and picnic table. The boat ramp is at one end of the RV area, so people may drive through with boats. Playground a short walk away on a path, but not right in the RV area.
Indoor waterpark: Probably geared to the 4-10 crowd. Only one bigger slide, lazy river, hot tub, pool with some balance platforms and a rope and a basketball hoop. Then a small kiddie pool with a pirate ship structure with some small slides and some fountains. Not a ton to do, however when we were there it rained for an entire day so that was very handy. Snackbar that serves booze.
Lake: one of the biggest in the state, not too busy as it is 2 hours from Des Moines so not a lot of day traffic (unlike Saylorville and Red Rock). Boat rentals available.
Resort hotel: I haven't been in the guest rooms. There is a lobby, restaurant/bar. I have not eaten at the restaurant. There is a little shop with necessities and firewood. There is a nature program where you can check out backpacks for kids to explore nature. Grounds are nice and lush, paths for walking and biking. There's a golf course.
LegendLake Rathbun is a destination for boaters and campers in the State of Iowa. The Army Corps of Engineers operates and maintains several facilities around the lake. Prairie Ridge campground is one of those facilities.
The campsites are good. They have a fire pit, a place to hang food to keep away from raccoons, electricity, and a nice gravel pad for your vehicle or camper. It has modern toilets and some of the campsites have a nice overlook of the lake.
What stands out at this campground is the prairie grass and all of the wild flowers. It is a nice weekend getaway.
TravelerThere are tons of things to do during any stay at Thousands Hills (affectionately called Thousand Chills). There are kayaks and canoes to rent, lakeside shelters, plenty of trails to hike, and plenty of campgrounds. There are areas that have cabins and also places that have RV hookups. Really great for anybody!
I went after a rain and it was beautiful. Many of the trails absorb water well and it's not too muddy. The trails and campsites are dog friendly and are very well marked.
TravelerHoney Creek State Park is located on the north side of Rathbun Lake in southern Iowa. Boat ramp at the park is large (6 lanes) with several docks to assist loading and unloading. Location is about 10 minute drive from Honey Creek Resort which provides a nice 18 hole golf course, water park, and restaurant.
Shower house / bathroom was very clean. Camping site contained a few trees so we were able to string up a tarp to provide shade and protect firewood and furniture from rain. We were there the week before the 4th of July and during the week, there were only about 6 other campers there. The weekend was a bit busier but still sites to be had. Be careful driving around the park as I don't think there was a day we didn't see at least 8 deer wandering around the campsite or near roads.
Nice park - would definitely stay there again.
Dispersed camping opportunities near Bloomfield, Iowa include several pet-friendly options within Davis County and surrounding areas. The terrain features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 600-900 feet above sea level throughout the region. Most campgrounds remain open from April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
Hiking accessible trails: Lake Wapello State Park Campground offers several hiking options, including the Lakeshore Trail. As one camper noted, "Spacious campground with clean facilities. Some campsites are close to the lake. Several hiking paths-Lakeshore Trail goes around the whole lake, so be sure to reserve 2-3 hours to conquer this path-more if you like to take in the scenery."
Visit historic sites: Bentonsport provides access to local history within walking distance. A camper mentioned, "Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers,toilets,30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property. Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, a Indian artifact museum and gift shops. Historical walking bridge that is amazing."
Fishing opportunities: Island View Campground on Lake Rathbun offers excellent fishing access. According to a reviewer: "Campground was very clean and staff was helpful and polite. A lot of spots have a nice view of the water. Did some fishing while there and caught enough crappie for a nice dinner with some left over for breakfast the next morning."
Quiet, secluded spots: Eldon Wildlife Management Area provides true dispersed camping experiences. One camper shared: "We drive to the end of Umber Ave and found two spots perfect for camping. We chose the one nestled next to the corn field. Perfect dispersed camp site with no road noise or visitors."
Well-maintained facilities: Lacey Keosauqua State Park Campground receives praise for its upkeep. A reviewer noted: "Nice drive in gorgeous country. 23$ site without water 28 w/ water 35 full hookups. Decent showers nice playground for kids lakeside spots as well. The host sells firewood and 2 sizes of ice. Cheap too. Walking trails nearby."
Camping value: Affordable rates make many local campgrounds accessible. At Bentonsport, a camper mentioned: "17$ Bentonsport campground. Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts." Another visitor to Lake Showme Campsites reported: "Great spot, $20 for RVs and campers. Free if primitive camping. All spots have power and water."
Pet policies at dog friendly campgrounds near Bloomfield: While most area campgrounds allow pets, specific rules apply. At Waubonsie Trail Park, a camper suggests: "I camped in the equestrian campground and loved it with my popup. Outhouse type toilets are available there. I only drove past the RV campground and the campsites were close together. The equestrian area is the way to go in my opinion but i love the quiet."
Limited amenities at wildlife areas: Some locations offer minimal facilities. A visitor to Eldon Wildlife Management Area noted: "Small lot for hunters to park and go. For a secluded spot, good enough to camp. As long as you don't need any utilities."
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate seasonally. Island View Campground typically runs from May 1 to September 30. A late-season camper shared: "large, clean campsites with ample shade. spectacular lake views especially for sunset. very quiet during the week."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Honey Creek State Park Campground, one camper mentioned: "The state park has some nice trails for hiking. Use bug spray because the ticks are bad. Some nice views of the lake."
Beach activities: Multiple lakes offer swimming opportunities. A visitor to Lake Wapello reported: "Also has a nice beach!" while another at Lacey Keosauqua noted: "Nice sites, great beach, and just close enough to town to grab some ice cream from a local shop."
Wildlife viewing with kids: Local campgrounds provide opportunities to spot various animals. At Lake Wapello, a camper shared: "Quite a bit of wildlife seen during kayaking and hiking-muskrat, beaver, swans, geese could be found on the water. Also seen: deer, bald eagles, frogs, toads, turtles."
Site selection matters: Choose sites based on size and spacing. At Honey Creek State Park, an RVer advised: "We camped in spot #20 of the north loop. I would not recommend any spot in the center second of the loop. It was more like parking than camping. If we parked in the direction to utilize the full hookups we would have had our awning out over our neighbors campsite."
Full hookup availability: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Bloomfield offer complete RV services. Lacey Keosauqua State Park provides sites at different price points: "23$ site without water 28 w/ water 35 full hookups."
Dump station locations: Know where to find sanitary dump stations. As one camper at Lake Showme noted: "Waste and sewage dump can be found on campgrounds. One showering station on grounds. Bathrooms within walking distance."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Bloomfield, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Bloomfield, IA is Lake Wapello State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Bloomfield, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 48 dog-friendly camping locations near Bloomfield, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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