James M.
Legend
LegendPorth RV Park
Small seasonal RV park in Calamus, Iowa
RV park is all gravel, electric, water on site, Tables, communal, fire pit, situated next to a cornfield, there are shade trees.
Best Campgrounds in Iowa
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 (734)
1. Ledges State Park Campground
40 ReviewsBoone, IAWebsite+1 (515) 432-1852"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
34 ReviewsBaldwin, IAWebsite+1 (563) 652-5833"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
30 ReviewsHoney Creek, IAWebsite+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
30 ReviewsGranger, IAWebsite+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
29 ReviewsMcGregor, IAWebsite+1 (563) 873-2341"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 ReviewsDundee, IAWebsite+1 (563) 924-2527"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. Sugar Bottom Campground
24 ReviewsNorth Liberty, IAWebsite+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."
8. Des Moines West KOA Holiday
24 ReviewsEarlham, IAWebsite+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."
9. Lake Anita State Park Campground
25 ReviewsAnita, IAWebsite+1 (712) 762-3564"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 lake, great walking trail, close to town and I-80, but quiet and peaceful. Can’t beat it for $11 a night."
10. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground
22 ReviewsOnawa, IAWebsite+1 (712) 423-2829"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."
Recent Camping Photos in Iowa
366 Photos of 734 Iowa Campgrounds
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Maria K.
Winter Camp at Walking Stick Adventures Farm
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Little Sioux Park Campground
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Buck Creek County Park
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South Bear Creek
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Lidtke Park & Campground
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R Campground, Inc
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Recent Reviews in Iowa
2224 Reviews of 734 Iowa Campgrounds
- James M.Legend
Scott County Park- South East Corner Campground
Very basic camp area with equestrian Trail access.
This campsite has a hard parking lot surface, picnic table, charcoal, grill, firing, and a pit toilet, horse tie up. Trail access starts here, recycling station is adjacent, and Scott County Park Road is just to the south.
- James M.Legend
Wilderness Campground, Scott County Park
Well shaded county campground with secluded spots
Wilderness Campground is seasonal, with good shaded spots, seasonal host with firewood, available, restrooms, and showers. Sites include tables and fire rings. Sites have gravel access, there is a play area as well.
- James M.Legend
Pine Grove Campground, Scott Co Park
Nice wooded county campground
Pine Grove Campground is situated in Scott County Park. This campground is seasonal, offering a seasonal campground host with firewood available, sites are gravel with tables, firings, electric, there is a dump station, play area, shelter for rent, seasonal restrooms. Adjacent is a primitive camp tent sites and Pine Grove cabins. The park offers many amenities, including trails, hiking, equestrian, mountain, bike bikes, pride, Lake for fishing and paddling, golf course, and Pioneer Village to the north as a cultural historical site. There is an Olympic size swimming pool as well open seasonally with concessions.
- James M.Legend
Sac-Fox Campground, Scott Co Park
Nice primitive, county campground
This seasonal campground is well maintained, primitive, offers picnic tables, firings, seasonal host with firewood, available, restrooms, and showers, hammock structures, good shade, trails, and is located across the road from Glynns Creek golf course. The park offers an Olympic size pool in season, concessions, Pride Lake for fishing and paddling, hiking, equestrian, mountain bike trails. Pioneer Village to the north offers a historical and cultural site.
- James M.Legend
Woodside Campground, Scott County Park Iowa
Nice county open campground
This campground is well-maintained, includes basic amenities: hard surface, picnic table, fire rings, water, electric, sewer, firewood for purchase on site, full shower, house and restrooms, seasonal campground host, and lots to do within the Park itself. This site is a few years old, and trees planted our continue to grow.
- James M.Legend
Bald Eagle Campground and Cabins
Nice County year round campground
This campground has hard services, fire rings, picnic tables, water, electric, sewer, firewood on site, full shower house, restrooms, electric site charging, seasonal host, dump station, and play area.
- James M.Legend
Iowa 80 Truckstop
Busy overnight parking with Supplies
This overnight location is located along interstate 80 and includes restaurants, fuel, food, ice, showers, chiropractor, dentist, auto supplies, propane, car wash. This space though it is well lit, it is very busy. Regular idling sounds from trucks are heard.
- James M.Legend
Summit Campground - West Lake Park
Clean County CG
Summit campground offers basic amenities, including firings, Tables, water, electric, sewer, hard pads, seasonal host, firewood, play area, shower, house, and restrooms. The park offers, swimming, fishing, paddling, lakes, with concessions, disc golf, course, trails, and cabins nearby.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
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