Tent camping opportunities near Burt, Iowa range from primitive dispersed sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities. The region features prairie landscapes interspersed with small lakes and wildlife areas where campers can set up tents. Most camping areas remain open from spring through fall, with winter camping limited by weather conditions that typically include cold temperatures and occasional snow.
What to do
Fishing access points: Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area provides multiple shore fishing opportunities. According to David B., "We stopped here when we drove from NY to CO and it was fine. We got here late and left early in the morning so we never saw the place in light."
Hiking trails: Ambrose A. Call State Park offers walking paths through oak forests and a Frisbee Golf course. Joel S. notes, "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course. $18 per night."
Wildlife viewing: Devine Wildlife Area features wetland habitats with bird watching opportunities. "Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent. But the price is right," mentions Joel S., highlighting the area's natural wetland setting.
What campers like
Oak tree shade: The mature trees at Ambrose A. Call State Park provide natural cooling during summer months. Abby F. states, "The park itself is pretty nice with several trails and a small campground. There is an enclosed stone shelter house you can rent for gatherings."
Peaceful atmosphere: Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area offers quiet camping with minimal crowds. Skip H. shares, "It's a nice spot off of the main road. It's pretty quiet, but there aren't many spots to camp."
Lake views: Bright Lake County Park provides scenic camping spots with partial lake visibility. "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!" writes Wally B.
What you should know
Limited camping spots: Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area has restricted space for setting up tents. Skip H. explains, "When you come in on the dirt road, it hooks to the right, and you'll come upon a dirt cul-de-sac. On the right, you'll see a grassy area set into the woods where you could camp. Other than that, your parking in the perimeter."
Variable water conditions: Water quality in some locations fluctuates seasonally. Kevin T. reports about Big Wall Lake, "This place was really bad probably because of the low water levels. In very hot temperatures the lake would have a smell."
Drinking water access: Iowa Lake Co Campground provides potable water sources for campers. Bradley B. notes, "It is right in a lake, has water, and a nice vault toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Campfire preparation: Bright Lake County Park sells firewood on-site, eliminating the need to transport your own. This is especially helpful for families requiring campfires for cooking and evening activities.
Multiple tent accommodation: Several sites accommodate larger family groups. Wally B. mentions Bright Lake County Park "had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents!"
Shelter reservation option: For family gatherings or during inclement weather, Ambrose A. Call State Park offers enclosed shelter facilities. "There is an enclosed stone shelter house you can rent for gatherings," notes Abby F.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most dispersed camping areas near Burt have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Devine Wildlife Area, Joel S. notes, "You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up. No water, no electric, no toilet."
Navigation challenges: Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area has specific entry points that may be challenging for larger vehicles. Skip H. cautions, "There's enough room that virtually any size camper could navigate into this spot, but if there are other people, that will really complicate your life."
Tent camping preference: For RV travelers also carrying tents, Iowa Lake Co Campground offers better experiences for tent setups than RVs. Bradley B. recommends, "I highly recommend for tents. RVs not so much."
