Best Dispersed Camping near Calmar, IA
Several dispersed camping options exist within 60 miles of Calmar, Iowa, primarily in Minnesota's Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest. The Isinours Management Unit features hike-in sites with spectacular valley views, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, "The hike up the hill to the overlook is a daunting one," but sites include shelters for tents, fire spots, and picnic tables. Some car-accessible spots are available for those not wanting to backpack.
For more primitive options, the Reno Unit offers free hike-in camping with fewer amenities—no toilets, water, or picnic tables. Fire rings are provided, and pets are permitted in both locations. Water access camping is available at Root River Canoe Campsite and Crater Island, accessible by boat. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, the Root River site "was used and built by Boy Scouts ages ago" and features pit toilets and picnic tables, though "the river changed course and is further away than it once was."