Tent campsites near Calmar, Iowa provide primitive camping experiences within a landscape of rolling hills and valleys formed during the last ice age. Northeastern Iowa features a unique driftless area characterized by deeply carved river valleys and limestone bluffs not flattened by glaciers. Camping options range from walk-in sites requiring short hikes to drive-in locations with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Trout fishing opportunities: Echo Valley State Park Campground offers access to a well-maintained trout stream popular with anglers. According to Kerry M., "There is a nice trout stream, with a few sites right by the stream," making it convenient to fish directly from your campsite.
Wildlife observation: Camp John Schultz in Yellow River State Forest provides excellent wildlife viewing in dense woodland habitat. Kimberly W. notes, "We loved the lack of cell phone reception!" which allows for undistracted nature observation in this quiet backcountry setting.
Stargazing: Gateway Park Campground offers open views of the night sky above surrounding cornfields. One camper mentioned that "the sunset over the cornfields was very pretty," indicating minimal light pollution for evening star viewing.
Cemetery exploration: Chickasaw Park contains an unexpected historical site for respectful exploration. As Chantal C. explains, "If you're not afraid of ghosts, are respectful, and you follow the road ALL THE WAY BACK there is a very old cemetery which we thought was very intriguing."
What campers like
Affordability: The primitive campsites at Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest are budget-friendly. Kevin T. states, "This site fills up really fast because of the cheap price of only 9 dollars. This is the cheapest but one of the best campsites I've been to."
Seclusion: Echo Valley State Park Campground offers significant privacy between sites. Wilber S. reports, "I was a quarter mile from the next nearest site. Certainly a tent oriented campground, RVs would have a difficult time."
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the clean water features at tent sites in the area. Kevin C. recommends the backpacking loop at Camp Glen Wendel, noting "Lots of quiet, and many more great views on the upper trails."
Spacious sites: Chickasaw Park offers generously sized primitive sites with natural boundaries. According to reviews, "There are no hookups so consider this a primitive campground. It is adjacent to an old quarry where swimming and fishing is currently allowed at your own risk."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many primitive sites have minimal or no amenities. At Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest, James M. notes that sites include only "fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects."
Access challenges: Some tent sites require significant hiking or have limited vehicle access. Kerry M. explains that at Echo Valley, after crossing "a shallow stream (on a paved slab, easy for any car) the campsites are up the hill."
Water availability: Potable water isn't available at all locations. James M. points out that at Camp Glen Wendel, "Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk," requiring campers to carry water to their sites.
Weather considerations: Northeastern Iowa experiences significant seasonal variations. The primitive backcountry areas can become challenging after heavy rains, with Kevin C. advising to "take it slower if the ground is muddy."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Chickasaw Park offers unique recreational opportunities for families. Chantal C. mentions, "There is a small park on the adjacent side that does have a shelter," providing a gathering spot for family meals or activities.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds offer better sleeping conditions for families with children. According to Amos K., the peace and quiet at certain sites "allowed me to have one of the best nights of sleep while camping that I've had, I didn't hear a person or a vehicle the whole night."
Safety considerations: Parents should note potential hazards at certain locations. Chantal C. warns that at Chickasaw Park, "Due to multiple accidents and or deaths jumping/diving and cliff jumping is no longer allowed and can be a misdemeanor charge if found doing so."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds provide natural learning environments. Karen S. notes that "The native wildflowers are a special treat," offering opportunities for plant identification and nature education.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Little Turkey Campground offers RV sites but with space constraints. Douglas M. appreciates that the campground provides "Clean shower free wood staff is friendly" but notes the quieter atmosphere may appeal to those seeking peaceful camping.
Hookup availability: Gateway Park Campground offers partial hookups for self-contained units. Brody explains, "Water electric and sewer connections at each site with a separate dump station," though sites are "pretty wide open and close together."
Access roads: Many campgrounds near Calmar have limited improved roads. Wilber S. notes that Echo Valley is "certainly a tent oriented campground, RVs would have a difficult time," indicating larger rigs should research access carefully.
Parking considerations: Sites with drive-in access often have specific parking requirements. Kerry M. explains some campgrounds are "most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping… large RVs would not do well."
