Tent camping near Cedar Falls, Iowa centers around several primitive sites within a 30-mile radius. The local landscape features rolling hills and several river systems including the Cedar River and its tributaries. Most campsites in this area sit at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and moderate humidity levels.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Stoehr Fishing Area provides access to two ponds with diverse fishing options. As camper Kerry M. notes, "It has excellent shore fishing on the two ponds. The main species are black bass and bluegill, however I did catch a northern pike once. There are grass carp as well."
River activities: At River Ranch Camping, visitors can enjoy primitive camping along the river. According to Missy B., "My family loves River ranch. It don't have all the amenities like other camp grounds but that's what makes it a great place to camp. It is Back woods camping."
Swimming and rope swings: Gardner Family Farm offers a pond with recreational opportunities beyond just fishing. One reviewer mentions, "Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing."
Hiking with pets: Several tent camping areas welcome pets on trails. Wilber S. shared about Echo Valley: "The hiking trail was perfect for a morning stroll with my dog and coffee and there certainly is a petting zoo (my German Shepard was a little uncertain about the goats)."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Tent campers appreciate the privacy and separation between campsites at many locations. A camper at Echo Valley noted, "I was a quarter mile from the next nearest site. Certainly a tent oriented campground, RVs would have a difficult time."
Dark skies for stargazing: The rural setting provides excellent night sky viewing. As one Gardner Family Farm visitor described, "Evenings at this farm are memorable. Dark skies with billions of stars. Enjoy a campfire, that's a must."
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, some sites maintain clean facilities. Annie C. reported about Roadman Roadside Park, "It is well maintained even if it is a bit older. The grass was mown and made for a nice bed for my tent."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting offers opportunities to observe local wildlife. Kerry M. mentions at Stoehr Fishing Area, "Enjoy the sound of pheasants and song birds in this area. It is not heavily wooded, but there are oaks, walnuts, and buckeye trees as well as a variety of aquatic plants."
What you should know
Limited duration stays: Some fishing areas restrict camping duration. At Stoehr Fishing Area, a reviewer notes, "Camping is free, but limited to 24 hours."
Fire restrictions: Campfire policies vary significantly between sites. Mitch reports about Stoehr Fishing Area, "small park with maybe one primitive tent site no fire pit 24 hour is the length you can stay."
Self-pay systems: Most tent camping locations near Cedar Falls operate on an honor system. At Echo Valley State Park Campground, Kerry M. mentions, "This campground is non-electric, self-pay, non-reservable, and has only a few sites."
Facility conditions: Bathroom facilities vary widely in condition. One camper at Chickasaw Park warned, "While the grounds are mowed that is about all that is done on the camping side of the river for maintenance. I won't walk into the pit style restrooms let alone use them."
Tips for camping with families
Check swimming safety: Some water areas have safety concerns. Chantal C. cautions about Chickasaw Park, "It is adjacent to an old quarry where swimming and fishing is currently allowed at your own risk. Due to multiple accidents and or deaths jumping/diving and cliff jumping is no longer allowed."
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer interesting historical features. Chantal C. shares, "If you're not afraid of ghosts, are respectful, and you follow the road ALL THE WAY BACK there is a very old cemetery (we found it foraging firewood) which we thought was very intriguing."
Local attractions: The area offers family-friendly destinations beyond the campgrounds. Kerry M. suggests, "Nearby West Union - The Barrel Drive-in Restaurant is a local favorite, but closed all winter."
Private options: For families wanting more amenities, private farms provide alternatives to public sites. A Gardner Family Farm visitor mentioned, "Primitive and private. Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Close to Field of Dreams movie site, Backbone State Park, Frank Lloyd's Cedar Rock, and Hazleton Amish community."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas near Cedar Falls cannot accommodate larger RVs. About Echo Valley, Kerry M. advises, "It is most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping... large RVs would not do well."
Parking considerations: At some sites, RVs must use designated areas. Annie C. notes about Roadman Roadside Park, "There are no hookups of any kind for RVs and I'm not really sure you can have an RV anywhere but in the gravel parking lot."
Stream crossings: Some campgrounds have water features that might challenge RVs. Kerry describes Echo Valley: "Ford a shallow stream (on a paved slab, easy for any car) and the campsites are up the hill."
