Best Tent Camping near Cedar Rapids, IA

Tent camping options around Cedar Rapids, Iowa include several nature-focused sites within short driving distance of the city. Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite offers a hike-in tent area with fires allowed and picnic tables, while Macbride Nature Recreation Area features walk-in tent sites with basic amenities in a natural setting. Wakpicada Natural Area provides year-round tent camping with drive-in and walk-in access options.

Most tent sites in the Cedar Rapids region require campers to pack in their own water and supplies. Wickiup Hill provides fire rings with grates and nearby restrooms, but maintains its primitive character. Several campgrounds like Gardner Family Farm offer drinking water and showers, though most tent-specific areas have minimal facilities. Wakpicada Natural Area includes picnic tables, fire rings and trash service but no toilets or running water. Sites are typically set on natural, ungraded surfaces under tree cover, with varying levels of privacy between locations.

Tent campers in the Cedar Rapids area particularly value the natural settings and water access available at many sites. The Wapsipinicon River flows near several primitive tent campgrounds, offering fishing and paddling opportunities. Walking trails connect many tent sites to surrounding forests and prairie areas, allowing for nature exploration directly from camp. Sites vary from open meadows to densely wooded areas, providing options for different camping preferences. A visitor commented that "Wakpicada Natural Area has good tree cover with campsites right next to the pond, making it a hidden gem with good bass and panfish fishing."

Best Tent Sites Near Cedar Rapids, Iowa (27)

    1. Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Toddville, IA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 892-6485

    $54 / night

    "The site offers primitive amenities near Wikiup Hill learning Center. Taking a short trail to the site, the permanent wake up offers shelter, fire ring with grate, and restrooms nearby."

    "Linn County, Iowa, county pack in Primitive site is near nature scape, pit toilets, offers fire pit with sitting blocks and firewood included with camp fee, nature center just yards away, trails, forested"

    2. Macbride Nature Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Coralville Lake, IA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 624-3205

    "My son and I tent-camped at Macbride Nature Recreation Area (not nearby Lake Macbride State Park) several times circa 2005. Always a good time."

    3. Wakpicada Natural Area

    1 Review
    Central City, IA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 438-6616

    "Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun anyway. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren’t right next to each other."

    4. Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay

    2 Reviews
    Independence, IA
    27 miles
    Website

    $24 - $45 / night

    "Primitive and private.  Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing. "

    "The farm was cute and a wonderful place to get outside and be in nature. The hosts were very accommodating and professional! We will definitely be returning, 10 stars!"

    5. Cedar River Campground

    10 Reviews
    West Liberty, IA
    35 miles
    Website
    +1 (563) 946-2431

    $35 - $50 / night

    "Convenient location a lot of amenities and activities"

    6. Winter Camp at Walking Stick Adventures Farm

    1 Review
    Williamsburg, IA
    30 miles
    Website

    $25 / night

    "We're so happy to have this property on our platform. Set up camp anywhere and relax under the stars. Come check them out and leave a review."

    7. #JTRidge Sites/Clothing Optional

    1 Review
    Wyoming, IA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 350-3881

    $20 - $45 / night

    "Jungletown Ridge is perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights int he woods. Check them out and share some pics from your stay!"

    8. River Junction

    1 Review
    Riverside, IA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 645-2315

    "24 years ago River Jct Lone Tree Iowa was Just stumptown. Outhouse at the top. Just a spot by the river. A lone camper. How things have changed . Still primitive tent campgrounds there."

    9. Troy Mills Wapsi Access

    Be the first to review!
    Central City, IA
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (319) 636-2617

    10. Koch's Meadow Lake Campground

    1 Review
    West Liberty, IA
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (515) 850-9298

    "This CG is a full service CG for RVs with community buildings, gravel road lanes, pet friendly, and lake access for fishing, paddling and swimming."

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Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Cedar Rapids, IA

417 Reviews of 27 Cedar Rapids Campgrounds



Guide to Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful escape into nature. With well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, campers can enjoy beautiful landscapes and a range of amenities.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Wakpicada Natural Area, campers can enjoy sites with good tree cover and proximity to a pond, making it a great spot for fishing and relaxation.
  • Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite features fire pits with sitting blocks and includes firewood with the camping fee, perfect for cozy evenings around the fire.
  • For those seeking a unique experience, Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay offers a welcoming atmosphere with amenities like drinking water and showers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Local activities for outdoor enthusiasts

Tent campers should check out unique features

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cedar Rapids, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cedar Rapids, IA is Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Cedar Rapids, IA?

TheDyrt.com has all 27 tent camping locations near Cedar Rapids, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.