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Best Tent Camping near Cedar Rapids, IA

424 Reviews

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."

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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

    11 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

    2 Reviews
    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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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Cedar Rapids, IA

15 Photos of 27 Cedar Rapids Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Cedar Rapids, IA

424 Reviews of 27 Cedar Rapids Campgrounds

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 16, 2022

    Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area

    Unique County wildlife site along Maquoketa River

    Unique hike or paddle primitive site. Native forbs and wildlife surrounding the area. Two parking sites to hike in or access by river. Site is along river, has table, fire ring, latrine. Pack in, pack out and Leave No Trace.

  • C
    Jun. 6, 2018

    Matsell Bridge Natural Area

    Nice little inexpensive primitive site... spaces almost always available

    Nice quiet little primitive campground next to the Wapsipinicon River. Unfortunately, when I was there the last weekend of May, the gnats were bad, and the mosquitoes were just starting to gear up. HOWEVER, take bug spray and enjoy the rustic peacefulness of this "best kept secret" for primitive and inexpensive camping sites. Beautiful location, ranger close by, wood for sale just across the bridge, fire pits and picnic tables at every site. Good for RV, trailer or tent camping… level ground and lots of shade. Primitive bathrooms, no showers or running water.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2022

    Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area, Primitive Tent Camp

    Neat Primitive Tent CG along water

    The camp is walking only, with few tables and fire rings. Firewood available t main cg all ng with water and showers there too. Sites are spread along a waterway within bottom land woodlands with water access for fishing, paddling etc. Parking is within 100 yards so must pack in/out, use Leave No Trace ethics.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2024

    Lime Creek Park

    Nice campground with a Quirk

    The pros: $10 fee ($15 electric), campground seems well maintained (grass is mown, security light works, tables in good repair, gravel access road in good shape, etc); no one here but us, the sound of the running Creek is soothing, vault toilet is probably the cleanest I've seen; ATT cell service was 3bars 5G The unusual: no specific site, no specific place to pull into, no site numbers or designation except on the electric pedestals. It's all grass. Pull onto the grass near the table or electric pedestal you want. The cons: highway traffic noise is easily heard and doesn't seem to stop for more than a few seconds (though the crickets/bug sounds and the creek sound is sometimes louder so you hear that instead), dust from vehicles passing on nearby dirt road filters thru the trees (due to dry weather?), and, well, it is, after all, a vault toilet-not my fav,

  • Jessica H.
    Jul. 11, 2018

    Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area - Main Camping

    Ranger Review: VivoBarefoot Primus Trail SG Womens at Saulsbury Bridge

    Campground Review:

    Saulsbury Bridge Recreation Area is 675 acres, nestled between rolling fields of corn, dairy farms, native prairie, and the Cedar River. Located in Muscatine County in southeast Iowa, this rec area offers well-maintained campgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, kayaking/canoeing and seasonal hunting.

    There are three separate campgrounds. The main campground has electrical hookups, picnic benches, fire rings, modern restroom facilities including showers, a dump station, playground, and firewood for purchase. There are 24 sites, and they run $20 per night.

    The primitive campground area sits along Chicken Creek and offers four, tent-only sites, and is just off the main campground. The sites are well spaced and surrounded by large trees. These are walk in sites with parking in the main campground. It’s a short hike in from the parking area, and within walking distance of the restrooms and firewood. Primitive sites are $10 per night.

    Across the road from these two campgrounds is the main boat access and fishing dock for Chicken Creek. Only non-motorized boats are allowed here. If you don’t have your own, you can rent kayaks and canoes through the Muscatine County Conservation office. There is also a large shelter, which is reservable along with day use picnic areas, playgrounds, a sand volleyball court, and vault toilets. There’s large, open expanses of grassy fields and oak shade trees; perfect for relaxing on a hot summer day.

    The river campground sits right along the Cedar River and allows easy access to fishing along with a boat ramp. This campground is a short hike to the old Saulsbury Bridge and Lodge. The bridge has a small gazebo-like structure and bench which provides a nice view of the river. There are vault toilets in this campground, but the modern restrooms are within walking distance as well. There are 10 sites in this campground and run $17 per night.

    All campsites are self-registration and are on a first come, first served basis. There is a campground host on duty in the main campground and the park officer lives on site. Dogs are allowed, but must be on leash in the campgrounds and on trails. However, they are allowed to run in the designated hunting areas. These areas are marked with signs. If you plan to hike during hunting season, it’s a good idea to wear bright colors/blaze orange so you are visible to hunters and not mistaken for a deer or other wildlife.

    This park also has prairie/natural habitat restoration areas that, in spring and summer, attract Monarch butterflies, and an abundance of birds including indigo bunting, red headed woodpecker, and goldfinch. In the colder months you can spot bald eagles flying along the river. There are also deer, wild turkey, and pheasants. While there, we walked around the campground areas that were open and over to the day use area along Chicken Creek to roast marshmallows. We hiked the short distance out to the Saulsbury Bridge to watch the Cedar River flow by and caught a beautiful sunset.

    The one downfall to this park is the possibility for flooding. When the Cedar River is high, it pushes Chicken Creek out of its banks which can mean potential closure of campgrounds.

    A call ahead to the conservation office to check on closures is a good idea. We had hoped to camp at a primitive site, but learned the trail leading into the campground was under water, which also meant the river campground was closed as well. Though there was some water over the road in the main campground, it was minimal and we were able to choose an electrical site. We opted to car camp as we were only staying one night. Only about a third of the campground was filled and we had no one on either side of us which meant for a more quiet camping experience.

    This is one of my favorite local areas to hike and camp that’s close to home. It offers a full picture of Iowa’s varied landscapes and outdoor activity opportunities.

    Product Review:

    As a Ranger for The Dyrt, I get products to test from time to time. On this camping trip, I tried out VivoBarefoot Primus Trail SG Womens sneakers. VivoBarefoot’s goal is to provide an environment that allows the feet to remain in their natural state while providing a protective shoe. https://www.vivobarefoot.com/us/womens/off-road/primus-trail-sg-womens?colour=Olive

    1. Anytime I purchase a new pair of shoes, whether for daily use or outdoor recreation, I make sure to break them in as much as possible as I’m prone to blisters. I did wear the Primus around the house a few times and on my daily walks before taking them camping. Though they have a snug fit, they’re not uncomfortable. They also include a pair of removable inserts and extra laces. The laces are adjustable which allowed me to either loosen or tighten the shoe. Bonus; no socks needed. As someone who would opt to wear sandals year round if possible, I liked the fact I didn’t have to put an extra layer on my feet.
    2. The timing couldn’t have been better for testing out these sneakers; Saulsbury was experiencing minor flooding while we were there. Not only do they have rugged soles for gripping in wet and rocky terrain, the mesh material allows for quick drying if they do get wet, and provided easy clean up of mud and other debris.
    3. Honestly, I was really pleased with the fact that many of the women’s shoes came in neutral and earth tone colors (I absolutely checked out other shoe options on their website). While I don’t mind the brighter colors that seem to be the trend for women’s trail runners, I really prefer something a little more low key.
    4. One of the best things about these shoes was the ease of slipping them on and off, say in the middle of the night when nature called.
    5. All in all, I feel this shoe is a good match for the outdoor activities I enjoy; camping, hiking, bicycling, and kayaking. I’m looking forward to seeing how they hold up while hiking in the mountains out West this summer.
  • Emma N.
    Sep. 25, 2017

    Sugar Bottom Campground

    Boats and Beautiful Views

    Our one-night stay at the Sugar Bottom- Coralville Lake Campground was terrific! My husband and I stopped there during our cross-country road trip. We arrived around 7:30pm on a Sunday in September and easily got a spot. The lady at the entrance station was incredibly kind and answered all of our questions.

    The campground is very well marked, with easily visible site number labels. Each site is in a grassy area with a picnic table and fire ring with a grate. Our site had a tree or two that provided some shade, but some other sites were a but more shaded.

    We ended up staying in site #103, which is right by the water. What a beautiful view we had! Our campsite was very close to a boat dock, a sand volleyball court, and a sandy beach. We didn't have a chance to swim at the beach, but it looked really nice! It had a large, designated swimming area that was marked with floating ropes. We were also located close to a building with restrooms. Each restroom had a clean, hot shower. The showers were free, which was a plus!

    In my opinion, this is definitely a 5-star campground. I can't wait to come back!

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 30, 2025

    New Wine Park Dubuque County Park

    Nice small county park campground

    General: This is a small (29-site) county park campground situated along the North Fork Maquoketa River. Nine of the sites are reservable, and the rest are first-come, first-served. Some sites are primitive, and some have water and 30-amp electricity hookups. There is one ADA-accessible site with a paved camper pad. 

    Site Quality: Most sites are level. The camper pads are gravel/grass, but not all are clearly defined. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring. 

    Bath/Shower: The bath/shower house was closed when we were there in November but there are vault toilets about a quarter mile from the campground (in the day-use area) that were very clean and well-stocked when we were there. 

    Activities/Amenities: Many activities including disc golf, three hiking trails, volleyball, two playgrounds (one in the day-use area and one by the campsites). There are two reservable picnic shelters. There is also a dump station. 

    We were tent camping in November on a backpacking trip so we didn’t take advantage of any of the activities but would return in our van on a future camping trip. We were the ONLY ones in the campground at this time of year!

  • Annie C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2019

    Fountain Springs County Park

    Solitude and not much else

    This campground also goes by the name of Holbert. Small campground but free with a handful of picnic tables and campfires. The vault toilets were cleanish, thou older. This campground is next to a pretty little creek that you can play and fish in. The campground is really just a series of campsites strung out along the creek and road. It was pretty quiet while I was there, not many campers at all. There are no hookups for RV’s/campers so it is primarily tent camping or dry camping. There is an interesting story about how this camping area has come to be: the land was donated by Ella Ellis in memory of her husband William Ellis. They apparently loved the land and wanted to make sure it was never developed and could be enjoyed by all. A lovely story.

  • James M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2024

    Sherman Co Park

    Scenic County park along Wapsipinicon River

    The campground offers to camp areas: one better suited for RVs, and the other area is better suited for primitive tent, camping. Sites have picnic tables and fire rings, our recites include electric. There is a campground host, shower house, shelter and playground area there too. The tent sites are prone to flooding occasionally from the gun river. There is a boat ramp with access to the river for fishing and paddling.

Guide to Cedar Rapids

Tent camping near Cedar Rapids, Iowa ranges from primitive sites to more developed areas with basic amenities. Most locations are situated within county or natural resource areas with direct access to water features. During summer months, temperatures typically reach 80-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder camping conditions with temperatures between 50-70°F.

What to do

Water activities at River Junction: Camp near boat ramps for direct river access. "24 years ago River Junction Lone Tree Iowa was just stumptown. Outhouse at the top. Just a spot by the river," notes camper Susanjoy P., highlighting the area's longstanding appeal for paddling and fishing.

Explore walking trails: Macbride Nature Recreation Area connects campers to forest paths and wildlife viewing. "You can walk through the forest to get to the injured raptor center with outdoor aviaries," writes Jacob W., who tent-camped there multiple times.

Recreational amenities: Some private campgrounds offer additional activities beyond natural settings. "They have mini-golf, a nice pool and a creative rugged play area for the kids," explains Jackie J. about her stay at Cedar River Campground, noting these features provide alternatives during extreme weather.

What campers like

Private camping areas: Several sites provide secluded options with varying levels of isolation. "Jungletown Ridge is perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights in the woods," according to reviewer Jake C.

Natural water features: Gardner Family Farm provides pond access for multiple activities. "Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing," recommends Alissa G., highlighting the recreational water opportunities.

Dark skies for stargazing: Rural Cedar Rapids camping areas offer minimal light pollution. "Evenings at this farm are memorable. Dark skies with billions of stars. Enjoy a campfire, that's a must," notes a camper about their experience at Gardner Family Farm.

What you should know

Site selection challenges: First-time visitors may encounter difficulties locating proper camping areas, especially after dark. "The signage didn't clarify this and we couldn't see the marked sites when it was dark!" reports Emily B. about River Junction, emphasizing the importance of arriving during daylight hours.

Wildlife encounters: Prepare for insects during summer camping. "Let me tell you. The spiders were everywhere when I woke up," warns Matthew M. about Macbride Nature Recreation Area, suggesting bug spray and proper tent setup.

Reservation systems: Some campgrounds have unique booking processes. "If you can tolerate the odd way to reserve a spot here it's 100% worth it. Small quiet and secluded," advises Matthew M. about Macbride Nature Recreation Area.

Tips for camping with families

Choose sites with amenities: Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite provides family-friendly facilities despite its primitive designation. "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. Along the trail into the site, you will find a large play area for families," writes James M.

Consider proximity to attractions: Some camping areas provide access to educational facilities. "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 areas, ADA platform for tent," notes James M.

Evaluate site spacing: For family privacy, check how close sites are positioned. "The marked sites were pretty close together and they offered no privacy between groups," cautions Emily B. about River Junction, suggesting families may want to research site layouts before booking.

Tips from RVers

Full hookup options: Koch's Meadow Lake Campground provides necessary RV amenities with water recreation. "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," according to James M., highlighting the dual benefits of developed facilities and natural settings.

Site leveling: Prepare for uneven terrain at some locations. "Sites are tighter than what we prefer, but will be back again," notes Jenny about Cedar River Campground, suggesting RVers bring leveling blocks and stabilizers.

Check seasonal availability: Most Cedar Rapids area campgrounds operate seasonally. Cedar River Campground runs from "April 15 to October 15" according to their listing information, with most other tent camping areas following similar seasonal patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tent camping sites in Cedar Rapids, Iowa?

Cedar Rapids offers several excellent tent camping options. Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite provides a serene experience with a short trail leading to campsites that feature shelter structures and fire rings. For water lovers, Wakpicada Natural Area offers pond-side camping with good tree cover and fishing opportunities. These sites aren't right next to each other, providing privacy while still maintaining accessibility. Both locations offer primitive camping experiences that connect you with nature while being conveniently located near Cedar Rapids.

How much do tent campsites cost in Cedar Rapids?

Tent camping costs in the Cedar Rapids area are quite affordable. River Junction charges approximately $10 per night for primitive tent sites with no electricity. County parks like Saulsbury Bridge Rec Area offer similar budget-friendly rates for their primitive walk-in sites. Most public campgrounds in the region charge between $10-20 per night for tent sites, with slightly higher rates for sites offering more amenities or during peak seasons. Always check official county websites for the most current pricing information.

What is the best season for tent camping around Cedar Rapids?

The best season for tent camping around Cedar Rapids is late spring through early fall (May-October), when temperatures are most comfortable. Summer can bring humidity, but sites like Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area offer shaded areas with native vegetation. Early fall is particularly beautiful as the foliage changes color. For those seeking a unique experience, Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay offers memorable evenings with dark skies and billions of stars, perfect for summer and early fall camping.

What amenities are available at Cedar Rapids tent camping sites?

Amenities at tent camping sites around Cedar Rapids vary from primitive to more developed. Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. offers a cabin with modern amenities including a full kitchen, AC/heat, and firewood at no cost, with trail access right outside. For those seeking primitive experiences, Macbride Nature Recreation Area provides basic tent sites in a natural setting. Most sites in the area feature fire rings and picnic tables, with varying access to restrooms, ranging from modern facilities to pit toilets. Water access for fishing and paddling is common, with some locations offering firewood on-site.

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