Tent camping opportunities near Clive, Iowa include several conservation areas and county parks within 30-50 miles of the city. Sites vary from riverfront locations to wooded settings and former quarries, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from April through October. Camping in this area typically costs between $7-15 per night for primitive sites, with weather conditions most favorable during late spring through early fall when temperatures average between 55-85°F.
What to do
Fishing access: Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing," notes Willy W., who adds that the park has "two places to launch kayaks" and prohibits gas motors.
Observatory visits: Ashton Wildwood Park features a unique astronomy center open on Saturday evenings. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable," reports Willy W., who appreciated the tour of the building and classroom.
Hiking trails: Multiple conservation areas offer hiking routes ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. At Mariposa Recreation Area, visitors can access "hiking trails and one that goes to a back pond. There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," according to reviewer Willy W.
Paddling: Several parks permit kayaking and canoeing on adjacent waterways. Kuehn Conservation Area provides river access for paddlers along the Raccoon River, with James M. noting the park offers "hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife, small Bear Creek nature center."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Ashton Wildwood Park receives consistent praise for the size of its camping areas. "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents," reports Topaz G., while Michael K. adds that the "camp spot was clean and well-maintained."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful environment at conservation areas around Clive. Chris C. describes Ashton Wildwood as a "quiet campground and big campsites. Lots of trees and nature."
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide opportunities to observe local fauna. Kuehn Conservation Area offers wildlife viewing along the Raccoon River, and Colfax Quarry Springs Park has "lots of hiking trails and wildlife," according to Willy W.
Water proximity: Some sites provide direct access to water features. "Campsite right on the water. Great fishing. Isolated campgrounds," notes Luke C. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park, highlighting the tent-focused nature of the park with "none of that RV B.S."
What you should know
Water availability: Most tent camping locations have limited potable water access. At Ashton Wildwood Park, Willy W. advises, "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," though notes that "bathrooms at the observatory had plumbing and were very clean."
Bathroom facilities: Restroom options vary significantly between parks. Christopher M. found that at Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "even the outhouses smelled good," while Jerry V. noted the "new restroom/shower facility was very nice and clean."
Registration requirements: Processes differ across locations. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, campsites cost "$10.00 registration. They have porta potties around," according to Willy W., who adds that "The quiet hours are at 10:30pm and they have a gate which is closed at sunset when the park closes for non campers."
Site conditions: The terrain affects the camping experience. Jerry V. reports that at Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some conservation areas include play equipment for children. At Mariposa Recreation Area, there is "a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore. There is also a shelter to have parties with picnic tables," notes Willy W.
Educational opportunities: Ashton Wildwood Park offers learning experiences through its observatory. "The astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom," writes Willy W.
Orienteering courses: Active families can enjoy navigation challenges. Willy W. mentions that Ashton Wildwood Park has "an orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it."
Local camping options: For families seeking quick getaways, some parks are accessible for residents. Deb K. says, "I live just 7 miles away, but I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping. There is some play equipment for children."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most conservation areas near Clive primarily accommodate tent camping with minimal RV services. At Twin Anchors Campground, Abby F. observes the "campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs," noting "this place feels more like a neighborhood verses camping in nature."
Site sharing: At busier times, some campgrounds require communal use of amenities. Abby F. warns that at Twin Anchors Campground, "Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy."
Noise considerations: Some locations may not enforce quiet hours effectively. Bill O. reported issues at Twin Anchors: "Its 1130 pm and we r camping by the playground and there's about 10 children at the playground with no adults. And there's about 5 golf carts running around."
Road access: Highway proximity affects the camping experience. Willy W. notes that at Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal."
