Tent camping around Cumming, Iowa offers several secluded options within Iowa's rolling hills. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 800-1,000 feet above sea level, with the terrain featuring a mix of prairie and wooded areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with higher humidity levels from June through August making spring and fall popular camping seasons.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides excellent water access for both activities. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing," notes a visitor. The park features two kayak launch points and restricts watercraft to electric motors only, creating a peaceful environment for anglers and paddlers.
Observatory stargazing: Ashton Wildwood Park offers weekend astronomy programs. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable," shares one camper. The observatory includes telescopes, a classroom, and guided night sky viewing.
Orienteering course: Explore the marked orienteering course at Ashton Wildwood Park. "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it," explains a reviewer. This self-guided navigation activity requires no special equipment and provides a challenging way to explore the park's natural features.
Butterfly garden visits: Mariposa Recreation Area features a dedicated butterfly garden ideal for nature photography. "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," notes a visitor. Peak butterfly activity occurs from late spring through early fall, with greatest species diversity in July and August.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded campsites: Ashton Wildwood Park offers large, private sites. "Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night!" reports one regular visitor. The campground layout maximizes privacy between sites while still providing enough space for multiple tents.
Well-maintained facilities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park receives praise for its upkeep. "Very nicely kept... clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites," shares one camper. The park added new shower facilities that receive positive reviews for cleanliness.
Affordability: Most campgrounds in the area maintain reasonable rates. "I love this little 1st come first camp county park!" writes a visitor about Otter Creek Park, highlighting its value. Basic tent sites throughout the region typically range from $7-15 per night, with most closer to the lower end.
Quiet atmosphere: Kuehn Conservation Area provides a peaceful riverside setting. "Nice quite sites along the Raccoon River," notes a camper. The conservation area limits noise with strictly enforced quiet hours and prohibits motorized watercraft on certain sections of the river.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds have limited or no water access. "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water," cautions an Ashton Wildwood Park visitor. While some parks have spigots near administrative buildings, tent campers should plan to bring 1-2 gallons per person per day.
Terrain considerations: Former quarry sites have sandy ground. "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," advises a Colfax Quarry Springs visitor. Sand stakes for tents may be necessary at certain locations, and rain can affect site conditions.
Reservation systems: Policies differ between campgrounds. Some operate on first-come, first-served basis while others accept advance bookings. Kuehn Conservation Area requires calling ahead for riverside sites but maintains an open policy for standard camping areas.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have confusing access routes. "Definitely follow the directions on Dyrt, google took us on a winding gravel road that led to the same place," reports an Ashton Wildwood camper. Many secondary roads in this region remain unpaved, affecting arrival times and vehicle suitability.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mariposa Recreation Area offers play equipment near camping areas. "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," notes a visitor. The recreation area's playgrounds provide a designated activity space within view of many campsites.
Swimming restrictions: Safety rules limit water activities at some locations. "No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas," explains a camper about Colfax Quarry Springs Park. Parents should research alternative swimming options if this activity is important for family trips.
Toilet facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic restrooms. "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing... Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower," explains an Ashton Wildwood Park visitor. Families with young children should prepare for pit toilets at most locations.
Multi-tent sites: Several campgrounds accommodate family groups. "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents," notes a camper about Ashton Wildwood Park. These larger sites allow families to create communal camping arrangements while maintaining proximity.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Cumming prioritize tent camping. "The campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs. Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy," reports a visitor to Twin Anchors Campground. RVers should call ahead to confirm site dimensions and available amenities.
Electric-only options: Several parks provide electric hookups without full services. Many conservation areas limit electrical access to specific sections of the campground, with 30-amp service being most common. Water and sewer connections remain rare throughout the region.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management in advance. Twin Anchors Campground provides sanitary dump facilities, though capacity may be limited during peak periods. RVers staying at conservation areas typically need to utilize public dump stations in nearby towns.
Leveling requirements: Terrain throughout the region presents challenges. "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," notes a camper at Colfax Quarry Springs Park. RVers should bring adequate leveling equipment as many sites feature slight to moderate grades.
