Best Tent Camping near Des Moines, IA
Tent campsites near Des Moines, Iowa offer a mix of county parks and conservation areas with varying amenities and natural settings. Colfax Quarry Springs Park and Ashton Wildwood Park provide established tent camping areas within a reasonable drive from the city, with most sites featuring fire rings and picnic tables. Several locations offer walk-in tent sites for those seeking a more secluded experience away from RVs and developed campgrounds.
Most tent campgrounds in the region have basic amenities including pit toilets or portable facilities, though running water is limited at many locations. Ashton Wildwood Park features spacious wooded sites for $7 per night but lacks water hookups, requiring campers to bring their own supply. Kuehn Conservation Area offers primitive tent sites along the Raccoon River with access to hiking trails, though these walk-in tent sites require carrying gear from parking areas. Campers should check seasonal availability as some parks have limited access during winter months or may close temporarily for maintenance.
The tent camping experience near Des Moines provides opportunities for nature immersion and outdoor recreation. Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers tent sites with good fishing access and relatively quiet surroundings despite some highway noise. The sandy terrain at this former quarry creates distinctive camping conditions compared to other regional options. Ashton Wildwood Park provides secluded tent camping with spacious sites tucked into wooded areas, offering a more natural setting. A review on The Dyrt noted, "Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious," highlighting the park's appeal for tent campers seeking privacy. Several locations feature hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and wildlife viewing areas within walking distance of tent camping areas.