Best Camping near Donnellson, IA

Join the fun near Donnellson. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Donnellson campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Donnellson. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Donnellson, IA (87)

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Showing results 1-10 of 87 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Donnellson

181 Reviews of 87 Donnellson Campgrounds


  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Wilson Lake Park
    Dec. 9, 2024

    Wilson Lake Park

    Nice campground

    I didn't stay here as it was winter. The campground is nice with cement pads as well as primitive campsites and cabins.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lee County Pollmiller Park
    Dec. 9, 2024

    Lee County Pollmiller Park

    Nice campground

    I didn't stay here, just visited. Campground had all amenities you would expect with a beach, cabins, all on a small lake. Close to town for any camping needs.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Louisa County Fairgrounds
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Louisa County Fairgrounds

    Typical Fairground Camping

    A small number of electrical sites was all that I saw. I'm sure there are bathrooms somewhere in one of the fairground buildings, but I didn't see any signage for them.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Virginia Grove Rec Area
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Virginia Grove Rec Area

    Small and quaint

    This is a small campground with electric camper spots. I didn't see any dump station. It features a playground and has vault toilets. There is a walking trail that leads to a lake with ducks. Online only reservations.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Hollow Recreation Area
    Nov. 18, 2024

    Big Hollow Recreation Area

    Full Featured Camping

    This site has a large number of mostly cement camper spots, including pull through. There is a large playground and shower house. Primitive camping for single or group spots. Campgrounds also include a shooting range, beach, equestrian trails, canoe rentals, and launch, and I saw a sign for primitive cabins, though I didn't have time to check those out. This is the .most full service camp site that I have seen in Iowa so far.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Hollow Recreation Area
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Big Hollow Recreation Area

    Really excellent campground

    Lots of cement camping pads, playground, and shower house. Primitive single and group camping sites. Canoe rental and shooting range.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Welter Recreation Area
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Welter Recreation Area

    Primitive Campsite

    This campsite appears to not be well maintained it may even be closed. There is no electricity and one vault toilet. Weeds are overgrown, and fallen trees have not been cleared. However, it has a wonderful view of the river and is directly on the banks. Because there are fallen trees, firewood is plentiful :).

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Augusta Skunk River Access
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Lower Augusta Skunk River Access

    Great campsite

    Campsite is directly next to the river. Most sites have power but there are a few tent sits as well (those are right on the river). We'll maintained vault toilets. Site has a shared spicket.

  • Stuart O.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Nauvoo State Park Campground
    Nov. 13, 2024

    Nauvoo State Park Campground

    Late season option

    We stayed in mid-November when a lot of places are closed. They had electricity and the dump station was operating, but the water hookups were shut off and the bath house was closed for the winter. Water was available at a hydrant across from the bath house, but lacked a garden hose thread, so you could only fill water jugs. The roads are very narrow and in need of repair. Fee was $18.

  • Coty G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Keithsburg Riverside Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Keithsburg Riverside Campground

    Great river view

    Nice campground, we have camped there on several occasions. Tent, pop up, and travel trailer. Shower house is a little bit of a walk but not terrible. Bout a 3 block walk to several bars/restaurant a caseys gas station. Everyone was friendly. Would recommend.

  • Coty G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Sturgeon Bay Park and Campground
    Oct. 14, 2024

    Sturgeon Bay Park and Campground

    We Camp here almost every weekend

    Great place to camp especially if you have a boat or like to fish the Mississippi river. 2 blocks from a restaurant/tavern. City of New Boston has several different community events throught the year as well.

  • Rebecca W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Eldon Wildlife Management Area
    Sep. 27, 2024

    Eldon Wildlife Management Area

    Quiet and Secluded

    We drive to the end of Umber Ave and found two spots perfect for camping. We chose the one nestled next to the corn field. Perfect dispersed camp site with no road noise or visitors.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Updog RV & Camping
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Updog RV & Camping

    TERRIBLE

    Worst place I have stayed in my 6 years of traveling as an RN. Yes, they had shade.  Made cell service very hard to receive. ONLY other thing they has was geese and fishing.  No picnic table, no firepits. I had a 30amp space. With slide out on each side, and not superslides either, I had EXACTLY 1 foot left on each side of my slides. I could not put out my awning as it would hit the camper next to me. No zero space behind camper as it went to a steep slope from my spare wheel. If I walked behind camper, I had to hang on to spare wheel or fall down the slope. Barely enough room in from of camper to park pickup at an angle.  I have never seen anything like this place before.  And hope I never do.  Pictures you see of campground are SO VERY MUCH deceiving !!!!!. I rate it a one star only because it will not allow me to go any lower.

  • Fred S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Langwood Education Center
    Sep. 5, 2024

    Langwood Education Center

    Great place!

    Langwood Education Center looks like a great spot for a weekend camping trip, especially if you’re into outdoor education. If you’re planning to camp there with kids, it could be a fun way to blend learning and adventure. Plus, it’s close enough to larger cities, making it convenient for a quick getaway. I’ve been planning something similar but also juggling a lot of writing assignments lately. For those who need help with academic papers or essays while on the go, https://99papers.com/essay-writing/ has been a great resource. They’ve saved me a lot of time when I’ve had deadlines looming. Anyway, has anyone visited recently and can share tips on the best trails or activities for families?

  • Chunk S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Showme Campsites
    Aug. 11, 2024

    Lake Showme Campsites

    Nice spot, lots of activity

    Great spot, $20 for RVs and campers. Free if primitive camping. All spots have power and water. Waste and sewage dump can be found on campgrounds. One showering station on grounds. Bathrooms within walking distance. Even have a pistol and rifle range. Bathrooms could be cleaned more, but only complaint.

  • Frank H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hickory Haven Campground
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hickory Haven Campground

    Great Tent Camping

    Level grass tent sites. Shade of trees. Electric outlets at sites. Water accessible. Bath house kept very clean. Plenty of hot water for showers. Picnic table & fire ring at site. Economical. Laundry. Ice bags available. Picnic shelter with sides, 3 picnic tables, small mini fridge, electric lights & outlets, ceiling fan, portable fan, water and deep sink available for campers to use.

  • Jim C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Updog RV & Camping
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Updog RV & Camping

    Great small park⁰

    Very nice park small but great the way I like them. The bath house looks like my bath room at home. Next time in Mount Pleasant will stop again.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Driftwood Campground & RV Park
    Jun. 18, 2024

    Driftwood Campground & RV Park

    Nice family owned csmpground

    At one time this campground was a KOA campground so if you are familiar with KOA, you know the basic layout. We stayed here in our tent and while the tent area was closed for receding new grass the owner let us stay in a grassy area under the trees near the office. It was a great stsy and the restrooms and pool were nice and clean. We enjoyed ourselves and cooled off in the hot weather.

  • Rayn C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Spring Lake Park - Macomb
    Jun. 17, 2024

    Spring Lake Park - Macomb

    Just lovely so spacious and clean. Gorgeous view of lake from cabins.

    Friendly staff. Kayak and Pontoon to rent. Trails go all over the entire park! Clean showering facilities. Our furnished cabin faced the lake it was an incredible view.  We had fun fishing and sitting by the campfire in the evenings. Overall definitely worth the 5 stars!!!! Thanks Ryan and all of the staff out there! We will revisit soon.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from brinton timbers park
    May. 31, 2024

    brinton timbers park

    Great park no showers though

    I stayed at the main site that google maps took me to. Three spots but the park is big there might be more sites around it. It is near skunk river I only stayed there for a night but where I was to get to the river you have to hike or bike to it. I’ve heard you can ride horses here. They have fire rings, picnic tables, and a bathroom that’s deep and composting. No sinks or showers. Bugs were wild at night but it is summer. No one disturbed us and it was free the best park of it all. Hoping to make it back there to go through the trails. I believe you can hike and camp too in the area.

  • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lacey-Keosauqua State Park
    May. 16, 2024

    Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

    Beautiful park

    Nice drive in gorgeous country. 23$ site without water 28 w/ water 35 full hookups. Decent showers nice playground for kids lakeside spots as well. The host sells firewood and 2 sizes of ice. Cheap too. Walking trails nearby.

  • Amanda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest
    May. 12, 2024

    Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest

    Peaceful Paradise

    Nice little campground in Iowa. We stayed for three nights, there's vault toilets, and the fire rings are tiered and really nice. It's wooded and tucked away. There's a lot of nice little trails and a couple lakes. There's a $10 a night fee on the honor system so I would not consider it free. We would come back.



Guide to Donnellson

Camping near Donnellson, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled family adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: Many campers enjoy fishing and boating at Lake Darling State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The lake area offers great fishing and there are boat rentals available." Another camper noted, "We went out for a fishing day; the boat launch was very nice and the entire lake was very clean."

  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Siloam Springs State Park Campground. A reviewer shared, "The trails are pretty well marked and are best in mid/late fall or early spring." Another camper added, "There are lots to explore in the park. Excellent hiking trails."

  • Swimming: Enjoy a refreshing swim at Wakonda Lake Campground. One camper said, "Nice lakes plus swimming and boating facilities."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Hickory Haven Campground remarked, "The bathrooms and laundry were very clean." Another camper at Lake Wapello State Park Campground said, "Spacious campground with clean facilities."
  • Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A camper at Crossroads RV Park noted, "Very nice personnel and clean, updated facilities." Another visitor at Illinois Spring Lake Park mentioned, "The host is very friendly and seems like he’s been the host there for years."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. A reviewer at Boulder Lake Campground said, "Quiet campsite. Easy access and gorgeous stars at night."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Big Oaks Campground mentioned, "No internet service but real nice property."
  • Crowded in Summer: Popular spots can get busy during peak season. A camper at Wakonda Lake Campground noted, "During the summer it’s always full and kids running around."
  • Wildlife: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. A camper at Lake Darling State Park Campground shared, "The lake area offers great fishing and there are boat rentals available."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds for kids. A visitor at Siloam Springs State Park Campground mentioned, "There’s a playground and boat access and swimming."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with large sites for family gatherings. A camper at Illinois Spring Lake Park said, "Most occupants are semi-annual residents, but there are still several nice, quiet, shady spots to be found."
  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds that offer activities. A reviewer at Lake Wapello State Park Campground noted, "Boat rentals were a blast and added bonus."

Tips from RVers:

  • Full Hookups: Check for campgrounds with full hookups. A visitor at Hickory Haven Campground mentioned, "Full hookups, hiking wooded trails, nice pond for fishing."
  • Quiet Locations: Some RVers prefer quieter spots. A camper at Crossroads RV Park said, "Good clean campground. Easy access. Very clean bathrooms and showers."
  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites for easier setup. A reviewer at Boulder Lake Campground noted, "The tent part is a loop with sites in the middle having the best trees for hammocks."

Camping near Donnellson, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking peace and quiet.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Donnellson, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Donnellson, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 87 campgrounds and RV parks near Donnellson, IA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Donnellson, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Donnellson, IA is Nauvoo State Park Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Donnellson, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Donnellson, IA.

  • What parks are near Donnellson, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Donnellson, IA that allow camping, notably Mississippi River - Pools 11-22 and Rathbun Lake.