Primitive camping opportunities abound within 20 miles of Monticello, Iowa, with sites situated among wooded hills and riverside locations. The region features a mix of county-managed areas and wildlife preserves where campers can experience the natural landscape of eastern Iowa. Many sites offer seasonal accessibility from April through October, though some primitive areas remain open year-round for cold-weather camping enthusiasts.
What to do
Fishing at local ponds: Wakpicada Natural Area offers excellent fishing opportunities in its pond. "Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other. I consider it a little hidden gem," notes Parker H. about Wakpicada Natural Area.
River paddling: The Maquoketa River provides water recreation near several camping areas. Joinerville County Park offers river access with a hard surface entry point. According to James M., Joinerville County Park is a "small wooded County CG along Maquoketa River" where "Maquoketa River access has hard surface access entry."
Astronomy and night sky viewing: Rural locations offer excellent stargazing opportunities. Gardner Family Farm provides exceptional dark sky conditions. One visitor reports, "Evenings at this farm are memorable. Dark skies with billions of stars. Enjoy a campfire, that's a must," making Gardner Family Farm an excellent choice for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing between sites at several locations. Parker H. mentions that Wakpicada Natural Area has "quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other," providing a more secluded camping experience.
Swimming opportunities: Some sites offer swimming options beyond just fishing. At Gardner Family Farm, visitors can enjoy the pond for multiple activities. A camper notes, "Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing."
Easy river access: Several campgrounds provide convenient water access. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area offers multiple entry options, as James M. explains: "Two parking sites to hike in or access by river. Site is along river, has table, fire ring, latrine."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some sites require advance planning. Joinerville County Park requires specific permission for camping. According to a review, the "CG is day use year-round though primitive camping is by approved permit application 1 month in advance of stay."
Limited facilities: Most primitive sites have minimal amenities. As James M. notes about Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area, visitors should "Pack in, pack out and Leave No Trace."
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping comfort. Jungletown Ridge provides good tree cover and space from others. Jake C. recommends it as "perfect for those looking to get some space from others and enjoy some quiet nights in the woods."
Tips for camping with families
Nature education programs: Take advantage of environmental learning opportunities. The Wapsi River Environmental Education Center offers educational experiences alongside camping. James M. describes it as having "education center onsite with live animals, trails, open year round, Wapsipinicon River below bluff offers paddling, fishing."
Playground access: Some sites include play areas for children. Wickiup Hill Primitive Campsite combines primitive camping with family-friendly features. James M. notes, "Along the trail into the site, you will find a large play area for families."
Private campsite options: For families seeking seclusion, certain sites offer more privacy. The Worthington Sportsman's Club provides secluded camping. One camper, Becky, shares: "I cannot say enough great things about the Worthington Sportsman's Club! The camping is great! So secluded without being in the middle of nowhere. People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most primitive sites near Monticello accommodate tents better than RVs. Hunters Cedar River Campground is one exception that welcomes larger vehicles. Steve T. explains, "Sites are really close if you're a tent camper but it is good as far as RV parks are concerned."
Activities beyond nature: RV-friendly sites often include additional amenities. Cedar River Campground offers diverse recreation options. Jenny notes, "They had a great fireworks display for the fourth. Spots are tighter than what we prefer, but will be back again."
Highway proximity considerations: Some RV sites have traffic noise. Jackie J. shares about Cedar River Campground: "It is right off the highway, so it was loud when we were outside, but we couldn't hear it at all when we were in our Tab 400."
