Best Camping near Drakesville, IA

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Drakesville. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Drakesville, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Drakesville, IA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Best Camping Sites Near Drakesville, Iowa (86)

    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Wapello State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Wapello State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Wapello State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Wapello State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Wapello State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Wapello State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA

    1. Lake Wapello State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    14 Photos
    35 Saves
    Drakesville, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA

    2. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

    8 Reviews
    18 Photos
    33 Saves
    Keosauqua, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun near Drakesville, IA

    3. Island View Campground — Lake Rathbun

    6 Reviews
    23 Photos
    29 Saves
    Moravia, Iowa

    Overview

    Island View Park is located on beautiful Rathbun Lake, just nine miles northwest of Centerville, Iowa and 8 miles southwest of Moravia.

    Recreation

    The 11,000-acre lake provides a variety of fishing opportunities for any angler: Crappie, channel catfish, walleye and largemouth bass are most common. The prevailing winds on Rathbun Lake, also known as Iowa's Ocean, make it one of the best sailing lakes in Iowa.

    Natural Features

    Rathbun Lake is situated in the gently rolling hills of the Chariton River Valley in southeast Iowa. The campground consists of open grassy areas dotted with trees. Bald eagles, white-tailed deer, Canada geese, wild turkey and other wildlife can be found at Rathbun Lake.

    Nearby Attractions

    The Rathbun Fish Hatchery is nearby, offering self-guided tours Monday through Friday year-round. Hundreds of thousands of catfish and walleye are produced here each year. Southern Iowa's only Off Highway Vehicle Park is just 20 minutes from the campground. It is located on the south bank of the South Fork Chariton River and encompasses nearly 125 acres in an abandoned rock quarry.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (641) 647-2464.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $22 - $230 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Ottumwa City Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Ottumwa City Park near Drakesville, IA

    4. Ottumwa City Park

    4 Reviews
    1 Photo
    1 Save
    Ottumwa, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek Resort near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek Resort near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek Resort near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek Resort near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek Resort near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek Resort near Drakesville, IA

    5. Honey Creek Resort

    6 Reviews
    31 Photos
    4 Saves
    Moravia, Iowa

    This recreation area is part of Rathbun Lake

    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 - $49 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA

    6. Eldon Wildlife Management Area

    2 Reviews
    10 Photos
    4 Saves
    Eldon, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Honey Creek State Park Campground near Drakesville, IA

    7. Honey Creek State Park Campground

    4 Reviews
    18 Photos
    25 Saves
    Moravia, Iowa

    This recreation area is part of Rathbun Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    8. Lake Fisher

    1 Review
    3 Saves
    Bloomfield, Iowa
    • Electric Hookups
    • RVs
    • Tents

    9. McGowen Rec Area

    1 Review
    2 Saves
    Bloomfield, Iowa

    Water and electric 30/50Amp 13 sites 8 pull through. 35-70 foot lenght in sites.
    Quiet hours : 10:00 PM / 6:00 AM. Carry out own trash, persons causing a disturbance will be removed. Pets must be leashed and cleaned up after. Restroom and shower facilities available. Dumpstation on site.

    Non electric tent sites

    Two cabins are available to rent, open floor plan with a seperate bathroom. Furnished kitchen and appliances. Heat and AC. Deposite required. Must be 21 years of age to rent. Smoking is prohibited inside the cabins. Pets are prohibioted inside the cabins. Linnens and towles are not provided. Revervations only by calling office.

    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Showers
    • Drinking Water

    $10 - $79 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Waubonsie Trail Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Waubonsie Trail Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Waubonsie Trail Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Waubonsie Trail Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Waubonsie Trail Park near Drakesville, IA
    Camper-submitted photo at Waubonsie Trail Park near Drakesville, IA

    10. Waubonsie Trail Park

    3 Reviews
    10 Photos
    5 Saves
    Cantril, Iowa
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
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Showing results 1-10 of 86 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Drakesville, IA

135 Reviews of 86 Drakesville Campgrounds


  • Rebecca W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Eldon Wildlife Management Area near Drakesville, IA
    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 at Updog RV & Camping near Drakesville, IA
    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.

  • Chunk S.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • Jim C.
    Camper-submitted photo at Updog RV & Camping near Drakesville, IA
    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.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2024

    Keokuk County Belva Deer Park

    Clean park warm showers

    $12 a night for primitive camping and you get nice warm showers by the main entrance and nice bathrooms by the main entrance. Stand-alone bathrooms throughout the park have the deep composting toilets that smell bad but whatever the ones up front are nice. Would recommend 10/10

  • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    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 at Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest near Drakesville, IA
    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.

  • Renee H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Howell Station near Drakesville, IA
    May. 7, 2024

    Howell Station

    Large spacious campground

    Well maintained campground with mature shade trees. Gravel sites, a little bit of leveling required. Poor Verizon cell signal, no internet signal. Not much natural privacy between sites, but sites were well spaced apart. Paved trail nice for biking and walking. Fishing nearby and the Dutch themed town of Pella is a short drive and a must see. Bathrooms and showers were nice, clean. Handicap camp site and bathhouse available. Firewood for sale at front gate. The potable water available at the dump station was clear and good for drinking. Dump station is easily accessible. Dumpsters were positioned around the campground. Staff was friendly. The night we stayed, there was a severe weather threat, and the staff, at the end of the night, had unlocked the storm shelters (utility area in the middle of the bathhouses) should the need arise. We ended up having to seek shelter because of a tornado warning.

  • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Bentonsport near Drakesville, IA
    May. 5, 2024

    Bentonsport

    17$ Bentonsport campground

    Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers,toilets,30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property. Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, a Indian artifact museum and gift shops. Historical walking bridge that is amazing. No wifi.. poor Internet although I did have one bar so could be worse .I have total by Verizon.

  • i
    Apr. 13, 2024

    Eagle Lodge RV Park

    Pretty decent spot, especially for a work traveler

    The owners we very nice. Campground is clean and all sites are full hookups

  • Marie M.
    Oct. 26, 2023

    Eveland Access

    Glendale Access

    20 bucks a day you submit your fill out sheet at the service area and drop it off in a drop box.

  • M
    Camper-submitted photo at Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake near Drakesville, IA
    Oct. 23, 2023

    Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake

    Beautiful fall camping site

    We really enjoyed our stay at site 4 in the woods. It was absolutely beautiful with the fall colors and leaves falling all around us. We also enjoyed the trails around our site and a pretty view of a pond a short walk away. Anna was very responsive and gave thorough directions for us. We would stay again.

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo at Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake near Drakesville, IA
    Oct. 8, 2023

    Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake

    We had a great time at this site:) …

    We had a great time at this site:) Anna was very responsive and helpful when we had questions. I would definitely recommend to others, and I would return again.

  • Claude R.
    Camper-submitted photo at Updog RV & Camping near Drakesville, IA
    Aug. 22, 2023

    Updog RV & Camping

    Serene

    Showever up after a 400 mile ride. Met the owner.  Very pleasant. 

    Showed me around n where I could pitch for the night. Right by the pond. Very clean, very quiet n would go all over again!

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Wallashuck near Drakesville, IA
    Jul. 19, 2023

    Wallashuck

    Convenience with some space

    We were able to camp in a tent near RVs without feeling crowded. The restrooms, showers, and playground were all close by…great for camping with kids. There were some nicer than ours and some with less privacy or further away than we’d prefer.

    A nice mix of convenience and privacy. Perfect location to showers and playground for kids. Ample space for our needs, but not overly private

  • J
    Camper-submitted photo at Updog RV & Camping near Drakesville, IA
    Jun. 22, 2023

    Updog RV & Camping

    Great camping spot

    Lots of trees for great shade in these hot days. Nice pond for some fun fishing. Very clean restrooms and showers.

  • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Papa's Alpacas Campsites near Drakesville, IA
    Jan. 12, 2023

    Papa's Alpacas Campsites

    Meet alpacas, goats and donkeys!

    Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're excited to welcome this partner to our platform. Randy is your host, and would love to take you on a tour on his farm. There are 4 sites in total, all with stunning 360  rolling hill views. A shared toilet and shower are available! Check them out and post some pictures here. Happy Camping!

  • Melissa W.
    Camper-submitted photo at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park near Drakesville, IA
    Nov. 10, 2022

    Lacey-Keosauqua State Park

    Lacey Keosauqua State Park

    Stayed for a week in mid November. Although we had a storm at the beginning and end the overall stay was great. Weather ranged from 50s to 70s during the day and 30s to 40s at night. There were only 4 other sites occupied with a few ins and out during the week. I could see the spring and summer months getting busy with lake use. Trails were well maintained and tended even late into the season. My pups and I loved walking the lake loop (2.1miles) every day. Bonus: the deer came out each evening to forage.

  • Lesley R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at River Valley Horsecamp near Drakesville, IA
    Oct. 29, 2022

    River Valley Horsecamp

    Family Equine Fun

    Camped here for a family reunion. Open sites near the Des Moines river and local road meant spots were just for sleeping. Excellent barns, accommodations, well-kept grounds and animals. Nearby locals kind and welcoming. Excellent time spent with family and horses, will return again.


Guide to Drakesville

Camping near Drakesville, Iowa, offers a variety of beautiful spots for outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning landscapes and plenty of activities, it’s a great place to unwind and connect with nature.

What to do:

  • Fishing and boating: Many campers enjoy fishing at Lake Wapello State Park Campground. One visitor said, "Great place to camp, kayak, fish, and hike!" This park has spacious campsites and clean facilities, making it a favorite for families.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails at Lacey-Keosauqua State Park. A reviewer mentioned, "Trails were well maintained and tended even late into the season," perfect for those who love to hike with their pets.
  • Wildlife watching: Campers at Honey Creek State Park Campground have spotted deer frequently. One camper shared, "We saw at least 8 deer wandering around the campsite or near roads."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at Lake Wapello State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Spacious campground with clean facilities."
  • Friendly hosts: Many have praised the camp hosts at Indian Lake Park. One camper said, "Tony and his wife are the camp hosts. Tony was so helpful and nice."
  • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful views at Island View Campground—Lake Rathbun. A review highlighted, "Spectacular lake views especially for sunset."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Honey Creek Resort, have limited amenities. A camper mentioned, "All camping is in the scorching sun. No trees."
  • Busy during peak season: Expect crowds at popular spots like Lacey-Keosauqua State Park during spring and summer. One reviewer noted, "I could see the spring and summer months getting busy with lake use."
  • No water hookups: Campers at Bentonsport should be aware that there are no water hookups at the sites. A visitor shared, "There is no water or sewer on your site but water is available in camp."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, like Honey Creek State Park Campground. A camper mentioned, "The grounds have play sets and swings for kids."
  • Family-friendly activities: At Lake Wapello State Park Campground, families can enjoy hiking and fishing together. One visitor said, "Excellent way to spend a day with family."
  • Cabin rentals: If you prefer a bit more comfort, consider cabins at Indian Lake Park. A review stated, "They also have cabins for rent. All very reasonably priced."

Tips from RVers:

  • Spacious sites: RVers appreciate the spacious sites at Island View Campground—Lake Rathbun. A camper noted, "Campsites were spaced well apart with plenty of room on pad around campsites."
  • Full hookups: Look for campgrounds with full hookups, like Honey Creek State Park Campground. A visitor mentioned, "The RV sites are paved, level, full hookups, spacious, with a view of the lake."
  • Quiet during the week: Many RVers find that campgrounds like Lake Wapello State Park Campground are quieter during the week. One camper shared, "Very quiet during the week."

Camping near Drakesville, Iowa, has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Drakesville, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Drakesville, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 86 campgrounds and RV parks near Drakesville, IA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

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

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Drakesville, IA is Lake Wapello State Park Campground with a 5-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

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

  • What parks are near Drakesville, IA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Drakesville, IA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.