Looking for the best campgrounds near Dunlap, IA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
$9 / night
"Had no idea such a scenic place could be found in Iowa! I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded."
"If you're looking for a relaxing backcountry retreat for a little backpacking adventure then this is a great weekend option."
TravelerI arrived just in time to see the beautiful sunset over the small lake near the primitive campground closest to the Park Office. It only cost $10 for tent camping and $3 for a vehicle pass. Campground and vault toilets were pretty clean. There is a fire ring and picnic table at each tent campsite and there are plenty to choose from near the water. You can bring your own kayak or canoe and even fish here. We had a nice encounter from the campground employee who explained how to put the stake out to claim our campsite. Right away, I saw abundant wildlife, including turkey, deer, black squirrels, woodpeckers, geese, ducks and bats. Come prepared for the mosquitoes but overall I would highly recommend this place!
GuideOur family and another family shared a primitive tent site near the back of the park. We were first and foremost impressed with the freedom we had in choosing our site. Tent camping here is non-reservable, but once you enter the park, you may choose from any spots containing a fire pit outside of RV loops. Tent sites range from lake-front, to playground side, to more private sites on the outer rim of the park. We chose a large, private site at the back of the park. This site was well maintained and had enough space to easily accommodate two families of four. We even had a picnic shelter all to ourselves. Our site was lined by woods and farmland and had a good view of a small pond. The night was full of exciting animal noises from both the nearby farm and pond. Vault toilets were a short walk away with clean shower facilities just a few loops away. The kids enjoyed riding bikes up and down gravel roads, looking for frogs, and playing on the playground. Canoe and paddle boat rental is extremely reasonable. Hiking trails near the park entrance are rugged. The staff was incredibly kind and easy-going, yet attentive. Just a short drive from neighboring towns, this is a good starter campground for families with younger kids. We hope to return in winter to check out the camping cabins.
GuideGreat spot for an overnight! Restroom is clean w/ pit toilet and tp. Wifi is only accessible in the upper area of the grounds. Site number 13 is the most cozy as there’s no one next to your rig. Firewood is at the right of the entrance. Potable water available!
TravelerThe park has cabins, rv sites, tent camping and backcountry hike in camping. The nature center is a nice place to cool down the the summer and learn about the loess hills. The backcountry campsite have pads with pea gravel for tents and fire rings. Nice and quiet.
TravelerI stayed here on a long road trip across the country. Had no idea such a scenic place could be found in Iowa! I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded. Picnic table and fire ring included. Also, there’s a trail up a hill right near by that had great views of the area and a lovely sunset! I would definitely recommend. Just a head’s up: I saw some pics of people car camping here on this site. Not sure how that would work since it’s supposed to be walk-in only and pretty clearly roped off from access with a car.
TravelerNice campground. Very few tent only - mostly RVs/trailers. Washrooms basic but clean. Large site under trees with mix of sun & shade. Grassy area for tent. Access to water close by. Large playground for kids. Campground host had firewood. Picnic table & firepit with grill rack in good condition. Nearby boat ramp to load kayak onto Blue Lake. Many water lilies but sheltered at one end so good for kayak. Everyone seemed friendly though some folk stayed up pretty late on Friday!
GuideWe stayed during the campground's last weekend in October, and loved it. It was so gorgeous with all the fall colors, and it's really a gem of a campground.
Pros:
-Beautiful, huge lake with lots of pretty views
-Primitive spots are separated from electric spots, which is great if you're looking for quiet, peaceful tent camping
-Primitive spots are relatively private and generously sized, you don't feel like you're right on top of your neighbors
-Decent portapotty in close distance
-Plenty of picnic spots
-Electric spots are right along the lake, which offers beautiful views
-On-site firewood
Cons:
-Full modern bathrooms are a long walk/drive away
-Not much for activities
-Water hydrants are right in the middle of people's camping spots, so it feels awkward to grab water
-The only hiking trail is EXTREMELY poorly marked and when it ends (it doesn't tell you it's ending) you either have to just turn around or walk a mile along the busy highway with very small shoulder. We mistakenly took the highway expecting the trail to continue, but it didn't and it was very scary, 0/10 don't recommend.
-Not many walk-in spots
-Lots of primitive spots are on a hill, so your tent is a little sideways
-Not many dumpsters
-No lights in the portapotty, so you'll need a headlamp at night
EDITED TO ADD: We stayed again in May, and it was a great place to spend a weekend. Quiet, friendly but not a party crowd, and a nice, relaxing environment overall. Word on the streets (from the DNR warden) is that they’re looking into creating 2 more hiking trails too.
GuideThe trails are well marked and easy to follow. I was very impressed on the hike in campsites. They already have a nice flat spot for your tent, although I'm a hammock camper. The views from the two south east campsites are amazing, looking over the Missouri River valley and the Omaha skyline in the distance.
ScoutThis is my favorite place to tent camp! Nice bathhouse, and even the pit toilet is clean and unoffensive. Tent sites are spacious and most are separated by lots of trees so there's plenty of shade, privacy, and wildlife. Firewood is available and hiking trails are nearby. Unfortunately, I have to find a new favorite spot because I can no longer lug my gear up and down the hill between my car and my tent.
Dunlap, Iowa, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat in nature. With scenic landscapes and unique features, these campgrounds provide an excellent backdrop for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Dunlap, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Dunlap, IA is Preparation Canyon State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Dunlap, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near Dunlap, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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