Best Campgrounds near Earlham, IA

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Earlham. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Iowa camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Earlham, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Earlham, Iowa (91)

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Recent Reviews near Earlham, IA

459 Reviews of 91 Earlham Campgrounds



Guide to Earlham

Camping near Earlham, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Enjoy scenic trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, "The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals."
  • Fishing: Head to Lake Anita State Park Campground for some fishing. A camper shared, "We loved staying there over the weekend... a big lake close by to fish."
  • Biking: Check out the trails near Jester County Park. One review noted, "The campgrounds are great... they have airsoft ranges or tree ranges snowshoeing cross-country skiing."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at Prairie Flower Recreation Area. A reviewer said, "The bathrooms and shower house are nice and clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the large, well-spaced sites at Bob Shelter Recreation Area. One camper mentioned, "The sites are well spaced."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a visitor said, "Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Ledges State Park Campground noted, "Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI."
  • Busy in Summer: Many campgrounds can get crowded during peak season. One visitor at Lake Anita State Park Campground mentioned, "It was really busy when we did."
  • No Showers at Some Sites: Not all campgrounds have shower facilities. A camper at Bob Shelter Recreation Area pointed out, "We didn’t use the bathroom/shower house, but I walked into one to check it out and it was outdated."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Jester County Park has a playground that families enjoy. One parent said, "The campground has a kids playground."
  • Nature Trails: Choose campgrounds with easy access to trails for family hikes. A visitor at Walnut Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "There are trail heads near the campground that follow along the raccoon river."
  • Group Camping: If you're going with a larger family, consider campgrounds with group sites. Prairie Rose State Park Campground offers spacious areas for families to gather.

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level pads for easier setup. A reviewer at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, "Gravel sites require some leveling."
  • Full Hookups: Choose campgrounds that offer full hookups for convenience. One camper at Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground mentioned, "Ours had only electrical, but potable water was close by."
  • Quiet Locations: For a peaceful stay, find campgrounds away from busy roads. A visitor at Yellow Banks County Park said, "QUIETEST KOA IN AMERICA. no highway no train tracks or airport!"

Camping near Earlham, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions