Tent camping near Earlham, Iowa offers primitive experiences on both sandy quarry shorelines and wooded conservation areas. Located in central Iowa's rolling hills region, these campsites typically sit between 900-1,100 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage that prevents pooling after rainfall. Summer temperatures range from 65-90°F, with August being particularly popular due to reduced humidity and optimal star visibility.
What to do
Fishing access points: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides direct water access for anglers seeking largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. According to one visitor, "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing... The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish." Only electric motors are permitted on the water.
Observatory stargazing: At Ashton Wildwood Park, campers can visit the on-site observatory on Saturday evenings (except first Saturdays). One camper shared, "The observatory that's open on Saturday's was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom."
Orienteering course: Ashton Wildwood Park maintains a dedicated orienteering course for navigation practice using map and compass skills. A visitor noted, "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it." This activity provides an educational component for both beginners and experienced navigators.
What campers like
Spacious, secluded sites: The tent sites at Colfax Quarry Springs Park offer ample room and privacy. One camper reported, "I stayed at site #13 with my two boys. We had a blast. I would highly recommend site #13. It had plenty of space for a large tent and canopy. It had a nice access spot for fishing."
Maintenance and cleanliness: The upkeep at these primitive campgrounds exceeds expectations. A visitor at Colfax Quarry Springs Park commented, "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites. Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties."
Affordable pricing: Ashton Wildwood Park offers budget-friendly tent camping with significant value. A regular visitor mentioned, "It's only $7/night! There is some play equipment for children. There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs."
What you should know
Water availability: Most tent campgrounds near Earlham require campers to bring their own water supply. At Ashton Wildwood Park, one camper advised, "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water." However, they noted, "Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side."
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have spotty cell reception due to their location in conservation areas. Prepare for disconnected camping and download maps before arrival.
First-come basis: Otter Creek Park operates without reservations. A camper noted, "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" However, another recent visitor cautioned, "The park is closed for camping indefinitely," so check current status before planning a trip.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly facilities: Ashton Wildwood Park offers dedicated play areas for children alongside spacious campsites. A local camper shared, "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping. Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. There is some play equipment for children."
Accessible hiking options: Kuehn Conservation Area features trails suitable for children of various ages. According to a visitor, "Nice quite sites along the Raccoon River. Has hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife, small Bear Creek nature center, open daily 1/2 hr before sunrise to 10:30 pm."
Navigation considerations: When traveling with children to these campgrounds, follow directions from camping apps rather than general GPS. One family advised, "Definitely follow the directions on Dyrt, google took us on a winding gravel road that led to the same place."
Tips from RVers
Sandy terrain awareness: The quarry origins of Colfax Quarry Springs Park create sandy conditions that affect vehicle stability. One RVer noted, "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that." Four-wheel drive vehicles have advantages at certain sites after rain.
Supply planning: No water hookups means bringing sufficient water reserves. The nearest supplies can be found at convenience stores along main roads. As one camper mentioned, "There is a Kum & Go up the road to get missing supplies."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. One RVer shared, "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal. The quiet hours are at 10:30pm and they have a gate which is closed at sunset when the park closes for non campers."
