Top Tent Camping near Elkader, IA

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Elkader? Find the best information on tent campgrounds near Elkader, including sites, reviews, and tips. You're sure to find the perfect tent campsite for your Iowa camping adventure.

Best Tent Sites Near Elkader, IA (23)

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    1. Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest

    12 Reviews
    46 Photos
    4 Saves

    Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units.

    The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group

    $12 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Valley State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Valley State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Valley State Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Valley State Park

    2. Echo Valley State Park

    2 Reviews
    4 Photos
    10 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash

    $5 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest

    3. Camp John Schultz — Yellow River State Forest

    2 Reviews
    10 Photos
    3 Saves

    You may hear a cow moo at the hike-in sites in Camp John Shultz but you’ll not likely hear people. If you do have to share the camp, there are five segregated campsites that are well spaced and feel private. Sites range from partial shade to full shade and all but two have fire rings.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Firewood Available
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    4. Frontier Equestrian Campground — Yellow River State Forest

    1 Review
    8 Photos
    1 Save

    Yellow River State Forest is a perfect place to explore some of Iowa's best hiking trails. Located in northeast Iowa in Allamakee County, the forest is part of the "driftless area" that escaped the glaciers during the most recent ice age. The forest consists of 8,900 acres of hardwood and coniferous forest and is comprised of 6 units.

    The Paint Creek Unit is of primary interest to the recreationist, with well-kept camping areas, equestrian accommodations, fishing, hunting, and over 45 miles of trails for hiking, equestrian riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

    Frontier equestrian campgrounds are non-modern and have non-electric sites with hitching rails and vault toilets

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Equestrian

    $16 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Gateway Park Campground

    5. Gateway Park Campground

    1 Review
    1 Photo
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $20 / night

    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
      Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
      Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only
      Camper-submitted photo from Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only

      7. Worthington Sportsman's Club - Members Only

      1 Review
      4 Photos

      The Worthington Sportsmen's Club Inc. is located approximately 3.5 miles south of Highway 20 on X47 (310th Ave) or 6.5 miles north of Highway 38 in Delaware County, Iowa open to members only. Membership is open to everyone and an application is available via the website: https://sites.google.com/site/worthingtonsc2/membership?authuser=0

      For the camper there are six 30-amp Electric camp sites (see Fees for cost information) at the front of the club, with primitive sites located around the pond. If you prefer just spending time with family and friends in a beautiful setting we also have two picnic pavilions with playground equipment and a number of picnic tables and fire rings surrounding the pond.

      Camping - membership required, no non-member guests. Electric sites are $10 per night. Non-Electric site donations are appreciated. Fees for camping can be sealed in an envelope and placed in the Yellow camping box in the camp ground. Contact Tom Dunkel (563-590-2704) with any questions.

      Camping is limited to 7 days unless approved by a Director.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Turkey Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Turkey Campground

      8. Little Turkey Campground

      1 Review
      2 Photos
      5 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • ADA Access
      Camper-submitted photo from South Bear Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from South Bear Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from South Bear Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from South Bear Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from South Bear Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from South Bear Creek
      Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
      Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
      Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
      Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
      Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay
      Camper-submitted photo from Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay

      10. Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay

      2 Reviews
      6 Photos
      16 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • Tents
      • Group

      $24 - $45 / night

    Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

    Recent Tent Reviews In Elkader

    358 Reviews of 23 Elkader Campgrounds


    • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Nelson Dewey State Park
      Sep. 24, 2024

      Nelson Dewey State Park

      Great place for a short trip

      I’ll begin by saying this is by far the cleanest campground I have stayed at. The facilities were well kept including the vault toilet houses. We stayed in a walk to site and the views were incredible. Our tent pad was quite rocky so I would recommend sleeping pads or you will be very uncomfortable. Our site was also extremely dusty which wasn’t a problem at all just be prepared to be a little dirty. The campground was quiet except for the occasional train that rolled through those are quite loud due to how close they are to the campground. I would definitely come back to Nelson Dewey and stay again. There was not a ton to do in the area so a short weekend stay was perfect. A highlight is that the park provided cart to use to haul all your stuff to the walk to sites. There is 1 designated parking spot per walk to site as well. The walk to sites are small and only accommodated our one (6 person) tent which was not a problem for us as we knew this ahead of time.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Oelwein City Park
      Sep. 22, 2024

      Oelwein City Park

      This is a beautiful city park campground

      I enjoyed my 5 night stay at Oelwein City Park Campground. It's located on the south end of town, there is only one business within walking distance. It's a great restaurant (Oelwein Family Restaurant) and it's about a 15 minute walk.

      There is one shower house, and several vault toilets throughout the park. The shower house is old and a little run down but was very clean. I had no problems using it.

      The city park is adjacent to the campground and has picnic shelters, a playground, and a dog park.

      There are electric and water hookups at most sites, and there is a dump station. The park was pretty full on the weekend as you would expect, but very quiet during the week.

      I had great Verizon and T-mobile service here.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Elkader City Park
      Sep. 22, 2024

      Elkader City Park

      Close to town, nice facilities, not quiet

      I had good Verizon signal here (70 down, 20 up) but zero T-mobile signal.

      The campground is close to down, there are two museums within walking distance (just steps from the campground entrance). Across the street is a walking & biking trail that will take you straight to downtown, where you'll find a coffee shop, a few restaurants, and other shopping. It's less than a 5 minute bike ride to get there, and very scenic as it follows the river.

      The facilities are newer and pretty nice. The showers are the single-button kind with no temperature adjustment. If you wait a while, the water does get barely warm enough for a comfortable shower.

      This is not a quiet campground, it has a well traveled highway on one side, and a city main street on the other side that semi trucks use during the day. Sometimes there are highschool football games at the stadium next to the campground. Late at night it does get quiet.

      The sites are grass or gravel. There are electrical hookups at most sites, with water faucets spread throughout the campground. The sites are mostly shaded.

      I enjoyed the George Maier Rural Heritage Center and Museum ($5 admission) and the Elkader Depot Museum (free) which are located right next to the campground.

      The downside to this campground is the dump station. It is just a hole in a manhole cover. It's in a dirt/weedy area and smells terrible. It's located across the street from the campground.

    • LThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from River of Lakes Campground
      Sep. 20, 2024

      River of Lakes Campground

      Ok. Great checkin - however..

      Nice campground with many sites on the Mississippi backwaters and decent fishing stayed two days and opted on a third. However, after we paid for the third night we noticed a campsite on the other side. Of course the first amendment is everyone’s freedom but really ,do campers need to put out “2024 No More Bulls***” AND how about 2024 Fu** your Feelings” that was in front of their welcome sign. These phrases were on massive flags nailed to trees. Of course we all have freedoms but because these vulgar, in your face phrases were seen every time we left the campground we did not feel comfortable. Good thing I did not have my grandkids along. We all have our beliefs, but is offensive language regarding politics have a place in campgrounds have a place? I say “No!” those folks were out of line and it is wrong. We will never return to this campground again.

    • Jeff and Linda L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
      Sep. 20, 2024

      Grant River Recreation Area

      Feet from the Mississippi

      The park is on the beautiful might Mississippi river. It’s 2 miles from Potosi, WI with a large brewery with good food as well. Army Corps so half price with America The Beautiful senior discount card. If you like trains you will see many, close and going fast.

    • JThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Wyalusing State Park
      Sep. 20, 2024

      Wyalusing State Park

      Nice Park

      Nice sites, trails and facilities. Stayed during the week in mid September. Beautiful sites overlooking the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers. Great hiking with clean bathrooms and toilets. Private with plenty of room from neighbors for our teardrop.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Fontana County Park
      Sep. 15, 2024

      Fontana County Park

      New, clean, no trees

      There is a brand new campground here with full hookups. There are no trees so I decided to pass and not camp here. Evidently there is an "old" campground somewhere in this park also that I did not find. The signs will direct you to the new campground.

      I had good T-mobile and Verizon service here.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Klocks Island Park
      Sep. 15, 2024

      Klocks Island Park

      Crowded and quiet

      This seems like a quiet campground. It's just off the highway but there was almost zero traffic on this small highway. I drove through here on a Saturday in mid September. All spots were taken. I had barely usable Verizon service here and no T-mobile service. I was not able to camp here. The restroom building looked fairly new.

    • W
      Camper-submitted photo from Riverview Ridge
      Aug. 24, 2024

      Riverview Ridge

      Unique River and Trail Access Campground

      Two hour float trips on the North Fork Maquoketa River are available directly from the campground. There is a mix of permanent and temporary campers. The tent sites, nearest the river, are well spaced with flush toilets. Apparently there are also good trails, as many of the campers have ATV’s parked at their sites. The shower house, under the office, was spacious and clean.

    • Dj Y.
      Camper-submitted photo from Grant River Recreation Area
      Aug. 19, 2024

      Grant River Recreation Area

      Sandy and Gentleman worker=AMAZING

      I was hitchhiking thru, was dropped off by a ride that said he was buying a $14 tent site for me, come to find out he never did, I just was honest with sandy and the gentleman worker and offered the only 8$ I had, no sir, they said please stay for free and just enjoy. WONDERFUL PPL THAT CARE ABOUT OTHERS!! THANKS YALL

    • Kenneth M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Clayton Hills Campground
      Jul. 6, 2024

      Clayton Hills Campground

      Best Owners Ever

      I was looking around for a place and being the weekend after the 4th of July, I knew there wouldn't be many options. This place is literally a hidden gem and should get more focus!!! The owner had a spot for my family and me!!! When he found out that I was only tent camping, he even lowered the price!!! He didn't have to do that at all and it wasn't expected. Grassy locations everywhere. Wonderful water and electric hookups!!! A little piece of heaven here. JJ is an AMAZING host!!!

    • Robert P.
      Camper-submitted photo from Blue Inn Campground
      Jun. 26, 2024

      Blue Inn Campground

      Reservations

      I made a reservation back in April 20 q24 June 26th 6 days before vacation I received a refund notice from them not in the full amount I paid less than a half

    • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Baileys Ford
      Jun. 12, 2024

      Baileys Ford

      Excellent campground

      What more can I say than this place was stellar. We were tent camping the site we picked was big (there were smaller sites if that’s what you need). Access to the trout stream directly from our site! The facilities were clean even for a vault toilet (regular toilets and showers available at the main building which were extremely clean) the showers had hot water and real on and off handles NOT the push to start ones. Access to the river was available and there was a boat launch site. Staff we encountered were all friendly. Firewood available to purchase on site (only available Friday and Saturday night it was $10 a bundle during our stay). Plenty of things for kids to do volleyball ball court, softball field, and several playgrounds! Many shelters available for larger gatherings. This place even had an outdoor chapel. Baileys Ford exceeded my expectations for a county campground and I will be returning 100% my only complaint was spotty service (Verizon) but then again the point of camping is to disconnect so this was not a big deal. Minimal bugs considering how close we were to the water as well!

    • Kelsey G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Whitetail Bluff Campground LLC
      Jun. 6, 2024

      Whitetail Bluff Campground LLC

      Very clean,Well kept up, Lots of things for kids to do

      This is a really nice and clean campground! The sites are very spacious and the food is good!! Really good Friday night fish fries! We will definitely be back!!

    • Tori L.
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest
      May. 26, 2024

      Big Paint Campground — Yellow River State Forest

      Dream stay.

      Came to learn more about Tenkara fly fishing. Had a ball. Visited the 3 lookouts including Iowa only Fire tower. Bird life is colorful. Lots of places to hike. Scenery is lush. I had no phone service. Campsites are well mown, have a picnic table and fire ring. Pit toilets. Easy access to water. Drink water and firewood are at the host A frame. There is no dump site. Everyone was very friendly. Helpful. Nights were quiet. Very relaxing.

    • I
      Camper-submitted photo from Lazy Acres RV Park
      May. 25, 2024

      Lazy Acres RV Park

      Don’t recommend

      We stayed here towards the end of May. They hadn’t cut the grass but was in the process of cutting it. This caused swarms of bugs. We are from Ky backwoods and are use to bugs but this was awful. The bathhouse was clean. The campground is right off the main highway so easy getting off and right back on.

    • Tiffany K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park
      May. 20, 2024

      Pikes Peak State Park

      Quaint Campground with River Views

      Loved this campground but it does have some drawbacks. Set up a lot for rv camping with site layout and connections. Some sites have the fire ring very close to the parking area and some spots have limited shade (compared to the majority of the campground that is in the trees). The bathrooms and showers are in good condition. The Mississippi River overlooks are a short walk away. There were lots of birds and spiders around the campground. There are a good number of hiking trails in the park.

    • Marci S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Pikes Peak State Park
      May. 14, 2024

      Pikes Peak State Park

      Dramatic scenery, quiet campground

      This campground is a short hike away from beautiful trails that overlook the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. The boardwalk trails also lead to a small falls and more. Site 51, where we stayed, is near trailhead but on a slight slope. Showers, water, dump station available here, no playground

    • c
      Camper-submitted photo from Twins Campground
      May. 3, 2024

      Twins Campground

      Serene

      Serenity, nature at its best, birdsong all day long wildlife at every turn our campsite was level the owners and manager were great hosts. We stayed several weeks the price was very reasonable, honey wagon service was included ; riding/ hiking trails from campsite.

    • Greg K.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Twins Campground
      Apr. 13, 2024

      Twins Campground

      Twins campground- cresco,Iowa.

      Very friendly and helpful owner. He even drove to town so we could follow him in. Has playground community area fire pit and a structure built to cover picnic tables. atv trails. Turkey river right there was 20 feet from my site. Porta potty and shower water is hot. 30/50 amp power with water on each site. Water fill station and dump station. Garbage .

    • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
      Apr. 8, 2024

      Bloody Run County Park

      An amazing weekend

      I went fishing and hiking and it’s very scenic and beautiful area , train blairing its horn in the middle of the night sucks since it’s right by train tracks, pit toilets and clear water stream in front of the campground fishing wasn’t the best 

    • Jon M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Joes Little Campground
      Mar. 24, 2024

      Big Joes Little Campground

      Never Again

      It is not meant for weekenders. The campground is 97% concrete pad sites for people who want to park their camper and ent for the year. The two "weekender sites they do have are over 100 yards away and the water smells like sulphur. The owner will also personally take the time to drive out and chew you out if you inadvertently park on the grass. Bottom line, they care about getting their cash and trying to make it look like Augusta National golf course. I will never go back.

    • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Big Springs Trout Hatchery Campground
      Mar. 20, 2024

      Big Springs Trout Hatchery Campground

      A slice of heaven

      This is a beautiful scenic view right next to the river and there are picnic tables fire rings and a trash can and porta potty with a water spigot for fresh water

    • Pat F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Bloody Run County Park
      Mar. 20, 2024

      Bloody Run County Park

      Amazing creekside

      It was a beautiful area with the creek running right next to it only problem was there was some trash in the firing which we had to take care of. People are so lazy.

    • Terry F.
      Camper-submitted photo from Gilbertson Conservation Education Area
      Nov. 1, 2023

      Gilbertson Conservation Education Area

      Great place!



    Guide to Elkader

    Camping near Elkader, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Hiking: Explore the trails at Wyalusing State Park Campground. Campers rave about the "great hiking trails" and the "lovely morning sunrise and amazing sunsets."
    • Caving: Visit Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground for a unique experience. One visitor mentioned, "The caves make this a unique place to visit," perfect for adventurous families.
    • Fishing: The Goose Island campground is ideal for fishing enthusiasts. A reviewer noted, "This campground is ideal for boating, fishing, and camping."

    What campers like:

    • Scenic Views: Campers at Nelson Dewey State Park Campground love the "incredible views" of the Mississippi River. One camper described it as "a magical experience" during a stormy sunset.
    • Quiet Atmosphere: Many enjoy the peacefulness at Backbone State Park. A visitor shared, "There is no through traffic, so it’s quiet," making it a great spot for relaxation.
    • Family-Friendly Activities: Pikes Peak State Park Campground offers trails and overlooks that families love. One reviewer said, "Hiking was phenomenal at Pikes Peak! We will never forget those views!"

    What you should know:

    • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at George Wyth State Park Campground. A camper warned, "There were tremendous amounts of mosquitoes during our visit."
    • Train Noise: If you choose Nelson Dewey State Park Campground, be aware of train noise. One camper mentioned, "Trains rolled through until just after midnight and started up around 5 am."
    • Site Privacy: Campers at Pulpit Rock Campground noted that some sites are "right on top of each other," which might not be ideal for those seeking solitude.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose the Right Campground: Look for family-friendly spots like Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground. A parent shared, "The hiking is rigorous, but it proved to be tons of fun for me, my son, and his friends."
    • Plan for Activities: Make sure to pack for activities like fishing or hiking. One camper at Goose Island said, "Good amenities. They do pack you in but I’ve been in tighter spots."
    • Bring Bug Spray: Given the mosquito situation, it’s wise to have insect repellent on hand. A visitor at George Wyth State Park Campground mentioned the "stagnant water" contributing to the bug problem.

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Site Size: RVers at Rustic Barn Campground RV Park appreciated the "level sites" and "full hookups." Make sure to reserve a site that fits your rig.
    • Look for Amenities: Many RVers enjoy campgrounds with good facilities. One camper noted, "The bathrooms were warm and really clean" at Pulpit Rock Campground.
    • Plan for Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds away from busy roads or train tracks. A reviewer at George Wyth State Park Campground mentioned the "major Hwy on two sides of the park" affecting their stay.

    Camping near Elkader, Iowa, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just be prepared for the local quirks, and you’ll have a great time!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Elkader, IA?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Elkader, IA is Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry — Yellow River State Forest with a 4.8-star rating from 12 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find tent camping near Elkader, IA?

      TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Elkader, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.