Tent campsites near Elkader, Iowa range from primitive backcountry options to established campgrounds with basic amenities. Yellow River State Forest offers multiple tent-specific camping areas including Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry and Camp John Schultz, both providing secluded forest settings for tent campers. Echo Valley State Park Campground, located west of Elkader, features non-electric tent sites along a trout stream.
Most primitive tent sites in the area have fire rings and simple benches but lack modern facilities. Camp John Schultz includes 5 primitive sites with fire rings in a dense forest setting accessible only by hiking trails. Potable water is generally available only at headquarters or main entrance areas, requiring campers to carry water to their sites. Yellow River State Forest backcountry camping areas are first-come, first-served with no reservations accepted. Alcohol is prohibited at several of the primitive tent sites, and campers should practice Leave No Trace principles as many areas have limited trash facilities.
In the backcountry tent areas, campers will find sites spaced for privacy and minimal interaction with other visitors. A recent review noted, "Yellow River has great backpacking sites with wonderful spots to camp and very clean creeks." The forest setting provides ample shade for summer camping, though insects can be abundant during warmer months. Echo Valley's tent campsites are positioned near a trout stream, offering convenient fishing access directly from camp. Many backcountry tent sites in Yellow River State Forest connect to an extensive trail network, making them ideal basecamps for hikers. Cell phone reception is limited in most camping areas, particularly at tent sites located in valleys or heavily wooded sections, though some higher elevation areas near the fire tower offer better connectivity.
"My friend and I were eager to test out some new backpacking gear for the first time in advance of a larger trip this summer."
"Yellow River has great backpacking sites. Park near ranger station and hike in or grab a map and find a smaller parking location near the trail you want to explore. Great scenery."
from $12 / night
from $20 / night
"There are pit toilets at the upper sites, near the pavilion."
"The hiking trail was perfect for a morning stroll with my dog and coffee and there certainly is a petting zoo (my German Shepard was a little uncertain about the goats)"
from $5 / night
"Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects."
"Awesome campground, if you require electric bring a generator. Water is available but needs to be carried in. we loved the lack of cell phone reception!"
from $15 / night
"People driving around the pond didn't even know we were there! The camping spot was beautiful (although you have to watch out for nettles). Great fishing while we were there too."
"Primitive and private. Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing. "
"The farm was cute and a wonderful place to get outside and be in nature. The hosts were very accommodating and professional! We will definitely be returning, 10 stars!"
from $24 - $45 / night
RangerVery nice campground with a few FHU sites, most are electric only. Some sites are pretty sloped making it hard to level longer rigs. Check carefully when making your reservation. Nice close hike to see the overlooks to the river, and there’s a well maintained hike down to the Bridal Veil Falls. Minus 1 star for the horrible push-button operated showers that only stay on for 6 seconds at a time. Good phone service for both t-mobile and AT&T.
GuideWe came towards the end of season so we were one of the few people staying there. The spaces are close together but we had no one near us so we didn’t mind. We had a great experience with the host, very friendly. However, it is a bit noisy since the highway is right there and you do constantly hear the trains. Also, there are some questionable people roaming through the campground.
RangerDespite its limitations, this city campground definitely suited our purpose for a 1-2 night stay in late October. Yes, there are trains and highway traffic. Correct, there are only 110 hookups. However, this space is also suitable for larger RV's IF experienced with dispersed camping. We stayed in our 43-ft motorhome and found #6 (to the left of the site near the playground) was pretty level. Did not need elec bc able to get solar charge on our panels where we parked. Great little playground if you have kids!! My only caution is if it's wet -- larger rigs might sink in the grass. We were lucky to have beautiful weather while there! Easy to grab an envelope near entrance & deposit $$ in the dropbox.
ScoutBe advised site 14 is on such a steep hill it was honestly scary coming in an out of our camper! If an older couple were staying at this site in a camper I’m not sure if they would even be able to. Our second door entrance cannot be used due to how steep the hill is and we had to add wood to the bottom of our stairs because they didn’t touch the ground. Forgot to add you’re also under a very large black walnut tree that is currently dropping walnuts that are ripe.
LegendThough the CG is small, open, few interior trees for shade, it has a outhouse, fire rings, picnic tables, and dump station. Has 8 designated camp sites with sled registration. Great 1 mile access to the Middle Fork of the Little Maquoketa River ( Bankston Creek) and is stocked by the Iowa DNR with trout. Public hunting in park during seasons.
GuideCampground sits on a hill overlooking a number of farms. Absolutely beautiful. Decent sized sites, full hook-ups. Also a dump station. Small store on site. Trees provide shade. Many acres of paths and grass to walk the dog. Very clean bathrooms and showers. Whole place is neat and tidy. Only negative is highway noise. Pull through sites are farther from highway so may be less noisy there.
LegendWe got here on a Monday and got a great spot in the back. The sunrise was spectacular. Then the fog moved in off the river and it was pretty cool.
ScoutArrived late at night and struggled to find correct site as there were no numbers posted. Also no external lighting or picnic table. Bathrooms were clean and office help was accommodating when reservation was made.
ScoutI reserved online same day; didn’t show up until dusk/dark - @8:30pm on a Tuesday evening. My assigned pull through site was occupied and office closed. So I looked, found an open site and pulled in. Just overnight and I least @8:15am next morning so did not see any employee.
Tent camping near Elkader, Iowa offers campers access to dense woodlands and rolling hills uncommon in other parts of the state. This region features elevations ranging from 700-1,200 feet above sea level with limestone bluffs and spring-fed streams supporting trout populations. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience wider temperature fluctuations requiring additional preparation.
Fishing access: Echo Valley State Park Campground has sites positioned along a trout stream, making it ideal for anglers. "This campground is non-electric, self-pay, non-reservable, and has only a few sites. There is a nice trout stream, with a few sites right by the stream," notes Kerry M.
Backcountry exploration: Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry offers hiking loops ranging from 1-7 miles through varied terrain. "I've done this loop several times, and have never been disappointed. Lots of quiet, and many more great views on the upper trails," reports Kevin C., who recommends caution on steep sections during wet conditions.
Stargazing opportunities: Campsites in the region, particularly at higher elevations, provide excellent night sky viewing opportunities with minimal light pollution. "The sunset over the cornfields was very pretty," mentions one camper at Gateway Park, while others note the value of sites positioned in clearings rather than under dense tree cover for optimal star viewing.
Secluded campsites: Camp John Schultz provides true isolation with just 5 primitive sites spread throughout dense forest. "Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects," describes James M., highlighting the authentic backcountry experience.
Stream proximity: Campers consistently mention the value of sites positioned near water sources. "It is most suitable for tent, truck, or teardrop camping… large RVs would not do well," explains Kerry M. about Echo Valley State Park, where select sites offer direct stream access for both recreation and ambient sounds.
Tech disconnection: Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay provides a genuine off-grid experience. "Evenings at this farm are memorable. Dark skies with billions of stars. Enjoy a campfire, that's a must. Primitive and private," shares Alissa G., noting the value of intentional disconnection.
Carrying water requirements: Most backcountry tent sites require campers to transport water from central locations. "Camp Glen Wendel is about 1 mile in from self camp registration at HQ. Sites have fire rings and benches, some more spacious than others," notes James M., adding "Potable water is at HQ near registration kiosk."
Site reservation systems: Many primitive camping areas operate on first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. According to Lynn G., "Backcountry sites are free but no reservations are taken," which requires flexibility in planning, particularly during summer weekends when demand increases.
Limited facilities: Little Turkey Campground offers "Clean shower free wood staff is friendly," according to Douglas M., but most tent-focused sites have minimal amenities. Campers should prepare for self-sufficient stays with proper waste management plans, particularly at backcountry locations with no trash collection.
Water recreation options: Farm stays with ponds provide safe swimming opportunities for children. "Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing," suggests Alissa G. about Gardner Family Farm, offering contained water play alternatives to the region's sometimes fast-moving streams.
Wildlife viewing preparation: Pack binoculars and wildlife identification guides as the region supports diverse bird populations and mammals. Worthington Sportsman's Club provides excellent wildlife observation opportunities, with one camper noting "The camping spot was beautiful (although you have to watch out for nettles)."
Navigation considerations: Several campgrounds require fording small streams to access tent sites. "Ford a shallow stream (on a paved slab, easy for any car) and the campsites are up the hill," explains Kerry M. about Echo Valley's layout, important information for families with young children or mobility concerns.
Access limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas near Elkader have limited RV accommodation. "Certainly a tent oriented campground, RVs would have a difficult time," notes Wilber S. about Echo Valley State Park, emphasizing the importance of advance research for vehicle clearance.
Electric hookup availability: Gateway Park Campground features "3 drive through sites and 4 back in spots with a few nice trees. Water electric and sewer connections at each site with a separate dump station," though campers note sites are "Pretty wide open and close together," lacking the privacy found at tent-specific campgrounds.
Alternative accommodations: RV campers seeking more amenities should consider established campgrounds within 30-minute drives of Elkader rather than primitive sites. Several reviewers mention Backbone State Park (approximately 22 miles from Elkader) as offering more RV-suitable camping options while still providing access to the region's recreational opportunities.
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 19 tent camping locations near Elkader, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
