Primitive tent camping areas around Forest City, Iowa offer a range of experiences for campers seeking more rustic accommodations. These locations are typically within Wildlife Management Areas or at small county parks, providing an alternative to more developed campgrounds. Most sites operate seasonally from spring through fall, with many closing by November due to Iowa's cold winters and reopening in April when temperatures warm. Access roads to these areas are often gravel or dirt, with some becoming difficult to navigate after heavy rainfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, campers can access fishing along paths on either side of the boat launch. A visitor noted, "There's a boat launch and paths down each side of the launch you could fish. On the way in, you'll see a deck to the left, providing a scenic overlook."
Disc golf: Ambrose A. Call State Park offers activities beyond hiking trails. According to a camper, the "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course," making it a good option for groups looking to combine camping with recreational activities.
Wildlife observation: The wetland environment at Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area attracts waterfowl hunters during season. One visitor mentioned, "There is people here who hunt ducks," indicating the area's popularity for wildlife observation and hunting during appropriate seasons.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Free and low-cost camping appeals to budget travelers. A camper at Devine Wildlife Area noted, "Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up. No water, no electric, no toilet. Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent. But the price is right."
Solitude: Some campers appreciate the isolation at certain sites. At Iowa Lake Co Campground, a visitor shared a different experience than what's typically reported: "Unlike the other reviewer I was literally the only one there. That's always a bit odd but in this case it didn't bother me at all. I highly recommend for tents. RVs not so much."
Shade trees: The mature tree cover at Ambrose A. Call State Park provides natural shelter from summer sun. A reviewer highlighted the "Nice oak trees" as a positive feature of the campground, although they also mentioned "No privacy between sites."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Forest City provide minimal amenities. At Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground, a camper described it as a "Small campground. Not busy while I was here. Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared. Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees. No privacy between sites. Pit toilets. No showers. $18 per night."
Weather impacts: Seasonal conditions can affect water levels and campsite quality. At Big Wall Lake, a visitor reported, "This place was really bad probably because of the low water levels. In very hot temperatures the lake would have a smell."
Variable occupancy: Sites can range from empty to crowded depending on timing. One visitor at Iowa Lake Co Campground mentioned, "Not a bad place to camp. There was quite a bit of people when I was there and most of them were rowdy college kids bit hey it was still a blast."
Tips for camping with families
Short stays work well: For families passing through the area, even brief overnight stops can be practical. At Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, one camper shared, "We stopped here when we drove from NY to CO and it was fine. We got here late and left early in the morning so we never saw the place in light. For what it was it worked for us."
Insect preparation: Pack ample mosquito repellent, especially for wetland areas. At Devine Wildlife Area, a visitor warned about the "Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent."
Limited space awareness: At Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, families should know about spatial constraints: "It's pretty quiet, but there aren't many spots to camp. When you come in on the dirt road, it hooks to the right, and you'll come upon a dirt cul-de-sac. On the right, you'll see a grassy area set into the woods where you could camp."
Tips for RVers
Size limitations: Most primitive tent camping areas have limited space for larger vehicles. A camper at Rice Lake observed that "There's enough room that virtually any size camper could navigate into this spot, but if there are other people, that will really complicate your life."
Alternative locations: Some areas better accommodate RVs than others. Iowa Lake Co Campground was described by one tent camper as "a great little spot," but they noted "I highly recommend for tents. RVs not so much."
Dispersed parking: With few designated sites, RVers may need to create their own camping spots. At Devine Wildlife Area, a visitor explained there are "No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up."
