Tent camping near Gilbert, Iowa includes a mix of park facilities, wildlife areas, and lakeside sites within approximately 30 miles of town. The region features predominantly flat to gently rolling terrain with wooded areas interspersed with prairie landscapes. Many campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from April through October, with a few offering year-round access when weather permits.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Quarry Springs Park in Colfax offers excellent fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. According to a camper, "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing... The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas."
Stargazing at observatory: At Ashton Wildwood Park, visitors can access an observatory open on Saturdays. One camper shared, "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) 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."
Hiking trails: Several parks feature maintained trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One visitor at Mariposa Recreation Area noted, "There are hiking trails and one that goes to a back pond. There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore." The area also features rehabilitated lake areas after recent dredging projects.
What campers like
Secluded, wooded sites: Camping areas often provide privacy and natural surroundings. A visitor at Ashton Wildwood Park commented, "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping. Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night!"
Well-maintained facilities: Many campers appreciate the upkeep of sites and amenities. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, a visitor noted, "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."
Affordability: Camping costs remain relatively low compared to other regions. Several campgrounds offer primitive camping for under $10 per night, with one camper stating, "The new restroom/shower facility was very nice and clean. Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many campgrounds lack running water or electricity. At Ashton Wildwood Park, a camper warned, "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water."
Seasonal conditions: Campgrounds in the Gilbert area experience typical Midwest seasonal changes. Spring often brings muddy conditions, while summer humidity can be significant. Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer insects.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways or recreational activities. One visitor at Twin Anchors Campground reported, "Its 1130 pm and we r camping by the playground and there's about 10 children at the playground with no adults. And there's about 5 golf carts running around."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. At Mariposa Recreation Area, facilities include "a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore. There is also a shelter to have parties with picnic tables."
Educational opportunities: Families can combine camping with learning experiences. At Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, wildlife observation is common, though conditions vary seasonally. One visitor noted, "This place was really bad probably because of the low water levels. In very hot temperatures the lake would have a smell."
Best family-friendly sites: Some campgrounds specifically cater to families. A camper at Quarry Springs Park recommended, "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV amenities: While some campgrounds accommodate RVs, many have minimal hookups or suitable sites. A visitor to Quarry Springs Park advised, "Campsite right on the water. Great fishing. Isolated campgrounds. Tent only none of that RV B.S."
Site conditions: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain at many locations. At Twin Anchors Campground, one camper observed, "The campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs. Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy. They have a small petting zoo and a small beach."
Alternative options: For RVers seeking full hookups, larger commercial campgrounds may be preferable to the natural areas closer to Gilbert. Several parks offer primitive camping only, with limited or no RV-specific amenities.
