90 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Central Iowa provides several established campgrounds near Gladbrook, including Union Grove State Park Campground just 2 miles south of town. This state park accommodates tent camping, RVs, and offers two rental cabins on its 282-acre property featuring a small lake. The campground network surrounding Gladbrook extends to nearby communities like Marshalltown, where Riverview Park Campground provides full hookup sites, and Beaman, home to Wolf Creek Recreation Area. Most campgrounds in the region support both tent and RV camping, while some properties like Pine Lake State Park in Eldora and Outback Campground in Tama also feature cabin rentals for those seeking more amenities.
Camping in the Gladbrook area follows typical Midwest seasonal patterns with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Union Grove State Park specifically operates from May 1 to September 30. "Great small town campground. Very quiet, especially on weekdays. Great place to take long walks with great paths and scenery," noted one visitor about nearby Prairie Bridges Park. The Iowa River influences several camping destinations in the area, with periodic flooding affecting riverside sites at locations like Pine Ridge Park in Steamboat Rock. Many campgrounds maintain electric hookups for RVs, while tent sites often have picnic tables and fire rings. Reservation requirements vary, with some state parks requiring advance bookings while county parks may operate on a first-come basis.
Water access represents a significant feature at most campgrounds near Gladbrook. Union Grove State Park offers fishing and non-motorized boating on its lake, while campers at Pine Lake State Park can enjoy both upper and lower lakes for paddling and fishing. A reviewer described Pine Lake as having "decent sized campsites, many having a great view of upper Pine Lake." Highway noise affects some locations, particularly Riverview Park in Marshalltown, where a visitor reported "it is right next to the highway. When I was there in a tent, the hog trucks would drive by all night (loud and smelly)." Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the region, with several parks featuring hiking trails through wooded areas and along waterways. County parks typically offer more secluded camping experiences compared to the more developed state park facilities.
"Union Grove is known for having good lake fishing. The lake is also a great place for kayaking or canoeing."
"A few trails to hike and a horse camp that I didn’t have time to explore. Nice lending library as well. Bathroom/shower combos are nice (1 is ADA). Not far off the interstate."
from $34 - $90 / night
Check Availability"Wolf Creek is a nice little campground near Beaman, IA (Beaman is very small, near Conrad as well which has a grocery store)."
"A nice campground located on the comet trail."
from $10 - $17 / night
Check Availability"Hidden gem in Iowa"
"This is a very nice quiet campground close to a nice small lake. We stayed in space 30 and this area has just had the electrical updated and the are adding some new spots right by the lake."
from $10 - $20 / night
Check Availability"This campground is near home so I know it well. The campground itself is nice, with some decent sized campsites, many having a great view of upper Pine Lake. There are flush toilets and showers."
"Lovely views, great walking paths, quiet and picturesque lake. Bathrooms and shower rooms are new and super clean. Campground is well kept. We will definitely be back."
from $16 - $90 / night
Check Availability"There are good hiking trails, including a walk through some wildflowers. Bird watchers will love this place. Also expect to see deer and turkeys."
"Jump into the nearby water and let the kids have a blast! Enjoy a nice fun night away from home!"
"I did not check the water hydrant, or even try to locate it, since I brought my own water for one night of camping."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"Stopped overnight on our way home from Iowa City. No reservations & took our chances on finding an electric site. Score! Neighbors were friendly."
"The RV section of campground was nearly full but the tent/non-hook up section had lots of space. One can camp on lakeside but be aware that these spots have a slope, not comfortable for my van."
from $16 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Surprisingly with it's location in relation to Hwy 20, it's actually pretty quiet. There is a paved trail that'll take you over to the lake so it's not a bad walk."
from $15 / night
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GuideThis is a day use conservation only area. No camping is currently allowed.
There is a nice accessible vault toilets, play ground, and it has the Iowa River passing through it. There is also a very nice community building at the property.
GuideThis little camp ground is part of the Iowa River Trail system. There is a good sized parking / turn around area. It was well kept and it costs about $10 a night and is in Hardin County.
The gravel road is fairly busy, but it could just be due to planting season starting. There were quite a few annoying gnats / mosquito's. There is a ramp for access, but it is dirt and gravel, so not something you can back a boat down in there easily.
I spent a night here and it was a pleasant experience, other than the flying bug annoyances.
GuideArrived at Reece Memorial Park in the early afternoon. I stopped by the Octagonal shelter at the south entrance of the park. This is a large shelter house with a fireplace in the middle of the building with several picnic tables.
I then drove down the road and entered into the west entrance of the park and followed it around the loop. There is a wide open area with a small slide and Merry-go-round, along with a couple of picnic tables.
I found, what I think, the best campsite in the park, and it was open. It sits along the creek and there was a fire ring there. This park is all primitive campsites, and so be prepared for that, although the description of the campground mentions vault toilets, I did not see them.
It was a very nice relaxing campsite, and the fact that there was no cell service, made it even better! There were a few vehicles drive through, and a little road noise, but I enjoyed my stay there. The creek was up, and it looks like part of the park might still be closed on the South side.
To primitive camp, the cost is $10.00 a night, and registration is with a QR Code, but since there is little to no cell service, it was difficult to get registered, so you may want to pay before you go.
TravelerComing in from the west there is a large u-shaped pull-off to the left just before a gate that is used to close the road for flooding. There are no signs. The lot area appears to be mowed annually. I parked along the lake/river shore without issues and popped up my truck tent. Over 40 bird species and a curious bald eagle dropped in and observed me through sunset.
GuideEverything is the same as reported in previous reviews. Good facilities and low price. Easy in and out.
ScoutCampground Hosts were amazing. We were short on some food the first night, Chuck was gracious to lend us some food and a 30amp extension cord. We had some nasty weather that first night also and we received a call from the host asking how we were doing!
Very clean park and very family friendly! Also has an excellent pond for fishing.
Will absolutely be coming back
GuideJust spent one night. It’s self pay, and only $20per day, for water, electricity, picnic tables, and fire ring. They’re good sized spaces. There’s clean bathrooms
TravelerGreat, convenient campground at a very reasonable price $15 if you pay cash or $19 when paying via the QR code at each site. The location is sitting right along the river where I saw several people fishing. There’s also a small playground, which is a nice touch for families.
I stayed at a 30-amp electric-only site, so no water hookups or dump station, but there is a dumpster available for trash. Overall, it’s a simple, safe, well-maintained spot that offers good value, and I would definitely stay here again.
ScoutGreat place to camp and go swimming
Camping spots near Gladbrook, Iowa offer various experiences across Tama County and the surrounding region. Located in central Iowa at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet, the area experiences typical Midwest seasonal weather with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F from June through August. Winter camping isn't widespread, with most facilities closing between late October and April due to temperatures frequently dropping below freezing.
Fishing opportunities: Union Grove State Park Campground provides lake fishing with good catches reported. "Union Grove is known for having good lake fishing. The lake is also a great place for kayaking or canoeing," notes one camper who regularly visits the area.
Nature exploration: Wolf Creek Rec Area offers creek fishing and access to the Comet trail for hiking and biking. A visitor mentioned, "A nice campground located on the comet trail," highlighting this recreational option just minutes from Gladbrook.
Cultural attractions: The area features unique local attractions worth visiting. "Things to do nearby: Enjoy the lake, Matchstick Marvels in nearby Gladbrook," a camper at Union Grove suggests, referencing the local museum featuring intricate matchstick sculptures.
Water activities: Beyond fishing, several locations offer paddling opportunities. "We loved hiking here, and the cabins are campground are very nice," says a visitor about Pine Lake State Park Campground which features both upper and lower lakes.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the region provide peaceful settings, especially during weekdays. "Small and quiet. A few trails to hike and a horse camp that I didn't have time to explore. Nice lending library as well," reports a visitor to Union Grove State Park.
Lake views: Rock Creek State Park Campground offers waterfront camping options. "Sunset over the lake! Found a great trail to hike, also the opportunity to rent a boat or paddlebord," says a camper who appreciated the scenery.
Well-maintained facilities: Campgrounds frequently receive praise for cleanliness. "Bathroom/shower combos are nice (1 is ADA). Not far off the interstate," notes a Union Grove visitor, while another camper at Pine Lake comments that "Bathrooms and shower rooms are new and super clean. Campground is well kept."
Family-friendly amenities: Several locations feature playgrounds and recreational facilities. Wolf Creek Recreation Area has "a nice playground, which was a feature we enjoyed when my daughter was little," according to one regular visitor.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds follow standard seasonal schedules. Union Grove operates May 1 to September 30, while Rock Creek State Park Campground is available from April 1 to December 31.
Highway noise: Some locations have noise challenges. At Riverview Park Campground in Marshalltown, a camper reports, "There's a bit of road noise, but there's lot of room here on a Tuesday. The grounds are well kept."
Site characteristics: Campsite quality and spacing varies considerably. "Sites both tent and RV are simply too close for you to enjoy the place. Camp fires every 10 feet," notes a visitor to Rock Creek State Park, offering a contrast to more spacious options.
Internet availability: Cell service is generally available, with some locations better than others. "Was able to get a clear view to the north for excellent Starlink reception," notes a camper at Riverview Park Campground, which may interest those needing connectivity.
Playground access: Wolf Creek Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities. "Well maintained campground. Small to midsize RVs, tent area. New (2) handicapped accessible shower house," notes a visitor, adding that the playground is a standout feature.
Swimming options: Water activities can keep children entertained. "This is one of our go to parks. Even when we don't camp, we love to swim here," shares a Union Grove State Park visitor, indicating reliable swimming conditions.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer affordable rates. One visitor to T.F. Clark Co Park noted, "This campground is a real bargain. It was $10/night for any site, including the electric," making it suitable for families watching expenses.
Educational opportunities: Otter Creek Lake and Park offers nature-focused learning. "Nature Center offers education displays and programs. Lake offers paddling, fishing, etc.," reports a recent visitor, highlighting activities that can engage children.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups, though water and sewer connections vary. "Full hook up for reason price. Has electric and water sites, too," notes a camper at Riverview Park Campground in Marshalltown.
Site leveling considerations: Some sites require extra attention to leveling. At Union Grove, a camper advises, "Some sites are off with level & weird (ie stairs/door open on an incline and away from the table), and our picnic table was sloped. So pick your site carefully."
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Well maintained campground. Small to midsize RVs, tent area," notes a visitor to Wolf Creek Recreation Area, indicating size restrictions that larger RV owners should consider before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Gladbrook, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Gladbrook, IA offers a wide range of camping options, with 90 campgrounds and RV parks near Gladbrook, IA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Gladbrook, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Gladbrook, IA is Union Grove State Park Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gladbrook, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Gladbrook, IA.
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