Campers traveling to Greenfield, Iowa find diverse terrain spanning the rolling hills of Madison County to the quieter lakeshores around Anita and Green Valley. The area sits amid the Southern Iowa Drift Plain at elevations between 1,100-1,300 feet, creating valleys and streams ideal for camping. Summer humidity levels can reach 85% with temperatures averaging 83°F in July, making water-based camping locations particularly popular.
What to do
Disc golf at Lake of Three Fires: The 9-hole course winds through wooded areas and offers lake views at this state park about 90 minutes south of Greenfield. "There is a great frisbee golf course that my boys loved playing. The beach sandy and clean for a refreshing dip on a hot afternoon," notes Caralee D.
Explore the Clark Tower: This historic stone structure at Winterset City Park provides panoramic views of Madison County. "There is a two mile loop that leads you up Clark's Tower where you can see the rolling hills of gorgeous Madison county," according to Carson O., making it ideal for photography and hiking.
Wildlife viewing: At Jester County Park, visitors can observe native Iowa species in natural settings. "Jester has even been the place where we hold special events like birthdays/going away parties," shares Larissa C., who recommends sites 409-410 for secluded camping with water views.
What campers like
Riverside camping at Pammel Park: The Middle River flows through the campground, offering water access directly from select sites. "Fun splashing in the river catching minnows by hand. Pretty park. Easy turns with the trailer," says Mia L., though she notes some sites require extra-long hoses to reach hookups.
Paved trail systems: Lake Anita State Park Campground offers well-maintained paths suitable for multiple activities. "There is a nice trail to ride your bike around the lake and through the park. Don't leave your bike at home," advises Matt S., who enjoys the lakeside campsites at nearby Green Valley State Park Campground.
Off-peak solitude: Many campgrounds near Greenfield offer uncrowded experiences outside summer months. "We visited in August and realized it was prime family vacation time before school starts up again, so a little crowded and noisy. We plan to go back when Autumn arrives, mid week," shares Laura W., who appreciated the woodland coverage at Green Valley.
What you should know
Booking requirements: Most state parks fill quickly on summer weekends. At Lake of Three Fires, "While the electric hookup sites were full, primitive campers had their pick of the campground even during the middle of the summer," notes Megan M., adding that "Site 55 is an absolute GEM. Spacious and right on the water!"
Limited firewood availability: Several campgrounds don't sell firewood on-site. "Firewood is not sold on the campground, so you can burn what's on the ground or head to Hyvee for some wood in town," shares Kayla F. about Lake of Three Fires, recommending early arrival to avoid store closures.
Glamping close to Greenfield, Iowa: Luxury camping options have expanded with several sites offering upscale alternatives to traditional tenting. Timberline Campground provides "blow-my-mind camping" according to one reviewer, who calls it "a place you will always remember as a sweet spot" with outstanding facilities and tranquil locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When choosing sites at Winterset City Park, look for spots near the play areas. "The park looked nice, only thing some spots looked really close together. Our spot was big right by the park area," says Tessa M., who appreciated the convenience for children.
Weekend activities: KOA campgrounds offer scheduled family events. "There were 6 families that stayed there with us. It was so much fun because we were able to all be either on buddy sites together and one had a patio site. The pool was refreshing for the girls and all of the activities kept them busy," Christina N. explains about Des Moines West KOA Holiday.
Space considerations: Some campgrounds have tighter layouts that affect family camping. "This State Park definitely needs to be updated to accommodate the bigger and wider campers. If you like to be on top of each other, this is your campground!" notes Deb W. about Lake Anita, suggesting families may want larger sites.
Tips from RVers
Arrival timing: Many campgrounds near Greenfield have after-hours check-in procedures. "Although we were arriving after 10pm, we could still check in without a reservation! They have an awesome 'self check in'. A board marked with available spaces we chose from," shares Tanja M. about her experience at Des Moines West KOA.
Site leveling challenges: Pack leveling blocks as many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The sites are pretty well spaced with lots of grass and some trees in between. It was a good value for full hookup sites," reports Deb M. about Winterset City Park, which provides level gravel pads at most sites.
Tunnel clearance: RVs with heights over 12 feet need alternate routes at certain parks. "If you are over 12 ft, make sure and take the detour around the tunnel," warns Kelly about Pammel County Park, adding "This is a regular stop on my campground rotation. Camp host's are the best ever."
