Tent campsites near Grimes, Iowa offer varying terrain from prairie to woodland settings, with most locations situated within county conservation areas. The region experiences distinct seasons with hot summers reaching 85-90°F and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Campgrounds generally sit at elevations between 850-950 feet above sea level, with moderate rainfall patterns that peak during late spring and early summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides excellent fishing access with multiple species available. A visitor noted, "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 sessions: Take advantage of the Ashton Wildwood Park observatory that opens on Saturday evenings (except the first Saturday of each month). "The observatory that's open on Saturday's 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," reports one camper.
Hiking trails: Multiple conservation areas feature maintained trail systems. At Mariposa Recreation Area, "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 has recently been updated and cleaned up according to visitors.
Paddling: Several locations permit kayaking and canoeing. Colfax Quarry Springs Park offers "two places to launch kayaks" and even features "a half mile portage with a campsite on the river which you must call to reserve," making it suitable for paddlers seeking multi-day experiences.
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Many campgrounds offer generous site dimensions. At Ashton Wildwood Park, "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents." Another camper confirms, "Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night!"
Affordable camping: County-managed sites typically charge modest fees. One camper at Ashton Wildwood Park appreciated that "It's only $7/night!" while others mention reasonable registration fees at various locations, with most tent sites costing under $15 per night.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive amenities, many locations maintain clean facilities. A visitor to Ashton Wildwood Park noted, "Very clean, easy to reserve. Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained." Similarly, at Colfax Quarry Springs, "Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites."
Nature immersion: Multiple campgrounds provide good wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper described Ashton Wildwood Park as having "Quiet campground and big campsites. Lots of trees and nature," while others mention diverse wildlife sightings throughout conservation areas.
What you should know
Water availability: Many tent campsites near Grimes lack potable water sources. At Ashton Wildwood Park, "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water." Campers should plan to bring adequate water supplies or check for nearby spigots at administrative buildings.
Sandy terrain: Former quarry locations present unique ground conditions. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," though this does provide level tent pads.
Limited facilities: Most conservation areas offer basic amenities only. "There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs. (Bring your flashlight!)" advises a regular camper at Ashton Wildwood Park.
Seasonal closures: Always verify current operating status. One camper reported that Otter Creek Park "is closed for camping indefinitely," highlighting the importance of checking current conditions before planning your trip.
Tips for camping with families
Observatory activities: Schedule your trip around astronomy events. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable," reports a visitor to Ashton Wildwood Park, making it an educational opportunity for children.
Playground access: Several locations offer play equipment for children. At Mariposa Recreation Area, there is "a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," while Ashton Wildwood Park has "a small park to play at for kids."
Noise considerations: Some locations experience noise from nearby roads. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal," which might be important for families with light sleepers.
Budget-friendly options: Look for no-fee or low-cost options. A regular visitor to Ashton Wildwood Park mentioned, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most conservation areas primarily serve tent campers. At Twin Anchors Campground, "The campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs," though tent campers should note that "Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy."
Electrical hookups: Few conservation areas offer power connections. Twin Anchors Campground does provide electrical hookups, making it one of the limited options for RVers requiring power near Grimes.
Level sites: Former quarry locations often provide naturally level pads. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, sites are "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," which would benefit small trailers and camper vans as well.
Supply access: Note proximity to services when selecting sites. Colfax Quarry Springs Park has "a Kum & Go up the road to get missing supplies," which proves convenient for both tent campers and RVers needing to restock during their stay.
