Best Dispersed Camping near Hamburg, IA

Hoot Owl Bend provides limited dispersed camping options near Hamburg, Iowa along the Missouri-Iowa border. This primitive site features a small clearing suitable for tents and RVs, accessible via drive-in, boat-in, or walk-in options. The area lacks amenities—no drinking water, toilets, fire pits, or hookups are available, and campers should prepare for fully self-sufficient boondocking.

The site has generated mixed experiences from backcountry campers. A visitor commented, "There seems to be some private RV camping nearby which I was unsure about but they never came and bothered me." Access conditions appear uncertain, with one review noting, "sign says area closed 10pm-4am, so camping of any kind seems unallowed." Wildlife encounters are possible, with reports of animal activity during overnight stays. The clearing offers potential for bird watching enthusiasts, but visitors should be cautious of stinging nettle when exploring paths toward the water.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hamburg, Iowa (1)

    1. Hoot Owl Bend

    4 Reviews
    Nemaha, NE
    20 miles

    "Was confused at first because there was a private road sign near the turn off, but after some looking it does look like it’s a legit spot to camp. Good enough for a place to lay your head at least."

    "There seems to be some private RV camping nearby which I was unsure about but they never came and bothered me."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Hamburg, IA

2 Photos of 1 Hamburg Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hamburg, IA

3 Reviews of 1 Hamburg Campgrounds


  • Carter G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 12, 2025

    Hoot Owl Bend

    Good enough for a place to sleep

    Was confused at first because there was a private road sign near the turn off, but after some looking it does look like it’s a legit spot to camp. Good enough for a place to lay your head at least. I used a pickup truck with a tent and nobody bothered me. I did hear animals huffing and saw some shadows run next to the truck at like 2am haha.

  • Donner N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2023

    Hoot Owl Bend

    Simple clearing

    A nice little clearing easy to set up a tent in. There seems to be some private RV camping nearby which I was unsure about but they never came and bothered me. One of those trees in a mulberry, don’t put your tent under it you will have mulberries dropping on you in July. There is a nice walk towards the water, just wear pants and closed shoes to avoid the stinging nettle. There also is no fire pit or amenities at this site

    This spot would be great for bird watchers

  • Gordy Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2024

    Hoot Owl Bend

    Not recommended for cars

    It seems like a bad place to park for the night; sign says area closed 10pm-4am, so camping of any kind seems unallowed.


Guide to Hamburg

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Hamburg, Iowa, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find unique spots to set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Hamburg, Iowa

  • Be prepared for a lack of amenities at places like Hoot Owl Bend, which offers a simple clearing for tent or RV camping but no drinking water or restrooms.

Birdwatching opportunities while free camping near Hamburg

  • If you're a birdwatching enthusiast, Hoot Owl Bend provides a serene environment with easy access to nature trails, perfect for spotting various bird species.

Hunting season considerations for dispersed campers

  • Keep in mind that Gifford Point WMA is closed from September 1 through January for hunting season, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hamburg, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hamburg, IA is Hoot Owl Bend with a 3-star rating from 4 reviews.