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Best Campgrounds near Harlan, IA

293 Reviews

Shelby County, Iowa offers several established campgrounds within a short distance of Harlan, the county seat. Prairie Rose State Park Campground, located about 10 miles from Harlan, provides the most comprehensive camping experience in the immediate area, with accommodations for tents, RVs, and cabins. Camping options extend to nearby facilities like Nishna Bend Recreation Area and Elkhorn Creek Recreation Area, both offering tent and RV sites with varying levels of amenities. The region includes multiple county and state parks with mixed-use camping areas, most offering electric hookups alongside more primitive options for those seeking a traditional outdoor experience.

Most developed campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with Prairie Rose State Park open from April 1 to December 31, while others like Botna Bend County Park remain open year-round. Facilities typically include electric hookups, with many offering water and sewer connections for RVs. Shower and toilet access varies significantly between locations, from modern facilities at Prairie Rose to more basic amenities at smaller recreation areas. Weather considerations affect camping conditions throughout the year, with reviews mentioning strong winds as a particular challenge. A camper wrote, "We showed up Easter Sunday when everyone in the loop left except one van, but the wind was so intense and constant. Probably about 20 to 25mph wind all day and night."

Lakefront camping receives consistently high ratings in the area, particularly at Prairie Rose State Park where visitors appreciate the serene water views and fishing opportunities. The park surrounds a large lake with multiple shoreline access points and picnic areas. Campsites are described as well-maintained with level gravel pads, though proximity to facilities varies. Several visitors commented on the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, particularly during weekdays when campgrounds are less crowded. Hiking trails at Prairie Rose follow the lakeshore and through natural prairie areas, though some reviews mention poor trail marking. A visitor noted, "Primitive spots are separated from electric spots, which is great if you're looking for quiet, peaceful tent camping" and "trails are perfect for XC skiing in winter."

Map showing campgrounds near Harlan, IowaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Harlan, Iowa (86)

    1. Prairie Rose State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Harlan, IA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 773-2701

    $12 - $50 / night

    "It is about ten miles north of Interstate 80 near Harlan, Iowa. The lake is gorgeous and has many different view points. There is plenty of space and a lot of different activities."

    "These Iowa state parks are extremely clean and well taken care of. The lake is huge with multiple trails that the kids loved. Playground was directly behind us which is a plus for us."

    2. Pottawattamie County Fairgrounds

    7 Reviews
    Harlan, IA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 981-7072

    "The directions on this app take you to the first entrance which is not where the camping is, but follow the huge arrow and you’ll find it no problem."

    "I saw two tractors driving through town and only a few more cars. Best of all we had a full 5 bars of ripping Verizon service. What's not to like?"

    3. Arrowhead Park Campground

    20 Reviews
    Honey Creek, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 485-2295

    "Our family and another family shared a primitive tent site near the back of the park. We were first and foremost impressed with the freedom we had in choosing our site."

    "I like that you can tent camp anywhere in the Camp area down by the lake with all your friends close by. the trails and playground equipment is nice and the fishing is great!"

    4. Botna Bend County Park

    7 Reviews
    Lewis, IA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 741-5465

    "Iowa has many great county parks, and this one is no exception. There are three campgrounds in the park. The South campground, Middle campground, and North campground."

    "Walking on the trails reminded me of how beautiful nature is, because of all the flowers and tall prairie grasses."

    5. Nishna Bend Rec Area

    1 Review
    Harlan, IA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 744-3403

    $20 / night

    6. Elkhorn Creek Recreation Area

    2 Reviews
    Exira, IA
    13 miles
    Website

    $14 - $16 / night

    "We loved the drive into the campground and found a grove of oaks to camp under. Everyone slept great."

    7. Hitchcock County Nature Center

    30 Reviews
    Honey Creek, IA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 328-5833

    $10 - $50 / night

    "I pulled in late at night easy to navigate stayed the next day and did some trails apparently the land formations are 1 of only 2 in the world how about that Iowa."

    "We camp all the time at different locations, and I 100% recommend this campground! The hosts are so polite and helpful and they keep the place immaculate."

    8. Arrowhead Park Pottawattamie County Park

    5 Reviews
    Honey Creek, IA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 485-2295

    "There are two small camping areas near the entrance and two larger areas on the far side of the lake. We stayed in Site 20 on the far side."

    "Nice setting close to I80 without highway noise. It is first come so is probably busy in summer. Bathhouse was so clean and nice. Stop by office first to see if there are sights available."

    9. Shelby Country Inn & RV Park

    1 Review
    Harlan, IA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 544-2766

    $35 / night

    10. Lake Anita State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Anita, IA
    33 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 762-3564

    $12 - $20 / night

    "This campground has both RV full hookup and electric sites very close to the lake. Campsites offer a great view of lake and close access to docks."

    "Beautiful lake, great walking trail, close to town and I-80, but quiet and peaceful. Can’t beat it for $11 a night."

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Recent Camping Photos near Harlan, IA

36 Photos of 86 Harlan Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Harlan, IA

293 Reviews of 86 Harlan Campgrounds

  • Bethanie S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Lenon Mill Park

    Lennon Mills

    Quaint campground situated alongside a dam. Fishing is legal and there were quite a few around while I was there. Besides me, there was one other camper. Three tent sites, the rest are for RVs.

    Each site had a picnic table and fire ring. There was a swing set, shelter, modern bathroom (big enough to fit your bike in), water hydrant, and a few access points to the water.

    Two blocks down, you'll find a historic village. Tickets are only $2 per adult. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to browse because they didn't open until 10.

    Self-check in is well marked with the gigantic yellow tube. They promised WiFi but I was able to attend a meeting in my tent without it (T-Mobile).

    If you wander into town, the market has firewood for $5/bundle, as well as other essentials you can cart back to the site with you.

  • Donna H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Wilson Island State Recreation Area Campground

    Mosquitos and undrinkable water.

    Mosquitos are a given in a wetland refuge, but since this was just an overnight stay, I wasn't especially concerned. What DID concern me was:

    1. The camp host was present, but not at all helpful. A bad storm was moving in, and so I asked about tornado shelters in the area...he said there were none. Funny as the ranger station was within walking distance, but nobody was attending.

    2. It's a state park, and so the water stations are sprinkled throughout the camping areas. I was going to fill my kettle and was stopped by one of the campers who said that the water was bad and that if I needed water, she had extra. The camp host didn't mention the contamination issue, nor were the spigots marked. I did see a weathered "boil notice" on the door to the showers that evening. 

    It has the potential to be a nice park, but is unkept and all but neglected by the camp host.

  • V
    Sep. 30, 2025

    loess hills state forest

    Loess Hills State Forest

    Really impressed with this location. Incredible hiking just outside your door.

  • Susan W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Bluffs Run RV Park at Horseshoe Casino

    Road to Mackinac

    Just an overnight on our way to Michigan. Yeah it's a parking lot! Visited family just in the NE side of the river. Water and electric, not a bad price. Interstate was RIGHT THERE..... but the noise of our AC downed it out! 😎 Showers were low pressure and could have been better maintained.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 11, 2025

    Lake Manawa State Park Campground

    Nice metro campground

    Large concrete pads with patio and permanently mounted mesh steel picnic table with a fire pit grill on the corner.. Lakeside locations are quite well spaced with a panoramic Lake view. small restroom and shower pair with unisex entry. Quite spartan, but relatively clean. Trees surround the campground, but none provide any campground shade. Entry gate code required, which provides some security. all amenities are available within a limited distance. Some lake activity noises during the day, and depending upon wind, some aircraft traffic, otherwise very quiet.

  • sparkleblaster S.
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Moorehead Pioneer County Park

    Safe and lots of trees

    I stayed on the picnic loop at one of three designated camp spots (according to the map posted at the end of the picnic loop). There was a nice shade structure, picnic table, fire pit, and grill. Pit toilets and trash bins nearby and a water spigot that wasn't working. I got in late on a Sunday. I saw some fishermen around the pond on my way in but no one else. There's a playground and a couple small pavilions across from where I camped, so I imagine it can be busy on the weekend.

    It's not really a campground. It's a county park with a few camp spots. If I hadn't found the sign with tent symbols I would have doubted it was a legitimate place to camp.

    The coordinates in the description here took me to a boat launch. This is the coordinate to the camp spot I stayed at: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BziGswnzeFVjgVxV6

  • J
    Aug. 24, 2025

    On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    Overnight stay

    This campsite was everything we were needing for the night plus more. The people were very friendly.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    Comforting

    Night 1 of a 60 day trip with 42 moves. Super clean park and very well taken care of. I watched a youtube video that showed the park and it was like re-living a dream. Pulled in, stopped at office, John came in and helped me, asked me if I was a GoodSam member and charged me $43.34 for a full-hookup, super long pull thru. There were a lot of open spaces so the park felt very comfortable. Totally worth it.

  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    On-Ur-Wa RV Park

    Comforting

    Night 1 of a 42 moves trip. You can find a few decent youtube videos that show the park and it was like living a dream. Pulled in, John came into the office, asked if I was a Good Sam member and charged me $43.34 for a full hook-up, extra long pull thru on the outside of the trees. I watch for that now after the top of a tree fell on power lines above my camper last year. Seemed pretty vacant but there were people here that looked like travelers. Very comfortable.

Guide to Harlan

Camping near Harlan, Iowa, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Fishing and swimming: Many campgrounds, like Viking Lake State Park Campground, have lakes perfect for fishing and swimming. One camper mentioned, "The lake is great for fishing, kayaking or swimming."
  • Hiking: Trails are available at places like Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, where visitors can enjoy scenic walks. A reviewer noted, "The campground is set in an Aspen glade. Very nice."
  • Playgrounds: Families will appreciate the playgrounds at campgrounds such as Hitchcock County Nature Center. One parent shared, "Camping here also gives you access to the playground and nature trails into some beautiful countryside."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers often rave about the cleanliness of restrooms and showers. A visitor at Lake Anita State Park Campground said, "Great location, good facilities (shower, spigot with drinking water, restroom with flush toilets)."
  • Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have helpful hosts. A camper at Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area mentioned, "The host was so kind and helpful to us new timers."
  • Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Glenn Cunningham Lake Campground. One reviewer noted, "Slips are nicely spaced apart from each other."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Be prepared with bug spray, especially at Hitchcock County Nature Center. One camper warned, "The only downside is bring several bottles of bug spray, the mosquitoes are terrible!"
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Campgrounds like Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area may not have showers or trash services. A visitor mentioned, "Sites have cement pads with electric service only."
  • First-come, first-served: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, like Arrowhead Park Campground. A camper reminded others, "Friendly reminder to bring CASH."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Look for spots like Hitchcock County Nature Center that have facilities for kids. A parent shared, "Looked like a lot to do for the kids."
  • Plan for activities: Bring games or outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. One camper at Lake Anita State Park Campground noted, "Not much to do in small town but fun for an overnight."
  • Pack snacks and meals: Having food on hand can save time and keep everyone happy. A visitor at Viking Lake State Park Campground mentioned, "Great sites right on the water."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for electric hookups: Many campgrounds, like Lewis and Clark State Park Campground, offer electric sites. A reviewer said, "Hot showers were a plus."
  • Be mindful of space: Some RV sites can be close together. A camper at Walnut Creek Lake & Recreation Area mentioned, "The park is a giant loop with many potable water fountains around."
  • Explore nearby attractions: Campers often enjoy visiting local sites. One visitor at Glenn Cunningham Lake Campground said, "This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds we have ever encountered!"

Camping near Harlan, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With clean facilities, friendly staff, and plenty of activities, it's a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping spots in Harlan?

The Harlan area offers several camping options within easy driving distance. Prairie Rose State Park Campground is a popular choice located about ten miles north of Interstate 80 near Harlan with beautiful lake views and spacious sites. Another option close to Harlan is Nishna Bend Rec Area, which provides drive-in access with basic facilities like water and toilets. For those willing to venture slightly farther, several state parks and county campgrounds throughout the region offer additional camping opportunities with various amenities and natural settings.

What amenities are available at Harlan campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Harlan offer a range of amenities to suit different camping styles. Preparation Canyon State Park Campground provides more primitive camping with picnic tables and fire rings at walk-in sites located near creeks for water access. For more developed facilities, Wilson Island State Recreation Area Campground offers open camping spaces connected to the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge with access to trails and wildlife viewing. Most campgrounds in the area include basic amenities like restrooms, while some also provide electric hookups, shower facilities, playgrounds, fishing access, and hiking trails.

When is the best season for camping in Harlan?

Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best camping conditions in the Harlan area. Lenon Mill Park provides convenient access to nearby town amenities during peak season. Summer months are popular at Swan Lake State Park Campground, which features frisbee golf and beautiful surroundings. Fall brings colorful foliage and less crowded campgrounds, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway. Many campgrounds in the region have seasonal operations, with limited or no services available during winter months. Weather is typically most stable from June through September, though spring and fall can offer pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds.

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