Best Campgrounds near Harlan, IA

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Harlan. Harlan is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Harlan, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Harlan, Iowa (83)

    1. Prairie Rose State Park Campground

    15 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

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

    "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

    18 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. 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."

    6. Elkhorn Creek Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Exira, IA
    13 miles
    Website

    $14 - $16 / night

    7. Hitchcock County Nature Center

    29 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. Shelby Country Inn & RV Park

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

    $35 / night

    9. 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."

    10. Nishna Bend Rec Area

    Be the first to review!
    Harlan, IA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (712) 744-3403

    $20 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 83 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Harlan, IA

271 Reviews of 83 Harlan Campgrounds



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

Which is the most popular campground near Harlan, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Harlan, IA is Prairie Rose State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 15 reviews.

What parks are near Harlan, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 parks near Harlan, IA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.