Tent campsites near Huxley, Iowa offer dry camping environments with minimal cell service in many locations. The region sits on rolling prairie with elevations around 1,000 feet above sea level, creating natural drainage that helps maintain drier campsites even after rain. Most campgrounds in central Iowa remain open from April through October, with limited winter availability at select locations that maintain plowed access roads.
What to do
Astronomy observation sessions: Participate in weekend stargazing at Ashton Wildwood Park where the on-site observatory hosts educational programs. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) 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 Willy W.
Orienteering course navigation: Follow the marked orienteering course at Ashton Wildwood Park for a self-guided adventure. "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it," notes one camper, making it suitable for beginners wanting to practice map and compass skills.
Kayak rentals and fishing: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides on-site kayak rentals and productive fishing spots. "There is a company on-site that rents Kayaks," explains Jerry V., who adds that site #13 specifically "had a nice access spot for fishing" with largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish available.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Mariposa Recreation Area offers generous spacing between sites for increased privacy. "It's pretty spacious and has lots of room for tent camping," writes Willy W., noting the recently dredged lake is refilling, providing an evolving landscape for return visitors.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept outhouses and facilities despite primitive settings. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, Christopher M. notes, "Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites." Some locations now feature upgraded facilities, with Jerry V. reporting, "The new restroom/shower facility was very nice and clean."
Budget-friendly options: Most tent camping locations near Huxley maintain affordable rates. Tent-only camping at Kuehn Conservation Area provides riverside sites at county conservation rates, while other locations maintain similar pricing structures. "It's only $7/night!" explains one camper about Ashton Wildwood Park.
What you should know
Water availability limitations: Several campgrounds lack potable water sources directly in camping areas. At Ashton Wildwood Park, campers must "drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side," according to Deb K.
Terrain considerations: Some camping areas feature sandy surfaces requiring stake adjustments. "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," warns Jerry V. about Stoehr Fishing Area, which limits stays to 24 hours and prohibits campfires.
Highway noise proximity: Interstate sound can reach certain camping areas, though impact varies by location. "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal," notes Willy W. about Colfax Quarry Springs Park, which maintains a 10:30 pm quiet hours policy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several locations maintain play equipment for children near camping areas. "There is a small park to play at for kids," reports Willy W. about facilities at Ashton Wildwood Park, while Mariposa Recreation Area includes "a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore."
Fishing-focused sites: Request specific sites at Twin Anchors Campground for best shore fishing access. "They have a small petting zoo and a small beach," according to Abby F., providing additional children's activities beyond fishing opportunities.
Moderate hiking trails: Several parks offer shorter hiking trails suitable for families with young children. At Ashton Wildwood Park, "There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult," explains Deb K., noting it worked well during physical rehabilitation.
Tips from RVers
Site surface preparation: RV campers should bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain at most tent camping sites that accommodate small trailers. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, one camper notes sites are "level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," suggesting small trailer camping may be possible at select locations.
Limited hookup availability: Most conservation areas near Huxley lack water and electric connections. "I wouldn't bring an RV here," cautions Willy W. about Mariposa Recreation Area, while other locations like Otter Creek Park provide primitive camping with no hookups for small rigs only.
Reservation limitations: Many smaller county parks operate on first-come, first-served basis requiring early arrival. "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" writes Steve H. about Otter Creek Park, though recent reports indicate camping may be temporarily suspended at this location.
