Camping spots near Independence, Iowa sit amid the rolling prairies and wooded creek valleys of Buchanan County, where elevations typically range between 900-1,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with campgrounds generally operating from April through October, though some facilities remain open year-round. Most camping areas maintain gravel access roads that don't require specialized vehicles or high clearance.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Backbone State Park offers trout streams for anglers. "I went with a group of entering sixth grade Girl Scouts on a weekend tent camping trip to this park... We hiked on the famous Backbone trail - a really fun hike that isn't too incredibly long," notes Rachel H.
Historical exploration: At Jakway County Park, visitors can tour the Richardson-Jakway home from the 1850s. "There is also a historical site - the Richardson-Jakway home built in the 1850's. The town was platted Buchanan but the locals called it Mudville!!" reports Carolyn M.
Water recreation: Gardner Family Farm and Iowa Hemp Farm Stay features a swimming pond with unique amenities. "Pond for recreation, fishing, and swimming. Kids be sure to try the rope swing," recommends Alissa G., adding that the farm offers "Dark skies with billions of stars. Enjoy a campfire, that's a must."
Mini-golf and paddleboats: Families enjoy the recreational amenities at Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres. "They had a little train ride, miniature golf course, catch and release fishing in their pond, splash pad, lots of cool things hand built structures to see as well," writes Wheelin With Hope.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Waterloo Lost Island Waterpark KOA maintains well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. "Sites are gravel for the RV, reasonably level, and very well maintained. Most sites are pull through. Hookups are in very good condition," notes Richard &.
Quiet settings: Many campgrounds provide peaceful surroundings despite highway proximity. At Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres, "It backs up to a corn field, right off the Interstate but the noise was barely there. Huge grass pull through lots everywhere," according to Wheelin With Hope.
Accessible options: Some camping areas offer specific accommodations for campers with mobility needs. "My daughter is in a wheelchair so we requested the accessible site. It's right next to the showers with an adapted pic-nic table and raised fire pit!" shares Wheelin With Hope about Beyonder Getaway.
Natural ambiance: Campers appreciate the natural features at Lime Creek Park. "The sound of the running Creek is soothing, vault toilet is probably the cleanest I've seen," mentions Tammy F., though she notes the "highway traffic noise is easily heard."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds operate from April through October or November. Fontana County Park typically runs "Apr 15 to Nov 1" while Lime Creek Park operates "April 15 to October 1," according to their listings.
Fee structures: Camping costs remain reasonable throughout the region. "Electric, pit toilets, fire ring, picnic table, fishing stream, playground and NOBODY AROUND. This is a gem no more than 5 min off the highway. It might not have the views and whatnot but can't beat that for convenience!" writes Nicolas N. about Lime Creek Park, which charges $15 for electric sites.
Water quality concerns: Some parks have swimming restrictions. At Backbone State Park, one camper notes "Lakewater often unsafe for swimming. To the extent the beach had weeds growing on it." This contrasts with other parks offering cleaner swimming options.
Camp host variability: Experiences with staff can vary between campgrounds. At Siggelkov County Park, one camper mentioned "camped her for years and the park has lost its camp host. soooo honesty pay system is in effect. the park has a nice primitive spot along the river."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Oelwein City Park, Ryan S. notes "The city park is adjacent to the campground and has picnic shelters, a playground, and a dog park."
Kid-friendly activities: Beyonder Getaway at Lazy Acres offers numerous recreational options. "Great owners, loads of stuff for kids (putt putt, paddle boats, horseshoes, basketball, Gaga, trampoline, playground)," reports David W.
Group camping options: Several parks accommodate larger family gatherings. At Backbone State Park, Emma N. shares "Have camped here twice with large groups (12-25 people) of college age friends. Was a great time with plenty to keep everyone interested... My favorite memory was definitely swimming in the river."
Educational opportunities: Some camping areas feature nature centers and wildlife displays. Trish I. mentions that Fontana County Park "boasts animal displays and a nature center, fishing, trails and a playground all within the park."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric connections, with some providing full-service sites. "There is a brand new campground here with full hookups. There are no trees so I decided to pass and not camp here," Ryan S. comments about Fontana Park.
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Weekdays offer more availability than weekends. Patricia notes about Oelwein City Park, "$17 or $15 (senior)/night. 30/50 amp service with city water and dump station. Spacious wooded gravel sites."
Leveling considerations: Site terrain varies across the region. The KOA in Waterloo offers "Level sites but not much shade," according to Mary D., who found it to be a "Very pretty Campground with colorful Kabin's and a lake for swimming or paddle boats."
Dump station locations: Many but not all campgrounds provide sanitary dump facilities. Oelwein City Park offers "30/50 amp service with city water and dump station," while other smaller campgrounds may require using facilities at nearby locations.
