Tent camping options near Indianola, Iowa include several county-managed conservation areas within a 30-mile drive. Most sites provide basic amenities at affordable rates ranging from $7-15 per night. The region features rolling hills interspersed with wooded areas and small lakes or river access points. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F with higher humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, campers can fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish directly from waterfront sites. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing. The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas," notes reviewer Willy W.
Stargazing experiences: The astronomical observatory at Ashton Wildwood Park offers Saturday night viewings (except first Saturday) with knowledgeable astronomers. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's 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: Ashton Wildwood Park features a maintained orienteering course through wooded areas, providing a navigation challenge for beginners and experienced orienteers alike. One camper mentioned: "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it."
Wildlife watching: Kuehn Conservation Area provides wildlife observation opportunities along the Raccoon River. According to James M., the area has "hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife, small Bear Creek nature center, open daily 1/2 hr before sunrise to 10:30 pm."
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Mariposa Recreation Area offers generous tent camping areas with room to spread out. "It's pretty spacious and has lots of room for tent camping. I wouldn't bring an RV here," advises Willy W., who also mentions the butterfly garden and playground for kids to explore.
Natural setting: Wooded campsites at many parks provide privacy and shade. At Ashton Wildwood Park, reviewer Deb K. shares: "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping. Most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious. It's only $7/night!"
Clean facilities: Many campers specifically mention the well-maintained amenities. Christopher M. noted about Colfax Quarry Springs Park: "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites."
Water access: Kuehn Conservation Area offers sites along the Raccoon River. James M. describes them as "Nice quite sites along the Raccoon River. Has hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: At Mariposa Recreation Area, water conditions vary seasonally. "The lake has been drained and dredged and is slowly filling back up," reported Willy W., which affects fishing opportunities.
Limited drinking water: Most tent campgrounds lack drinking water at the sites. At Ashton Wildwood Park, one camper advised: "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water."
Reservation systems: Otter Creek Park operates on a first-come basis as Steve H. notes: "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" However, check current status as another camper reported: "The park is closed for camping indefinitely."
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom options vary widely between parks. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "They have porta potties around," while a newer reviewer Jerry V. mentioned: "The new restroom/shower facility was very nice and clean."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. Deb K. recommends Ashton Wildwood Park: "There is some play equipment for children. It's only $7/night! I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping."
Short hiking options: Twin Anchors Campground has additional activities for children. "They have a small petting zoo and a small beach," according to Abby F., though she cautions the campground feels "more like a neighborhood verses camping in nature."
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities. At Ashton Wildwood Park, Deb K. advises: "There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs. (Bring your flashlight!) Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets."
Quiet time enforcement: Noise levels can affect family camping experiences. At Twin Anchors Campground, one reviewer noted concerns with noise levels after quiet hours: "Its 1130 pm and we r camping by the playground and there's about 10 children at the playground with no adults."
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused areas: Several campgrounds specifically cater to tent camping with limited RV facilities. Luke C. appreciates Colfax Quarry Springs Park for being "Isolated campgrounds. Tent only none of that RV B.S."
Site leveling: Ground conditions affect setup at some locations. Christopher M. found Colfax Quarry Springs Park worked well: "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties. Would definitely stay here again."
Sandy conditions: Be prepared for terrain variations. Jerry V. noted at Colfax Quarry Springs: "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, Willy W. mentioned: "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal."
