A
Avid C.
Scout
ScoutRiver Ranch Camping
Do not recommend
The place is very dirty and needs updating.
Best Campgrounds in Iowa
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Iowa's campground landscape includes a mix of well-developed state parks and county-managed recreation areas. Parks like Ledges State Park, Maquoketa Caves, and Pike's Peak offer established camping options with varying amenities and hookup availability. Many campgrounds throughout the state accommodate both tent and RV camping, with locations such as Hitchcock Nature Center, Jester County Park, and Backbone State Park also featuring cabin accommodations for visitors seeking more comfort. Several campgrounds near lakes and rivers provide water-based recreation opportunities, particularly at parks like Lake Anita and Lewis and Clark State Park.
Camping season for many Iowa state parks runs from April through December, with some parks open year-round. Reservations are recommended, especially for summer weekends and holiday periods when campgrounds frequently reach capacity. Electric hookups are common at developed sites, though availability of water hookups and shower facilities varies by location. Weather considerations include hot, humid summers and cold winters with potential for snow and ice from November through March. Access to most campgrounds involves paved or well-maintained gravel roads suitable for standard vehicles. One camper noted, "Level cement pads with hookups. Short walk to the lake and playgrounds. Bar and grill 1/4 mile away."
Many Iowa campers appreciate the state's waterfront camping options, with several highly-rated campgrounds situated near lakes and rivers. Facilities at county and state parks generally receive positive reviews for cleanliness and maintenance. Multiple reviewers highlighted the abundant recreational opportunities available at Iowa campgrounds, from hiking trails to fishing access. One visitor to Hitchcock Nature Center shared, "The hosts are so polite and helpful and they keep the place immaculate. Even the pit toilets were spotless and didn't smell." Campground prices remain reasonable compared to neighboring states, with several reviewers noting the value proposition of Iowa's camping options. Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in wooded areas and near water sources during summer months, so adequate insect protection is advisable.
Best Camping Sites in Iowa (753)
1. Ledges State Park Campground
41 ReviewsBoone, IAWebsite+1 (515) 432-1852$18 - $38 / night
"One of my favorite locations to camp in Iowa as a Boy Scout growing up was Ledges State Park. Since I hadn't been back in years, I decided to check it out and spend a night camping there."
"One of the more beautiful places to camp in Iowa. Awesome hiking trails and really well-shaded campsites."
2. Maquoketa Caves State Park Campground
35 ReviewsBaldwin, IAWebsite+1 (563) 652-5833$20 - $28 / night
"cave system of Maquoketa Caves State Park, Iowa."
"This is a great weekend stay, with short trails that show some beautiful and unusual scenery for central Iowa. The natural bridge is incredible, and the sites are well spaced out."
3. Hitchcock County Nature Center
33 ReviewsHoney Creek, IAWebsite+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."
4. Jester County Park
31 ReviewsGranger, IAWebsite+1 (515) 323-5300$20 - $25 / night
"A couple minor complaints that I developed would be that it is right next to the golf course so there is a lot of near by traffic, and people like to cruise on motorcycles and drive muscle cars through"
"Iowa county parks are amazing. They pour money into them and it really shows. Clean, I mean immaculate. Nature/Conservancy center there is just next level."
5. Pikes Peak State Park Campground
30 ReviewsMcGregor, IAWebsite+1 (563) 873-2341$20 - $38 / night
"Unlike Minnesota and Wisconsin, Iowa’s state parks do not require a permit-bonus for RVers. Many sites have full hook-up, most if not all have electric. I paid $25 a night. Full week is $150!!"
"It is within walking distance of the overlook of the magnificent Upper Mississippi River at the confluence of the Wisconsin River. There are other walking/hiking opportunities."
6. Six Pines Campground — Backbone State Park
29 ReviewsDundee, IAWebsite+1 (563) 924-2527$16 - $25 / night
"Backbone State Park is unlike any other place in Iowa, having geological features uncommon in Iowa. There are two campgrounds."
"The lake was super gross, with excessive floating moss (probably a weather issue) and EXCESSIVE goose poop everywhere. The beach was basically unusable, with goose bombs everywhere."
7. Lake Anita State Park Campground
29 ReviewsAnita, IAWebsite+1 (712) 762-3564$15 - $36 / 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 campground on a man-made lake in Iowa. Very sparsely populated in the middle of the week even during the month of June. A wonderful bike trail circumvent the lake. About 4 miles long."
8. Sugar Bottom Campground
24 ReviewsNorth Liberty, IAWebsite+1 (319) 624-2102$14 - $260 / night
"Very nice COE campground north of Iowa City in the Lake Coralville area. Beautiful setting, lots of options for sites."
"Nice grassy sites near lake for fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing. Near Iowa Raptor Project that conducts raptor programs and site with walking tour and live raptors, and Macbride State Park as well."
9. Des Moines West KOA Holiday
24 ReviewsEarlham, IAWebsite+1 (515) 834-2729"Roadside Oasis, a place to rest a weary head, food, showers, etc. Cabins always help get you in and get out early without setting up camp."
"I love the beautiful surroundings here. Definitely worth the visit."
10. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground
23 ReviewsOnawa, IAWebsite+1 (712) 423-2829$15 - $52 / night
"Well kept & family friendly camping in Iowa!"
"There’s a pretty big playground near all the sites. When I went in the first weekend of October they had a little trick or treat night too! Extremely nice amenities; flush toilet and showers."
Recent Camping Photos in Iowa
377 Photos of 753 Iowa Campgrounds
Recent Reviews in Iowa
2368 Reviews of 753 Iowa Campgrounds
Maria Mercedes M.
LegendFairport State Recreation Area Campground
Boats, Barges & A Front-Row Seat to the Mississippi
There’s something wonderfully mesmerizing about camping beside the Mississippi River, where you can sit together and watch everything from great blue herons to enormous towboats slowly make their way past your campsite, and tiny Fairport State Recreation Area gives families a front-row seat to it all. Located about seven miles east of Muscatine and roughly 20 miles from Davenport, this intimate 42-site campground is decidedly more about the river than resort-style recreation, with every back-in campsite offering 20/30/50-amp electric service and many providing beautiful views across the water. Families will find modern restrooms and showers, accessible water, a dump station and small playground, while two boat ramps with docks make getting onto the Mississippi wonderfully EZ for an afternoon of boating or fishing for walleye and catfish. One of my favorite little pleasures here is simply pointing the chairs toward the river as evening arrives and watching the barges glide silently past while everyone tries to spot one more bird before darkness settles over the water. At Fairport, the Mississippi isn’t something you drive somewhere to see - it becomes part of your campsite. From what we saw, the best campsites are 37–42, where the western row puts you closest to the Mississippi and provides some of the campground’s prettiest river views. We would definitely recommend Fairport for families who love boating, fishing and life along the water because it’s small, wonderfully convenient and beautifully positioned on the Mississippi - just know that the nearby railroad provides last minute surprising loud sirens, including during the night, so light sleepers might want to pack earplugs along with the marshmallows.
Alison P.
GuideTailwater West Campground
Nice, but some issues
The campground is nice and clean, with level campsites. We arrived and there was no power - it took several hours for them to fix. Someone else mentioned that it was the 2nd time to happen in the last few days. The bathrooms are just ok. The views are beautiful!
Alexandria V.
TravelerWest Overlook Campground
Arrived late
Booked online and arrived late. No kiosk but you check in the morning.
We found site fairly easy. Could use more signs for campgrounds but it’s to the left of the day use just can’t see it at night.
Great spot for family by water and close to bathrooms with playground
- LLouise D.Traveler
Lewis and Clark State Park Campground
Easy parking but no shade.
This park is only 1.8 miles west of the highway and is right on the river. Unfortunately, all the large cottonwood trees have been cut down so there is no shade. There is no map posted at the campground, but the lowest numbered spaces are nearest to the bath house which was clean and had hot water that stopped to let you lather up, then press the knob to make it start again. I appreciated the electric service given the hot temps!
- WWorld T.Scout
Lake Darling State Park Campground
Quiet
Quiet place. Camp host was friendly. Bathroom needs a little care but overall great campground. As far as cellular service, I was only getting one bar, however Starlink worked great.
- jjohn N.Scout
Lake Wapello State Park Campground
Great camp ground
It’s well kept the bathrooms/shower house are pretty decent has a good view and beach was really fun
- AAnita L.Guide
Pulpit Rock Campground
Pulpit Rock campground
We camped in Pulpit Rock campground in a pull through site with friends. They allow two campers on one site. This site was particularly long with our 38' 5th wheel and their 33' pull type camper. We were next to the highway so it was a little noisy which is why I didn't give it 5 stars. Tons of shade in this area. Staff was very friendly. We called in early and they saved this spot for us b/c it was a FCFS site. So you call and they will hold a spot for you to come that day. We also had a flat fire pit with 2 sides instead of a circle one in the ground. We were always knocking out burning logs.
Rum R.ScoutStone State Park Campground
Most disrespectful camp experience
Tons of trash was thrown in the tree-lined in site 19. Site 18 had a couple who were yelling for an hour leading up to quite time - the dnr stopped by 3 times to tell them to shove it. Lots of sites blasting music on and off all day. Neither pit toilet or bathhouse had soap/sanitizer. The water spigot was broken so that it ran constantly. Tiny sites, you're practically in your neighbor's tent. Trail was pretty if a bit overgrown. Rate was decent. Little to no cell service with verizon if you are looking for that. I booked the weekend and left early.
Guide to Iowa
Camping in Iowa offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're a family looking for a weekend getaway or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure, Iowa's campgrounds have something to offer.
What to do
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds, like Ledges State Park Campground, have scenic trails. One camper mentioned, “The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals.”
- Fishing and Boating: At Rock Creek State Park Campground, you can rent boats and kayaks. A reviewer noted, “Boat and kayak rental and a small store with basic necessities.”
- Playgrounds and Family Activities: Campgrounds like Jester County Park have playgrounds and trails for kids. One family shared, “Campgrounds amazing views airsoft gun and archery ranges snowshoeing equestrians and cross-country skiing.”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Des Moines West KOA Holiday said, “Bathhouses were clean and private.”
- Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy spots. A camper at Cherry Glen Campground mentioned, “This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet.”
- Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the helpful staff. One reviewer at Bob Shelter Recreation Area said, “Friendly hosts & Rangers.”
What you should know
- Limited Cell Service: Some areas have poor reception. A camper at Iowa Ledges State Park noted, “Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected.”
- Busy During Peak Season: Popular spots can get crowded. A visitor at Rock Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “The campground area is clean... but the RV section of campground was nearly full.”
- Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Prairie Flower Recreation Area advised, “You must reserve these sites in advance.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Campgrounds with Play Areas: Look for spots like Jester County Park that have playgrounds. A parent shared, “Kids playground, hiking trails, Equestrian Center, golf course and nature center. Plenty to do.”
- Pack for Activities: Bring bikes or outdoor games. A family at Yellow Banks County Park enjoyed, “Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table.”
- Plan for Meals: Some campgrounds have food options nearby. A camper at Des Moines West KOA Holiday mentioned, “Small store with Hunt Brothers pizza to order.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits. A reviewer at Walnut Woods State Park noted, “The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine.”
- Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer full hookups for convenience. A camper at Lake Ahquabi State Park appreciated, “The bathroom/showers were decent.”
- Be Ready for Narrow Roads: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. A visitor at Walnut Woods State Park mentioned, “The road around the campground is paved, but very narrow.”
Camping in Iowa is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds in Iowa for tent camping?
What are the best campgrounds in Iowa for tent camping?
Ledges State Park Campground stands out as one of Iowa's premier tent camping destinations with well-shaded sites, excellent hiking trails, and hike-in spots that offer privacy while still being relatively close to parking. The park's natural beauty and wooded setting create an ideal tent camping atmosphere. Beed's Lake State Park Campground offers picturesque tent camping by a beautiful lake with a scenic waterfall. For a quieter experience, Prairie Bridges Park provides a peaceful small-town campground with great walking paths and natural scenery. Most tent-friendly campgrounds in Iowa feature level sites, access to water, restroom facilities, and often fire rings and picnic tables. Be aware that wildlife, particularly raccoons, can be plentiful at wooded campgrounds.
What amenities are available at Iowa's top-rated campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Iowa's top-rated campgrounds?
Iowa's top campgrounds offer excellent amenities to enhance your camping experience. Lewis and Clark State Park Campground provides electric hookups, lakefront sites, and an impressive playground system with multiple setups for different age groups. West Overlook Campground, maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers, features electric sites with convenient dump and water stations at the entrance. Many Iowa campgrounds include clean restrooms, picnic areas, and well-maintained trails. Several parks offer water access for fishing and boating, playground equipment, and nearby convenience stores. Higher-rated campgrounds typically provide shaded sites, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Some campgrounds also feature shower facilities, though availability varies by season.
Where are the most scenic campgrounds located in western Iowa?
Where are the most scenic campgrounds located in western Iowa?
Western Iowa offers several scenic camping destinations with diverse landscapes. Hitchcock County Nature Center near Honey Creek provides stunning views of the Loess Hills, a unique landform found primarily in western Iowa, with excellent hiking trails that showcase the rolling topography. Lake Anita State Park Campground features beautiful lakeside camping with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The western region's landscape transitions from the flatter central areas to more varied terrain near the Missouri River, creating scenic bluffs and valleys. Many western Iowa campgrounds offer water features including lakes, rivers, and small waterfalls. The area's expansive skies make for spectacular sunsets and stargazing opportunities, especially at campgrounds away from larger towns.
When is the best season for camping in Iowa's state parks?
When is the best season for camping in Iowa's state parks?
Late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the best camping conditions in Iowa state parks. Summer provides warm temperatures ideal for water activities, while Waubonsie State Park Campground offers beautiful hiking even in February for cold-weather enthusiasts, though most campers avoid winter months. Fall brings spectacular colors, as experienced at Diamond Lake County Park where the autumn foliage creates stunning views around the freshwater lake. Most state parks are less crowded in spring and fall, offering more peaceful experiences while still providing comfortable temperatures. Be prepared for occasional summer thunderstorms and higher humidity in July and August. Many campgrounds reduce services or close completely during winter months.
Keep Exploring