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Best Tent Camping near Keosauqua, IA

115 Reviews

Public lands surrounding Keosauqua, Iowa offer several primitive tent camping options for those seeking seclusion in southeastern Iowa's natural landscape. Eldon Wildlife Management Area provides dispersed tent camping with drive-in and walk-in access points, where campers can find secluded spots away from developed areas. Brinton Timber offers tent-only camping near the Skunk River with basic amenities, while Spring Lake Campground in Burlington provides more established tent campsites with additional facilities. These areas are situated within an hour's drive of Keosauqua, giving tent campers multiple options depending on their preference for amenities or seclusion.

Most tent campgrounds in the region feature minimal facilities, requiring campers to be self-sufficient. At Eldon Wildlife Management Area, tent sites lack drinking water, toilets, and trash facilities, making it essential for campers to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. According to reviews, campers can find secluded spots at the end of Umber Avenue "with no road noise or visitors." Brinton Timber offers fire rings, picnic tables, and composting toilets but no showers or running water. Sites are typically set on natural surfaces with minimal grading, and seasonal considerations include summer insects and potential hunting activity during designated seasons.

Tent campers frequently choose these areas for their natural setting and quiet atmosphere. One visitor to Brinton Timber noted that "no one disturbed us and it was free," highlighting the appeal of these primitive tent sites. The area near Skunk River provides opportunities for hiking and exploring trails, though reaching the water may require additional hiking or biking from the main camping areas. Backcountry tent camping is possible in some locations, with campers reporting that you can "hike and camp in the area." For those preferring more amenities, Spring Lake Campground offers tent campsites with drinking water, showers, and toilets, though campers recommend making reservations as the campground "fills fast" during peak seasons. Walk-in tent sites throughout the region provide greater seclusion than drive-up options, appealing to those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience.

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Best Tent Sites Near Keosauqua, Iowa (11)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Keosauqua, IA

115 Reviews of 11 Keosauqua Campgrounds

  • Fred S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2021

    Big Hollow Recreation Area

    Nice stay at primitive site

    Stayed at the primitive section of the campground. Site C was level for our camper van. Large, spacious site. Wooded. Fire ring. No table st this site, but other sites in this area has tables. Vault toilets a short walk away. Campground host was very helpful. Inexpensive firewood. Enjoyed our stay here. Paid $10 for site.

  • Frank H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Hickory Haven Campground

    Great Tent Camping

    Level grass tent sites. Shade of trees. Electric outlets at sites. Water accessible. Bath house kept very clean. Plenty of hot water for showers. Picnic table & fire ring at site. Economical. Laundry. Ice bags available. Picnic shelter with sides, 3 picnic tables, small mini fridge, electric lights & outlets, ceiling fan, portable fan, water and deep sink available for campers to use.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Welter Recreation Area

    Primitive Campsite

    This campsite appears to not be well maintained it may even be closed. There is no electricity and one vault toilet. Weeds are overgrown, and fallen trees have not been cleared. However, it has a wonderful view of the river and is directly on the banks. Because there are fallen trees, firewood is plentiful :).

  • Amanda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 12, 2024

    Donnelson Unit - White Oak Campground — Shimek State Forest

    Peaceful Paradise

    Nice little campground in Iowa. We stayed for three nights, there's vault toilets, and the fire rings are tiered and really nice. It's wooded and tucked away. There's a lot of nice little trails and a couple lakes. There's a $10 a night fee on the honor system so I would not consider it free. We would come back.

  • Dave N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2020

    Lake Keomah State Park Campground

    Nice state park

    The campground at this state park is very well maintained. Multiple electric site are available to reserve, along with a handful that are first come-first serve. They also have a bunch of tent sites as well. Pit toilets and a modern showrhouse. Drinking water is available throughout the campground. Most sites are level with at least partial shade. Picnic tables and fire rings at each site. The campground is clean and quiet. Gets busy on the summer weekends, but very quiet during the week. There is a beach to swim, and great fishing in the lake.

  • Greg K.
    May. 5, 2024

    Bentonsport

    17$ Bentonsport campground

    Beautiful river views. Amazing camp hosts. Showers,toilets,30/50/110 power water on sites to share water and dump on property. Mid 1800's town right there and businesses open. There is a blacksmith, a Indian artifact museum and gift shops. Historical walking bridge that is amazing. No wifi.. poor Internet although I did have one bar so could be worse .I have total by Verizon.

  • Travis R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 17, 2024

    Lower Augusta Skunk River Access

    Great campsite

    Campsite is directly next to the river. Most sites have power but there are a few tent sits as well (those are right on the river). We'll maintained vault toilets. Site has a shared spicket.

  • Joyce M.
    Oct. 11, 2020

    Waubonsie Trail Park

    Very pretty scenery

    I was only able to stay one night but i loved it. We hiked the equestrian trails one afternoon and the regular trails the next day. I camped in the equestrian campground and loved it with my popup. Outhouse type toilets are available there. I only drove past the RV campground and the campsites were close together. The equestrian area is the way to go in my opinion but i love the quiet. Picnic tables and fire rings are at each campsite.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2024

    brinton timbers park

    Great park no showers though

    I stayed at the main site that google maps took me to. Three spots but the park is big there might be more sites around it. It is near skunk river I only stayed there for a night but where I was to get to the river you have to hike or bike to it. I’ve heard you can ride horses here. They have fire rings, picnic tables, and a bathroom that’s deep and composting. No sinks or showers. Bugs were wild at night but it is summer. No one disturbed us and it was free the best park of it all. Hoping to make it back there to go through the trails. I believe you can hike and camp too in the area.

Guide to Keosauqua

Tent camping near Keosauqua, Iowa, offers a variety of options for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Spring Lake Campground, you'll find drinking water, electric hookups, and picnic tables, making it a comfortable choice for families.
  • Manhattan Bridge Access provides basic facilities like toilets, perfect for those who want a simple camping experience without too many frills.
  • For a more rustic experience, Grays Landing offers a no-frills environment, ideal for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for tent camping near Keosauqua

  • Make sure to arrive early at Spring Lake Campground during peak season, as it fills up quickly due to its popularity among families.
  • Bring your own firewood and picnic supplies when visiting Upper Augusta Skunk River Access, as this site lacks these amenities.
  • If you're looking for a quiet spot, consider Quercus Wilderness Area, which offers a peaceful environment away from crowded campgrounds.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $30

  • Camping at Chacauqua River Access is free, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious campers.
  • Expect to pay around $25 for a night at Brinton Timber, which offers a basic camping experience.
  • Rates at Rathbun Marina can vary, but it's a good idea to check for any fees associated with your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Keosauqua, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Keosauqua, IA is Eldon Wildlife Management Area with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Keosauqua, IA?

TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Keosauqua, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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