Tent camping sites around Knoxville, Iowa range from basic backcountry areas to established campgrounds with modest amenities. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with summer highs averaging 86°F and spring/fall temperatures more moderate. Most campgrounds in this central Iowa region sit at elevations of 800-900 feet above sea level with rolling terrain containing woodlands and prairie areas.
What to do
Hiking trails: Ashton Wildwood Park features multiple hiking paths including an orienteering course through wooded terrain. A camper noted, "There is a small circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement." The park also offers bird watching stations along creek-side trails.
Fishing opportunities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides excellent fishing access with multiple shoreline spots. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing... The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish," reports one visitor. Electric motors only, no gas engines permitted.
Observatory visits: Saturday evening stargazing sessions at the Ashton Wildwood Park observatory offer unique night sky viewing. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable," explains one camper who enjoyed the educational experience.
Kayaking: Paddle sports enthusiasts can launch kayaks from two designated areas at Colfax Quarry Springs Park. "There is a half mile portage with a campsite on the river which you must call to reserve," mentions one regular visitor. Rental equipment is available from an on-site company for those without their own gear.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Ashton Wildwood Park offers larger-than-average tent sites with natural surroundings. A regular camper reports, "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents." Sites cost only $7 per night, providing excellent value.
Quiet setting: Many campgrounds near Knoxville provide relatively secluded camping despite proximity to towns. "Quiet campground and big campsites. Lots of trees and nature," writes one Ashton Wildwood Park visitor. Several campgrounds maintain quiet hours starting at 10:30 pm.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in this region generally maintain clean restroom facilities despite their rustic nature. A visitor to Ashton Wildwood Park mentioned, "Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained." Colfax Quarry Springs Park also received positive facility reviews.
Wildlife viewing: Mariposa Recreation Area features a dedicated butterfly garden and natural habitat areas. "There are hiking trails and one that goes to a back pond. There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore," notes a visitor, making this location particularly suitable for tent camping.
What you should know
Water availability: Many campgrounds lack reliable water sources. At Ashton Wildwood Park, "The bathroom at the campground doesn't have plumbing and no water available so make sure to bring plenty of water." Some sites have water spigots at central locations but not at individual campsites.
Bathroom facilities: Expect basic toilet facilities at most locations. According to a visitor at Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites." Ashton Wildwood offers flush toilets with hot showers at the observatory building but only pit toilets at the campground itself.
Ground conditions: Sandy or uneven terrain requires careful tent placement at several campgrounds. "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that," advises one Colfax camper. Bringing extra tent stakes and ground pads is recommended for comfort.
Reservation systems: Most campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. "I live just 7 miles away, but I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping," shares a local visitor to Ashton Wildwood Park. Some sites like the river-access spot at Colfax require calling ahead to reserve.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Mariposa Recreation Area provides play equipment near camping areas. "There is a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore. There is also a shelter to have parties with picnic tables," mentions one visitor, making this location suitable for families.
Educational opportunities: The observatory at Ashton Wildwood Park offers science learning for children. "They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom," explains a visitor who appreciated the educational aspects for young campers.
Safety considerations: Most campgrounds have limited lighting, so flashlights are essential. An Ashton Wildwood camper advises, "There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs. (Bring your flashlight!)" This preparation is especially important with young children.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience roadway noise. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal." Selecting sites further from roads can help families sensitive to noise disturbance.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Knoxville better accommodate tents than larger RVs. Regarding Mariposa Recreation Area, a visitor states, "It's pretty spacious and has lots of room for tent camping. I wouldn't bring an RV here." Larger rigs should consider established campgrounds with designated RV spaces.
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds including South Overlook and Fifield offer electric hookups for smaller RVs, though they lack full water or sewer connections. Otter Creek Park has traditionally offered basic RV options but a recent visitor cautions, "The park is closed for camping indefinitely."
Leveling requirements: Varying terrain requires preparation for level parking. At Colfax Quarry Springs Park, a camper reported the ground was "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended for smaller campers and RVs at most locations.
