Tent camping options near Leland, Iowa range from wildlife management areas to state parks across Kossuth, Emmet, and Winnebago counties. The region features several glacial lakes with elevation averaging 1,200 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder conditions with occasional precipitation.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area provides primitive tent camping with easy lake access for fishing. According to Kevin T., "This place was really bad probably because of the low water levels. In very hot temperatures the lake would have a smell. There is people here who hunt ducks."
Frisbee golf in shaded settings: Ambrose A. Call State Park Campground features a disc golf course amid oak trees. Joel S. notes, "Park is very nice with hiking trails and a Frisbee Golf course. $18 per night."
Boat launch access: Multiple tent sites provide water access for small watercraft. At Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, Skip H. reports, "There's a boat launch and paths down each side of the launch you could fish. On the way in, you'll see a deck to the left, providing a scenic overlook."
What campers like
Free firewood availability: Some established campgrounds provide firewood at no cost. Joel S. mentioned about Ambrose A. Call State Park: "Sites have electricity, but water spigots are shared. Free firewood is provided. Nice oak trees. No privacy between sites."
Lake view campsites: Bright Lake Co Park offers partial lake views through the trees. According to Wally B., "Really nice spot almost overlooking the lake (Through the trees), had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!"
Vault toilet facilities: Basic sanitation facilities available at select locations. Bradley B. commented about Iowa Lake Co Campground: "I found this to be a great little spot to stay bike touring through Iowa. It is right in a lake, has water, and a nice vault toilet."
What you should know
Limited developed sites: Many areas have few designated camping spots. Skip H. observed at Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area, "When you come in on the dirt road, it hooks to the right, and you'll come upon a dirt cul-de-sac. On the right, you'll see a grassy area set into the woods where you could camp. Other than that, your parking in the perimeter."
Seasonal water levels affect conditions: Lake conditions fluctuate significantly by season. At Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area, David B. reported, "We stopped here when we drove from NY to CO and it was fine. We got here late and left early in the morning so we never saw the place in light."
Varying campsite privacy: Site separation varies considerably between locations. At Devine Wildlife Area, Joel S. notes, "Dispersed camping really. You can bring a big rig in. No really prepared sites. Maybe 5 places you could set up. No water, no electric, no toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Check insect conditions: Marshy areas can have significant mosquito activity. Joel S. warned about Devine Wildlife Area: "Swampy area nearby so bring mosquito repellent. But the price is right."
Multiple tent accommodation: Some sites accommodate larger family groups. At Bright Lake Co Park, Wally B. mentioned, "Had fire ring, picnic tables and room for quite a lot of tents! For me and my family it was perfect!"
Shelter rental options: Iowa Lake Co Campground offers additional facilities. Abby F. notes about nearby Ambrose A. Call State Park, "The park itself is pretty nice with several trails and a small campground. There is an enclosed stone shelter house you can rent for gatherings."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping areas have minimal RV accommodation. Bradley B. noted about Iowa Lake Co Campground: "I highly recommend for tents. RVs not so much."
Navigating dirt access roads: Some wildlife management areas have unimproved access. Skip H. described Rice Lake Wildlife Management Area: "There's enough room that virtually any size camper could navigate into this spot, but if there are other people, that will really complicate your life."
Crowding concerns: Some areas experience periodic crowding. Gabbie G. observed at Iowa Lake Wildlife Area, "Not a bad place to camp. There was quite a bit of people when I was there and most of them were rowdy college kids but hey it was still a blast."
