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Lewis and Clark State Park Campground offers pet-friendly sites with fire rings and picnic tables in Onawa, just north of Little Sioux. Pets are welcome at all RV, tent, and cabin sites with standard leash policies. Preparation Canyon State Park also permits pets at its primitive tent-only sites accessible via hiking trails. Dogs must remain leashed in public areas but can accompany owners on the park's extensive trail network. On-Ur-Wa RV Park provides full hookups at their pet-friendly sites and features a small designated dog area for exercising pets. The water at Huff-Warner Access Area has a very strong iron taste making it undrinkable, though the site remains popular with pet owners due to its riverside location.
The hike-in campsites at Preparation Canyon State Park require backpacking with pets and supplies approximately one mile from the parking area. Trails through unique Loess Hills terrain offer excellent walking opportunities for leashed dogs, with Site 3 providing the best views and star-gazing potential for campers with pets. Hitchcock County Nature Center offers both pet-friendly cabin accommodations and camping areas with nearby hiking trails. Summit Lake State Recreation Area provides a quieter lakeside experience where pets can enjoy shoreline walks, though the swimming area is off-limits to animals. The campground's abundant shade trees provide welcome relief for dogs during hot summer months when exploring the two miles of pet-accessible hiking trails around the lake.
"Located directly adjacent to the Preparation Canyon Unit of Loess Hills State Forest; the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America."
"Had no idea such a scenic place could be found in Iowa! I chose the closest walk-in spot, less than a mile in. It was great! Near a little creek if you need water, and really nicely secluded."
from $9 / night
Check Availability"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."
from $15 - $52 / night
Check Availability"Really impressed with this location. Incredible hiking just outside your door."
"It took a lot of driving to get back in here, but the payoff was a lovely little isolated, three or 4 acres of grass and hardwood trees by a sweet little cemetery of the hill."
"I wouldn't plan on letting my kids or dogs get into the water, except to, maybe, wade at the boat ramp where it is protected from the current by small islands where the creek comes in."
"Located far enough from the interstate to avoid any traffic noise River barges were unloading next to the campground when we were here."
"Pros: Quiet, walking trails, lake, bar nearby, clean showers and bathroom, building a new playground as of 10/2022 Cons: Dump station is on a noticeable uphill slope, so you won't be able to completely"
"Summit is a great lake just west of Tekamah, and less than a hour from Omaha."
from $30 / night
Check Availability"There is a small dog park for the pups. Bathrooms and showers are clean. One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom. Hosts are very friendly."
"Pulled in, John came into the office, asked if I was a Good Sam member and charged me $43.34 for a full hook-up, extra long pull thru on the outside of the trees."
"Very quiet and peaceful place I have been there few times and I never see anyone else around. There is no bathroom or drinking water so make sure you are ready for that."
"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."
"if you want to get some hiking in that’s not just all flat walking this is a great place in this area. The views show you the vast farmland here and are great for sunrise and sunset!"
from $10 - $50 / night
Check Availability"Close to town, stores, food. $15. Night in 2025. Fair. Good place for quiet, inexpensive nights. Quite a good deal.👍"
TravelerWell kept & family friendly camping in Iowa! We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready or preparing a line to throw in the water. Short walk to the very clean restrooms with flush toilets & showers. Will come back!
LegendThis small campground is right off the interstate, easy to get to. It’s right by a small truck stop, but the noise was not bothersome at all. There is a small dog park for the pups. Bathrooms and showers are clean. One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom. Hosts are very friendly. Sites are close, but for a one night stay that was just fine.
GuideI didn’t stay here but did scout it out. Small park by the NishnaBotna river. I did see a camper there with his dog but website specifically says no pets.
GuideWe primary stop by this site for fishing as the lake is regularly stocked. It's great for kayaking or small boats. There is very little shade available at this campground as it is a man-made area so bring the sunscreen. Fires are allowed and pets must be on leash. RV sites and tent camping site are available.
GuideThis campground is not really designed as an actual campground. It is for fair workers to hook up to during the county fair but is available for use by the general public at all other times. It gets 4 stars not because of any amenities, but because it is a safe uncrowded overnight location that is perfect to stay at with fuel and food nearby and a large area to walk pets.
Pros: Easy to move rigs in and out of, 30&50amp hookups, perfect for an overnight stop right off the highway if you don't want to stay in a Walmart parking lot. Pretty flat spots
Cons: Not built for actual camping (no fire rings/picnic tables/paved sites/bathrooms), sewer dump on location but unavailable for general population use, if you plug into the 30 amp receptacle it is $20 a night, if you plug into the 50amp receptacle it is $25 a night, each pedestal has both plugs. Some may say that is steep for a place like this, but it helps keep it maintained.
ScoutWe showed up easter sunday when everyone in the loop left except one van, so it was pretty empty. But the wind was so intense an constant. Probably about 20 to 25mph wind all day and night. Temp was mid 70s to 80s. Well kept sites and the park ranger came through to check reservations were correct on the posts. Random people did come through the loop area to either hang out or go to the trail, which alerted our dogs everytime. We even thought some lady did a drug deal by grabbing an orange bag from one of the electric posts then left, pretty weird. We stayed on site 81 next to water which was essential. Big lake close by to fish which I'm guessing the only thing to do here other than walk the trail. I ran the trail for a workout, it's all grass around the lake. All the sites are pretty close together, about 20 to 30 apart so of you like that then there you go, but we wanted space for our dogs and privacy. Stayed 2 nights. All views of corn.
LegendThis is a state park in Iowa right off the Missouri river. And also directly next to or connected to the great nature preserve Desoto Bend. Unfortunately there were massive floods in 2019 in this area that effected the area near the missouri, Platte, and Elkhorn river. Due to these flood this great park is closed along with other parks that are still closed. If you look around and see a few parks that are closed and some that are open but have repairs needed. I hope this park will open in the future. And this and other parks get the repairs that they need. This park is one of Iowa best in my opinion.
LegendIt is true that the campground is a big open space with little tree cover, but it is part of the DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, and there is a ton of trees, trails, and wildlife around the refuge.
It is right next to the Missouri River, and although the park and campground are in Iowa, the DeSoto National Wildlife Preserve is in both Iowa and Nebraska.
You have to pay separate fees to enter the Wildlife Preserve but it is worth it. The entire area is beautiful and has great views of the Missouri River. There is a visitor center and a few other attractions but the trails and the Missouri River are the best feature.
GuideContinuing our tour of the best Backpacking parks in our great state of Iowa, my comrade and I spent 2 nights at Preparation Canyon State Park. Located directly adjacent to the Preparation Canyon Unit of Loess Hills State Forest; the flora, fauna, and geology of this park are amazing and unique to North America. If you have not visited this area, put it high on your to-do list. The weekend was blistering hot at 95° F and a 9/10 UV index, but we were conditioning for a larger trip this summer, so we welcomed the challenge.
The park boasts 10 backpacking, hike-in campsites. However, you will find maps and literature that reference only 8, for seemingly good reason. Sites 9 and 10 (apparently more recent additions) are the most remote in the park and might tempt those seeking that added level of solitude. We examined both of them and they were both found to be overgrown and the nearby creek tributary was mostly dry. Instead, we spent both of our nights at Site 3, which seems to be the crown jewel. It is a small trek up a hillside and looks out across the general area, with a phenomenal star gazing opportunity. The creek just to the North was still flowing and provided our water source. You will not regret staying here. The other sites are mostly in the woods and line said creek. I'm certain they would be great as well.
A quick drive from the park lands you at the State Forest Lookout, which is partnered with a short 0.91 mile loop trail that is picturesque. Around the "back," (Northwest side) of the park there are shelters, picnic areas, and overlooks. You cannot park at these locations while camping in the park.
The immediate surrounding towns provide very little in the way of amenities, so plan ahead. The cultural history of the park is intriguing, as it was the site of a 19th century Mormon town (from which the park gets its name). The town however is completely gone, there are no abandoned historical structures to explore.
You won't miss them. Hike through the hilled prairie trail which is the first right as you enter from the Eastside Boundary, and you'll know why you came.
In summary, this park is the quintessential example of the diversity that Iowa has to offer, and rivals Yellow River for it's backpacking. It's proximity to the larger State Forest means you could spend weeks exploring if so inclined.
Summit Lake State Recreation Area near Little Sioux offers shaded camping sites with an extensive trail system covering two miles of lakeside paths. The area is situated within the unique Loess Hills formation, with elevations reaching 200 feet above the Missouri River floodplain. These hills were formed from windblown silt deposits during the last ice age, creating a distinct landscape that supports rare plant communities.
Hiking trails at Hitchcock Nature Center: The center features multiple trail difficulties with exceptional views of the Missouri River valley. "The hiking is fantastic and offers something for every skill level. There are absolutely gorgeous views of the Missouri River valley below. All trails are marked and the a multiple different trailheads, many which start around the visitors center/tower Overlook," notes Pat V. at Hitchcock County Nature Center.
Historical exhibits: Learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition through interactive displays. "They have a great visitor center with amazing displays and exhibits that mark the history of Lewis and Clark and their travels around the area," writes Timothy S. about Lewis and Clark State Park Campground.
Kayaking opportunities: Summit Lake offers protected waters ideal for paddling. "This lake is one of the better kayaking lakes I have been to. This thing is surrounded by hills and creates a valley or bowl. This hills seem to offer a form of wind block," says Tony B.
Quiet atmosphere: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Little Sioux offer peaceful settings away from crowds. "Quiet park. Gravel parking lot with 8 30 amp sites. Water and dump site on 11th st on the left pasted the ball field. $10 a night 10% discount for eligible people," reports a camper about Tekamah Memorial Park.
Star gazing opportunities: Clear night skies provide excellent viewing conditions. "Site 3, which seems to be the crown jewel. It is a small trek up a hillside and looks out across the general area, with a phenomenal star gazing opportunity," describes Christopher S. about Preparation Canyon State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower houses and restrooms are consistently mentioned. "Bathrooms and showers are clean. One of our party is in a wheelchair and had no problem accessing the showers or bathroom," notes Maggie C. at On-Ur-Wa RV Park.
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have water issues visitors should prepare for. "The water, while potable (so we were told), has a very, very strong iron/metallic taste. To the point that, for us, it was undrinkable," warns Tammy F. about Huff - Warner Access Area.
Seasonal insect activity: Being near water means bug preparation is essential. "You're camping by a river (i.e., water), so there are many, many flying insects. Be sure to have insect repellent, as they are merciless."
Campsite spacing: Some parks have tighter arrangements than others. "I guess most people are looking for this kind of camping, but it's a bunch of campers all piled on top of each other with no real views," notes Bob H. about Lewis and Clark State Park.
Playground access: Several dog-friendly campgrounds have recreational facilities for children. "We were able to reserve an electric unit (#30) right off the lake and across the road from the large playground (~5 setups for different age groups). We could watch the kids play while getting food ready or preparing a line to throw in the water," shares N K.
Educational programs: Check for scheduled events at nature centers. "They have Nature education events, archery range, a handicapped accessible boardwalk trail, hiking trails, camping, etc. There are miles of trail available with backcountry camping available for $10 per night."
Accessible trails: Jones Pond provides quiet areas for families with pets. "Very quiet and peaceful place I have been there few times and I never see anyone else around. There is no bathroom or drinking water so make sure you are ready for that," advises Roberto G.
Dump station angles: Check the layout before positioning your rig. "Dump station is on a noticeable uphill slope, so you won't be able to completely empty a tank if your setup is the wrong way."
Site selection strategies: Consider shade and privacy when booking. "The big thing that separates Summit from some of the other lakes in this area, is the abounds of trees and more shade."
Self-service check-in: Many campgrounds offer simple arrival procedures. "I loved the simple self service process. We picked an open spot, paid, and parked. The facilities were impressively clean and well maintained," shares Abby W. about Hitchcock Nature Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Little Sioux, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Little Sioux, IA is Preparation Canyon State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 8 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 75 dog-friendly camping locations near Little Sioux, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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