Top Tent Camping near Lucas, IA

Looking for an adventure where you can explore Lucas and then fall asleep in your tent? Find the best tent camping sites near Lucas. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Lucas, IA (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)
    Camper-submitted photo from Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)

    1. Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board)

    10 Reviews
    13 Photos
    60 Saves

    Donated by Ferold and Dorothy Grant, this 150 acre park in northeast Warren County features a picnic shelter, a secluded pond, some wonderful woodland trails, and—new in 2018—10 primitive campsites! The picnic shelter is available for reservation by calling the WCCB office at (515) 961-6169. Grant Park has ten primitive campsites. There is a pit latrine in the campground. Water is not available. Reservations are not accepted. This campground is free of charge. Registration is required and is available at the campground entrance. Campers may stay in WCCB campgrounds for 14 days out of any 30 day period.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodburn - Stephens Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodburn - Stephens Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodburn - Stephens Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodburn - Stephens Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodburn - Stephens Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Woodburn - Stephens Forest
    • No image available

      3. Otter Creek Park

      2 Reviews
      12 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Dispersed
      • No image available

        4. Lucas Primitive - Stephens Forest

        Be the first to review!
        5 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access
        • Tents
        Camper-submitted photo from Colfax Quarry Springs Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Colfax Quarry Springs Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Colfax Quarry Springs Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Colfax Quarry Springs Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Colfax Quarry Springs Park
        Camper-submitted photo from Colfax Quarry Springs Park

        5. Colfax Quarry Springs Park

        3 Reviews
        17 Photos
        65 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • Tents
        • Group

        $10 / night

        • No image available
          Camper-submitted photo from Miners Retreat Enclosed Shelter (Ia)
          Camper-submitted photo from Miners Retreat Enclosed Shelter (Ia)
          Camper-submitted photo from Miners Retreat Enclosed Shelter (Ia)

          7. Miners Retreat Enclosed Shelter (Ia)

          Be the first to review!
          3 Photos
          2 Saves

          Overview

          Miner’s Retreat Enclosed Shelter is located on Lake Red Rock, Iowas largest lake. It is just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife.

          Click here for a virtual tour of the area.

          Natural Features:

          Lake Red Rock is situated on the Des Moines River. Hardwood forests cover the lakeshore at Miner’s Retreat Enclosed Shelter, offering shade and scenic views.

          Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrates through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March, and white-tailed deer and river otters are commonly viewed along the shoreline.

          Recreation:

          Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline.

          Anglers will find crappie, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill.

          Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area

          Facilities:

          Miner’s Retreat is an enclosed shelter that offers 20 amp electrical service, air conditioning, electric baseboard heaters, refrigerator, electric stove, microwave, and flush toilets.

          Nearby Attractions:

          Des Moines, Iowas capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.

          • Fires
          • Electric Hookups
          • Reservable
          • ADA Access
          • Tents
          • Group
          • No image available

            8. Rathbun Marina

            Be the first to review!

            This recreation area is part of Rathbun Lake

            • Tents
            Camper-submitted photo from South Overlook (Ia)
            Camper-submitted photo from South Overlook (Ia)

            9. South Overlook (Ia)

            Be the first to review!
            2 Photos
            1 Save

            Overview

            South Overlook is located on Lake Red Rock, Iowas largest lake. It is just 10 miles from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 miles from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world.

            Click here for a virtual tour of the area.

            Natural Features:

            Lake Red Rock is situated on the Des Moines River. Hardwood forests cover the lake shore at South Overlook, offering shade and scenic views.

            Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrate through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March, and white-tailed deer and river otters are commonly viewed along the shoreline.

            Recreation:

            Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline.

            Anglers will find crappie, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill.

            Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area.

            Facilities:

            South Overlook offers two reservable picnic shelters with 20 amp electrical outlets. Flush toilets are located nearby. A large parking lot will provide ample space for larger crowds.

            Nearby Attractions:

            Des Moines, Iowas capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.

            • Pets
            • Fires
            • Electric Hookups
            • Reservable
            • Tents
            • Group
            Camper-submitted photo from North Overlook Picnic Shelter (Ia)

            10. North Overlook Picnic Shelter (Ia)

            Be the first to review!
            1 Photo
            2 Saves

            Overview

            North Overlook Picnic Shelter is located adjacent from North Overlook Campground on Lake Red Rock, Iowas largest lake. It is just 10 minutes from Pella, known for its Dutch heritage, and 15 minutes from Knoxville, the Sprint car capital of the world.

            Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, biking and viewing wildlife.

            Click here for a virtual tour of the area.

            Natural Features:

            Lake Red Rock is situated on the Des Moines River. Hardwood forests cover the lake shore at North Overlook, offering shade and scenic views.

            Wildlife is abundant around the lake. A wide variety of waterfowl, including the American White Pelican, migrates through the area in spring and fall. Bald eagles can be observed from November through March, and white-tailed deer and river otters are commonly viewed along the shoreline.

            Recreation:

            Lake Red Rock offers excellent boating, water skiing and swimming opportunities. Miles of water trails for kayakers and canoeists are designated along the shoreline.

            Anglers will find crappie, walleye, channel and flathead catfish, northern pike and bluegill.

            Several miles of trails for hiking and biking are in the area. The 15 mile paved Volksweg Trail stretches west from Pella to the Des Moines River and to the Cordova Recreation Area,

            Facilities:

            North Overlook Picnic Shelter is a conventional open shelter that offers 20 amp electrical service, an outdoor grill, fire ring, water fountain and nearby flush toilets.

            Nearby Attractions:

            Des Moines, Iowas capital, is an hour away, with numerous shopping and dining opportunities, museums and the Blank Park Zoo.

            • Pets
            • Fires
            • Electric Hookups
            • Reservable
            • ADA Access
            • Tents
          Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

          Recent Tent Reviews In Lucas

          292 Reviews of 15 Lucas Campgrounds


          • Deb M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
            Aug. 31, 2024

            Winterset City Park

            Great city park on a cute town

            Nice city park campground close to lots of covered bridges and other things to see. The sites are pretty well spaced with lots of grass and some trees in between. It was a good value for full hookup sites. The bathroom was decent, and phone service was adequate. We just spent one night here on our way home from Colorado, but will be returning in the fall to explore more and see some colors.

          • GThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Lake Paho
            Aug. 28, 2024

            Lake Paho

            Sparsly Used Dark sky Campsite

            Very nice view of the lake, lots of campsites around the lake. Not many lights around and no big cities and a low horizon so it’s a good place to visit for a visual observation night with a telescope or binos. Only one other camper at my campsite when I visited, so it’s a good weekend retreat from the city life. This is a primitive campsite; there are two waterless bathrooms and 8 or so gravel spots at site B on the Eastern side of the lake.

          • Laura W.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Green Valley State Park
            Aug. 23, 2024

            Green Valley State Park

            Timing is everything!

            Pretty grounds with woodland coverage on all sides in addition to the lake. We visited in August and realized it was prime family vacation time before school starts up again, so a little crowded and noisy. Spots are pretty close together too. But the grounds are quite lovely and the facilities were super clean. We plan to go back when Autumn arrives, mid week. Bonus easy shore fishing access.

          • James P.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Roberts Creek West Campground
            Aug. 18, 2024

            Roberts Creek West Campground

            Roberts Creek - East

            East not west as satellite view in Dyrt is old and doesn’t show East campground. I did add a screenshot of current satellite view. FHU. Easy in and around campground. A lot of space between sites. Sites are fairly level with hard pack gravel.

          • Matt M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Iowa State Fair Campgrounds
            Jun. 25, 2024

            Iowa State Fair Campgrounds

            Nice campground!

            We've stayed here a number of times now in the past 2 years (not during fair weeks.) Campgrounds are located on the east side of the actual fairgrounds. There are hundreds of sites here. Some are flat, some are no where near flat, but there are so many, you can find one that will work for you! Almost all of the sites are full grass sites. The main shower house is the only one we've ever used and have no complaints. They are clean and bright and well kept.

            The sites are $32/night.

          • Renee H.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Howell Station
            May. 7, 2024

            Howell Station

            Large spacious campground

            Well maintained campground with mature shade trees. Gravel sites, a little bit of leveling required. Poor Verizon cell signal, no internet signal. Not much natural privacy between sites, but sites were well spaced apart. Paved trail nice for biking and walking. Fishing nearby and the Dutch themed town of Pella is a short drive and a must see. Bathrooms and showers were nice, clean. Handicap camp site and bathhouse available. Firewood for sale at front gate. The potable water available at the dump station was clear and good for drinking. Dump station is easily accessible. Dumpsters were positioned around the campground. Staff was friendly. The night we stayed, there was a severe weather threat, and the staff, at the end of the night, had unlocked the storm shelters (utility area in the middle of the bathhouses) should the need arise. We ended up having to seek shelter because of a tornado warning.

          • Tina T.
            Camper-submitted photo from Nine Eagles State Park
            Apr. 24, 2024

            Nine Eagles State Park

            Campsites

            Facilities are available and very convenient and comfortable. Nice lake to swim and fish. Absolutely beautiful park and really nice trails. Thanks, Tina

          • Marie M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Eveland Access
            Oct. 26, 2023

            Eveland Access

            Glendale Access

            20 bucks a day you submit your fill out sheet at the service area and drop it off in a drop box.

          • M
            Camper-submitted photo from Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake
            Oct. 23, 2023

            Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake

            Beautiful fall camping site

            We really enjoyed our stay at site 4 in the woods. It was absolutely beautiful with the fall colors and leaves falling all around us. We also enjoyed the trails around our site and a pretty view of a pond a short walk away. Anna was very responsive and gave thorough directions for us. We would stay again.

          • DThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Lakeside Co Park
            Oct. 18, 2023

            Lakeside Co Park

            Nice lake, but run down campsites.

            First, there is no dump station! All sites have water and electricity with 20, 30, and 60 amp plugs. The sites are 20 dollars. The campsites located near the entrance are pull-through but need maintenance. The campsites along the lake will support short to medium length RVs or trailers, and all are back in. As of this posting, all are not level and in poor condition. The city of Huneston, Iowa is a few minutes away and has several gas stations and a grocery store.

          • mThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
            Oct. 14, 2023

            Thomas Mitchell County Park

            Nice campground although not too many spaces.

            Came in late, even though there were several empty spaces turns out they were reserved. Very nice camp host told us we could have a non-electric site, none of them were reserved. Bathroom/showers were clean.

          • J
            Camper-submitted photo from Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake
            Oct. 8, 2023

            Nature Haven at Red Rock Lake

            We had a great time at this site:) …

            We had a great time at this site:) Anna was very responsive and helpful when we had questions. I would definitely recommend to others, and I would return again.

          • Benjamin L.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Walnut Woods State Park
            Sep. 16, 2023

            Walnut Woods State Park

            Nice park, convenient to Des Moines

            We stayed 2 nights, the park was nice and well maintained with walking trails. It is wooded so there is a lot of shade. The pad was a little small but fit our camper fine.

          • Ben K.
            Camper-submitted photo from Thomas Mitchell County Park
            Aug. 28, 2023

            Thomas Mitchell County Park

            Clean and quiet in tent

            Spent 2 nights tent camping here. We stayed at site 4, glad I read reviews on here. I personally would not want to be in a site beyond number 7 as it gets too close to the dump station and subsequent “sewage lagoon”

            Shower house was clean, pretty quiet, and only 5 miles off the highway

          • DThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from East Lake Co Park
            Aug. 26, 2023

            East Lake Co Park

            Newer so campground still being established

            The campground was clean and quiet with water and electricity at each site. The dump station was set aside from the camp sites. The trees at the campground were recently planted so no shade. The best part is that there is plenty of room between camp sites so your not camping on top of your neighbors. Playground and bathrooms on site.

          • JThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
            Aug. 20, 2023

            Yellow Banks County Park

            Great camp close to town

            Very clean campground with friendly host. Showers were warm and sites were either paved or good gravel. Road in could easily allow motorcycle access

          • Jen S.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Yellow Banks County Park
            Aug. 13, 2023

            Yellow Banks County Park

            Huge sites!

            Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table. Cost per night is low. Firewood available and camp host was a wonderful older gentleman. Close proximity to the state fair without being to close. Great stay! Our site had an open field behind it definitely recommend.

          • T
            Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
            Jul. 27, 2023

            Des Moines West KOA

            One of our favorites !

            Have stayed here several times, one of our grandkids favorite KOA's. Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered.

          • Stephanie S.
            Camper-submitted photo from Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground
            Jul. 23, 2023

            Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground

            Nice campground

            This campground is called Bob Shetler not Shelter, but I didn’t know how to change it to correct it; just want to make sure others know this.
            We stayed here for two nights while visiting family nearby. It’s a pretty location with the dam and waterway right there. The sites are well spaced. If we ever stay here again we would choose a site closer to the dam. We were close to a playground and there were a lot families camping in that area which for us took away from the peacefulness of the campground. There were electrical hookups, but no water. We didn’t use the bathroom/shower house, but I walked into one to check it out and it was outdated, old and dark, and small. Overall it’s a nice campground. It gets busy with a lot of fishing.

          • AThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Wallashuck
            Jul. 19, 2023

            Wallashuck

            Convenience with some space

            We were able to camp in a tent near RVs without feeling crowded. The restrooms, showers, and playground were all close by…great for camping with kids. There were some nicer than ours and some with less privacy or further away than we’d prefer.

            A nice mix of convenience and privacy. Perfect location to showers and playground for kids. Ample space for our needs, but not overly private

          • Les W.
            Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
            Jul. 18, 2023

            Des Moines West KOA

            Unbelievable !

            Stayed here for five nights attending a family reunion. First time staying at a koa and it was awesome. From the site service firewood and food delivery, to the location and people who stopped here in their travels. I will definitely stay at a KOA again!

          • Charity T.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Des Moines West KOA
            Jul. 4, 2023

            Des Moines West KOA

            Very laid back

            QUIETEST KOA IN AMERICA. no hiway no traintracks or airport! Well kept.. bathrooms are a little scarce and WET.. but very nice little campground and VERY friendly staff.

          • K
            Camper-submitted photo from Winterset City Park
            Jun. 21, 2023

            Winterset City Park

            Beautiful setting and quiet

            Wonderful setting and quiet place to stay. Beautiful views with quick access to Bridges of Madison County. Great hook ups and utilities!

          • j
            Camper-submitted photo from Timberline Campground
            Jun. 7, 2023

            Timberline Campground

            Wish we could’ve stayed longer

            Marta and crew were so friendly and helpful! Clean bathrooms, beautiful property. Close to hwy but far enough away. We called ahead to arrive after hours and had to get back on the road in the morning. Wish we could’ve stayed longer!



          Guide to Lucas

          Camping near Lucas, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

          What to do:

          • Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Island View Campground—Lake Rathbun, provide access to beautiful lakes. One visitor mentioned, "Very nice campground with lake to fish and boat on. Has beach access also."
          • Hiking and Biking: Trails are abundant in the area. A camper at Howell Station noted, "The campground has a bike/walking path that borders the River and winds through the woods."
          • Exploring Local Attractions: Campers can visit nearby towns like Pella, which offers charming shops and Dutch-themed attractions. One reviewer shared, "The Dutch themed town of Pella is a short drive and a must see."

          What campers like:

          • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Nine Eagles State Park Campground said, "Clean spacious bathrooms, nice playground for the kids."
          • Spacious Campsites: Many campgrounds, such as Yellow Banks County Park, offer large sites. One camper remarked, "Large spacious sites with a fire ring and picnic table."
          • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their hospitality. A reviewer at Pammel County Park mentioned, "Camp host's are the best ever. Clean facilities."

          What you should know:

          • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have stores or markets nearby. A camper at Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground noted, "NO market available."
          • Wildlife Caution: Campers should be aware of wildlife in the area. One visitor at Yellow Banks County Park warned, "Other campers warned us not to leave anything out at night because teenagers come through sometimes looking for stuff to steal."
          • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds have specific seasons for camping. For example, Lake Ahquabi State Park Campground is open from April 1 to December 31.

          Tips for camping with families:

          • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer swimming or fishing. A family at Honey Creek Resort enjoyed, "My kids loved it. Lots to do and see!"
          • Check for Play Areas: Some campgrounds have playgrounds or open spaces for kids to play. A camper at Winterset City Park mentioned, "The bathroom was decent, and phone service was adequate."
          • Plan for Meals: Bring food or check if firewood is available for cooking. A visitor at Pammel County Park found firewood for a good price, saying, "Firewood was a gem at $10 for a wagon full!"

          Tips from RVers:

          • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. A reviewer at Honey Creek Resort noted, "The RV sites are all paved, level, full hook ups, spacious, with a view of the lake."
          • Check Site Sizes: Make sure the sites can accommodate your RV size. A camper at Island View Campground—Lake Rathbun mentioned, "Campsites were spaced well apart with plenty of room on pad around campsites."
          • Be Aware of Traffic: Some campgrounds may have busy roads nearby. A visitor at Honey Creek Resort expressed concern about traffic, stating, "People fly by to the boat ramp all day."

          Camping near Lucas, Iowa, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With a little planning, you can enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories.

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Lucas, IA?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Lucas, IA is Grant Park (Warren County Consevation Board) with a 4-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

            TheDyrt.com has all 15 tent camping locations near Lucas, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.