Top Free Dispersed Camping near Minburn, IA

Camping near Minburn, Iowa, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic trails to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Ledges State Park Campground. One visitor mentioned, “The campground is well kept but busy in the summer months with it being a popular hiking destination for Des Moines locals.”
• Fishing: Head to Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground for some fishing fun. A camper shared, “Clean, level sites, close to fishing, it was fun watching the water come through the dam.”
• Biking: The High Trestle Trail is nearby, perfect for biking enthusiasts. One reviewer noted, “Great place to stay. Just a few minutes drive to High Trestle Bridge and right off the river.”

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness at places like Prairie Flower Recreation Area. A visitor said, “Fantastically clean & well maintained facilities.”
• Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, such as Cherry Glen Campground, offer large sites. One camper remarked, “This campground is big and clean. It’s pretty peaceful & quiet.”
• Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. At Des Moines West KOA Holiday, a reviewer stated, “Staff is one of the nicest and most helpful we've ever encountered.”

What you should know:

• Limited Cell Service: If you rely on your phone, be prepared for spotty coverage. A camper at Ledges State Park Campground noted, “Cell coverage is terrible out here, and there is no WIFI to help keep people connected.”
• Busy Seasons: Popular campgrounds can get crowded, especially in summer. One visitor at Walnut Woods State Park Campground mentioned, “The campground was nice and well maintained with walking trails. It is wooded so there is a lot of shade.”
• No Showers at Some Sites: Not all campgrounds have shower facilities. A camper at Bob Shelter Recreation Area & Campground pointed out, “We didn’t use the bathroom/shower house, but I walked into one to check it out and it was outdated, old and dark.”

Tips for camping with families:

• Playgrounds: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. Jester County Park has a playground, and one parent said, “Showers are hot every time; it’s a wonderful place to be.”
• Secluded Spots: Choose campgrounds with wooded areas for privacy. A camper at Ledges State Park Campground mentioned, “Secluded spots in the trees.”
• Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One visitor at Yellow Banks County Park said, “The sites are pretty well spaced with lots of grass and some trees in between.”

Tips from RVers:

• Level Sites: Check for level sites to avoid issues with your RV. A reviewer at Des Moines West KOA Holiday noted, “Gravel sites require some leveling.”
• Electric Hookups: Ensure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Walnut Woods State Park Campground mentioned, “Most sites feature 20/30/50 electric, a fire ring and a picnic table.”
• Quiet Locations: Look for campgrounds that are away from busy roads. One camper at Swede Point Park said, “It’s very quiet here and the few guests that are here are friendly.”

Camping near Minburn, Iowa, has a lot to offer, whether you're looking for adventure or a peaceful getaway.