Tent camping near Mitchellville, Iowa offers access to several county conservation areas within a 30-mile radius. The region features rolling prairie landscapes with elevations ranging from 800-950 feet above sea level and receives approximately 35 inches of annual rainfall. Most campgrounds in this area operate from April through October, with variable closures during winter months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides multiple fishing access points around the former quarry lake. "The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas," notes camper Willy W. Site #13 is particularly recommended for anglers as it has "nice access spot for fishing" according to Jerry V.
Observatory visits: Ashton Wildwood Park features an observatory open on Saturday evenings (except first Saturdays). One camper reported, "The observatory that's open on Saturday's was awesome and the astronomers were great people and very knowledgeable. They showed how their telescopes worked and took us a tour of the building and classroom."
Paddling experiences: Kuehn Conservation Area offers access to the Raccoon River with designated tent sites near the water. James M. notes the area has "paddling, fishing, hunting" with "lower campground sites adjacent to Raccoon River." The conservation area maintains multiple access points for canoes and kayaks.
What campers like
Spacious sites: The campgrounds near Mitchellville feature notably large campsites. At Ashton Wildwood, one camper observed that "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents" while another mentioned "most of the sites are tucked into the woods and very spacious."
Quiet atmosphere: Mariposa Recreation Area provides a peaceful country camping experience. "If you want to go out in the country and do some tent camping this is the place!" reports Willy W. The area includes hiking trails that lead to a back pond, a butterfly garden, and playground facilities.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities despite their rustic nature. One camper at Colfax Quarry Springs noted, "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good." Another visitor to Ashton Wildwood described, "Bathroom was a pit toilet but clean. Camp spot was clean and well-maintained."
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic toilet facilities but limited shower access. 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." However, "Drive up the road to the observatory and there is a bathroom with flush toilets and a hot shower, also a water spigot on the back side."
Water access: Several camping areas have limited or no water hookups. At Otter Creek Park, sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though recent reviews indicate "The park is closed for camping indefinitely" as of August 2024. Always check current status before planning a visit.
Reservation systems: Most tent sites near Mitchellville use first-come, first-served systems rather than reservations. "Love this little 1st come first camp county park!" notes a camper about Otter Creek. Colfax Quarry Springs has one special "half mile portage with a campsite on the river which you must call to reserve."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks include play areas for children. Mariposa Recreation Area features "a butterfly garden and playground for the kids to explore. There is also a shelter to have parties with picnic tables." This makes it suitable for family outings with various age groups.
Trail difficulty: Ashton Wildwood Park has trails suitable for children and those with mobility concerns. One regular visitor mentioned, "There is a nice little circle hike that's not too difficult and was great for rehab after my knee replacement." The park also features an orienteering course that families can explore together.
Noise considerations: When selecting a family campsite, consider proximity to highways. At Colfax Quarry Springs, "The only downside of camping is you hear the interstate traffic but it's minimal. The quiet hours are at 10:30pm and they have a gate which is closed at sunset when the park closes for non campers."
Tips from RVers
Site surfaces: Twin Anchors Campground caters more to RVs than tent campers with dedicated hookup sites. "The campground was nice, but it seems more for RVs. Sometimes you have to share a fire pit with other tents if it's busy," notes Abby F. This arrangement creates more of a neighborhood feel than a wilderness experience.
Limited big rig access: Most conservation areas near Mitchellville have limited space for larger RVs. Colfax Quarry Springs Park specifically indicates it is not big-rig friendly, and sites are described as "level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties," suggesting the terrain may present challenges for larger vehicles.
Electric hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer electric hookups but limited other services. Fifield and South Overlook sites provide electrical connections without water hookups or shower facilities, making them better suited for self-contained RVs with internal tanks and facilities.
