Best Tent Camping near Monmouth, IA

Tent campsites near Monmouth, Iowa include several primitive options along rivers and within wildlife areas. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area offers hike-in and walk-in tent camping along the Maquoketa River with basic amenities including a table, fire ring, and latrine. Joinerville County Park provides tent camping by permit only, with access to the Maquoketa River for paddling and fishing. Wakpicada Natural Area, located near Central City, offers year-round tent camping with more developed facilities.

Most primitive tent sites in the region require campers to pack in and pack out all supplies and waste. Fire rings are common at established sites, though firewood availability varies by location. Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area follows strict Leave No Trace principles with no drinking water available on site. Joinerville County Park requires advance permit applications at least one month before planned stays. Toilet facilities range from basic latrines at Buzzard Ridge to no facilities at all at Joinerville, making proper waste disposal planning essential for backcountry tent camping experiences.

The tent camping experience in this region often centers around water access and natural settings. Sites at Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area can be reached either by hiking in from two parking areas or by paddling along the Maquoketa River. Wakpicada Natural Area provides tent campsites adjacent to a pond with good tree cover, creating natural separation between sites. The fishing opportunities are particularly notable, with bass and panfish available in the pond. According to one visitor, "Campsites right next to the pond and good tree cover made the experience fun. Good bass and panfish fishing with quiet campgrounds that aren't right next to each other."

Best Tent Sites Near Monmouth, Iowa (20)

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Tent Camping Reviews near Monmouth, IA

677 Reviews of 20 Monmouth Campgrounds



Guide to Monmouth

Tent camping near Monmouth, Iowa, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from well-equipped cabins to primitive sites, there's something for everyone.

Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $50

  • The Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr. provides a modern cabin that sleeps six, making it a great choice for families or groups looking for comfort in nature.
  • Joinerville County Park offers primitive camping by approved permit, perfect for those seeking a more rustic experience along the Maquoketa River.
  • At Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area, you can enjoy a unique hike-in or paddle-in camping experience surrounded by native wildlife.

Tips for tent camping near Monmouth

  • When visiting Koch's Meadow Lake Campground, take advantage of the lake access for fishing and swimming to enhance your camping experience.
  • Be prepared for a more rustic stay at Hidden River Campground, where older facilities provide a charming, vintage camping vibe.
  • For a quiet retreat, consider Wakpicada Natural Area, known for its well-kept sites and good fishing opportunities.

Local attractions to explore while camping

  • The Cedar River Campground is conveniently located near various family-friendly activities, making it a great base for exploring the area.
  • Don't miss the educational programs at Wapsi River Environmental Ed. Ctr., where you can learn about local wildlife and enjoy trails that wind through beautiful landscapes.
  • For those interested in stargazing, Worthington Sportsman's Club offers a secluded environment perfect for enjoying the night sky away from city lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Monmouth, IA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Monmouth, IA is Buzzard Ridge Wildlife Area with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 20 tent camping locations near Monmouth, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.