17 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Tent campers can choose various campgrounds near New Albin, Iowa, with options ranging from established sites to primitive backcountry areas. Yellow River State Forest offers several tent-specific camping areas including Camp John Schultz and Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry, both providing secluded tent sites within a forested setting. The R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest's Reno Horse Campground, located in neighboring Minnesota, offers additional primitive tent camping opportunities with hiking access only.
Most tent sites in the area feature basic amenities with fire rings and some bench seating, but limited facilities otherwise. Yellow River State Forest's backcountry sites require hikers to carry in all supplies, with potable water available only at headquarters near the registration kiosk. Camp John Schultz includes five primitive sites with fire rings and benches set within dense forest terrain. The Reno Horse Campground allows fires but lacks drinking water, electric hookups, and toilet facilities. Campers should practice Leave No Trace ethics, including minimizing fire impacts by gathering only dead, downed wood.
The tent camping experience in this region offers genuine seclusion and natural immersion. Yellow River State Forest provides lush, dense forest settings with intermediate hiking trails connecting various primitive tent sites. The area features diverse terrain with hills, creeks, and scenic overlooks that many visitors find surprising for Iowa. According to one visitor, "Yellow River has great backpacking sites. Park near ranger station and hike in or grab a map and find a smaller parking location near the trail you want to explore." Another camper noted that Camp Glen Wendel is "about 1 mile in from self camp registration at HQ" with "wonderful stands of coniferous trees" and some sites featuring small ponds nearby. The area's relative isolation provides excellent stargazing opportunities at night from tent sites.
"We backpacked to the quarry and found a large open area, perfect for multiple tents. The sandstone bluffs were in the background."
"If you want to meet the barnyard critters, please only look at them from the outside of the fence unless guided and escorted by the owners. "
from $40 - $120 / night
Check Availability"My friend and I were eager to test out some new backpacking gear for the first time in advance of a larger trip this summer."
"Yellow River has great backpacking sites. Park near ranger station and hike in or grab a map and find a smaller parking location near the trail you want to explore. Great scenery."
from $12 / night
Check Availability"The Nature Center campsite is located at the trail head for the Root River State Bike Trail."
"This campsite is at the trailhead for the Root River Bike Trail. This bike trail is so awesome and by far the best in the tri-state area!"
"Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects."
"Awesome campground, if you require electric bring a generator. Water is available but needs to be carried in. we loved the lack of cell phone reception!"
from $100 / night
Check Availability"Beautiful place, tent camping is available. Great breakfast and romantic setting for our anniversary. They sell wine and food in the store. Host is amazing and friendly."
"This is a walk-in campground intended for very light camping, particularly for those biking the Elroy-Sparta or Lacrosse Trails, as it is right on the Elroy-Sparta trail and only a 10 minute bike ride"
"After biking 47 miles was a welcome respite on our first day of biking the Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail. We spent a second night on our out and back along the trail."
from $15 - $21 / night
Check Availability
LegendHiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects. Leave No Trace ethics include: minimizes fire impacts by gathering only dead, down, wood. Sounded by nature atop of hill hike near Fire tower ( only fire tower in Iowa), cell reception is found up here.
LegendPrairie Island has all of you basic amenities without being too far from town. This campground isn’t for everybody -- if you’re looking for extreme adventure and wilderness, this is not the place for you. If you’re interested in getting into camping and not investing the money into all the gear or having direct river access, this is the place for you! They seriously rent it all. Paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, tents, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and dutch ovens. The camp store sells all of the basics and fishing supplies. The shower house has flush toilets and pit toilets are located throughout the campground.
Personally, this campground is not the type that I like to stay at but it is really great for the type that wants to get into camping or the camper trailer type. Unfortunately, not enough activities to do besides boating on the river.
LegendThis review is for Yellow River State Forest's Big Paint Campground which consists of sites 35 through 61. Big Paint is a couple miles from Little Paint, a larger campground with 70+ sites. There are two equestrian campgrounds (Creekside and Little Frontier with sites numbered 1 through 34) as well as hike in campgrounds for backpackers. A photo of an area map is included.
Why did we choose Big Paint instead of Little Paint?
It's smaller and that's just our personal preference. There were only 4 sites occupied early Friday afternoon and a few more were reserved. We liked site 35, the first site on the left as you enter. This site is like being in a garden with trees and flowers surrounding the site. It had rained and more rain was coming, so the gravel parking pad on #35 was appealing. Most of the sites are completely on the grass.
Activities
Stocked trout streams are an attraction for fishermen; see photo of stocking calendar. We enjoyed hiking despite the mosquitoes and humidity in August and were able to make a 5+ mile loop leaving from the campground. You can also hike from Little Paint, and there are equestrian trails. This would also be a good area for X-country skiing and snowmobiling. A photo of the trail map is included. Caution: hunting is allowed in the non-campground area of the state forest.
Amenities
Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Other than that, you can dispose of your trash and use a vault toilet. There's water at the information center (and a camp host site) outside the campground about 100 yards to the left.
Cost
You're not getting much (and that's not a bad thing) so the $9 fee seems fair. Pay up front at the entrance station, or make a reservation online at last 2 days ahead of time (and pay a reservation fee). There are 7 non-reservable sites at Big Paint. I doubt that Big Paint fills up; just check the reservation site to see if they get crowded.
https://iowastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/yellow-river-state-forest/r/campsiteSearch.do?search=site&page=siteresult&contractCode=IA&parkId=610130
GuideWonderful time in Perrot State Park. Camped in the group campground, site A. Plenty of room for many tents, and nice level ground to pitch tents on. Huge fire ring for large group fires, and both a large grill on the fire ring, and freestanding charcoal grill. Lots of options for hiking and walking in the park with more than 13 miles of trails. We did a 5 mile hike up and over two of the more popular bluffs. We also did a two-three hour canoe/kayak trip and had a blast.
There is not a swimming beach at the park, so if you're into that, you'll have to leave the park, but there is more than enough to do at Perrot State Park.
GuideThe cart in sites are fantastic at Wildcat Mountain! Each site is spacious with most heavily treed for shade. Each site has a nice large flat pad for a tent or two, fire ring, bench and picnic table. Proximity to potable water, vault or modern toilets and designated parking are all within 400 yards of all sites.
The park is located in the Kickapoo valley area where the driftless area is amazing to hike. You can kayak or tube down the river that is flanked by high limestone bluffs. The hiking trails are well maintained. There is also extensive horse trails, a beautiful outdoor ampitheater for viewing sunsets and access to the river right in the park.
The campers were respectful and quiet. Our campsite was fairly clean when we arrived. Contactless registration due to covid 19. That made getting set up quick and easy! The cart provided was fairly big for less trips. I would happily camp here again!
GuideSome of the spots are a little uneven. Bring some leveling devices. This a very peaceful campground. Fire rings are on cement. Can find fire starters everywhere. No bugs in the 1st of June when we were there. Will plan on going back for sure. Reserve your spots cuz they go fast. If you love a great view and the smell of the outdoors this is your place!
LegendThe Nature Center campsite is located at the trail head for the Root River State Bike Trail. Trail Head Park is a nice tent only campground with walk-in sites. A majority of the sites have picnic tables and fire pits. The Nature Center has clean bathrooms and free showers. They recommend donations for the use of the showers.
$20 per night camping fee. You can pay inside the Nature Center or at the slot between the restroom mirrors. The sites are first come, first serve. Local firewood is available near the restrooms as well; take what you need and leave the center a donation.
Trail Head Park has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite. When I visited during the week, I only saw a small group of people using the playground. The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more. Inside the Nature Center, they have interactive and interesting displays. The highlight of this campground is the Root River State Bike Trail and the Owl Center in the town of Houston.
I'd give the campsite 4/5 review. The location, the bluffs, the bike trail, and center get 5/5 review.
ScoutStayed here in a tent while on a bicycle camping trip and it was adequate. It is located in a city park within a couple minutes walk of the downtown area. The bike trail crosses the south end of downtown so close to that too. This would not be a good place to camp if you'd like to be out in nature
Biggest gripe is the slope of the tent sites. The majority of the tent sites are on an incline around a pond. There are also a lot of ducks that aren't very afraid of humans. None got into my gear though. There are fire rings at the tent sites. No picnic tables at the individual sites but there are some nearby in the park and there's also a covered picnic shelter. Hammocks would be difficult to impossible as the tent area is a strip of grass between pond and bluff, which has mostly brush or too whimpy of trees to hang from at the base. There are a couple huge oaks but none in pairs.
Quarter showers and clean restrooms are available. $20/night/tent which seemed a bit steep to me considering how slanted the sites were and quarter showers. It is cheaper than the other places within immediate biking distance which were $25/night.
RangerThe South Bear Creek entrance is located near Highlandville, IA off of Quandahl Road. This is Iowa Department of Natural Resources land and offers primitive camping only. There are no shower or restroom facilities and we brought our own water. There was a makeshift fire ring made out of rocks and so we used this to build our campfire. Be sure to bring a camp shovel for bathroom breaks. There was no fee at the time to camp here. It might be a good idea to call ahead to the Iowa DNR to see if that has changed.
Bear Creek is known for trout fishing and is stocked by the DNR. Bear Creek runs for a little over 5 miles at this entrance. Highlandville does have a general store, so you can stock up on items such as snacks, firewood, and angling supplies if you plan to fish the creek.
Note: There is also a Bear Creek Campground which offers electrical sites along with restrooms, showers and a playground as well as Bear Creek Cabin rentals if you're looking for something with more amenities.
We camped the last weekend in October and had the entire area to ourselves. We walked along the creek and Quandahl Road. It was a quiet area and we enjoyed camping in a more primitive setting.
Tent camping near New Albin, Iowa sits within the Driftless Area, characterized by its unique unglaciated topography with limestone bluffs rising 500-600 feet above river valleys. The region experiences seasonal temperature swings from winter lows around 5°F to summer highs reaching 85°F, with fall camping offering cooler nights and reduced insect activity. Summer humidity can make tent camping more challenging, particularly during July when afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Fishing opportunities: At Chimney Rock County Park, anglers can access the Upper Iowa River for trout fishing. "This is just a parking lot for the canoe landing, but have car camped for the night. They have pit toilets," notes a reviewer, making it a good basecamp for fishing expeditions.
Backpacking trails: The Paint Creek Unit at Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry offers loop trails ranging from 4-8 miles. A camper shared, "I've done this loop several times, and have never been disappointed. Lots of quiet, and many more great views on the upper trails. There are some thin trails down steeper hillsides, so make sure to take it slower if the ground is muddy."
Stargazing: The relative isolation of backcountry sites provides excellent dark sky viewing. One camper at Houston Nature Center mentioned, "Wonderfully quiet and safe. Had bathrooms and showers. Right at the end of the root river state trail. Singing toads at night. Very flat. Sites are spread out."
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the low-cost options. A reviewer noted about Camp Glen Wendel Primitive Backcountry, "This site fills up really fast because of the cheap price of only 9 dollars. This is the cheapest but one of the best campsites I've been to."
Privacy between sites: Most campers mention the well-spaced sites as a major benefit. At Shady Rest Acres, a reviewer observed: "Beyond being kind, their property is clean, tidy, beautiful yet rustic and home to so many animals that are all exceptionally well cared for. There are 2 campsites, if you wish. One is in the middle of the pasture (that's right...near the goats)."
Natural diversity: Campers frequently comment on the unexpected terrain variety. "Amazing place to explore for all ages. Who knew that Iowa has hills like this?! We did the backcountry camping (less than 0.5 miles walking), but did get to see the regular campgrounds," noted one visitor to Yellow River State Forest.
Self-registration system: Most backcountry sites require self-registration at headquarters. At Camp John Schultz, "Hiked into this Camp that includes 5 primitive sites: fire rings and benches. Lush dense forest with intermediate hiking including typical summer insects."
Limited facilities: Prepare for minimal amenities at most sites. A reviewer at Reno Horse Campground wrote, "We went camping on a whim and headed to the state forest since dispersed camping is open. We backpacked to the quarry and found a large open area, perfect for multiple tents. The sandstone bluffs were in the background."
Cell service limitations: Reception is spotty throughout the region. A camper at Camp John Schultz mentioned, "We loved the lack of cell phone reception!" Another added that the nearby fire tower (Iowa's only fire tower) has better cell reception.
Nature playground access: The Houston Nature Center offers unique outdoor play areas for children. A reviewer mentioned, "The Nature Center has a 1 acre natural playground near the campsite. When I visited during the week, I only saw a small group of people using the playground. The playground has a zip line, tree house, small rock wall, and more."
Beginner-friendly trails: For families with younger children, certain areas offer easier hiking options. "Very secluded with good fishing opportunities and great fishing in the area!" noted one camper about Camp Glen Wendel, suggesting activities that work well for all ages.
Site selection: When camping with kids, some sites offer more room than others. At Sparta Campground, a visitor noted, "Campsites are large, so if traveling with a group would have room for 3-4 tents in one site."
Size limitations: Most sites near New Albin cannot accommodate larger RVs. At Sparta Campground, a reviewer noted, "This is a straight forward, few amenities campsite. There is a pit toilet, water, garbage and recycling," indicating its better suited for smaller rigs or tent camping.
Alternative to primitive camping: For those seeking more amenities, some nearby locations offer cabins with basic facilities. "The cabin is delightfully lovely with beautiful decor, two full sized beds, space for a few kids to crash, small kitchen items (microwave, mini fridge, coffeemaker) as well as a wood stove for cool nights," shared a visitor to Justin Trails Resort.
Consider town proximity: Staying near towns provides access to supplies and facilities. A camper at Houston Nature Center noted, "Within walking distance to grocery store," which can be crucial when supplies run low.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near New Albin, IA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near New Albin, IA is Reno Horse Campground — R.J.D. Memorial Hardwood State Forest with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
What is the best site to find tent camping near New Albin, IA?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 tent camping locations near New Albin, IA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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