Tent camping near Ogden, Iowa ranges from primitive sites to developed campgrounds within a 20-mile radius. The area features varied terrain with rolling hills, oak-hickory forests, and access to the Raccoon River watershed. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers mild conditions between 50-70°F with occasional rainfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park provides excellent fishing access with sites positioned right on the water. "This is my favorite place to go hiking, kayaking, camping and fishing... The fishing is the best place for largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish. No swimming is allowed and only electric motors, no gas," reports camper Willy W.
Astronomy events: Saturday evening stargazing sessions at Ashton Wildwood Park offer unique night sky experiences. "The observatory that's open on Saturday's (except the 1st Saturday) 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," notes Willy W.
Orienteering course: Complete the marked orienteering course at Ashton Wildwood Park for an engaging outdoor activity. "There is also a orienteering course but you have to walk in the woods to finish it," explains one visitor, providing a challenging navigation experience for campers.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Many tent sites offer ample room for setup and privacy. According to Topaz G. at Ashton Wildwood Park, "The sites are very spacious, could easily accommodate multiple tents."
Clean facilities: Colfax Quarry Springs Park maintains well-kept amenities despite its rustic setting. Christopher M. notes, "Awesome campground, clean and well maintained. Even the outhouses smelled good. Garbage bins, picnic tables and fire pits at all sites."
Riverside camping: Kuehn Conservation Area provides quiet camping along the Raccoon River. James M. describes it as having "Nice quite sites along the Raccoon River. Has hiking, fishing, hunting, paddling, wildlife, small Bear Creek nature center, open daily 1/2 hr before sunrise to 10:30 pm."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent campgrounds have basic amenities only. At Twin Anchors Campground, "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," according to Abby F.
Water access: Bring your own drinking water to most sites. For Colfax Quarry Springs Park, Willy W. advises, "I didn't see any water hookups so bring a filter or water. There is a Kum & Go up the road to get missing supplies."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise issues. Bill O. notes about Twin Anchors Campground: "Its 1130 pm and we r camping by the playground and there's about 10 children at the playground with no adults. And there's about 5 golf carts running around."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Big Wall Lake Wildlife Management Area offers basic camping for families seeking an economical outdoor experience. "We stopped here when we drove from NY to CO and it was fine. We got here late and left early in the morning so we never saw the place in light," shares David B.
Playground access: Twin Anchors Campground includes a children's play area and small petting zoo. Abby F. mentions, "They have a small petting zoo and a small beach. This place feels more like a neighborhood verses camping in nature."
Grandparent-friendly camping: Ashton Wildwood Park works well for multi-generational trips. "I love to take my grand daughter here for overnight camping... There is some play equipment for children. There is only a pit toilet in the campground and it's nice enough for midnight runs. (Bring your flashlight!)" advises Deb K.
Tips from RVers
Sandy terrain awareness: Colfax Quarry Springs Park has sandy conditions due to its quarry origin. Jerry V. advises, "Most sites are pretty sandy as this was an old quarry so be prepared for that."
Gate closure times: Plan arrivals accordingly as some parks lock entrance gates at specific times. For Colfax Quarry Springs Park, "The quiet hours are at 10:30pm and they have a gate which is closed at sunset when the park closes for non campers," notes Willy W.
Site selection for tents: Choose level ground for optimal comfort. Christopher M. reports about Colfax Quarry Springs, "Level enough for our rooftop tent with no difficulties. Would definitely stay here again."
